Reds hire Turner Ward as hitting coach

Not only will the Dodgers be in the market for a new third-base coach, they’ll also be in the market for a new hitting coach. Turner Ward, who has spent the last three seasons as LA’s hitting coach, was named the Cincinnati Reds’ new hitting coach on Tuesday morning.

Ward’s impact was felt, as the Dodgers set a franchise record in 2018 with 235 home runs. They also set Los Angeles records with 564 extra-base hits, as well as a .442 slugging percentage. In each of his three seasons, the run production for LA increased.

During his tenure, the Dodgers rank first in the National League in home runs, second in walks, third in slugging percentage, fourth in on-base percentage, and fifth in runs scored.

Prior to coming to LA, Ward spent time with the Diamondbacks. He spent 2013 as an assistant hitting coach, and then spent two years as their hitting coach.

This is the latest move for the Reds, who recently hired former Brewers pitching coach Derek Johnson to the same position.

“We are pleased to have Turner join our staff,” Dick Williams, Reds’ President of Baseball Operations said. “He has mentored a number of successful hitters in both Arizona and Los Angeles. He comes highly recommended for his ability to connect with players and help them maximize their potential.”

Last week, the Dodgers lost third-base coach Chris Woodward, as he was hired by the Texas Rangers to be their new manager.