A former MLB cult hero is making the transition to coaching.
Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh-Post Gazette reported this week that that the Pittsburgh Pirates have hired ex-Mets fan favorite Daniel Vogelbach. The 32-year-old Vogelbach is joining as a special assistant to the hitting department.
Vogelbach had spent last season with the Toronto Blue Jays, hitting .186 overall. But the move to the coaching staff of the Pirates now effectively signals the end of Vogelbach’s playing career.
The lefty-hitting Vogelbach, a first baseman and designated hitter, was probably best known for his stint with the Mets from 2022-23. Listed at a playing weight of 270 pounds, he became beloved by the local fans for his many antics, including his funny walk-up songs, his lumbering exploits on the basepaths, and his various celebratory moments.
Granted, the Pirates had earlier rights on Vogelbach as he played for them in 2022 prior to his Mets stint. Vogelbach also played in his MLB career for the Seattle Mariners (whom he made an American League All-Star team with in 2019), the Milwaukee Brewers, and the aforementioned Blue Jays.
After going 76-86 last season but at least having something to cheer for in the form of NL Rookie of the Year pitcher Paul Skenes, Pittsburgh still has a lot to figure out on the offensive side of the ball. They finished 27th last season in overall OPS but will now be getting some tips from “Vogey,” who himself posted a standout .745 OPS during his MLB playing career.
