(By MATT PIKE)
Ahead of Spring Training beginning, the Kansas City Royals announced their minor league coaching staffs for 2026.
With longtime coach Mike Jirschele retiring after over three decades with the organization, Patrick Osborn will take over as manager for the Omaha Storm Chasers. Osborn becomes the 20th manager in the history of the franchise, after serving as the Stormchasers bench coach in 2025. His staff will include, pitching coach Dane Johnson, hitting coach Bijan Rademacher, assistant pitching coach David Lundquist, assistant coach Tripp Keister, athletic trainers James Stone and Amanda Gallone, strength and conditioning Coach CJ Mikkelsen, and clubhouse coordinator Mike Brown.
The support staff also includes assistant coordinator, Minor League video Ben Nicholas and nutrition fellow Alyssa Druey.
Other notable changes include Brooks Conrad leading the Double-A Northwest Arkansas Naturals and Jesus Azuaje returning as manager for High-A Quad Cities. The coaching staffs for the Arizona Summer League team and Dominican Summer League were also announced, with several new additions and returning coaches.
Additionally, there are several changes and additions to the player development and operations staff within the organization. Mitch Maier returns as Director of Player Development and Rusty Kuntz will serve as special assistant to the GM.
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