Orioles Hiring Former Braves Manager Fredi Gonzalez to Join Coaching Staff

Following an atrocious 54-108 campaign under rookie manager Brandon Hyde in 2019 (an improvement from 2018's 47-115 record, at least), it was clear that the Orioles needed some reinforcements in the coaching staff. Enter former Braves and Marlins manager Fredi Gonzalez, who will be assuming a coaching role with the ballclub.

Gonzalez holds the honor of being the second-winningest manager in the history of the Marlins, where he returned as a third-base coach following his dismissal as the Braves manager in 2016. While in Atlanta, Gonzalez guided the team to consecutive playoff berths in 2012 and 2013.

The addition of Gonzalez to the coaching staff should be a very beneficial move for Baltimore, as he can serve as a mentor to both the players and to Hyde himself. If the Orioles hope to dig themselves out of the AL East basement, moves like this are a sign that the tide may be turning.

While the team has notably traded Dylan Bundy and Jonathan Villar away in the past week, these moves may very well be for the best in the long-term, as the team looks to open up opportunities for its younger players.

And this is despite some fans questioning their approach.

Here's to hoping that the addition of Gonzalez can stabilize the team's culture in Baltimore, and restore success to our favorite orange-clad ball-club.