What happened: Hitting coach Aaron Bates is leaving the Los Angeles Dodgers after 12 years with the organization. The departure comes after the two sides failed to reach an agreement on a multi-year contract extension, per Tim Dierkes.

Why it matters: Bates spent over a decade with the franchise, rising through the development ranks before guiding the major league offense. His exit opens a key vacancy on the staff as Los Angeles prepares for the 2027 season.

What to watch: The Dodgers will search for a new hitting coach to finalize their staff ahead of spring training.