The 2019 option on manager Jeff Banister’s contract was exercised by the Texas Rangers on Wednesday, the same day the club announced that one of Banister’s coaches won’t return for 2018.
Bullpen coach Brad Holman was not retained, and field coordinator Josh Bonifay could move to a role in the minor leagues. Holman oversaw one of the worst bullpens in baseball this season, but general manager Jon Daniels said that the relievers’ failures weren’t pinned solely on Holman.
Multiple factors, including player acquisition by Daniels, contributed to the woes even if they were unexpected after a strong showing by largely the same cast in 2017.