The Arizona Diamondbacks didn’t waste much time cleaning house after their season ended. They began by firing manager Chip Hale and GM Dave Stewart, and followed up by relegating Tony La Russa to an advisory role. On Sunday, Arizona took the first step toward filling their new vacancies by hiring Boston Red Sox General Manager Mike Hazen as their new GM and Executive Vice President.
The #Dbacks have named Mike Hazen their Executive Vice President & General Manager. pic.twitter.com/ZVMLb0kdOK
— Arizona Diamondbacks (@Dbacks) October 16, 2016
Mike Hazen Hired by Diamondbacks
Hazen, 40, took over as the GM of the Red Sox just 13 months ago. He replaced Ben Cherington when Dave Dombrowski took over as President of Baseball Operations. However, Hazen has spent the last 11 seasons in Boston in various roles. He won two championships with the team, and has the pedigree of a modern day GM. He has an Ivy League degree from Princeton, and is a strong proponent of sabermetrics.
Prior to taking on the GM role in Boston, Hazen spent time as the director of player development and as assistant GM under Cherington. He also spent five years with the Cleveland Indians, in their scouting and player development departments. Hazen also has some playing experience, as he spent two years in the San Diego Padres organization.
Hazen will take over as the head of baseball operations, La Russa’s former title. He will report directly to CEO Derrick Hall. Hazen’s first priority will be to find a new manager. Red Sox bench coach Torey Lovullo seems to be the early favorite for the job. Hazen and Lovullo have a strong relationship, and Lovullo has long been considered a candidate for a managerial position. He served as interim manager for the Red Sox while John Farrell underwent treatment for lymphoma in 2015.
Torey Lovullo should be at the front of the line for Arizona managerial job
— Peter Gammons (@pgammo) October 16, 2016
Main Photo:
