Angels hire former longtime MLB catcher as next manager

The Los Angeles Angels have hired Kurt Suzuki, their former catcher, to be their next manager, a high-ranking official told USA TODAY Sports.

The person, with direct knowledge of the decision, spoke only on the condition of anonymity since the announcement has not been made public.

Suzuki, 42, who spent 16 years as a major-league catcher, including the last two years of his career with the Angels, has worked as a special assistant for Angels GM Perry Minasian the last three years.

The Angels chose Suzuki over two high-profile special assistants in the organization: Albert Pujols and Torii Hunter.

Hunter told USA TODAY Sports on Monday that he no longer was being considered for the job, and that they were going in a different direction, but likely staying within the organization.

Suzuki replaces Ron Washington, whose contract was not renewed after missing the last half of the season recovering from quadruple bypass surgery, and Ray Montgomery, who was the interim manager.

The hiring leaves seven teams still seeking a major-league manager.