Nationals welcome Knorr back to clubhouse
Bench coach makes emotional return after missing over three weeks due to wife's passing
BALTIMORE -- The Nationals' coaching staff is whole again, as manager Matt Williams put it. Bench coach Randy Knorr returned to the Nationals on Friday. He missed two weeks because his wife, Kimberly, passed away June 23 at age 45. The team has not disclosed a cause.
Knorr called Williams about a week ago and said that he wanted to return to work, but he didn't know exactly when. Knorr then called Williams this week and said he would like to return to the Nationals for Friday's game against the Orioles.
"[Knorr said], 'I need to get back into the dugout. It's a comfort for me." Williams said. "We are glad to have him back. We are whole as a coaching staff again now. We are happy to have him."
Knorr was part of the team's advanced meeting on Friday afternoon and then later watched batting practice.
"I know baseball is a passion to him," shortstop Ian Desmond said. "Unfortunately, he had to take some time away to deal with the tragedy. It will be good for him to get back in the dugout with his boys."
First baseman Clint Robinson said Knorr made his day when Robinson saw Knorr in the clubhouse cafeteria. Robinson gave Knorr a big bug and expressed how glad he was to see him.
"It's definitely good to see him. He is always positive," Robinson said. "He always makes you feel good about the situation, no matter what's going on."