What changes have the Houston Astros made to their hitting coaching staff?

The Astros have hired Victor Rodríguez and Anthony Iapoce as new hitting coaches, while promoting Dan Hennigan to director of hitting and offensive coordinator.

Why did the Astros decide to overhaul their hitting department?

The Astros had a disappointing 2025 season, scoring three or fewer runs in 82 of their 162 games. The team believes the new structure and fresh perspectives from the external hires will help them improve pitch selection, deeper counts, and slugging.

How will the Astros' new hitting coaches help the team's offense?

The Astros are hoping the new hitting department, with its distinct roles and specialties, will help the team return to better pitch selection, deeper counts, and improved slugging, which eluded them in 2025.

Home / Sports / Astros Revamp Hitting Coaching Staff, Aim to Recapture Offensive Prowess

Astros Revamp Hitting Coaching Staff, Aim to Recapture Offensive Prowess

13 Nov

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Summary

Astros hire new hitting coaches, including Victor Rodríguez and Anthony Iapoce
Promote Dan Hennigan to director of hitting and offensive coordinator
Aim to improve pitch selection, deeper counts, and slugging after disappointing 2025 season

Astros Revamp Hitting Coaching Staff, Aim to Recapture Offensive Prowess

In the wake of a disappointing 2025 season, the Houston Astros have undertaken a major overhaul of their hitting coaching staff. Last month, the team parted ways with Troy Snitker and Alex Cintrón, who had shared the title of hitting coach.

General manager Dana Brown and manager Joe Espada have now finalized a new, three-person hitting department with a more clear hierarchy. Two of the hires are external: Victor Rodríguez from the San Diego Padres and Anthony Iapoce, formerly of the Detroit Tigers.

Additionally, Astros hitting coordinator Dan Hennigan, a biomechanics expert who joined the organization last year, has been promoted to director of hitting and will serve as the team's offensive coordinator. Hennigan will not be in uniform but will play a key role in disseminating game plans and other data-driven preparation methods.