Kevin Kiermaier lands new coaching job with divisional rival

Feb 10, 2026 (9:12)

Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

Kevin Kiermaier is back in Tampa Bay, and the timing couldn't be more perfect for a young outfield looking for direction.

Kiermaier (Drafted 31st Round, 2010 by Rays) has officially returned to the organization that made him a star.

After retiring following the 2024 season and spending last year as a special assistant with the Blue Jays, he’s taking his talents back to Florida.

The four-time Gold Glove winner was spotted in Port Charlotte today working directly with speedster Chandler Simpson.

This isn't just a ceremonial gig; KK has launched "The 3-9 Effect, LLC" to revolutionize outfield defense across the sport.

While he’s open to helping other clubs, he confirmed he will be around the Rays for the entirety of the 2026 season.

Having Kiermaier mentor Simpson is arguably the biggest development of the spring for Tampa Bay.

Simpson (Drafted 2nd Round, 2022 by Rays) already possesses elite speed, stealing 44 bases in his rookie campaign last year.

But raw speed doesn't always translate to elite defense without the right instincts and route-running.

Who better to teach the nuances of reading the ball off the bat than the Platinum Glove winner himself?

Kiermaier made a career out of turning impossible catches into routine outs at Tropicana Field.

If he can transfer even a fraction of that defensive IQ to Simpson, the Rays' outfield defense will be scary good.

For Blue Jays fans, seeing him in Rays colors again might sting a little, but it feels right.

He gave everything he had to Toronto, but his heart and history are deeply rooted in Tampa.

The Rays are always looking for an edge, and bringing back a franchise icon to coach the next generation is a no-brainer.

It’s a win-win: KK stays in the game he loves, and the Rays get invaluable expertise for their young core.

Previously on Toronto Baseball Insider

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FEVRIER 10\|265 ANSWERS Kevin Kiermaier lands new coaching job with divisional rival Will Chandler Simpson win a Gold Glove under Kevin Kiermaier's mentorship?
Yes	100	37.7 %
No	165	62.3 %
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