By Salma El-Sakka
The Seattle Mariners announced Tuesday they have hired Chicago Cubs farm director Jason Kanzler as the team's new manager. The 36-year-old replaces Dan Wilson, who was fired after a 76-86 season that began with World Series aspirations.
Kanzler's background
Kanzler served as the Cubs' director of player development, overseeing the minor league system, players and coaching staff. A former minor league player and coach, he has not managed a club at any level. He spent the 2022-23 seasons on the Houston Astros' major league coaching staff, including as assistant hitting coach.
Mariners' recent struggles
Seattle reached Game 7 of the American League Championship Series in 2025 and won the AL West, its first division title in 24 years. However, injuries and regression by the bullpen and key offensive players led to a disappointing 2026 season. The Mariners scored just 664 runs, third-fewest in the majors, and remain the only franchise never to reach the World Series.
Statements
“I am thrilled to join the Mariners organization and I’m looking forward to hitting the ground running,” Kanzler said in a statement. General manager Justin Hollander said the organization believes Kanzler can lead the club back to the postseason, citing his leadership skills and ability to connect with players and staff.
Playing and coaching career
Kanzler was a 20th-round pick by the Minnesota Twins in 2013 and played three minor league seasons as an outfielder. After retiring, he taught high school chemistry and physics in Katy, Texas, before joining the Astros organization in 2019 as hitting coach for High-A Fayetteville. He held various roles over five seasons.
