The Jays have hired David Popkins to be their new hitting coach.
Popkins is 34 and played in the Cardinals system for three seasons but didn’t make it higher than Double-A. He hit .278/.346/.409 with 14 home runs in 256 games in their system.
He was the Twins hitting coach for three seasons before being let go at the end of last season. The Twins led the AL in home runs in 2023 with 233, which dropped to 183 this past year.
“David’s ability to game plan and connect with players in different ways is a really exciting addition to our coaching staff,” said manager John Schneider in the club’s press release, “He’s a true expert in all types of hitting information and will help our offensive strategy for each game. We’re looking forward to the instant impact of his relentless work ethic.”
You’ll likely remember that the Jays fired Guillermo Martinez after last season. Matt Hague and Hunter Mense will be assistants.
Hopefully, he’ll find a way to get our guys scoring more.