CINCINNATI – In a recent announcement, the Cincinnati Reds revealed that their new manager, Terry Francona, has brought on board Chris Valaika as the hitting coach, who previously worked for the Cleveland Guardians. Valaika, 39, has a three-year tenure as the hitting coach in Cleveland, a role he assumed during Francona’s management there.

Valaika, a former infielder, has MLB experience with the Cincinnati Reds from 2010 to 2011, the Miami Marlins in 2013, and the Chicago Cubs in 2014, during which he played a total of 99 games over four seasons. The coach, who hails from Santa Clarita, California, transitioned into coaching in 2017. His coaching journey began with the Cubs organization, where he spent five seasons before joining the Cleveland staff under Francona.

This hiring comes shortly after Francona was appointed the Reds’ manager earlier this month. His arrival marked a significant change following the dismissal of David Bell, who was let go with just five games remaining in his sixth season with the team. The Reds are hoping that Valaika’s expertise will enhance their batting performance in the upcoming season.