Phillies Name 35-Year-Old Matt Klentak New General Manager

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The Philadelphia Phillies have named Matt Klentak as their new vice president and general manager, the team announced on Monday morning. Klentak replaces Ruben Amaro Jr. as the 11th general manager in Phillies history. At 35-years-old, he is the youngest GM in team history.

Previously, Klentak spent four years as the assistant GM for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Prior to that, Klentak spent four years as the director of baseball operations for the Baltimore Orioles.

With the Orioles, Klentak worked under MacPhail acquiring players that would eventually help the team with the 2014 AL East Division title.

"In Matt we found an executive with the keen ability to understand cutting-edge baseball analytics, coupled with superior scouting, player development and leadership skills," said MacPhail. "Additionally, his commitment and resolve to build the foundation for a championship-caliber team was evident every step of the way through the process.  I trust Matt to lead the Phillies as we all rededicate ourselves to return championship baseball to Philadelphia."

"Observing Andy execute his strategy to hire a new general manager in a relatively short period of time was very impressive," said Phillies Partner John Middleton.  "He quickly identified a pool of excellent candidates and executed a rigorous process to winnow down the field decisively, thoughtfully and objectively.  This is the type of leadership essential to returning the Phillies to greatness.  I have no doubt that the collaborative effort of Andy and Matt will restore the Phillies to the glory years our fans deserve."

"I am honored to be named general manager of the Philadelphia Phillies," said Klentak.  "This franchise has a rich history, owners who are committed to winning every single day, and passionate and knowledgeable fans who support the team.  They should know that they have my tireless commitment to winning a championship."

Klentak, originally from Medfield, Massacusetts, graduated from Dartmouth College in 2002 with a degree in economics. At Dartmouth, he was a three-year starting shortstop and team captain as a senior.