The Cincinnati Reds have filled out their minor-league coaching staffs – although only two have been announced – and it's a bigger group than in past years. For the 2017 season, Reds affiliates will have four coaches per team, instead of the previous three.
The position of bench coach has been created to supplement the duties of manager, hitting coach and pitching coach. Player development director Jeff Graupe said there are three prongs to the move:
- Pre-game: "We try to have as many diverse and versatile staff members as possible, whether that be English/Spanish, catchers and infielders and outfielders, former starting pitchers and former relievers.