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Mets Hire Former Dodgers Catcher A.J. Ellis for Coaching Staff
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- Mets Hire Former Dodgers Catcher A.J. Ellis for Coaching Staff
(IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
A.J. Ellis is beginning another chapter in baseball, with the former Los Angeles Dodgers catcher joining the New York Mets as a major-league strategy coordinator on manager Andy Green's coaching staff.
According to Will Sammon of The Athletic , New York is bringing Ellis aboard as it continues assembling its coaching staff for the upcoming season. The appointment marks a transition from his previous work in a front-office capacity and gives him an opportunity to return to the field in a coaching role.
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Although Ellis spent time with several organizations during his 11-year major league career, his baseball identity was largely shaped by his time in Los Angeles. He became a familiar presence behind the plate during one of the most successful stretches of his career, establishing himself as a trusted defensive option and a respected teammate.
Ellis built his reputation during Dodgers' tenure
Originally selected in the 18th round of the 2003 MLB Draft, Ellis worked his way through the minor leagues before establishing himself as a major league catcher. He eventually became an important part of Los Angeles' roster, particularly for his ability to handle a pitching staff and manage games from behind the plate.
His strongest connection came with Clayton Kershaw , forming a battery with the left-hander during several of the defining years of the pitcher's career.
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Kershaw developed into one of baseball's premier starting pitchers during that period, earning multiple Cy Young Awards and becoming the centerpiece of the Dodgers' rotation. Ellis was frequently behind the plate for the left-hander, building familiarity with his pitching approach and helping guide him through opposing lineups.
While Ellis was never known primarily for his offensive production, his reputation as a defensive-minded catcher and game-caller made him a valuable presence in the clubhouse.
Reunion with Green brings coaching opportunity
After his time in Los Angeles, Ellis also played for the Philadelphia Phillies and Miami Marlins before finishing his career with the San Diego Padres in 2018.
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That final stop created a connection with Green, who was managing San Diego at the time. Following his retirement, Ellis remained with the Padres organization, transitioning into a special assistant role in the front office.
Now, Ellis and Green will reunite in New York, with the former catcher taking on responsibilities within the Mets' coaching structure.
Mets continue reshaping coaching staff
Ellis is the second reported addition to New York's coaching staff. The Mets also brought in Mariano Duncan last month for a role that has not yet been specified.
The organization is continuing to address its offensive coaching structure after removing hitting director Jeff Albert from the major-league coaching staff following the season.
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Ellis' experience working with pitchers and managing games behind the plate provides another perspective for Green's staff.
For the former Dodgers catcher, however, the opportunity represents a return to the game in a different capacity after years of being on the field as a player. His experience alongside Kershaw and other major league pitchers in Los Angeles will be an important part of the background he brings to his new position.
