The New York Yankees have officially announced their coaching staff for the 2026 season, focusing on improvements in baserunning and reducing mental mistakes. Key additions include promotions for Dan Fiorito and Jake Hirst, alongside the return of Desi Druschel. The staff joins manager Aaron Boone to build on the team's strong 2025 performance.
On December 4, 2025, the New York Yankees revealed their coaching staff for the 2026 Major League Baseball season. The announcement comes after managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner highlighted the need for cleaner baserunning and fewer errors, referencing a sloppy series against the Marlins in late July and early August 2025, where Jazz Chisholm Jr. was doubled off on a popup.
"The baserunning mistakes were not good," Steinbrenner said. "So we’ve made a change there, coaching-wise, and we’re going to expect better results this coming year."
Promotions and returns shape the staff under manager Aaron Boone:
- Bench Coach: Brad Ausmus (returning for third season)
- Pitching Coach: Matt Blake (seventh season)
- Assistant Pitching Coaches: Preston Claiborne (second season), Desi Druschel (returning after 2025 with Mets)
- Hitting Coach: James Rowson (third season)
- Assistant Hitting Coaches: Casey Dykes (fifth season), Jake Hirst (first season, promoted)
- Third Base/Outfield Coach: Luis Rojas (fifth season)
- First Base/Infield/Baserunning Coach: Dan Fiorito (first season, promoted)
- Major League Field Coordinator and Director of Catching: Tanner Swanson (seventh season)
Boone praised Hirst, noting he was offered a big league job elsewhere. "He’s earned this opportunity," Boone said.
Coaches not returning include first-base coach Travis Chapman, bullpen coach Mike Harkey, and assistant hitting coach Pat Roessler, though general manager Brian Cashman mentioned discussing alternatives for Roessler.
The 2025 Yankees led MLB in home runs (274), runs scored (849), and OPS (.787), earning the AL Silver Slugger Offensive Team of the Year for the second straight year. Pitchers ranked highly in strikeouts (1,440) and opponents' batting average (.229). Catchers excelled in framing runs (16) and shadow strike rate (45.2%).
Fiorito, 35, enters his ninth season with the organization, previously serving as Minor League outfield/infield coordinator. Hirst, 30, begins his seventh season after roles as Minor League hitting coordinator.