Why The Guardians Chose To Hire Stephen Vogt

The Cleveland Guardians had three things they were looking for in their new manager.

The Cleveland Guardians took their time searching for their next manager. 

Terry Francona was their skipper for the previous 11 seasons, so it had been a while since Cleveland's front office went through this process.

Eventually, they decided that Stephen Vogt was the right manager for their next era.

But why did they decide to hire Vogt?

Cleveland President of Baseball Operations Chris Antonetti explained that there were three components the team was seeking in their new manager. 

Here's what he had to say at Friday's introductory press conference.

"First and foremost, we were looking for a collaborative partner. We were looking for someone who is a caring connector and finally a self-confident learner."

"We also sought someone who was a caring connector, someone who cares so deeply about people that he or she would build very meaningful lasting relationships. We wanted someone who would build a fun and inclusive environment where everyone would enjoy coming to work each day to tackle the challenges that we had together."

"We were looking for a self-confident leader. We were seeking a leader that combines the self-confidence and strength to lead within a major league clubhouse, while at the same time having enough humility to continuously learn, grow, and help us all get better."

It appears that the Guardians accomplished all three of these needs based on how players, opposing managers, and those around baseball have reacted to Cleveland's hire.

Nov 10, 2023; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Guardians manager Stephen Vogt, right, talks to the media as president of baseball operations Chris Antonetti looks on during an introductory press conference at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports / © Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

However, fans need to remember that Vogt is a first-year manager who just retired as a player in 2022. There will be a learning curve for him. 

However, the organization believes that Vogt will be successful if he fulfills the three previously mentioned traits. 

You can watch Antonetti's full press conference and statement as he breaks down each component in greater detail.