The Seattle Mariners announced on Tuesday that they have appointed Jason Kanzler, formerly the Chicago Cubs’ farm director, as their new manager. Kanzler, 36, steps in for Dan Wilson following a disappointing 76-86 season, which was a letdown after Seattle’s strong run to Game 7 of the American League Championship Series in 2025.
Kanzler previously oversaw player development for the Cubs’ minor league system, managing both players and coaches, though he has never managed a team before at any level. He also gained major-league coaching experience as an assistant hitting coach for the Houston Astros during the 2022-23 seasons. His appointment makes him the second-youngest manager in MLB, trailing only Washington Nationals’ Blake Butera, who is 34.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Kanzler stated, “I’m excited to join the Mariners and eager to get started. This team boasts exceptional talent across the board, and my staff and I look forward to unlocking their full potential.”
Kanzler was drafted in the 20th round by the Minnesota Twins in 2013 and spent three seasons as a minor league outfielder. After retiring from playing, he taught high school chemistry and physics in Texas before transitioning back to baseball as a hitting coach for the Houston Astros’ High-A Fayetteville team in 2019. He served in various roles for Houston over five years.
Seattle’s general manager, Justin Hollander, expressed confidence in Kanzler’s leadership, saying the Mariners believe he can guide the team back to postseason success. After winning the AL West division title in 2025 for the first time in 24 years and coming just shy of a World Series berth, the Mariners faced setbacks in 2026, including injuries and struggles from their bullpen and key hitters. Notably, slugger Cal Raleigh hit just .182 with 23 homers and 69 RBIs, while center fielder Julio Rodríguez and first baseman Josh Naylor had career-low performances. The Mariners scored only 664 runs, ranking third-worst in MLB.
Seattle is still the only major league team yet to make a World Series appearance. Hollander praised Kanzler’s leadership, teamwork, and communication skills, which he witnessed throughout the hiring process.
Reporting by The Associated Press.
Fan Take: This hiring signals a fresh start for the Mariners, injecting young and innovative leadership into a franchise hungry for postseason success. Baseball fans should watch closely, as Kanzler’s fresh perspective and player development expertise could reshape Seattle into a competitive force in the years ahead.
Source: www.foxsports.com
