Lloyd McClendon hired as Tigers hitting coach

The Tigers named Lloyd McClendon as the team's new hitting coach and Leon "Bull" Durham as assistant hitting coach Friday.

McClendon replaces Wally Joyner, who opted not to return after three seasons in the position.

McClendon served as manager of the Tigers' Triple A affiliate Toledo Mud Hens last season, guiding the team to a 68-76 record.

This is his second term with the organization, having previously worked as a coach under manager Jim Leyland from 2006-13. He was manager of the Seattle Mariners from 2014-15 and the Pittsburgh Pirates from 2001-05.

Durham served as hitting coach at Toledo in 2016. He's been a coach in the Tigers' organization for nearly 17 years. Durham replaces David Newhan, who was not retained.

McClendon and Durham are the only new additions to the Tigers' coaching staff.

Gene Lamont (bench coach), Rich Dubee (pitching coach), Mike Billmeyer (bullpen coach), Dave Clark (third base coach, outfielders), Omar Vizquel (first base coach, infielders, base running) and Matt Martin (defensive coordinator) will all be back