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Maldonado Returns to Detroit, Reunites with Hinch
17 Oct
Summary
- Martin Maldonado joins Tigers as quality control coach.
- He previously worked with manager A.J. Hinch in Houston.
- Maldonado has a significant past with pitcher Framber Valdez.
The Detroit Tigers are expected to hire Martin Maldonado, a former Major League catcher, as their new quality control coach. This move brings a familiar face back into the organization and reunites the 40-year-old with manager A.J. Hinch, with whom he previously worked during the 2018 and 2019 seasons with the Houston Astros.
Maldonado, a Gold Glove winner and a key part of the Astros' 2022 World Series victory, spent the 2026 season as a special assistant with the Atlanta Braves. His reported addition fills a vacancy created by Billy Boyer's move to third-base coach and addresses other coaching absences.
A significant aspect of this hire is Maldonado's prior experience catching Framber Valdez. Maldonado was behind the plate for Valdez's no-hitter on August 1, 2023, and during the 2022 World Series. Given Valdez's inconsistent first season with Detroit after signing a three-year, $115 million contract, Maldonado's familiarity could offer valuable support.
Maldonado also has expressed aspirations to eventually manage in Major League Baseball, viewing this role with the Tigers as a stepping stone. His extensive experience in game preparation and catcher-pitcher communication adds an experienced baseball mind to a staff aiming to return the Tigers to contention.
