Rockies promote Bernier to finalize Schaeffer's staff

DENVER -- The Rockies completed manager Warren Schaeffer's 2026 coaching staff on Tuesday by promoting Doug Bernier, a former infielder for the club who has held various positions with the organization, including Minor League field coordinator the last two seasons.

Bernier, 45, will oversee outfield and baserunning instruction in addition to his first-base coaching duties. The spot opened when Ron Gideon moved to assistant bench coach.

Bernier began his playing career in 2002 as a non-drafted free agent and debuted in the Majors in ‘08. He also played for the Twins for parts of the 2013-15 seasons.

After working as a Rockies professional scout from 2018-19, Bernier served as Major League data and game-planning coordinator from 2020-21 and in player development as defensive coordinator (overseeing infield and outfield instruction) from 2022-23.

Schaeffer, who moved from third-base coach to interim manager to replace Bud Black last May, will operate with an on-field staff expanded by one in the pitching department, with pitching coach Alon Leichman, bullpen coach Matt Buschmann and assistant pitching coach Gabe Ribas (a role added this year). The Rockies have also added Matt Daniels as director of pitching.

Also new are hitting coach Brett Pill, formerly with the Twins and Reds, and bench coach Jeff Pickler, who worked in the Majors with the Twins and Reds.

In addition to promoting Bernier, the Rockies retained Gideon, third-base coach Andy González and assistant hitting coach Jordan Pacheco. Bullpen catchers Chris Rabago and Kyle Cunningham also return. Rabago will instruct the catchers, and Cunningham will have game-planning responsibilities.