REPORT: Former Guardians Assistant To Become Padres’ Hitting Coach
The Cleveland Guardians have had a number of changes to their coaching staff this offseason.
From Stephen Vogt being hired as the team’s new manager, to five new coaches joining the Guardians’ Major League staff, Cleveland’s coaching staff will look different in 2024 from how it did a year ago.
Multiple coaches, such as former bench coach DeMarlo Hale and former third base coach Mike Sarbaugh, have departed the team this offseason as well. Now, another Guardians coach is reportedly on the move.
According to MLB reporter Francys Romero, former Cleveland assistant hitting coach Victor Rodríguez will become the hitting coach for the San Diego Padres.
Rodríguez had been the Guardians’ assistant hitting coach for the past six seasons. During his time in Cleveland, the team hit .249, which ranked 11th in MLB. The Guardians also ranked in the top half of MLB in hits (7,305, 11th), doubles (1,494, 10th), and triples (124, tied for 13th).
Cleveland also had the second-fewest strikeouts (6,689) in MLB during his Guardians tenure.
Mar 22, 2022; USA; Cleveland Guardians Victor Rodriguez poses for a 2022 MLB portrait. Mandatory Credit: MLB photos via USA TODAY Sports
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The 62-year-old had previously served as the assistant hitting coach for the Boston Red Sox from 2013 through 2017. Before that, he was a part of Boston’s organization during the managerial tenure of Terry Francona.
Rodríguez was the Red Sox’s Minor League hitting coordinator from 2007 through 2012, and the team’s Latin American field coordinator for three years, serving the role from 2004 through 2006.
According to Cleveland.com Guardians beat reporter Paul Hoynes, the team has yet to name a replacement for Rodríguez.
Chris Valaika will enter his third season as Cleveland’s hitting coach next year, w Josh Tubbs will enter his first season as the team’s Major League hitting analyst in 2024.
