By Mary Cunningham
If you think Matt Klentak looks young (the photo above makes it appear he’s not old enough to shave!), he better have a lot of energy with the brainpower the Phillies are touting.
Matt Klentak, who was an assistant GM for the Los Angeles Angels from 2012-15, today at 34 became the Phillies’ youngest GM ever.
From 2008-11, Klentak worked as director of baseball operations for the Baltimore Orioles under MacPhail, who was team president.
“In Matt, we found an executive with the keen ability to understand cutting-edge baseball analytics, coupled with superior scouting, player development and leadership skills,” MacPhail said in a statement. “Additionally, his commitment and resolve to build the foundation for a championship-caliber team was evident every step of the way through the process. I trust Matt to lead the Phillies as we all rededicate ourselves to return championship baseball to Philadelphia.”
Klentake succeeds Ruben Amaro, Jr., who was fired last Sept. 10 with the Phillies on their way to a major-league worst 63-99 record.
“Observing Andy execute his strategy to hire a new general manager in a relatively short period of time was very impressive,” Phillies ownership partner John Middleton said. “He quickly identified a pool of excellent candidates and executed a rigorous process to winnow down the field decisively, thoughtfully and objectively. This is the type of leadership essential to returning the Phillies to greatness. I have no doubt that the collaborative effort of Andy and Matt will restore the Phillies to the glory years our fans deserve.”
A native of Medfield, Mass, who is a 2002 Dartmouth graduate, Klentake was introduced at 11 a.m. Monday at a news conference at Citizens Bank Park.
“I am honored to be named general manager of the Philadelphia Phillies,” Klentak said. “This franchise has a rich history, owners who are committed to winning every single day, and passionate and knowledgeable fans who support the team. They should know that they have my tireless commitment to winning a championship.”
