In October 2024, the Boston Red Sox initiated significant changes to their coaching staff following an 81-81 season, marking their third consecutive year without a playoff appearance. The organization dismissed six coaches: first base/infield coach Andy Fox, bullpen coach Kevin Walker, assistant hitting coach Luis Ortiz, mental skills coach Rey Fuentes, trainer Ben Chadwick, and bullpen catcher Mani Martinez.
Andy Fox, a former MLB infielder and two-time World Series champion, had been with the Red Sox organization since 2011. He served in various capacities, including minor league infield coordinator and field coordinator, before being promoted to first base coach for the 2024 season.
Kevin Walker, a former MLB pitcher, joined the Red Sox as a minor league pitching coach in 2009. He was promoted to assistant pitching coach in 2020 and became the bullpen coach in 2021. Under his tenure, the bullpen’s performance was inconsistent, finishing the 2024 season with a 4.39 ERA, ranking 24th in MLB.
Assistant hitting coach Luis Ortiz, who had a brief playing stint with the Red Sox in the mid-1990s, was part of the coaching staff for three years. Prior to that, he served as the lead hitting coach for the Texas Rangers from 2018 to 2021.
The dismissals also included mental skills coach Rey Fuentes, trainer Ben Chadwick, and bullpen catcher Mani Martinez. Martinez had been with the organization since 2005 and was known for catching David Ortiz’s grand slam in the bullpen during the 2013 ALCS against the Detroit Tigers.
These coaching changes were among the first significant moves under Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow, who emphasized the need for decisive actions to improve the team’s performance. The Red Sox retained key coaching figures, including pitching coach Andrew Bailey, bench coach Ramon … and game planning coordinator/catching coach … .
The Red Sox’s recent seasons have been marked by underperformance, with the team failing to make the playoffs since their unexpected run to the … American League Championship Series. The 2024 season was particularly disappointing, with the bullpen leading MLB with 16 blown leads and posting a 5.45 ERA after the All-Star break, the worst in the league.
Fan frustration has been mounting, with criticism directed at ownership for perceived reluctance to invest in the team’s success. Breslow acknowledged this sentiment, stating, “We can no longer ask our fans … … We have to take decisive actions that we’re taking right … .”
The organization is now focused on restructuring the coaching staff and making strategic player acquisitions to address weaknesses, particularly in the bullpen. The goal is to return to playoff contention and restore confidence among the fan base. As the offseason progresses, the Red Sox are expected to announce new coaching hires and pursue talent to bolster their roster for the 2025 season.
