He hasn’t managed a single MLB game yet.
However, we already know that Cleveland Guardians manager Stephen Vogt is the definition of a players’ manager.
He has said that himself, and that only helps him do his job.
Being “a players’ manager” means prioritizing their well-being, both as a group and individually, and understanding everything they might be feeling.
In that way, Vogt has a leg up on the competition, because he has experienced every situation there is to experience as a player.
Let’s remember that his playing days ended very recently, in 2022, and he knows what the modern player wants, needs, and can offer.
One of his players, outfielder Will Brennan, was asked to describe what working with Vogt has been like so far.
He had nothing but good things to say.
“It’s been fantastic. He has a way about him of teaching the game, and obviously he is fresh out of playing. He’s worn several hats in his career, he’s been an All-Star, he’s been the last person on a 26-man roster, he’s been optioned, he’s been released. He’s done everything,” Brennan said, per Ultimate Cleveland Sports Show.
How are the #Guardians players adjusting & adapting to new manager Stephen Vogt?
Here's @Silly_Willy18 on exactly that: pic.twitter.com/mNM4Gb4waP
— Ultimate Cleveland Sports Show (@ultCLEsports) February 16, 2024
Vogt has mastered the unofficial science of being in an MLB clubhouse and communicating with players.
He earned a great reputation throughout his career as a player and a coach, and everybody loved him wherever he went.
It’s because he knows how to talk to people, and he is using those skills with the Guardians.
Not just talking, but really understanding where everyone comes from and what they can bring to the table.
2024 will represent a huge test for Vogt’s career.
We don’t know if he will fail or succeed, but one thing is clear: his players want to win for him.
NEXT: Stephen Vogt Comments On The Guardians' 'Ceiling'
