Texas Rangers Hire Bret Boone as Hitting Coach

The Texas Rangers have hired former MLB All-Star Bret Boone as their new hitting coach after firing offensive coordinator Donnie Ecker due to the team's ongoing offensive struggles. Boone, a three-time All-Star and four-time Gold Glove winner, has no prior coaching experience but is recognized for his impressive playing career, particularly his years with the Seattle Mariners. The decision was influenced by Boone's reputation as a competitive and confident hitter, as well as his longstanding relationship with Rangers manager Bruce Bochy, whom he played for in San Diego. Boone, part of a prominent baseball family that includes Yankees manager Aaron Boone, will share hitting coach duties with Justin Viele for the remainder of the season. The Rangers hope Boone's pedigree and approach will invigorate a lineup that currently ranks last in the American League in runs scored. Boone himself expressed surprise at the opportunity, citing his respect for Bochy as a key factor in accepting the role.