Apr 14, 2024; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Los Angeles Angels manager Ron Washington (37) makes his way back to the dugout after talking with his players from the pitching mound as they take on the Boston Red Sox in the eighth inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
MLB: Los Angeles Angels at Boston Red Sox
(Los Angeles, LA) – It’s not always easy to live the life of a journeyman major leaguer. Luis Guillorme started the season in a new place – the Atlanta Braves – after beginning his career with the Mets.
But as the season wore on and roster changes had to be made, Guillorme was traded to the Los Angeles Angels.
A relatively stable life as a member of the Mets bench had been upended, but before he could even settle into his Peach State digs, it was off to the West Coast. And what a change in situation, as well.
While the Braves are riding high and competing for the NL East lead, the Angels are down in the doldrums and struggling through yet another season – especially with Mike Trout hurt (again).
But on Tuesday night during the Angels failed comeback attempt, Guillmore’s failure was front and center. Admittedly a defensive specialist, Guillmore is typically considered a guy who “handles the bat well.” That typically means he doesn’t strike out much and can put down a bunt.
Unfortunately, a failed bunt was what made Guillmore the focus – and drew his new manager Ron Washington’s ire.
With the bases loaded in a one-run game in the 8th, Washington called for a suicide squeeze. The runner broke for home from third, and the pitch came in outside. Guillorme was unable to get the bunt down or make contact – and the advancing runner was easily tagged out.
After the game, Washington was asked why he called for the suicide squeeze. The veteran skipper defended his strategy, saying “Lefty on lefty. Sinkerball, lefthander. I didn’t want him to hit into a double play. He can handle the bat. He didn’t do the job. It wasn’t anything I did wrong. He didn’t do the job.”
Ouch. Tell us how you really feel, Ron. Guillorme has been with the team for less than a week – so perhaps this can be classified as his rude welcome.
