Detroit Tigers hire Martín Maldonado as quality control coach

The Detroit Tigers are adding former Gold Glove catcher Martín Maldonado to their coaching staff as a quality control coach. The move reunites Maldonado with manager A. J. Hinch, having previously played under Hinch with the Houston Astros in 2018 and 2019.

Maldonado’s hiring is expected to provide significant support to the Tigers’ pitching staff, particularly ace Framber Valdez. The two share a successful history; Maldonado caught Valdez during the Astros’ 2022 World Series championship and during Valdez’s no-hitter in 2023. Statistics indicate that opponents have posted a lower OPS against Valdez when Maldonado is behind the plate compared to his career average.

The position became available after Billy Boyer was promoted to third base coach in July. Maldonado, who retired in October 2025 after a 15-year career, previously served as a special assistant for the Atlanta Braves.