Gabe Kapler and the Giants have some positions to fill, as turnover on the Giants’ coaching staff is beginning.
Donnie Ecker, a widely respected hitting coach within the organization and league-wide, is joining the Texas Rangers, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
Ecker, 35, will work as a bench coach and offensive coordinator for the Rangers, Passan reported. The latter role, a title borrowed from football, is uncommon in MLB.
As part of the largest coaching staff in MLB last season, Ecker helped the Giants become the best home run-hitting team in the National League. SF took closer to game-speed batting practice and used other visual simulation for preparation.
Many Giants raved about Ecker and the other hitting coaches, pointing to their scouting reports and advice after strong performances at the plate. LaMonte Wade Jr. and Brandon Belt had career years, while a swing adjustment helped Brandon Crawford become an MVP candidate.
With such unexpected success, the Giants expected teams to try to pry some of their coaches away. It’s common practice in baseball to try to poach other teams’ coaches who are considered rising stars, like Ecker, and elevate them.
Ecker was initially drafted by the Rangers in the 2007 MLB Draft. He played from 2007 to 2010 in the Rangers organization, the Frontier League and the Independent League.
The Giants are also in the market for a new third base coach, with Ron Wotus stepping away from every day responsibilities. The long-time coach is in discussions with the front office about a new role.
At the end-of-season press conference, Kapler said SF may interview outside candidates for Wotus’ vacancy, but will first turn internally.
For now, the Giants are taking applications.