Brad Ausmus, who served as Mark Kotsay’s bench coach with the Oakland Athletics in 2022, took a break from baseball in California this year but is now making a return. Ausmus was recently hired as Aaron Boone’s bench coach with the New York Yankees, a move that excites him.
“This past summer I didn’t do anything. I got a little bit bored, to be honest with you,” Ausmus admitted. “I enjoy the game. I enjoy the strategy. I enjoy the people, and there’s no grander stage than New York City.”
Ausmus brings valuable managerial experience to the Yankees, having managed the Detroit Tigers from 2014 to 2017 and the Los Angeles Angels in 2019. During his tenure with the Tigers, he led the team to a 90-72 record in his first season, winning the AL Central before a division series loss to the Baltimore Orioles. With the Yankees, he takes over as bench coach from Carlos Mendoza, who left to manage the Mets.
In his new role, Ausmus sees his primary responsibility as providing the manager, Aaron Boone, with the information needed to make informed decisions. He also acknowledges the role of gently influencing managerial decisions when necessary.
For Ausmus, returning to the Yankees organization holds personal significance. He began his professional career with the Yankees after being selected in the 48th round of the 1987 amateur draft. Despite attending college at Dartmouth while in the minor leagues, Ausmus was taken by the Colorado Rockies in the expansion draft before the 1993 season.
Ausmus spent 18 seasons in the major leagues, playing for the Padres, Tigers, and Astros. Over his career, he compiled a batting average of .251 with 80 home runs and 607 RBIs. As a manager, he holds a record of 386-422.
Ausmus emphasizes the importance of data in baseball but also highlights the need for a balance with observational skills. He believes that while data can provide valuable insights, it’s not a complete substitute for on-field judgment.
With the Yankees looking to return to championship contention, Ausmus is eager to contribute to a World Series-winning team. The Yankees last won the World Series in 2009 and missed the playoffs in the 2023 season.
He joins James Rowson as one of the new additions to the Yankees coaching staff for the 2024 season. Rowson will take on the role of hitting coach, replacing Sean Casey.
As a bench coach, Ausmus anticipates building strong relationships with players and enjoying the camaraderie that comes with the role. While he won’t be the one in charge, he sees it as an opportunity to interact more freely with the players and contribute to the team’s success.