The Oakland A’s had been clear that they wanted to bring their entire coaching staff back for 2023. Well, so much for those plans.
Bench coach Brad Ausmus will reportedly not return for the 2023 season. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, he will be looking to return to a role in the front office.
Oakland A’s need to find new bench coach for Mark Kotsay
Ausmus was the type of veteran voice that manager Mark Kotsay needed in his first season on the bench. He had spent five years as a manager with stints in Detroit and Los Angeles before landing on the A’s coaching staff.
But it is now time for a change. Ausmus had spent time in the front office before as a part of the Padres’ and Angels’ organizations. Given his experience in every facet of the game, and his time in major league front offices, it would not be a surprise for Ausmus to find his way into such a role once again.
The only question is where he will find that opportunity. The A’s cannot afford a hot dog vendor, making any possible bigger name additions to the front office unlikely at best. No matter what Ausmus may feel about his time in Oakland, and whether or not he would want to remain as part of the organization, the A’s may not be able to afford to keep him on without starting a GoFundMe.
The A’s loss will be another organization’s gain. Ausmus is respected for his baseball acumen and can make a difference regardless of the role he finds himself in. It is just a matter of time until he lands with a new organization in that desired front office role.
The Oakland A’s hoped to keep their coaching staff intact. Brad Ausmus had other plans as he is looking for a front office job instead.