Gabe Kapler is starting to build his coaching staff as the new Phillies manager. The team announced Friday that former Cubs hitting coach John Mallee will be the team’s next hitting coach. In addition, Dusty Wathan will get his first full-time major-league coaching job as the new third base coach while Rick Kranitz will stay with the team.
Mallee was Chicago’s hitting coach for the last three years before being fired after the Cubs were eliminated in the playoffs. Under Mallee’s tenure, Kris Bryant won both Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player honors.