Athletics Make Coaching Decision Ahead of Second Half

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Athletics Make Coaching Decision Ahead of Second Half

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Jul 16, 2026 1:59 PM ET

The Athletics will enter the second half with a new voice leading their pitching staff after dismissing longtime pitching coach Scott Emerson. The organization promoted bullpen coach Dan Hubbs to interim pitching coach following a difficult first half that saw the club struggle on the mound.

Emerson had served as the Athletics' pitching coach since June 2017, making him one of the franchise's longest-tenured coaches. The decision came after the team dropped nine straight games before the All-Star break and finished the first half with a 41-55 record.

The Athletics also filled Hubbs' previous role by promoting former major league reliever Javy Guerra from Double-A Midland to serve as bullpen coach for the remainder of the season.

A's will promote Double-A Midland pitching coach Javy Guerra to the big league coaching staff. Former Major League reliever who won a World Series with Nationals in 2019.

"He and Dan have spent a lot of time together the last few days figuring out how to prepare," Forst said.
— Martín Gallegos (@MartinJGallegos) July 16, 2026

Hubbs joined the Athletics organization in 2023 after working in pitching development with the Detroit Tigers and spending several seasons as a successful college head coach. Guerra, who won a World Series with the Washington Nationals in 2019, now receives his first opportunity on a major league coaching staff.

The coaching shakeup follows a disappointing first half for the Athletics' pitching staff. The club entered the All-Star break with a 5.21 team ERA, second worst in Major League Baseball, while allowing 5.50 runs per game during a stretch in which it lost 17 of its final 20 games.

Athletics manager Mark Kotsay (7)Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

The Athletics have also been hit by several key injuries entering the second half. Nick Kurtz is on the injured list with a right thumb capsule sprain, Zack Gelof remains sidelined with a knee injury and Brent Rooker is out for the season after knee surgery.

With the July trade deadline approaching, the Athletics are expected to evaluate both their young talent and veteran trade candidates. The organization hopes its coaching changes can help stabilize the pitching staff while positioning the club for a stronger finish over the season's final months.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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