The Texas Rangers winning the AL West for the first time in over a decade wasn't enough for Rangers manager Ron Washington to win the American League Manager of the Year award. Washington finished second in the voting conducted by the Baseball Writers Association of America to Twins manager Ron Gardenhire. Gardenhire led the Twins to a 94-68 record and the American League Central title. Minnesota was swept by the New York Yankees in the ALDS, but voting is conducted prior to the start of the playoffs so the early exit wasn't held against Gardenhire.
Washington received 10 first place votes compared to Gardenhire's 16. Washington also received eight second and seven third place votes whereas Gardenhire received eight second place votes and four third place votes. You can find the entire voting breakdown at the BBWAA website.
Washington's loss means the Rangers will not sweep the postseason awards. Closer Neftali Feliz won the American League Rookie of the Year award on Monday. The American League Cy Young award will be announced Thursday. Cliff Lee will be in the running against Felix Hernandez, CC Sabathia, David Price and Jered Weaver.
The American League MVP will be announced on Tuesday, November 23.