Jo Adell offered an inside look at the Angels’ evolving clubhouse and his excitement about the 2026 season during a recent appearance on MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM, highlighting the unique dynamic of playing for a manager who was once his teammate.
For Adell, the transition to having Kurt Suzuki at the helm carries a personal layer. The two last shared a clubhouse in 2021, making Suzuki’s move into the manager’s role both familiar and refreshing. Adell described Suzuki as someone with a natural feel for players, particularly valuable for a roster that continues to skew young.
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“It’s kind of interesting having a manager that you played with,” Adell explained, noting Suzuki’s enthusiasm and approachability. Rather than leading through intimidation, Suzuki brings a presence that encourages communication and trust — an important trait as younger players battle for roles, especially across the infield. Adell believes that balance will help players grow without feeling overwhelmed.
Adell also reflected on his own development over the past few seasons, emphasizing the importance of embracing his identity as a player. Beginning around the 2024 season, he made a conscious effort to stop trying to fit a mold and instead focus on being the best version of himself.
That mindset was reinforced by former manager Ron Washington, who encouraged Adell to lean into his strengths rather than force parts of his game that didn’t come naturally.
The message was simple: Adell wasn’t expected to be a bunt-first hitter, a constant base-stealing threat, or something he wasn’t. His job was to drive the baseball.
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Some days that works, some days it doesn’t, but committing to that role and trusting teammates to complement areas where he may not excel helped him find clarity and confidence.
Leadership has also become a growing responsibility for Adell. Alongside fellow Angel Logan O’Hoppe, Adell said he’s made a point to be more vocal and intentional about connecting with teammates.
Rather than waiting for direction, the two have taken it upon themselves to check in with players, send messages, and ensure everyone feels included.
That effort is especially important given how quickly some prospects are reaching the majors. Adell pointed to players like Christian Moore and Nolan Schanuel, who jumped to the big leagues within a year, noting that the adjustment curve can be steep.
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Not every young player has all the answers, and not every veteran naturally speaks up. That’s where relationships matter.
By earning trust and respect, Adell believes leaders can hold teammates accountable while still making them feel supported. Those conversations, he said, are essential to building a cohesive clubhouse, one where players know someone is looking out for them.
As the Angels look toward 2026, Adell’s comments painted a picture of a team leaning into connection, authenticity, and shared responsibility. With Suzuki setting the tone and players like Adell embracing leadership roles, the Angels hope that culture translates into growth on the field.
