WASHINGTON -- Changes to the Nationals coaching staff continue.
Hitting coach Kevin Long, who was previously expected to be leaving the team, came to a one-year deal and will remain on manager Dave Martinez’s staff for the 2021 season, sources told MLB.com's Mark Feinsand. Initially, the two sides could not come to terms and Long was granted permission by the Nationals to speak with other clubs. After staying in touch, they came to terms on a deal for next season.
Earlier this week, the Nationals announced the hiring of Jim Hickey as pitching coach. Paul Menhart previously held the role, and he is not returning to the Nats after 15 years with the organization.
Third-base coach Chip Hale will also not return next year. Hale was the Nationals' bench coach from 2018-19 before moving to the role at third base this season. MLB Network’s Jon Heyman was the first to report Hale's departure.
The club has not confirmed that coaching change, however Hale recently spoke with The Washington Post about leaving the organization.
Martinez signed a multiyear extension on Sept. 26. One week after the regular season ended, the first coaching staff change -- the decision on Menhart -- was made.