Expos’ Kennedy Hired to Manage the Rangers

ARLINGTON, Tex. —  Kevin Kennedy, who has never played or managed in the major leagues, was hired to manage the Texas Rangers on Monday.

Kennedy, bench coach of the Montreal Expos, was given two years to do what 12 managers ahead of him have never done--get the Rangers into the playoffs.

“I think being No. 13 is a good omen,” Kennedy said. “I’m about winning. I expect to win.”

Kennedy, of Tarzana, succeeded Toby Harrah, who was 32-44 after replacing the fired Bobby Valentine in July.

“Our goal is to win the American League championship,” General Manager Tom Grieve said. “It’s important to me to win next year.”

Kennedy was 534-373 from 1984 to 1991 as a manager in the Dodgers’ minor league system. He was a catcher at the triple-A level.

“I’ve been in the game 18 years and I haven’t felt like a rookie since 1976,” Kennedy said. “There’s no question I’m prepared for this opportunity. I’ve served my apprenticeship. There was nothing left to do in the minors.”

He is the eighth former catcher to become a current major league manager, joining Rene Lachemann, Gene Lamont, Jim Leyland, Johnny Oates, Buck Rodgers, Jeff Torborg and Joe Torre.

Kennedy, 38, said the Rangers will emphasize speed and play better defense.

“My style is very aggressive. I like to make things happen. I like to run,” Kennedy said.

“I expect execution, and I stress fundamentals. I believe I’m a good communicator, and I enjoy the rapport with players. We will start on day one in spring training working on fundamentals.”

Kennedy wouldn’t announce his staff, but he is expected to hire Claude Osteen, who was with him at the Dodgers’ triple-A team in Albuquerque, as pitching coach.