After announcing the firing of batting coach Dillon Lawson on Sunday afternoon, the New York Yankees reportedly agreed to give former MLB Network All-Star first baseman Dillon Lawson a chance to play the role.
The 49-year-old is expected to hold the position until at least the end of 2023, Jon Heyman of the New York Posts reported Monday.
This came after several reports that Casey would be Lawson’s successor. Earlier Monday morning, Heyman and Joel Sherman reported that the Yankees were strongly considering Casey for work, but were not sure he would accept.
The Yankees announced Lawson’s termination shortly after losing 7-4 to the Chicago Cubs in New York, which marked the team’s second loss to the Cubs in the three-game series. The move marked the first time general manager Brian Cashman fired a manager mid-season in his 26-year career.
Now New York would look to Casey amid their offensive struggles. The team has a .231 batting average this season, which is tied with the Detroit Tigers and Oakland A’s for last in MLB. The team is also 26th in on-base percentage and 29th in hits.
Casey’s lack of experience as a minor or major league coach would make him an unconventional hire, but manager Aaron Boone also fits that profile. Both are ex-players who were able to go straight from broadcasting to coaching at the majors.
Sharing even more in common, Boone and Casey were teammates for the Cincinnati Reds from 1998 to 2003.
Throughout Casey’s 12-year playing career, which ended in 2008, the southpaw had a .302 batting average and played in three All-Star games.
This story will be updated with more information.