What's Happening?
The Tampa Bay Rays have announced that Brady North will not return as the assistant hitting coach for the 2026 season. The rest of the coaching staff is expected to remain intact, barring any promotions elsewhere. The Rays finished the 2025 season with a 77-85 record, and the decision to part ways with North is part of the team's efforts to find a new voice for their hitters. The team will consider both internal and external candidates to fill the position.
Why It's Important?
The departure of Brady North marks a significant change in the Rays' coaching staff, as the team seeks to improve its offensive performance. The Rays finished 15th in the majors in runs scored, and finding a new assistant hitting coach could be crucial in enhancing the team's batting capabilities. This change could impact the development of the team's hitters and influence their performance in the upcoming season. The decision also reflects the team's commitment to making strategic adjustments to remain competitive in the league.
What's Next?
The Rays will begin the search for a new assistant hitting coach, considering both internal candidates, such as Minor League hitting coordinators and special assistants, and external options. The team aims to have the new coach in place before the start of the 2026 season to ensure a smooth transition and effective preparation for the upcoming games. The coaching staff will focus on building a cohesive strategy to improve the team's offensive output and overall performance.
