"It's been second to none. It's been incredible," Scioscia told reporters of his time in Anaheim (see video below).
The 59-year-old led the Angels to their lone World Series win in 2002 and finishes with an impressive.536 winning percentage over more than 3,000 games at the helm. He led the franchise to six consecutive postseason berths along with five division titles. His 1,650 wins rank 18th-most in major league history. He was twice named AL Manager of the Year.
The Angels won Sunday's series finale via a Taylor Ward walk-off two-run homer, but an 80-82 record this season marked a third consecutive losing season.
Scioscia was in the final year of his contract with the Angels and said he made his decision to step down a little while ago after discussing things with his wife.
"I have a deep passion for this game. I love it, I love managing, but in this game, you never know where or when your next opportunity comes," Scioscia said. "If I get another chance, great. If not, I'm going to take the great experience I had here and move forward."
Scioscia was a first-round pick by the Dodgers in 1976. He made his major league debut in 1980 and spent 13 seasons in the big leagues where he was a two-time All-Star. He also won a pair of World Series titles with the Dodgers, first in 1981 and again in 1988.
Scioscia earned Delaware County baseball player of the year honors in 1975 and 1976. He turned down a scholarship opportunity at Clemson after Norristown native Tommy Lasorda recruited him to sign with the Dodgers.
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