Columbus Clippers Unveil 2026 Coaching Staff

Manager Andy Tracy returns for sixth season, joined by mix of new and familiar faces

Feb. 4, 2026 at 3:31pm

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The Columbus Clippers have announced their coaching staff for the 2026 season, led by manager Andy Tracy, who is back for his sixth year at the helm. The coaching staff includes a mix of returning and new faces, including an Ohio State graduate, a former Cleveland Guardians pitcher, and a Clippers minor league hitting coach.

Why it matters

The Clippers' coaching staff plays a crucial role in developing young talent and guiding the team's on-field performance. Continuity and a blend of experience and fresh perspectives can be important factors in a successful minor league organization.

The details

Three Clippers coaches are returning for the 2026 season: bench coach Daniel Robertson, hitting coach Matt Angle, and pitching coach Andrew Moore. Moore is returning to the Clippers after one season with the Guardians' High-A affiliate, Lake County. Angle, a Whitehall-Yearling product, is an Ohio State graduate. Assisting Angle on the hitting staff will be Ordormar Valdez, who was the hitting coach in 2025 for Lake County. Former MLB relief pitcher Nick Wittgren, who had a career 4.04 ERA over eight seasons in the majors, including three with the Guardians, will be a pitching coach.

  • The Clippers announced their 2026 coaching staff on February 4, 2026.

The players

Andy Tracy

The Clippers' manager, returning for his sixth season in that role and seventh year with the team.

Daniel Robertson

The Clippers' bench coach, returning for the 2026 season.

Matt Angle

The Clippers' hitting coach, a Whitehall-Yearling product and Ohio State graduate.

Andrew Moore

The Clippers' pitching coach, returning to the team after one season with the Guardians' High-A affiliate, Lake County.

Ordormar Valdez

The Clippers' assistant hitting coach, previously served in the same role for Lake County in 2025.

Nick Wittgren

A new pitching coach for the Clippers, Wittgren had an 8-year MLB career, including 3 seasons with the Guardians, and posted a 4.04 ERA.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to have this group of coaches leading our team in 2026. They bring a great mix of experience, expertise, and fresh perspectives that will be invaluable in developing our players and competing at a high level.”

— Andy Tracy, Clippers Manager

What’s next

The Clippers will begin spring training in March 2026 to prepare for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

The Clippers' 2026 coaching staff features a blend of continuity and new faces, which should provide stability and fresh ideas as the team looks to build on recent success and continue developing its pipeline of young talent.