Story perspectives

Yankees Overhaul Coaching Staff Ahead of 2026 Season

10/15/2025

Summary

Story summary

The New York Yankees will implement major coaching changes for the 2026 season, with bullpen coach Mike Harkey, first base coach Travis Chapman, and assistant hitting coach Pat Roessler not returning.
Minor league hitting coordinator Jake Hirst will join the major league staff.
The bullpen ranked 23rd in ERA at 4.37 in 2025, while Chapman oversaw a defense with the fifth-most errors in the league.
Hitting coach James Rowson is interviewing for the Minnesota Twins' managerial position, and third base coach Luis Rojas is a candidate for the Baltimore Orioles' job.

History

Historical Context

In 1973, the New York Yankees hired Billy Martin as manager, initiating a significant coaching overhaul that led to an American League pennant win. Martin's leadership improved the team's defense and strategy. Today, the Yankees face similar challenges, with their bullpen ranked 23rd in ERA, prompting major coaching changes for the 2026 season to regain their competitive edge.

1 of 2

Story summary

The New York Yankees will implement major coaching changes for the 2026 season, with bullpen coach Mike Harkey, first base coach Travis Chapman, and assistant hitting coach Pat Roessler not returning.
Minor league hitting coordinator Jake Hirst will join the major league staff.
The bullpen ranked 23rd in ERA at 4.37 in 2025, while Chapman oversaw a defense with the fifth-most errors in the league.
Hitting coach James Rowson is interviewing for the Minnesota Twins' managerial position, and third base coach Luis Rojas is a candidate for the Baltimore Orioles' job.

1 / 2