Tigers Part Ways With Pitching Coach Juan Nieves, First Base Coach Anthony Sanders

The Detroit Tigers have decided to move in a different direction with two members of their major league coaching staff, parting ways with assistant pitching coach Juan Nieves and first base coach Anthony Sanders. The moves represent part of the organizational restructuring that often follows the conclusion of a season, particularly when teams aim to refresh their approach to player development and on-field instruction.

Nieves' tenure ends. Nieves had been with the Tigers since 2021, working under the organization's pitching coach as part of a staff responsible for developing and managing the team's hurlers. His four-year run with Detroit concludes as the organization evaluates what changes might improve performance going forward. The pitching coach position itself, held by Chris Fetter, remains part of the structure, suggesting the organization sees the need for fresh voices in the pitching development room.

Sanders departs first base. Sanders' role as first base coach placed him in a visible position during games, responsible for managing base runners and relaying signals from the dugout. The decision to replace him indicates the Tigers are seeking new approaches to some of the foundational aspects of their game management and on-field development.

Searching for a reset. Coaching changes are standard practice in baseball, and both moves suggest Detroit wants to inject new perspectives into its organization. Whether these shifts represent a wholesale overhaul or targeted adjustments remains to be seen. The Tigers may announce additional staff changes or finalizations in the coming days as the organization solidifies its 2025 coaching structure and prepares for spring training.

Source: original report ↗