Matt Hague, a former Pirates player and recent hitting coach for the Blue Jays, returns to Pittsburgh as the team's new hitting coach. Having a successful Minor League career, Hague emphasizes understanding player dynamics and creating tailored development roadmaps. His philosophy focuses on individualized solutions rather than one-size-fits-all approaches, leveraging the strengths of players like Bryan Reynolds and Oneil Cruz. He aims to build strong relationships to facilitate growth and improvement among the roster. Hague's role is particularly critical as modern pitching challenges escalate, making adaptability essential for hitters' success.

By the Numbers
  • Hague batted .309 in Triple-A and led the International League with 165 hits in 2011.
  • In Spring Training 2012, he recorded a .400 batting average with 7 home runs in 25 games.
Yes, But

While Hague acknowledges the Pirates' offensive challenges in 2024, he also highlights the potential within the roster, suggesting that individual player strengths could lead to significant growth with the right guidance.

State of Play
  • The Pirates are looking to rejuvenate their offense after a tough season.
  • Key hitters like Bryan Reynolds and Oneil Cruz are central to Hague's strategic plans.
What's Next

Hague plans to implement his philosophies as the team approaches Spring Training, focusing on player development and adjusting strategies based on individual needs and skill sets.

Bottom Line

Hague's return to the Pirates marks a promising new chapter, emphasizing the importance of player relationships and tailored development strategies to boost offensive performance amid tougher pitching landscapes.