Nationals reportedly hire new first base coach

The Washington Nationals have hired Eric Young, Jr. as their first base coach. First word of the hiring was Young’s father and Atlanta Braves first base coach Eric Young, Sr. telling Jose de Jesus Ortiz of Our Espina and confirmed by Jesse Dougherty of The Washington Post.

Eric Young, Jr. is replacing Randy Knorr on manager Dave Martinez’s coaching staff. Knorr was reassigned from the major league staff to player development along with longtime third base coach Bob Henley.

Young played 10 seasons in the majors for multiple teams. He hit .245/.312/.332 with 13 home runs and 112 RBIs. 

He was known as a speedy outfielder. He led the National League with 46 stolen bases in 148 games in 2013 with the New York Mets– his lone full season of his career. The following season he had 30 stolen bases in 100 games.

Young’s expertise in stealing the bases could help the Nationals improve their base running, particularly at the top of the order with Lane Thomas, Victor Robles and slugger Juan Soto, who is looking to increase his stolen base total.

Henley used to coach the outfielder. Having played in the outfield throughout his career, Young could also be tasked with the role, as Dougherty pointed out. 

Young becomes the second new coach to join Martinez’s staff. Washington hired Darnell Coles earlier this month to replace Kevin Long, who left for the same position with the Philadelphia Phillies.