“Working on building that family chemistry”: Zach Neto gets honest about Los Angeles Angels’ no-cellphone rule

The Los Angeles Angels’ Manager Ron Washington had in February introduced a very unique rule within the team, that works on improving the team’s chemistry. Angels' shortstop Zach Neto talks about the no-cellphone rule introduced by the team that has benefited the players.

During the full workouts in February, the Los Angeles Angels’ manager Ron Washington had introduced a no-cell phone rule at their lockers, with focus on building better chemistry and functioning within the team. The goal was encouraged by team veterans like Mike Trout and Kyle Hendricks, while it has also received support from other players as well. If caught using a phone, a $500 fine is imposed.
Team player Zach Neto shares his thoughts on the no-cell phone policy. He said:
“I feel like we're gonna shock a lot of people and I've been saying it the first day we got here on camp that our clubhouse is in a better spot than what it was last year.”

Further, Zach Neto explains that the no-cell phone rule has helped in building relationships. He said:
“It could be with Wash’s new rule of not using their phones in here. We’re building relationships and talking to all the pitchers from a position-player standpoint. It’s just different.”
Zach Neto adds:
“For me personally, and I know other guys have said it's actually brought the team way closer, Everybody's just talking to each other and just having conversations with each other.”
The team players are allowed to use their phones outside, but while they’re sitting inside the lockers, scrolling or watching content is not allowed. Even for Mike Trout, the no-cell phone policy has brought significant changes in the players. He is noticing that players are now interacting with each other and believes that it will keep the team close. Mike Trout said:
“It's been good, The guys are interacting more. I think the biggest thing we're working on this year, just building that family chemistry, getting everybody on board.”
Meanwhile, team manager Ron Washington said the no-cell phone rule is not a punishment but a way to keep players focused. He said:
“It's not punishment, It's just trying to keep them focused. You can use your phone when you come in, take it and you can leave the clubhouse and you can use your phone as much.”
Also Read: Angels' Manager Ron Washington Gives Free Hand To Mike Trout Ahead Of 2025 Regular Season