What's Happening?
The Tampa Bay Rays have announced that Brady North will not return as the assistant hitting coach for the 2026 season. This decision marks the only change in the Rays' coaching staff following a 77-85 finish this year. The team is considering both internal and external candidates to fill the position, aiming to bring a new perspective to their hitting strategy. Despite the team's struggles, the Rays saw improvements in their offensive performance, finishing 15th in the majors in runs scored, up from 29th the previous year.
Why It's Important?
The departure of North opens an opportunity for the Rays to revamp their hitting approach, which could be crucial for improving their overall performance. The team's ability to find a suitable replacement could impact their competitiveness in the upcoming season. With several key players having strong individual performances, the new assistant hitting coach will play a vital role in maintaining and enhancing the team's offensive capabilities. This change also reflects the Rays' commitment to adapting and evolving their coaching strategies to achieve better results.
What's Next?
The Rays will begin the search for a new assistant hitting coach, considering candidates from within their minor league system as well as external options. The decision will likely be influenced by the need to align with the team's overall strategy and goals for the 2026 season. The new coach will have the task of building on the progress made this year and addressing any remaining weaknesses in the team's hitting performance.
