New York: The Washington Nationals have appointed Ani Kilambi as the franchise’s new general manager, marking a key leadership move as the team continues its rebuilding effort.
Kilambi, 31, joins the Nationals after serving as an assistant general manager with the Philadelphia Phillies, where he worked since 2021. He previously spent more than five years in the Tampa Bay Rays organization, gaining experience in player development and front-office operations.
In a statement, Kilambi said his focus will be on building a high-performing organization rooted in strong values and elite talent evaluation. He added that he looks forward to beginning the next chapter of his career in Washington, D.C.
Kilambi replaces longtime executive Mike Rizzo, who served as general manager from 2009 and later added the role of president of baseball operations. Rizzo was dismissed in July amid the Nationals’ sixth straight losing season. Manager Dave Martinez was also let go at that time. The duo led Washington to its first World Series title in 2019, but the team has not posted a winning season since. The Nationals finished 66-96 in 2025, ranking 14th in the National League.
Following Rizzo’s departure, Mike DeBartolo served as interim general manager and oversaw the selection of 17-year-old shortstop Eli Willits with the top pick in the 2025 MLB amateur draft.
In September, the Nationals hired Paul Toboni, 35, to lead the organization. Toboni, formerly an assistant general manager with the Boston Red Sox, also appointed Blake Butera as manager.
Toboni praised Kilambi’s industry reputation, describing him as a strategic leader with strong communication skills and a collaborative approach. He said Kilambi’s experience and values make him a strong addition to the Nationals’ leadership team as the club looks to chart a new direction.
