Braves Appoint Jeremy Hefner and Antoan Richardson
The Atlanta Braves have made significant changes to their coaching staff for the upcoming season. They have announced the hiring of Jeremy Hefner as pitching coach and Antoan Richardson as first base coach.
Changes in Coaching Staff
Jeremy Hefner replaces Rick Kranitz, while Antoan Richardson takes over for Tom Goodwin. These changes come after an underwhelming performance by the Braves in the last season, where they finished fourth in the National League East with a 76-86 record.
Mark Bowman of MLB.com has reported that third base coach Fredi Gonzalez will also not return to the team next year. This news adds to the list of alterations as the Braves aim for a stronger performance in 2026.
Jeremy Hefner: A New Chapter
- Age: 39
- Major League Experience: 50 appearances with the Mets in 2012 and 2013
- Previous Roles: Assistant pitching coach for the Twins; pitching coach for the Mets since 2020
Hefner is stepping into a role that requires revitalizing the Braves’ pitching staff. During his time with the Mets, the pitchers achieved a respectable 4.03 earned run average from 2020 to 2025, ranking 11th in the majors. His experience will be crucial for the Braves as they look to bounce back in the National League.
Antoan Richardson: A Fresh Perspective
- Age: 42
- Coaching Experience: First base coach with the Giants from 2020 to 2023 and with the Mets for the past two years
Richardson returns to Atlanta, where he aims to enhance the team’s base-running strategies and player development. His background with major league clubs will serve him well in his new capacity with the Braves.
Coaching Departures
Rick Kranitz, who served as the Braves’ pitching coach since 2019, enjoyed considerable success during his tenure. Under his guidance, the team won the National League East title multiple times and secured a World Series championship in 2021. However, after a disappointing performance in 2025, the organization felt a new direction was necessary.
Goodwin and Gonzalez have also parted ways with the Braves. Goodwin has similar experience with several clubs and has been relieved of his duties as first base coach. Gonzalez, who returned to the Braves midseason in June 2025, will also not be continuing his role.
As the Braves make these coaching adjustments, the focus will be on rebuilding the team for the upcoming season. The new appointments of Jeremy Hefner and Antoan Richardson present an opportunity for renewed success in Atlanta.
