Coaching Hire
Phillies hire veteran Don Mattingly as bench coach
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The Philadelphia Phillies announced on Monday, January 5, 2026, the hiring of 64-year-old baseball veteran Don Mattingly as their new bench coach. Replacing Mike Calitri—who shifts to major league field coordinator—Mattingly joins manager Rob Thomson's staff after three seasons in the role with the Toronto Blue Jays, bringing Hall of Fame-caliber playing experience and extensive coaching/managerial expertise to a team eyeing a World Series title.
The Portland Trail Blazers have hired Minnesota Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori as their new head coach. The team announced the move Tuesday after an extensive search. Nori replaces Tiago Splitter on a unique one-year guaranteed contract.
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In the latest chapter of the Bucks' coaching saga, Milwaukee has finalized a deal to hire Taylor Jenkins as head coach, replacing Doc Rivers who stepped down earlier this month after a 32-50 season. The former Grizzlies coach and Bucks assistant returns amid uncertainty over Giannis Antetokounmpo's future.
South Dakota State University has appointed a former Jackrabbit standout to lead its equestrian program. The hiring, announced on January 22, 2026, follows the recent indictment of the previous head coach, Kamerra Brown, on felony grand theft charges. A supporter has launched a GoFundMe to aid Brown's legal defense amid the controversy.
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The Colorado Rockies have named Brett Pill as their new Major League hitting coach following a dismal 43-119 season in 2025. Pill, who spent the past six years in the Los Angeles Dodgers' minor league system, brings experience from a successful organization to address the team's offensive struggles. Rockies manager Warren Schaeffer praised Pill's ability to tailor coaching to individual players.