While change seemed likely for the Red Sox coaching staff in the wake of an 84-78 season, the first known alteration to the group comes as something of a surprise.
According to multiple industry sources, the Red Sox informed Andy Barkett he is being let go after two years as assistant hitting coach. During Barkett’s time under hitting coach Tim Hyers, the Red Sox ranked in the top three in the majors in runs per game (5.48, second), batting average (.269, first), on-base percentage (.339, second), slugging (.460, third), and OPS (.799, third).
Barkett came to the Red Sox after a dozen seasons as a minor league coach, coordinator, and manager, most recently as the manager of the Pirates’ Triple A affiliate in 2017.