It’s the last day of January and, as we finish off the last month without baseball until potentially December, let’s take a look at some of the latest MLB news and notes, including a hire for the New York Yankees, stadium news for the Tampa Bay Rays, and a beloved fan mourned by the Cleveland Guardians.
New York Yankees news: Brad Wilkerson hired as assistant hitting coach
The Yankees have added to their hitting resources with the hire of Wilkerson, who played for four MLB teams over a span of eight seasons between 2001-08. Wilkerson is expected to slide into the role vacated by Hensley Meulens, who left the Yankees this offseason to become the hitting coach for the Colorado Rockies and talked with us about the success of Aaron Judge last season.
For the last three years, Wilkerson has worked as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for Jacksonville University.
MLB news: Darren O’Day announces retirement
After 15 MLB seasons, relief pitcher Darren O’Day announced on social media that he is stepping away from the game.
It’s been a wild ride that I never thought I’d get to experience, but it’s finally time to hang ‘em up. pic.twitter.com/CewsXhgBYz
— Darren O'Day (@DODay56) January 30, 2023
O’Day suited up for six different teams during his career, including last season when he appeared in 28 games with the Atlanta Braves. He walks away with a career 2.59 ERA/3.48 FIP/1.034 WHIP in 609.0 innings over 644 games.
Tampa Bay Rays news: Redevelopment plans for Tropicana Field area
Tropicana Field and the surrounding area are reportedly undergoing a major facelift in the coming months in an effort to keep the Rays in St. Petersburg.
On Monday, St. Petersburg mayor Ken Welch announced plans for a new stadium for the Rays as part of an 86-acre rebuild. According to reports, a new ballpark would be opened in time for the 2028 season.
You can see a rendering of the plan, as well as read about what will be included in the area along with the new stadium here.
Cleveland Guardians news: Saying goodbye to an icon
The famous drum that has been a part of Cleveland baseball for decades has fallen silent.
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of John Adams.
— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) January 30, 2023
John has been with us since our time at Cleveland Municipal, banging his drum for nearly 50 years, bringing joy to fans and players alike.
John, you will be missed but your legacy will live on forever. pic.twitter.com/GQ9sUt2L6f
Scroll through the mentions following that Twitter announcement and you’ll see just how many fans Adams impacted during his years of making himself heard in Cleveland.