CLEVELAND — Stephen Vogt isn't going anywhere. The Cleveland Guardians manager confirmed Thursday that he will return for the 2027 season, putting an end to speculation that he could leave to take over the Seattle Mariners.
“I'll be in Cleveland,” Vogt said during the team's end-of-season press conference. “I'm here. I'm coming back.”
The speculation began after Seattle parted ways with manager Dan Wilson last month. Vogt served as the Mariners' bullpen coach in 2023 before Cleveland hired him to replace Terry Francona. His family also lives in Olympia, Washington, making the Seattle opening an understandable connection.
Vogt acknowledged that being away from his wife and children is the hardest part of his job, but made it clear that he remains committed to the Guardians. He also said he had not been contacted by Seattle about its managerial opening.
Three Years, Three Division Titles
Since taking over in 2024, Vogt has guided Cleveland to three consecutive American League Central titles and three postseason appearances. He was named AL Manager of the Year in both 2024 and 2025.
The Guardians reached the American League Championship Series for the second time under Vogt this season, falling to the Tampa Bay Rays in six games. Cleveland came within two victories of its first World Series appearance since 2016.
Vogt's contract situation also appears settled. Cleveland signed him to an extension following the 2024 season, and president of baseball operations Chris Antonetti confirmed Thursday that Vogt remains under contract beyond 2026.
Antonetti also made it clear that the organization has no interest in allowing its manager to leave.
With Vogt returning and pitching coach Carl Willis also confirmed for 2027, Cleveland will enter the offseason with continuity in its coaching staff. The Guardians still have roster decisions to make, but there will be no managerial search as they prepare for another run at a championship next season.
