The Diamondbacks signed manager Kirk Gibson to a two-year extension with a club option for 2013, reports MLB.com's Steve Gilbert. Additionally, he tweets that former interim GM Jerry Dipoto will become the senior vice president of scouting and player development under new GM Kevin Towers. As first noted by the Arizona Republic's Nick Piecoro on Twitter, only Matt Williams (first base) and Glenn Sherlock (bullpen) will remain on Arizona's coaching staff. Bo Porter (bench) and Jack Howell (hitting) were let go, while Mel Stottlemyre Jr. (pitching) and Joel Youngblood (third base) were offered other jobs in the organization.
The Diamondbacks posted a 34-49 record under Gibson this year; he took over for A.J. Hinch while Dipoto succeeded Josh Byrnes. Dipoto engineered the trades of Dan Haren, Edwin Jackson, Chad Qualls, and Chris Snyder in July.
I think D Backs AAA Affliates hitting coach Rick Burleson should be considered as Gibson’s bench coach! The Rooster is a gamer and the Aces crushed the ball this year and last with him as hitting coach.
I’m pretty sure the reason the Aces crushed the ball this year was mainly because of the very hitter friendly environment, not the hitting coach.
Considering the state of the Diamondbacks bullpen and Dipoto’s age (42), the Diamondbacks might oughtta considering letting their former interim GM and new senior VP of scouting and player development pitch. If Mike Hampton can pitch in their bullpen, then I reckon so too can Dipoto.
I think Jerry is foolish to take this demotion. He’s certain to get a better role elsewhere in MLB, and definitely one of the best available GM candidates in baseball.
That’s just it nobody else wanted him …… especially after the Haren trade who would.