Angels News: LA Infield Coach Dreams Of A Management Position In The Big Leagues
Prior to this year, retired MLB player Benji Gil had primarily been known for his time as a utility piece for the Anaheim Angels that won the World Series in 2002. It was actually so long ago they were not yet coined as a franchise from Los Angeles but Gil's heart always remained with them.
After his playing days were over, he returned to the squad as an infield coach prior to the 2022 season in an attempt to stay with the game and learn more about it from a different perspective.
In a recent interview with the Los Angeles Times, Gil revealed that he has a management position in his sights for the big leagues and this current coaching position is only meant to jumpstart his path there.
However, the 50-year-old took another leap of faith when the position for team manager of Mexico opened up and he immediately signed himself up. Though not slated as heavy favorites to win prior to the start of the WBC, they now find themselves in the quarterfinals facing a top-heavy team in Japan lead by one of Gil's LA superstars: Shohei Ohtani.
A lot of this success has been attributed to Gil and fans around the baseball world are commending his brilliance. Beyond his decision making and lineup creations, people love the energy and passion he brings to every match.
Anybody that thought Gil wouldn't be capable of succeeding in a management position has certainly ate their words. The former champion is confident this WBC run will open up more opportunities for him.
“I want to believe that this helps, and that it should,” said Gil. “I think anybody managing in this should be worthy of consideration. Hopefully, this matters and they’ll really evaluate. The way I would love it to be is that I’m literally getting scouted.”
If Mexico continues their run on Monday with a win over Japan, there will really be eyes all over Gil. He is representing his beliefs, his country, and the Angels every single game he goes out there.
