Orioles Shake Up: Bold Coaching Changes Ahead

In a significant organizational shakeup, the Baltimore Orioles have overhauled their coaching staff, signaling a fresh direction for the team. The biggest surprise? Fredi González, a seasoned baseball veteran, has been replaced as bench coach after five dedicated years, three of which were spent in this pivotal role.

Robinson Chirinos Steps In as Bench Coach

Taking over is Robinson Chirinos, a former MLB catcher who played 11 seasons across multiple teams, concluding his career with the Orioles. At 40 years old, Chirinos brings a wealth of on-field experience to his new role.

• Career highlights:
  • 714 games played
  • .226 batting average
  • 95 home runs
  • 306 RBIs

Chirinos’ journey through teams like Tampa Bay, Texas, Houston, and the New York Mets showcases a diverse career that provides a unique perspective to his coaching approach.

Fredi González’s Legacy

González departs after a remarkable career in baseball management, which included managing stints with the Florida Marlins and Atlanta Braves. While his leadership will be missed, his departure comes after a challenging season for the Orioles. Despite a respectable 91-71 record and a second-place finish in the AL East, the team’s season ended in disappointment with a Wild Card Series sweep.

Hitting Coach Revamp

The Orioles have also made significant changes to their hitting staff:

• Cody Asche, formerly the offensive strategy coach, has been promoted to hitting coach.
• Tommy Joseph, previously with the Seattle Mariners, joins as assistant hitting coach.
• Sherman Johnson steps into a dual role as assistant hitting coach/upper-level hitting coordinator.
• This new hitting team replaces Ryan Fuller and Matt Borgschulte, who departed after the season.

Minor League Talent Joins the Big Leagues

Buck Britton, a highly regarded minor league manager, has been promoted to the major league coaching staff. His wealth of experience at the minor league level will be a valuable asset to the team.

Continuity in Key Roles

While several changes have occurred, some positions remain unchanged, providing stability:

• Drew French (pitching coach)
• Mitch Plassmeyer (assistant pitching coach)
• Ryan Klimek (pitching strategy coach)
• Tony Mansolino (third base coach)
• Anthony Sanders (first base coach)
• Grant Anders (major league development coach)
• Tim Cossins (major league field coordinator/catching instructor)

Looking Ahead

With a mix of seasoned veterans and fresh talent, the Orioles’ coaching staff is poised to address the team’s challenges and build on the successes of the past season. The reshuffling reflects the organization’s commitment to continuous improvement as they aim for a deeper playoff run in the coming year.