Royals hire former Rays' bench coach Matt Quatraro as new manager

Quatraro, 48, was previously the bench coach for the Tampa Bay Rays, a role he has held since 2019.

"We are extremely excited to have Matt leading our club and core of talent," Royals general manager J.J. Picollo said. "Matt has great experiences throughout his career that have prepared him for this." 

Picollo said he was "thoroughly impressed" by Quatraro during the Royals' interviewing process, adding that he was "respected across the industry." 

Throughout his 18-year coaching career, Quantraro has held various roles within the Rays' organization, acting as minor league manager, catching instructor, hitting coordinator, and third base coach.

Quatraro has also spent time with the Cleveland Guardians as an assistant hitting coach. 

"I already knew the talent on the roster and how great the fans in Kansas City are, and the interview process convinced me that the terrific things I'd heard about the organization's culture are true," Quatraro said. "I can't wait to get started, and for my family to get to Kansas City and be part of that community." 

Quatraro fills the spot left behind by Mike Matheny, who the Royals fired after a 65-97 finish in 2022. The Royals went 165-219, finishing below .500 in all three seasons with Matheny at the helm.