The Atlanta Braves have made significant changes to their coaching staff following a disappointing offensive performance in 2024. Hitting coach Kevin Seitzer was dismissed after a challenging season, with Tim Hyers, a native of Atlanta and former Rangers hitting coach, stepping into the role. Assistant hitting coach Bobby Magallanes was also let go, leaving the Braves searching for fresh leadership to rejuvenate their lineup.
To bolster their efforts, the Braves have hired Hugh Quattlebaum and Carlos Méndez as assistant hitting coaches, creating a trio of hitting specialists for the first time since 2023.
Quattlebaum’s Expertise in Player Development
Quattlebaum brings a wealth of experience, having served as the assistant director of hitting for the Diamondbacks in 2024 and as a hitting coach for the ACL Diamondbacks since 2023. His coaching career began with the Mariners in 2018 as their Minor League Hitting Coordinator, followed by a stint with the Mets from 2021 to 2022 as the Director of Hitting Development.
Méndez’s Long Tenure with the Brave
Carlos Méndez, a familiar name within the Braves organization, has spent 17 years coaching in the team’s minor league system. His roles have spanned every level of the minors, culminating in his position as the FCL Braves’ hitting coach in 2024. This new appointment marks Méndez’s first role as an MLB coach, a significant step in his career.
Their Playing Background
While neither coach had an extensive MLB playing career, both have deep ties to professional baseball. Quattlebaum spent four years in the Tigers and Orioles minor league systems before retiring in 2003. Méndez enjoyed a 16-year minor league career from 1992 to 2007, with a brief stint in the majors, appearing in 26 games for the Orioles in 2003.
A Critical Mission Ahead
The duo faces the challenging task of working alongside Tim Hyers to rebuild an underperforming offense. Fortunately, the Braves’ lineup is stacked with talent, offering a strong foundation for improvement. With their combined experience in player development and coaching, Quattlebaum and Méndez are poised to play a crucial role in the team’s quest for offensive resurgence.
