Third Base Coach Willie Harris Parts Ways with the Cubs

Cubs and Harris Agree to Go Separate Ways

In the latest change to the Cubs coaching staff, third base coach Willie Harris will not return next season, the Sun-Times confirmed Friday. Unable to agree to terms on a new contract, the parties agreed to go separate ways.

Harris Reflects on His Time with the Cubs

“I plan to continue coaching,” Harris told the Sun-Times over the phone. “I’ve had a few calls already, but it’s still going to take some time – and let everything just marinate. I do want to say, I’m very grateful for the North Side of Chicago. The fans were good to me, the players, even the front office. It’s time for me to move on.”

Cubs’ Coaching Staff in Transition

Manager Craig Counsell will have a number of spots to fill on his coaching staff this winter. At the end of the season, the Cubs also parted with first-base coach Mike Napoli, bullpen coach Darren Holmes, assistant hitting coach Jim Adduci, and strength and conditioning coaches Keegan Knoll and Ryan Clausen.

Hoyer’s Comments on the Coaching Staff

Noting that the Cubs didn’t hire Counsell until November of last year, limiting his options as he inherited much of ex-manager David Ross’ staff, president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer said at his end-of-season news conference: “I think it would have been almost unusual if at the end of the year, he just chose to keep everyone together.”

After those initial moves last week, Hoyer said that he didn’t expect more departures, barring developments such as coaches leaving for other opportunities.

Harris’ Long-Term Aspirations

Harris has been open in the past about his long-term aspirations of becoming a manager. And he said that goal hasn’t changed.

“But right now, other teams have things that they want to do,” he said. “It’s just like the Cubs – they have things that they want to do. If a team sees fit, and I match something that they are interested in me doing, I’d definitely be interested in talking to those guys and seeing if it works out.”

Conclusion

In his four-year tenure as third base coach, Harris has played an integral role in shaping the Cubs’ aggressive approach to baserunning. While his departure comes as a surprise, Harris remains steadfast in his commitment to coaching and his long-term goal of becoming a major league manager.

Frequently Asked Questions

* What is the reason for Willie Harris’ departure from the Cubs?
Harris’ contract was unable to be agreed upon, and the sides parted ways.
* What will happen to the vacant third base coach position?
Manager Craig Counsell will have a number of options to fill the position this winter.
* Will there be further changes to the Cubs’ coaching staff?
Given Hoyer’s comments, it seems unlikely, barring any coaches leaving for other opportunities.