Chicago Cubs Announce New Coaching Staff Adjustments Ahead of 2024 Season

The Chicago Cubs are making significant changes to their major league coaching staff in preparation for Craig Counsell’s second year as manager. The latest addition to the team is Jose Javier, who will take on the role of first-base coach, according to sources from The Athletic.


Javier, 32, spent the previous season as a defensive coach for the New York Yankees’ Triple-A affiliate. His expertise in outfield defense and base running has been instrumental within New York's farm system. Before transitioning into coaching, Javier played six seasons as a minor-league player for the Yankees, starting his career in the Dominican Republic.


The Cubs began their coaching overhaul soon after the season ended in September. They dismissed three coaches: Mike Napoli (first base), Darren Holmes (bullpen), and Jim Adduci (hitting assistant), and started restructuring their high-performance team, which oversees strength and conditioning.


In this transition, Craig Counsell has already brought on Quintin Berry from the Milwaukee Brewers to serve as the new third-base coach. Berry, known for his base-running expertise, previously worked with Counsell in Milwaukee. He replaces Willie Harris, who did not renew his contract with the Cubs in October.


Additionally, the Cubs promoted Casey Jacobson, a respected pitching coordinator from their minor-league system. Jacobson will now serve as an assistant pitching coach, taking over some duties from Daniel Moskos, who left to become the Miami Marlins’ lead pitching coach.


The Cubs also hired Matt Talarico from the Yankees, enhancing their player development department. Talarico, previously New York’s director of speed development and a base-running coordinator, has been appointed as the Cubs’ offensive coordinator for base running. His new role will leverage his extensive experience and regional roots in the Midwest.


These strategic hires and promotions are part of the Cubs' broader effort to enhance their coaching staff and overall team performance. The new additions bring a wealth of experience and specialized skills that will be crucial for the Cubs as they aim to improve their competitiveness in the upcoming season.