Ex-Yankee Preston Claiborne Elevates Coaching Ranks in 2025 Bronx Staff
The New York Yankees have recently announced a significant change to their coaching staff for the upcoming 2025 season under the leadership of manager Aaron Boone. This alteration brings back a familiar face to the organization, showcasing a transition from the pitching mound to the coach’s corner.
Preston Claiborne’s Baseball Journey
Preston Claiborne, a former reliever for the Yankees, has been promoted to the role of assistant pitching coach for the 2025 season. Claiborne, aged 37, was drafted by the Yankees in the 17th round of the 2010 MLB Draft. His professional career saw him making his big-league debut in May 2013, where he showcased his talent with an impressive performance against the Oakland Athletics.
During his time as an active player, Claiborne made notable contributions to the Yankees’ bullpen, accumulating a 4.11 ERA, 1.29 WHIP, and a 7.5 K/9 rate in his 2013 season. Despite facing challenges in subsequent years and transitioning between organizations, he brought his expertise and experience back to the Yankees as a coach in 2020.
Coaching Achievements and Contributions
Claiborne’s coaching tenure within the Yankees’ system has been marked by significant achievements. From his role as the pitching coach for the High-A Hudson Valley Renegades to his most recent position with the Low-A Tampa Tarpons in 2024, Claiborne has been instrumental in the development of promising pitching prospects.
His coaching impact was notably reflected in the Renegades’ pitching staff’s stellar performance, culminating in a league-best 3.62 ERA and a remarkable strikeout record during his tenure. Claiborne’s ability to nurture talent and optimize performance has garnered recognition within the organization.
Collaboration and Future Endeavors
As Claiborne assumes his new role as assistant pitching coach alongside pitching coach Matt Blake, the duo is poised to enhance the Yankees’ pitching unit further. With the team’s recent additions of accomplished pitchers such as Max Fried, Devin Williams, and Fernando Cruz, the coaching staff aims to maximize the potential of star players like Gerrit Cole and Luis Gil.
The collective efforts of Claiborne, Blake, and the pitching roster symbolize the Yankees’ pursuit of excellence as they strive for another American League pennant in the upcoming season. Claiborne’s transition from player to coach underscores his commitment to the organization’s success and his dedication to shaping the future of the team’s pitching dynamics.