Charles Nagy Back With the Indians

Feb 24, 2012; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitching coach Charles Nagy (center) talks with pitchers including starting pitcher

(55) and relief pitcher

(40) during a workout at Salt River Fields. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

Charles Nagy Returns in Role to be Determined

After three years in Arizona working as the pitching coach for the Diamondbacks, Charles Nagy is returning to the Indians. The role, which has not yet been determined, is believed to be as a roving instructor for the Indians minor league system.

Of the decision to return to the organization that he called home for 13 years, Nagy had this to say:

"“I just recently signed on with the Tribe. I’ll be in spring training and the role will be defined at some point as to what I’m going to do during the season. It’s baseball. It’s what I know, It’s what I love to do. I told Chris I will do anything. I’ll rub up balls for you. I’ll catch bullpens.”"

Nagy figures to be in a role doing what he does best, helping young pitchers figure out the professional level. That includes learning how to pitch to big league hitters and teaching them the nuances that come with being a pitcher in the majors.

One pitcher that figures to benefit from Nagy’s tutelage is top prospect, Trevor Bauer. After all, there is a history that exists between the two. Back in 2011, Nagy worked closely with Bauer during spring training. That existing relationship should be beneficial for both sides. Bauer has a long history as being a difficult guy to work with. Nagy seemed to be open to embracing Bauer’s unique routines while he was with the Diamnondbacks, so hopefully that will carry over into his new role with the Indians. Bauer is on the short list of candidates for the fifth spot in the rotation, but if he fails to make the team out of camp he should benefit from Nagy while he hones his skills down in Columbus.

Whatever the role ultimately ends up being, it’s good to see the Indians willing to bring back fan favorites from years past to help shape and mold the players from the present. And while Charles Nagy was never a dominant pitcher at the level of a Roger Clemens or Randy Johnson, he was consistent. What ever you might think, consistency is just as important as dominance. Being able to rely on quality innings year after year after year is important in the grand scheme of things.

If Nagy can pass on his secrets of consistency to the pitchers of tomorrow, then the Indians will be all the better for it.