The Pittsburgh Pirates are making a significant addition to their coaching staff. According to a report from Scott Mitchell of TSN, the Pirates are hiring Matt Hague from the Toronto Blue Jays as their hitting coach. Hague, 39, served as the Triple-A Buffalo hitting coach in 2023 after spending two seasons prior with Double-A New Hampshire, both minor league affiliates of the Blue Jays.
Toronto’s hitting coach at three minor league levels before becoming the assistant hitting coach to Guillermo Martinez on the 2024 staff. Toronto parted ways with Martinez after the season and hired David Popkins as his replacement.
Pirates Hire Matt Hague as Hitting Coach
Hague, who enjoyed a strong rapport with both players and coaches, will join Derek Shelton‘s coaching staff in Pittsburgh. Hague is recognized for his ability to connect with individual hitters, creating tailored plans rather than adhering to a one-size-fits-all philosophy. He takes over from Andy Haines, who was let go after three seasons as the Pirates’ hitting coach. Hague faces the challenge of enhancing an offense that ranked 24th in runs scored, 27th in team OPS, and recorded the fourth-most strikeouts in the league.
Hague had a brief but noteworthy career in the majors. He played parts of three seasons with the Blue Jays and the Pirates. Throughout his time in the big leagues, he participated in 43 games and recorded a total of 91 plate appearances.
In 2015, Hague showcased his exceptional talent in the minor leagues, earning the prestigious title of International League MVP. During that standout season with the Buffalo Bisons, he played in 136 games. He delivered an impressive performance at the plate. Hague achieved a stellar batting average of .338, an on-base percentage of .416, and a slugging percentage of .469. His power was clear as he hit 11 home runs, solidifying his status as a formidable player.
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