The Los Angeles Angels have appointed Molly Jolly as their new club president, succeeding John Carpino, who is retiring after a 16-year tenure. Jolly, the first woman to hold the top executive position for the Angels, will assume her new role on April 6th, with Carpino assisting in the transition.
Jolly, a 26-year veteran of the organization, moves from her position as Senior Vice President of Finance and Administration. Her purview will reportedly encompass both business and baseball operations, although day-to-day roster decisions remain with General Manager Perry Minasian. This leadership change comes as the franchise grapples with a history of 'complaints', including issues with broadcasting, infrastructure investment, and player treatment.
The transition also occurs against the backdrop of significant player departures, most notably the star pitcher Shohei Ohtani, now a World Series champion with the Dodgers. The franchise has also faced considerable legal and public relations challenges, including the sentencing of former media relations employee Eric Kay for his role in the overdose death of pitcher Tyler Skaggs and an ensuing wrongful death civil trial.
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"I am also excited for the future of Angels Baseball under Molly’s stewardship," stated owner Arte Moreno. "She is the perfect person to guide the Angels into a new era of success.”
Carpino's 16-year presidency marks the longest in the Angels' 65-year history. His nearly quarter-century with the club has seen him largely acting as a liaison to owner Arte Moreno. Jolly's elevation marks her as the ninth individual to hold the presidential title and notably, the first woman to do so for the Angels. Her prior experience includes a three-year stint with The Walt Disney Co. in finance for both the Angels and Ducks organizations.