Tigers confirm sweeping coaching changes under AJ Hinch — here's what they mean

The Detroit Tigers recently made sweeping changes to their front office and coaching staff under manager AJ Hinch, and they don’t feel cosmetic; they suggest a deliberately different strategic posture.

By bringing in Cody Asche (assistant hitting coach) and Anthony Sanders (first base coach with base running/outfield/steal backgrounds) the Tigers appear to be investing in a refined offensive profile – one that places an emphasis on process (preparation, approach, base running and first-base/steal awareness) over power.

Asche’s experience in strategy roles means he’s likely going to bring more advanced analytics and hitter-process thinking into the Major League hitting staff. Sanders’ long track record of base running/outfield coordination suggests the Tigers want to ensure the first-base coach role is more than just a basic function; it’s about outfield support and base running reads. Expect messaging around plate discipline, launch angle/exit velocity being refined, more aggressive (but smarter) base running, and improved situational hitting.

Promoting Billy Boyer to a major league quality control coach role is a sign of rewarding internal development – someone familiar with the Tigers’ farm system, infield coordination and developmental voice. That helps bridge the minor league pipeline to the MLB staff, which fits a “we built this together” narrative rather than bringing in all outsiders.

Likewise, promoting Georgia Giblin into the VP Health & Performance slot signals the Tigers are doubling down on the science side of player health, recovery, biomechanics and the “next-gen” performance infrastructure. This is encouraging because it suggests the Tigers are focused on not just “player acquisition and now” but “player optimization and pipeline."

The hire of Alex Smith into the newly created VP of Baseball Strategy role is arguably the biggest signal. This isn’t just a hire of a coach or performance staff member; this is elevating the strategic axis of the organization. Smith’s background with the Chicago Cubs in data and strategy means the Tigers are integrating scouting, advanced analytics, and on-field strategy together under one umbrella. This move also signals the Tigers are serious about competing, not just “rebuild and hope.” It says: we have a plan.

The non-return of Gary Jones (and earlier hitting/first-base coaches) along with the new hires suggests the Tigers are holding staff accountable for the 2025 campaign results, particularly on the hitting side. It’s not just another offseason change for optics; it’s a sign that leadership expects improvement. If the Tigers don’t show progress, the coaching staff may again face scrutiny.

How fans should measure Tigers' success under new coach and front office hires

Following these personnel moves, Tigers fans should keep an eye on how the approach at the plate changes. Are we seeing fewer strikeouts? More walks? Better situational hitting? Is base running more aggressive or smarter (i.e., more stolen base attempts, but also better success)? They should also monitor injury and durability metrics under Giblin's new role.

Fans should also watch the pipeline integration. Since Boyer comes from the system, and Smith’s role involves acquisitions, we should see smoother transitions for top prospects into MLB roles (and maybe more internal options rather than external big trades). Fans should pay attention to whether the Tigers’ trade/free-agent profile shifts as well (smart acquisitions, niche players, better alignment with the system).

Coaching changes also yield trial periods. If the first half of 2026 shows a positive offense uptick, it will validate the hire of Asche and Sanders. If not, then questions will surface about whether the coaching staff is the right fit or whether the roster simply lacks talent.

This isn’t a small tweak; it’s a structural move. For fans who have been frustrated with slow progress, this hire cycle gives reason for cautious optimism. That said, new voices don’t guarantee success. The Tigers will still need the right players, health, depth and execution. Coaching and strategy matter, but they aren’t everything.