ANAHEIM, Calif. — The embrace of statistical analysis in baseball has led to shifting dynamics in many organizations, with the manager no longer considered the primary decision maker on all matters concerning the 25 players who play for him. Instead, he is increasingly regarded as a steward whose job is to carry out upper management’s vision, which is dictated by data rather than gut feelings.
But the imperial manager is alive and well in Southern California after Jerry Dipoto, the Los Angeles Angels’ general manager, resigned on Wednesday, days after his often contentious relationship with Manager Mike Scioscia devolved into one that was apparently beyond repair.