The Seattle Mariners have successfully secured their first major objective of the offseason by appointing a new manager. On Tuesday, the team revealed that Jason Kanzler will be their new manager. Kanzler previously worked as the Chicago Cubs’ director of player development for three seasons. At 36, he becomes the 22nd manager in the Mariners’ history.
Expressing his excitement about the role, Kanzler stated, “I am thrilled to join the Mariners organization, and I’m looking forward to hitting the ground running. This team has an immense amount of talent in all facets of the game, and my coaching staff and I are excited to access and unlock this team’s full potential.”
Kanzler, who was part of the Houston Astros as a coach during their successful World Series run in 2022, brings valuable experience from his time there. He later served as the assistant hitting coach in 2023 before joining the Cubs.
Mariners president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto emphasized the qualities they sought in a manager, stating the organization wanted someone who would challenge players to improve. Dipoto said, “Jason has the mindset, expertise, communication skills, and intensity to help create a championship standard here in Seattle.” The Mariners had previously reached the ALCS in 2025 but faced struggles last season with a record of 76-86. Kanzler aims to restore the team’s former success.
Before entering major league coaching, Kanzler spent time within minor league systems, including a stint with the Astros. Additionally, he played three seasons as an outfielder for the Minnesota Twins’ organization from 2013 to 2015. His career in the minor leagues included roles in Class A Cedar Rapids and High-A Fort Myers, where he maintained a .249 batting average and a .720 OPS.
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