New Angels general manager Billy Eppler announced late Tuesday night that hitting coach Don Baylor and pitching coach Mike Butcher will not return to the club in 2016.
Angels hitting coach Don Baylor, who won the 1979 American League MVP with the Angels in 1979, will not return to the team in 2016. (Photo by Victor Decolongon/Getty Images)
“Don’s career with the Angels is one that has embodied commitment, dedication and leadership,” Eppler said in a statement. “From his MVP season in 1979, subsequent induction into the Angels Hall of Fame, and eventual return as hitting coach, Don will always remain synonymous with Angels Baseball.”
The Angels pitching coach Mike Butcher has been with the club since 2006. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images)
from 1992-95.
“These are good baseball men and individuals who have a deep passion and focus towards their craft,” Eppler added. “I am both respectful and appreciative of the many contributions Don and Mike have made to this organization during their careers here.”
Baylor, who won American League MVP while playing for the Angels in 1979, returned to the club as hitting coach in 2014. He has been a manager or coach in each of the 23 seasons since he stopped playing.
Butcher took over the Angels pitching coach duties in 2006 after Bud Black left to manage the San Diego Padres.
“This past weekend I had a lengthy conversation with John Carpino and Billy Eppler regarding my status with the organization” Butcher said. “We mutually agreed this might be a good time for change. Billy is an impressive individual with solid concepts for the future and I wish him well. I am also thankful to Arte, the entire Angels family, and of course the players themselves for my time with an organization that has meant so much to my family and I.”
