MADISON CO., Ala. (WAFF) – The Rocket City Trash Pandas have named Joe Kruzel as the club’s manager for the 2026 season.
Kruzel brings over three decades of coaching experience at the professional and collegiate levels to the Double-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels.
“I’m extremely excited to be back in the dugout,” Kruzel said. “My primary focus is helping players continue to develop and prepare to contribute in LA, while also establishing a winning identity in Rocket City. We want to play championship-caliber baseball, get the Trash Pandas back in the playoffs, and create an environment where players grow both on and off the field. Being able to take a group from the start of the season, work toward those goals together, and help move them along the path to helping the Angels win is something I’m really looking forward to.”
This year will mark Kruzel’s fifth year in the Angels organization. He has worked for four seasons as a Field Coordinator within the franchise.
Kruzel will hold a press conference and meet fans on Tuesday, Jan. 14.
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