Get ready for a thrilling 2026 season as Mike Guerrero makes his triumphant return to the Biloxi Shuckers as manager, marking a significant shift in the team’s leadership. But here’s where it gets exciting: after two seasons as a roving infield instructor, Guerrero is back in the dugout, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. The Milwaukee Brewers announced this and more as part of their complete 2026 coaching staff reveal, setting the stage for what promises to be a memorable year for the Shuckers.
Guerrero’s return isn’t the only highlight. His staff includes a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars: hitting coach Kevin Martir (entering his second season), pitching coach Josh Spence (third season), assistant coach Matt Lipka (second season), and associate head coach Tyson Cooper (first season). Together, they form a dynamic team poised to elevate the Shuckers to new heights.
And this is the part most people miss: Guerrero’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. Entering his ninth season in Biloxi and his 27th as a Minor League Baseball (MiLB) manager, he’s just 55 wins away from reaching the prestigious 1,500 career wins milestone. With 1,445 wins already under his belt, he ranks sixth among active minor league managers and holds the title of the winningest coach in Shuckers history, boasting a 492-449 record in Biloxi.
But let’s not forget the legacy he’s built. Guerrero has managed an impressive 71 of the 82 former Shuckers who’ve gone on to make their MLB debuts, including stars like Corbin Burnes, Freddy Peralta, and Josh Hader. In 2018 and 2019, he led Biloxi to back-to-back championship series appearances, a feat unmatched by any Brewers Double-A affiliate since 2006-2007. His accolades, including Southern League Manager of the Year (2018) and the Mike Coolbaugh Award (2013), speak volumes about his impact on the game.
Here’s where it gets controversial: While Guerrero’s return is celebrated, the promotion of former manager Joe Ayrault to Brewers Minor League Field Coordinator raises questions. Ayrault’s 140-233 record during his 2024-25 tenure pales in comparison to Guerrero’s success, yet he’s been elevated to a key organizational role. Is this a strategic move, or a missed opportunity to keep Ayrault in the dugout? We’ll let you decide.
Turning to the rest of the staff, Kevin Martir’s impact as hitting coach is undeniable. In 2025, the Shuckers offense dominated the Southern League, leading in runs, doubles, home runs, walks, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, and OPS. Martir’s background, including five seasons with the New York Yankees organization, brings a wealth of knowledge to Biloxi.
Josh Spence, a former MLB player himself, returns as pitching coach. In 2025, he mentored a staff that included four Brewers Top-30 prospects, including Tyson Hardin, the 2025 Brewers Minor League Pitcher of the Year. Spence’s international experience, including his time with the San Diego Padres, adds a unique perspective to the team.
Matt Lipka and Tyson Cooper round out the staff, bringing their own unique experiences to the table. Lipka’s 12-year playing career and Cooper’s developmental expertise promise to further strengthen the Shuckers’ foundation.
As the Biloxi Shuckers prepare for their 2026 season opener on April 7 against the Pensacola Blue Wahoos at Keesler Federal Park, one thing is clear: this team is built to win. But the question remains: Can Guerrero and his staff lead the Shuckers to their first championship since his 2018-19 glory days? Only time will tell. What’s your take? Do you think this coaching lineup is the key to a championship season, or is there room for improvement? Let us know in the comments!
