Since the conclusion of the NLDS, the Chicago Cubs have seen a pair of staff members, Alex Smith and Rachel Folden, depart for playoff teams elsewhere. Furthermore, Ryan Flaherty is exploring managerial openings, signalling that more potential change may be on the horizon.
Chicago Cubs hit with double loss as Detroit Tigers and New York Mets poach key staff
MLB: General Manager’s Meetings Jed Hoyer, Chicago Cubs, Matt Shaw Nov 8, 2023; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer speaks to the media during the MLB General Manager’s Meetings at Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Alex Smith, who has been with the Cubs for over a decade and was involved in the team’s data development and information sharing, is taking a promotion with the Tigers. In Detroit, Smith will become the vice president of baseball strategy, and will also be reunited with Scott Harris, who is currently the Tigers president of baseball operations, but spent seven seasons with the Cubs beforehand.
According to a report from Tommy Birch, A Des Moines Register reporter, Triple-A hitting coach Rachel Folden has taken a position with the Mets. Her exact position in New York has not yet been announced, but Folden was highly regarded in the organization for helping hitters develop.
Ryan Flaherty is exploring managerial openings
Jul 25, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell (11) talks with Chicago Cubs bench coach Ryan Flaherty (84) before the game against the Chicago White Sox at Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
So far, Flaherty has been passed on by several organizations to become a Manager, as most recently the Baltimore Orioles and Minnesota Twins hired someone else. Furthermore, a report did not include Flaherty as a finalist for the Padres opening. The Washington Nationals and Colorado Rockies still have vacancies, so it’s possible Flaherty could land with one of them, otherwise returning to the Cubs as bench coach is a strong possibility.
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