The New York Yankees will certainly have experienced coaches on their staff next season after naming former major league manager Tony Pena first base coach.
Earlier this week the Yankees tabbed Larry Bowa as third base coach and brought back Lee Mazzili as bench coach on Wednesday. Both coaches also have managerial experience.
"We are delighted to add Tony to our 2006 coaching staff," said Yankees general manager Brian Cashman. "His knowledge, passion and experience provide an awesome opportunity for this organization."
Pena managed the Kansas City Royals from May 2002 to May 2005, having won AL Manager of the Year after the 2003 season. With the Yankees, he will also serve as catching instructor, a position held by Joe Girardi, who was named manager of the Florida Marlins last month.
The 48-year-old Pena played 18 years in the majors as a catcher and captured four Gold Glove Awards. Pena, a five-time All Star, ranks fourth all-time among catchers with 1,945 games played, trailing only Carlton Fisk (2,226), Bob Boone (2,225) and Gary Carter (2,056).