Jerry Dipoto Named Angels GM, Given Five-Year Contract

On Saturday, just a day after the 2011 World Series ended, the Los Angeles Angels have officially named Jerry Dipoto as their general manager, replacing Tony Reagins, who resigned. According to a news release from the team, Dipoto has signed a five-year deal and will report directly to team owner Arte Moreno.

Dipoto is 43 and a former major league pitcher who posted a 4.05 ERA in an eight-year career with three teams (Mets, Indians and Rockies). His background, unlike that of many modern GMs, is in scouting and player development. After his playing career ended, he was named a special assistant in the Rockies front office and also worked in the Red Sox front office.

In July 2010 he was named interim GM of the Diamondbacks and in that position, was responsible for trading Edwin Jackson to the White Sox for Daniel Hudson, a deal that was instrumental in helping the D’backs to the NL West title in 2011.

The Angels hope he can do the same thing for them. The press release quotes Dipoto:

“What a thrill this is,” said Dipoto. "I am excited and honored to be part of one of the premier franchises in baseball. The club’s success in the last 10 years isn’t just notable, it has catapulted the Angels into one of the top organizations in baseball.

“We want to continue the success here with an increased focus on scouting and player development. We will always have championship expectations,” added Dipoto.

Jerry Dipoto To Be Named Angels' General Manager, According To Report

The Angels may have found a replacement for Tony Reagins, who resigned as the team's general manager in September.