Overview

• David Popkins, 34, replaces Guillermo Martínez as the Toronto Blue Jays' hitting coach following their last-place finish in the American League East.
• Popkins has spent the last three years as a hitting coach with the Minnesota Twins, known for improving players' swing mechanics and game strategy.
• Under Popkins, the Twins achieved notable offensive stats, including a .726 OPS and 183 home runs in the 2024 season.
• Toronto's offensive struggles last season included ranking 19th in batting average and 26th in home runs, highlighting the need for a new hitting strategy.
• Popkins will collaborate with assistant hitting coaches and focus on both established stars and emerging talent in the Blue Jays' lineup.