TTM Stats
- Sent: 6/14/2022 | Received: 7/14/2022 | 30 Days
- ’87 Topps, ’89 Pacific Senior League, ’08 Topps
- Address: Atlanta Braves Team Address (MLB Team Address Resource)
The Story of the Autograph
Ron Washington’s journey through professional baseball is one marked by perseverance, mentorship, and an unwavering love for the game. From a modest playing career as a middle infielder to his status as one of MLB’s most respected coaches and managers, Washington has become synonymous with hustle, positivity, and baseball wisdom. His leadership and infectious energy have earned him the admiration of players, peers, and fans alike.
Ronald Washington was born on April 29, 1952, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Signed by the Kansas City Royals in 1970, Washington toiled in the minor leagues for much of the next decade before finally making his MLB debut in 1977 with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Primarily a utility infielder, Washington played parts of 10 seasons in the major leagues between 1977 and 1989, suiting up for the Dodgers, Minnesota Twins, Baltimore Orioles, Cleveland Indians, and Houston Astros. His best stretch came with the Twins from 1981 to 1986, where he served as a reliable defender and occasional contributor at the plate. He finished his playing career with a .261 batting average in 564 games, known more for his glove, grit, and clubhouse presence than for offensive output.
After retiring as a player, Washington quickly transitioned to coaching, where he truly found his calling. He joined the Oakland Athletics organization in the mid-1990s, becoming the team’s infield coach. It was in this role that Washington began to earn recognition for his instructional genius — particularly his work with infielders.
Under Washington’s watch, players like Eric Chavez, Miguel Tejada, and Mark Ellis flourished defensively. His enthusiastic, hands-on style made him a favorite among players and a vital part of the A’s successful run in the early 2000s. Washington’s reputation as an elite infield coach became so strong that his name began surfacing in managerial discussions.
In 2007, Washington was named manager of the Texas Rangers — the first Black manager in franchise history. He took over a young, developing team and instilled it with his trademark energy and accountability. The results were slow to arrive but spectacular when they did.
From 2010 to 2011, Washington guided the Rangers to back-to-back American League pennants — the first in team history. Though both World Series appearances ended in heartbreak (especially the dramatic 2011 series against the Cardinals), Washington was praised for his leadership, motivational skills, and ability to get the most out of his players.
He managed the Rangers through 2014, compiling a 664–611 record and becoming the winningest manager in franchise history at the time. His players consistently credited him with being a true players’ manager — someone who built trust, demanded hustle, and brought joy to the game.
Washington resigned from the Rangers in 2014 for personal reasons but was soon back in baseball. In 2015, he returned to the Athletics as a coach before being hired by the Atlanta Braves in 2017 as their third base and infield coach.
With the Braves, Washington once again showcased his magic. He worked closely with a young infield core that included Ozzie Albies, Dansby Swanson, and Austin Riley, helping turn them into elite defenders. In 2021, Washington earned a long-overdue World Series ring when the Braves defeated the Houston Astros, completing a remarkable redemption arc.
In November 2023, the Los Angeles Angels hired Ron Washington as their manager — his second MLB managerial stint. Taking over a team searching for identity and direction, Washington brought his usual optimism, energy, and decades of experience to the role. Though the challenges are steep, few doubt his ability to motivate and inspire.
Ron Washington’s impact on the game extends far beyond box scores. He has mentored hundreds of players, shaped some of the finest defensive infields of the past two decades, and shown that authenticity and heart still matter in professional sports. His story is one of resilience, from minor league journeyman to World Series manager and revered coach.
In every dugout and on every diamond he’s graced, Ron Washington has left a legacy of hustle, humor, and hope — the kind of baseball man the game is lucky to have.
The Score on Ron Washington – 7.0
Ron has been a pretty good signer for me over the years, but he isn’t the most consistent returner. I don’t know if that is because different teams he’s been with have treated things differently over the years or what. These came out well, but the best of the bunch is the 1989 Pacific Senior League card. That’s a little unfortunate as it’s not the card I like out of all these in general.
Thanks Mr. Washington! I’m giving this return a 7.
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.