Giants pick Kapler to be next manager
Gabe Kapler was hired as manager of the San Francisco Giants, a month after being fired from the job by the Philadelphia Phillies.
Kapler replaces Bruce Bochy, who retired at the end of the season following 13 years and three championships with San Francisco.
The Giants made the announcement late Tuesday and planned a formal introduction to follow. Kapler is the second big hire in a matter of days by Giants President of Baseball Operations Farhan Zaidi, who on Monday introduced new general manager Scott Harris, most recently an assistant GM for the Chicago Cubs.
The 44-year-old Kapler was fired Oct. 10 after going 161-163 over two seasons in Philadelphia. With slugger Bryce Harper their blockbuster acquisition, the Phillies finished 81-81 this year for their first non-losing season since 2012.
Zaidi and Kapler are now reunited from their time with the Dodgers, where Kapler served as director of player development.
San Francisco went 77-85 last season. Ace Madison Bumgarner is among baseball’s top free agents.
Mike Shildt of St. Louis was named National League manager of the year, narrowly beating Craig Counsell of Milwaukee. The Dodgers’ Dave Roberts finished fourth. Minnesota’s Rocco Baldelli won the American League award in a tight ballot over Aaron Boone of New York. Baldelli, 38, is the youngest to win the award . ... Detroit hired former Angels bench coach Josh Paul asa quality control coach . ... St. Louis and pitcher Adam Wainwright agreed to a contract for next season . ... Angels draft pick Jo Adell homered and the Americans beat Japan 4-3 for their first win in the super round of an Olympic baseball qualifying tournament.