In December 2024, the New York Yankees experienced a notable change in their coaching staff when Assistant Pitching Coach Desi Druschel departed to join the New York Mets in the same capacity. Druschel had been an integral part of the Yankees’ coaching team, contributing to the development of their pitching staff.
To fill the vacancy left by Druschel, the Yankees promoted Preston Claiborne to the role of Assistant Pitching Coach for the 2025 season.
Claiborne, 37, brings a wealth of experience from within the Yankees organization. He previously served as a pitching coach at various minor league levels, including Single-A Tampa in 2024, High-A Hudson Valley in 2023, and the Rookie-level Florida Complex League Yankees from 2021 to 2022. His familiarity with the organization’s pitching prospects and coaching philosophy made him a fitting choice for the promotion.
Claiborne’s history with the Yankees extends beyond coaching. He was selected by the team in the 17th round of the 2010 MLB Draft and made his major league debut with the Yankees in 2013. Over two seasons (2013–2014), he appeared in 62 games as a reliever, posting a 3-2 record with a 3.79 ERA. His firsthand experience as a player, combined with his coaching tenure, positions him well to contribute to the development of the Yankees’ pitching staff at the major league level.
The rest of the Yankees’ coaching staff remained consistent for the 2025 season, with Manager Aaron Boone at the helm. Boone’s leadership has been marked by multiple postseason appearances, and the continuity in the coaching staff aims to build upon the team’s recent successes.
In summary, while the departure of Desi Druschel marked a change in the Yankees’ coaching lineup, the promotion of Preston Claiborne reflects the organization’s commitment to internal development and continuity. Claiborne’s blend of playing and coaching experience within the Yankees system is expected to be an asset in his new role.
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