Former MLB All-Star and broadcaster Sean Casey has been chosen to lead the New York Yankees' hitting efforts, the team officially declared on Monday. Casey steps in for Dillon Lawson, who was dismissed on Sunday following the Yankees' loss to the Chicago Cubs. This marks the first time General Manager Brian Cashman has altered the coaching staff mid-season.

Casey expressed his readiness for the role, stating, "By staying connected to the game, talking with current players, analyzing video, and studying film, I've gained valuable insights into the physical and mental aspects of hitting. I'm eager to share my knowledge and help these players reach their full potential." He will work alongside manager Aaron Boone, a former teammate from their shared time with the Cincinnati Reds (1998-2003).

Boone praised Casey's enthusiasm, saying, "His infectious passion for hitting and his inspiring presence will undoubtedly have a significant impact on our team. I'm confident he'll connect with our players and help them thrive."

A three-time All-Star during his tenure with the Reds, Casey also played for the Cleveland Indians, Pittsburgh Pirates, Detroit Tigers, and Boston Red Sox. Over his career, he achieved a .302 batting average with 130 home runs in 1,405 games. Casey takes the reins from Lawson, who was appointed hitting coach before the 2022 season, a year that saw Aaron Judge break the American League home run record with 62 homers.

Despite Judge's record-breaking performance last year, the Yankees currently rank 28th in the majors with a .231 team batting average, outpacing only the Detroit Tigers and Oakland Athletics. While the Yankees are competing for second and third place in the American League East, both the Tigers and Athletics are struggling with losing records. Although the Yankees hold the fifth position in home runs with 129, they rank 18th in runs and 26th in on-base percentage, indicating areas for improvement that Casey will be tasked with addressing.