Stephen Vogt On What Set Him Apart In Guardians Managerial Search

Stephen Vogt believes his transparency and openness regarding his experience separated him in the Cleveland Guardians hiring process.

The Cleveland Guardians went from having one of the most experienced managers in baseball to hiring one of the youngest. Terry Francona and Stephen Vogt may be on opposite ends of their managerial careers, but that may not have been a disadvantage for Vogt as the team looked for their next skipper.

In fact, Vogt said during an interview at Guards Fest he believes that how honest he was about his lack of experience was something that set him apart when Cleveland was deciding on their next manager. 

Vogt said "I think it was the advice I got from Scott Service and Jerry DiPoto coming into this," is something that separated him in Cleveland's managerial search. What was that advice? Vogt said it was, "'Be yourself, show them who you are. If you're not their guy, that's okay. It doesn't mean you're not a good candidate, it just means you're not what they're looking for.'" 

Vogt took this guidance to heart and brought this mindset into the interview room with him. He doubled down on his lack of experience but stressed he was using it as an opportunity to grow.

Nov 10, 2023; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Guardians manager Stephen Vogt, middle, and president of baseball operations Chris Antonetti, left, and general manager Mike Chernoff, right, talk to the media during an introductory press conference at Progressive Field / © Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

"So, just going into the interview I was just open and honest about who I am and that's, I don't have a ton of experience, you're right," said Vogt. "But I have paid attention and I'm willing to learn. I think just being open and honest about that, yeah you're right, I've never sat in the seat, I've never done this job before, but I'm willing to learn and I'm open to any ideas you guys have to share."

There's always going to be growing pains and learning experiences for first-year managers. Vogt will likely have some along the way too. However, this mindset of being transparent and eagerness to learn from those around him is what will make him a good manager and why he believes the front office chose him to lead this Guardians club.