Pittsburgh Review

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Pirates have brought back Matt Hague as their new hitting coach, according to a source from MLB.com. Hague will replace Andy Haines, who was let go after three years with the team. In addition, the Pirates are set to hire Brent Strom as an assistant pitching coach. The club has not yet confirmed these appointments.

Hague, 39, previously served as the Blue Jays' Major League assistant hitting coach last season and worked within their Minor League system from 2020-23. His playing career included time with the Pirates in 2012 and 2014, and with the Blue Jays in 2015.

The Pirates' offense struggled during the 2024 season, ranking 24th in runs scored and 27th in team OPS. Despite this, players like Bryan Reynolds showed improvement, while Joey Bart and Nick Gonzales started meeting expectations. Oneil Cruz also had a productive season.

Looking ahead to 2025, players such as Ke’Bryan Hayes need to make progress for improved team performance. Additionally, prospects like Termarr Johnson and Nick Yorke offer potential future contributions.

General manager Ben Cherington discussed at the GM Meetings in San Antonio that they are not seeking a "unicorn" hitting coach but someone who can enhance the current coaching group. "We’re looking for someone who can add to those areas," Cherington stated.

Cherington emphasized creating a "tighter connection" within the hitting team to accelerate player development effectively.

Hague's appointment aligns with the Pirates' focus on hiring coaches with player development backgrounds since Cherington and manager Derek Shelton assumed leadership roles. Although the Blue Jays did not excel offensively last year, many of their hitters praised Hague's influence on their performance.

Hague becomes Shelton’s third hitting coach since his tenure began six seasons ago. Meanwhile, Strom joins after working as the Diamondbacks' pitching coach for three seasons following his stint with the Astros.

The Pirates still need a replacement for former bullpen coach Justin Meccage and plan to appoint someone to fill that role soon.