The Kansas City Royals announced Sunday that they hired former Tampa Bay Rays bench coach Matt Quatraro as their new manager.
Quatraro, 48, spent the last five seasons with the Rays and interviewed for the Oakland Athletics’ and New York Mets’ managerial openings last offseason.
“I already knew the talent on the roster and how great the fans in Kansas City are, and the interview process convinced me that the terrific things I’d heard about the organization’s culture are true,” Quatraro said in a statement.
“I can’t wait to get started, and for my family to get to Kansas City and be part of that community.”
Quatraro was given a three-year contract with an option for a fourth season, a source told Lynn Worthy of the Kansas City Star.
The Royals endured another difficult campaign in 2022. They finished in the cellar of the American League Central with a 65-97 record and fired manager Mike Matheny at the conclusion of the season.
“We are extremely excited to have Matt leading our club and core of talent,” Royals general manager J.J. Picollo said.
“Matt has great experiences throughout his career that have prepared him for this. He thoroughly impressed us all during our interview process and is clearly respected across the industry. We are looking forward to working alongside Matt to bring winning baseball to our great fans.”
Kansas City also fired president of baseball operations Dayton Moore in September after he spent 16 years with the franchise.
