A new name is emerging as a potential managerial candidate.
According to MLB Network insider Mark Feinsand, many within the industry are expecting Phillies hitting coach Kevin Long to be in play for one of the current openings around the league. This includes the White Sox, Royals, Marlins, Blue Jays, and Rangers.
Long, 55, was originally selected by the Royals in the 31st round of the 1989 MLB Draft. He played in Kansas City’s system for eight seasons, from 1989 until 1996, but never made it past Triple-A. After deciding to retire following spring training in 1997, Long made his professional managerial debut with the organization’s High-A affiliate later that year.
Since then, Long has notably gone on to serve as a hitting coach with MLB teams like the Yankees (2007-14), Mets (2015-17), Nationals (2018-21), and Phillies (2022). During that span, he’s had plenty of success and won a pair of World Series rings with the Yankees (2009) and Nationals (2019). Perhaps most importantly, he’s become very popular with his players and has experience with managers like Joe Girardi, Terry Collins, and Dave Martinez.
Long has been an integral part of the Phillies’ turnaround this season after Rob Thomson took over. The team’s NLDS series win over the Braves is the latest chapter in what’s been a remarkable story, only helping Long’s case should he decide to explore the available opportunities.
When looking at the guidelines set forth by GM Rick Hahn, the White Sox will be placing a high value on a candidate’s postseason experience, communication skills, and ability to evolve while still possessing “old-school sensibilities.” Past managerial experience is not necessarily a requirement, though Long’s extensive resume seems to make up for anything lost in that category. The Sox’s poor offensive output in 2022 might even swing in his favor.
For more updates throughout the South Siders’ managerial search, follow us on social media @SoxOn35th.
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[…] Kevin Long, Phillies hitting coach (rumor) […]
I’d rather they fire Menechino and give Long a healthy raise to convince him to be hitting coach, then get Washington or Shildt. If they have to go first-time manager, then I’d prefer Espada or Quataro.
Yet another intriguing candidate, especially with his success as a hitting coach.The White Sox offense last season plummetted to the depths of their more accustomed crappy defense.