Mariners News: Update on M’s GM Search

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Feb 18, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Angels general manager Jerry Dipoto speaks to the media during MLB media day at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Jerry Dipoto

Jerry Dipoto resigned from his post as General Manager of the Los Angeles Angels on July 1 after his already strained relationship with Mike Scioscia disintegrated. Dipoto may not have departed on good terms, but he has a pretty strong reputation throughout the league as a quality General Manager. He has been hired by the Boston Red Sox as a special advisor, but the Mariners are reportedly interested in interviewing Dipoto.

It was a turbulent three and a half years for Dipoto in Anaheim. He made enemies with one of the most powerful skippers in baseball, and was responsible for free agent busts like Josh Hamilton and C.J. Wilson. The jury is still out on whether the Albert Pujols signing was a success. The Angels farm system is amongst the worst in baseball, and they have done a poor job developing premier prospects.

All told, the Halos tallied a pair of winning seasons under Dipoto’s watch. Despite his numerous free agency blunders, Dipoto built the club that posted a league best, 98 wins in 2014. The 47-year-old is well versed in new age baseball stats, and is known for placing a high value on sabermetrics.

I actually do not think hiring Jerry Dipoto is an awful idea. However, if retaining Lloyd McClendon as manger is a priority for the M’s, they should not appoint Dipoto as their next GM. I think it goes without saying after the way things shook down in Anaheim that Jerry is going to want to hire his own man to lead the ball club on the field.

Next: Billy Eppler