Storm Chasers field staff named
Jirschele, 53, has a career managerial record of 1,138-1,060, dating back to 1992, all with the Kansas City organization. That includes a mark of 925-944 in Omaha, with stints from 1995-97 and 2003 through this past season. He is a four-time winner of the Royals' Dick Howser Award, given for his excellence in 1992, 1994, 2005 and 2011.
Larry Carter will take over as the new pitching coach after 11 seasons at the Double-A level in Northwest Arkansas and Wichita. The 15-year veteran of the Kansas City organization also spent time tutoring hurlers at the Class A level for four years and will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the job. He is a former Minor League pitcher in the St. Louis and San Francisco organizations, and a graduate of West Virginia State College.
Carter replaces Doug Henry, who was promoted to become the bullpen coach for the Royals. Henry guided a staff that finished in the top three in earned run average in the Pacific Coast League in each of his three seasons in Omaha.
Tommy Gregg returns for a fifth consecutive season as the team's hitting coach. The former big league outfielder oversaw an offensive unit that finished in the top five in the league in batting average, walks, stolen bases and OPS (on-base plus slugging). Gregg, a veteran of nine Major League seasons, worked closely with Wil Myers, the Baseball America Minor League Player of the Year, along with Irving Falu and David Lough, who both made their long-awaited Major League debuts last season.
Assisting the on-field staff will be athletic trainer Dave Iannicca and strength and conditioning coach Joey Greany. 2013 will be Iannicca's third season with the club, while Greany will be back for a second season.