The Chicago club is shaking up its coaching staff after a disappointing season, sources close to the situation revealed on Monday. The team has decided not to retain first-base coach Mike Napoli, assistant hitting coach Jim Adduci, and bullpen coach Darren Holmes, among others. This overhaul comes on the heels of a regular season that saw the team finish with an 83-79 record, identical to the previous year’s outcome.
The changes mark the beginning of manager Craig Counsell’s first full offseason at the helm, having taken the reins in November. Counsell inherited most of the coaching staff, with the exception of bench coach Ryan Flaherty, who joined from the San Diego Padres.
As Counsell becomes more familiar with the organization, it was anticipated that he would have a greater say in offseason moves. These initial changes are likely just the start, with the possibility of further coaching staff adjustments on the horizon.
One area of focus for fans has been the team’s baserunning, which has been a subject of criticism. While the team has excelled in certain aspects, such as going from first to third base, they have struggled with outs made on the bases, including at home plate. This has drawn the ire of fans, with some directing their frustration at third-base coach Willie Harris.
In contrast, the team’s pitching infrastructure has been touted as a strength, with pitching coach Tommy Hottovy entering his seventh season in the role. Hitting coach Dustin Kelly, meanwhile, has been on the job for the past two years.
Leave a Reply