In an exciting move for the Colorado Rockies, the team has officially rounded out manager Warren Schaeffer's coaching staff for the 2026 season by promoting Doug Bernier. This promotion marks a significant transition for Bernier, who previously served as the Minor League field coordinator for the past two years and is also a former infielder for the Rockies. At 45 years old, he is set to take on vital responsibilities that include supervising outfield and baserunning training, along with his duties as the first-base coach. This position became available following Ron Gideon's transition to assistant bench coach.
Bernier's journey in professional baseball began in 2002 when he signed as a non-drafted free agent, and he made his Major League debut in 2008. Notably, he also had stints with the Minnesota Twins during the 2013 to 2015 seasons. His experience with the Rockies is extensive; after working as a professional scout for the organization from 2018 to 2019, he took on the role of Major League data and game-planning coordinator from 2020 to 2021. Most recently, during the last two seasons, he focused on player development as the defensive coordinator, where he was responsible for both infield and outfield instructional strategies.
Warren Schaeffer, who stepped into the role of interim manager last May after Bud Black's departure, will now lead a coaching staff that has been enhanced with one additional member in the pitching department. The expanded pitching team includes pitching coach Alon Leichman, bullpen coach Matt Buschmann, and a newly created position for assistant pitching coach Gabe Ribas. Furthermore, the Rockies have appointed Matt Daniels as the director of pitching, a move that underscores their commitment to bolstering their pitching strategy.
New faces joining the coaching staff this season include hitting coach Brett Pill, who previously worked with the Twins and Reds, and bench coach Jeff Pickler, who also has Major League experience with those teams. Alongside Bernier’s promotion, the Rockies have opted to retain several key figures from last season: Gideon, third-base coach Andy González, and assistant hitting coach Jordan Pacheco. Additionally, bullpen catchers Chris Rabago and Kyle Cunningham will return, with Rabago tasked with catcher instruction and Cunningham taking on game-planning duties.
As these changes unfold, fans are eager to see how this revamped coaching staff will impact the upcoming season. Will Bernier's experience and fresh perspective bring new energy to the Rockies? What do you think about the team's strategic moves? Share your thoughts below!
