The SF Giants let go of manager Gabe Kapler just before the end of the 2023 season. However, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, he quickly found a new role as the Miami Marlins hired him as an assistant general manager. Kapler led as a manager for six seasons before moving to the front office. His first two seasons were with the Philadelphia Phillies. But, he got fired after two September collapses. The former MLB outfielder then took over from Bruce Bochy. He retired after 13 years as the head of the San Francisco Giants.
The Giants picked Kapler because Zaidi knew him from the Dodgers. Kapler did player development, and Zaidi was the GM. Familiarity mattered in the decision.
Kapler’s early tenure in San Francisco showed promise. In 2020, Kapler led the Giants to a 29-31 record, missing the playoffs on the last day. In 2021, they had a remarkable 107-win season. But got eliminated by the Dodgers in the NLDS.
The last two seasons were disappointing for the Giants, not reaching above .500. Toward the end of Kapler’s time, there were reports of a clubhouse lacking chemistry and concerns about the team’s game readiness.
His overall record with the Giants was 295-248, with the standout being the impactful 107-win season. Despite challenges, the 48-year-old is widely respected in baseball. He even interviewed for the Boston Red Sox general manager position. It eventually went to former reliever Craig Breslow.
Kapler might have to wait a while for another shot at a managerial role, and it’s possible the next chance might not come at all. Managers typically only get a few opportunities for multiple roles. However, transitioning to the front office fits the former manager well.
In Miami, Kapler will concentrate on player development and contribute across all baseball operations, as explained by Rosenthal. With his background in player development from his time with Los Angeles, this is a logical fit, and he could excel in a behind-the-scenes role.
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