As Major League Baseball continues to evolve, the role of an experienced, knowledgeable coaching staff has never been more critical. Teams increasingly value former players who can blend firsthand experience with modern analytics, guiding the next generation of stars both on and off the field.
By the 2027 season, several ex-players are in a position to possibly step into key coaching roles, bringing credibility, leadership, and a wealth of knowledge. Here’s a closer look at five former MLB stars, their past positions, and the coaching roles they could realistically hold.
Five Ex-MLB Stars Who Could Become Coaches From 2027 Onward
1. Raúl Ibañez — Leadership-Driven Bench Voice and Development Specialist
Past Position: Outfielder (LF / RF), occasional DH, Front Office
Potential Coaching Roles: Bench coach, hitting assistant, culture and clubhouse development coordinator, managerial candidate
Raúl Ibañez built a 19-year career on professionalism, leadership, and an ability to connect with players from all backgrounds. Known for his tireless preparation and respected presence in every clubhouse he entered, Ibañez has already spent time in front-office and advisory roles that deepened his understanding of analytics, scouting, and player development. He projects as one of the most well-rounded former players available to an MLB staff moving forward. His bilingual communication skills, calm authority, and strategic mindset make him an ideal fit as a bench coach or leadership mentor. For teams seeking unity, accountability, and a modern manager’s voice, Ibañez offers instant credibility and a unique ability to blend old-school instincts with new-school information.
2. Carlos Beltrán — Versatile Mentor and Bench Strategist
Past Position: Outfielder (CF/ RF/ LF), occasional DH
Potential Coaching Roles: Bench coach, hitting coach, managerial candidate
Carlos Beltrán’s career was defined by both offensive skill and defensive versatility. He played all three outfield positions and occasionally DHed, giving him a deep understanding of the game from multiple perspectives. Beltrán’s prior coaching experience with the New York Mets shows his ability to translate his on-field expertise into guidance for younger players. By 2027, he could occupy a bench coach role, assist with hitting development, or oversee outfield instruction. His strategic mind, combined with leadership skills honed over 20 MLB seasons, also positions him as a potential managerial candidate if he continues on the coaching track. Teams looking to combine tactical insight with mentorship would benefit greatly from his presence.
3. Albert Pujols — Hitting and Infield Mentor
Past Position: First Base / Designated Hitter / Third Base
Potential Coaching Roles: Hitting coach, managerial candidate, DH mentor
Albert Pujols’ legendary career speaks for itself: one of the most consistent and productive hitters in baseball history, known for his power, patience, and approach at the plate. His experience at first base and occasionally third gives him additional insight into infield play and positioning. Pujols’ ability to maintain elite performance over two decades makes him uniquely qualified to instruct young hitters, particularly sluggers navigating adjustments to modern pitching, defensive shifts, and advanced analytics. In the future, Pujols could easily serve as a hitting coach, first-base coach, DH mentor, or manager, offering both technical expertise and veteran leadership that can inspire younger players.
Albert Pujols and Carlos Beltrán before the World Baseball Classic countries’ press conference at the Winter Meetings. pic.twitter.com/60pDgzcyTL
— Francys Romero (@francysromeroFR) December 9, 2025
4. Yadier Molina — Catching Guru and Game-Calling Expert
Past Position: Catcher
Potential Coaching Roles: Bench coach, pitching staff consultant, managerial candidate
Yadier Molina is widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive catchers in baseball history. His mastery of pitch framing, game-calling, and handling of pitching staffs makes him an invaluable resource for developing both pitchers and catchers. Beyond technical skills, Molina’s leadership and ability to manage a game at the highest level translate directly to coaching. By 2027, he could serve as a catching coordinator, oversee pitcher-catcher development, or step into a bench coach role. His combination of defensive mastery, leadership, and baseball intelligence also positions him as a potential managerial candidate down the line.
5. Manny Ramirez — Hitting Coach and Offensive Mentor
Past Position: Outfielder (LF / RF), occasional DH
Potential Coaching Roles: Hitting coach, minor-league hitting mentor, offensive coordinator for player development
Manny Ramirez’s career was defined by prodigious hitting talent, exceptional power, and an ability to perform in clutch situations. Sure, he may not be on the traditional managerial track currently. However, Ramirez brings unique insight into situational hitting, power mechanics, and the mental approach to batting. By 2027, he could serve as a hitting coach or offensive mentor in either the major or minor leagues. Teams focused on cultivating elite offensive talent would benefit from his ability to teach approach, timing, and plate discipline. It would offer young players lessons learned from one of the game’s most feared sluggers.
Main Photo Credit: Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images
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