As first reported by Astros writer Michael Schwab, the Cubs have hired Jason Kantzler as their new Director of Player Development. This fills the role previously held by Jared Banner before his promotion to assistant GM. It’s been a rapid ascension for the 33-year-old Kantzler, who started with the Astros in 2019 as a minor league hitting coach. He earned a spot on the big league staff in 2022 and was Houston’s assistant hitting coach last season.
Drafted as an outfielder in the 20th round by the Twins in 2013, Kantzler spent three seasons in the minors before retiring after the 2015 campaign.