Diamondbacks Coaching Rumors

Turner Ward might become the next Diamondbacks hitting coach. Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

The offseason thus far has been unkind to the coaching staff of the Arizona Diamondbacks’ organization. Just over one month since the season came to a disappointing finish, the Diamondbacks have already lost third base coach Matt Williams to the Washington Nationals, hitting coach Don Baylor to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim and Triple-A Reno manager Brett Butler to the Seattle Mariners.

Now, however, there are rumors swirling that the staff might take another hit. Jeff Pico, minor league field coordinator has been interviewed to be part of Ryne Sandberg‘s staff with the Philadelphia Phillies. While the job might not seem to have such significance, losing the amount of positions the D-Backs have lost already in the offseason certainly can make an impact on the franchise.

It is rumored that assistant hitting coach Turner Ward is the leading candidate to take over for Baylor as hitting coach. Ward, 48, spent 12 seasons in the league before managing both the State College Spikes and Mobile BayBears. He was hired under Baylor prior to the 2013 season.

There is also a chance former Diamondbacks catcher Henry Blanco will re-join the team, this time as a member of the staff. The organization approached him about the opportunity recently.

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