Why did the Los Angeles Angels manager Joe Maddon get fired?

Joe Maddon was fired as manager of the Los Angeles Angels on Tuesday with the team having endured 12 consecutive losses, tied for their longest run of futility in a single season. The Angels tabbed third-base coach Phil Nevin to serve as interim manager for the remainder of the 2022 season.

The 12-game skid has tarnished a fast start to the season for Los Angeles, after opening their campaign 21-11 to sit atop the American League West last month. The slide is tied for the longest in a single season for the Angels, who also dropped 12 straight from September 19-October 2, 1988.

Maddon, who was informed of the decision Tuesday morning by general manager Perry Minasian, was in his third season with the organisation. He compiled a 130-148 record with the Angels after he enjoyed successful managerial stints with the Tampa Bay Rays (2004-14) and Chicago Cubs (2015-19).

Maddon guided the Cubs to their first World Series championship in 108 years in 2016, and is a three-time winner of Manager of the Year (2008, 2011 and 2015).

Speaking to reporters after being informed of the decision, Maddon made it clear he did not agree with the decision.

“You always rely on people in charge to read the tea leaves properly – this time, they did not,” he said. “You didn’t even have to ask me. You can ask any of the players or coaches. They’re the ones who really know.

“Perry was in a tough spot. I understand that. Let me just put it this way. I would rely on the sentiments of the coaches and the players.”

Maddon faced the weight of high expectations, with the Angels running a franchise-record $186 million payroll this season. Although they have a star-laden roster – including a pair of MVP candidates in Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout – they are short on depth, and have dealt with injures to third baseman Anthony Rendon and right fielder Taylor Ward.

The Angels have had six consecutive losing seasons, and last won a playoff game in 2009.