Angels announce coaching changes for 2016

The Angels Tuesday announced hitting coach Don Baylor and pitching coach Mike Butcher will not return to Mike Scioscia's coaching staff for the 2016 season. The announcement was made by General Manager Billy Eppler.  

"Don's career with the Angels is one that has embodied commitment, dedication and leadership," said Eppler.   "From his MVP season in 1979, subsequent induction into the Angels Hall of Fame, and eventual return as hitting coach, Don will always remain synonymous with Angels Baseball."

"These are good baseball men and individuals who have a deep passion and focus towards their craft. I am both respectful and appreciative of the many contributions Don and Mike have made to this organization during their careers here," added Eppler.

Baylor, 66, joined the Angels as hitting coach in 2014, returning to the organization for whom he won Most Valuable Player honors in 1979 when he recorded a .296 average (186/628), with 36 home runs and 139 RBI while appearing in each of the club's 162 games. During his post-playing career, Baylor has either managed or served as a hitting coach for 23 seasons.

Butcher, 50, completed his ninth season as Angels pitching coach in 2015 after joining the staff on Nov. 18, 2006. He played 14 seasons of professional baseball, including four campaigns at the Major League level with the Angels from 1992-95.

"This past weekend I had a lengthy conversation with John Carpino and Billy Eppler regarding my status with the organization" said Butcher. "We mutually agreed this might be a good time for change. Billy is an impressive individual with solid concepts for the future and I wish him well. I am also thankful to Arte, the entire Angels family and of course the players themselves for my time with an organization that has meant so much to my family and I."