Vogt Makes Key Staff Changes After AL Central Title; Willis and Alomar Jr. Return for 2025
After a thrilling 2024 campaign that saw the Cleveland Guardians capture the AL Central title and finish with 92 wins, manager Stephen Vogt is looking to build on that success. Vogt, a finalist for AL Manager of the Year in his first season at the helm, made several key changes to his coaching staff, signaling a commitment to continuity while also infusing fresh energy into key roles.
Here’s a closer look at the coaching moves in Cleveland as Vogt continues to shape his vision for the team’s future.
Craig Albernaz Promoted to Associate Manager
One of the most notable changes comes in the form of Craig Albernaz’s promotion to associate manager. Albernaz, who served as the Guardians’ bench coach in 2024, has been with the club since 2021. Under his leadership, the team showed improved game management and situational awareness, contributing to Cleveland’s impressive run to the top of the AL Central.
As associate manager, Albernaz will continue to work closely with Vogt on in-game decision-making, helping steer the team’s daily operations while likely taking on more responsibilities in terms of player development and overall team strategy.
Grant Fink Takes Over as Hitting Coach
In another significant shift, Grant Fink has been promoted to the role of hitting coach, replacing Chris Valaika, who left to join Terry Francona’s staff in Cincinnati. Fink has been with the organization since 2018, most recently serving as the club’s minor league hitting coordinator.
Fink’s promotion is a clear reflection of his success in developing Cleveland’s young hitters through the system. Under his guidance, the Guardians’ minor league affiliates have consistently ranked among the best in terms of offensive production, and now Fink will have the challenge of transferring that success to the big leagues. The Guardians are known for their player development, and Fink’s ability to mold young talent at the plate will be crucial as the team looks to improve its offensive consistency in 2025.
Sandy Alomar Jr. and Carl Willis Returning for Another Season
Two key members of the Guardians’ coaching staff will return for 2025, providing stability and continuity for the team.
Sandy Alomar Jr., one of the most beloved figures in the history of Cleveland baseball, will return for his 16th season with the Guardians, continuing his role as first base coach. Alomar’s leadership, especially in working with the team’s infielders and baserunners, has been a cornerstone of Cleveland’s success over the years. His experience and wisdom are invaluable assets, and his return provides an added layer of continuity for the team.
Carl Willis, who has served as the Guardians’ pitching coach since 2018, will also return for his 15th season with the club. Willis has earned a reputation as one of the top pitching coaches in the game, helping Cleveland develop a stable of dominant pitchers over the years. His ability to work with both veteran arms and young prospects will be pivotal as the Guardians look to maintain their pitching depth and effectiveness in 2025.
Kai Correa Elevated to Major League Field Coordinator
In another move to strengthen the coaching staff, Kai Correa has been promoted to major league field coordinator/director of defense, baserunning, and game strategy. Correa, who has been with the Guardians since 2018, previously worked as the team’s infield coordinator and has earned a strong reputation for his work in player development, particularly on the defensive side.
This new role will give Correa broader oversight of the team’s defensive strategies, baserunning, and overall game planning. As analytics continue to play a larger role in the game, Correa’s ability to blend data-driven insights with traditional coaching methods will be essential in helping the Guardians stay ahead of the curve. His promotion signals a deeper commitment to fine-tuning all aspects of the team’s game, ensuring they’re prepared for the challenges of the upcoming season.
A Clear Vision for the Future
Stephen Vogt’s first season as the Guardians’ manager was nothing short of impressive. Leading the team to a division title in a highly competitive AL Central and making a run at the AL Manager of the Year award is no small feat. His coaching staff changes reflect his vision for continued success — a mix of promoting from within and maintaining key veterans who have been part of Cleveland’s winning culture.
As the Guardians prepare for 2025, the stability provided by returning coaches like Alomar Jr. and Willis, paired with fresh energy from new faces like Fink and Correa, gives the team a balanced and dynamic leadership group. With Vogt at the helm and a well-rounded coaching staff behind him, the Guardians are primed for another competitive season, looking to build on their 92-win 2024 performance and make an even deeper playoff run.
The road to success in 2025 is clear: development, consistency, and strong leadership across all facets of the game. With these coaching changes, Cleveland is well-positioned to take another step forward.
