Michael Johns hired as Nationals' bench coach

The Nationals' newly hired manager Blake Butera has begun filling out his coaching staff.

The team named Michael Johns bench coach in an announcement made by Butera and president of baseball operations Paul Toboni on Monday.

Like Butera, Johns comes to the Nats from the Rays organization. He most recently served as Tampa Bay’s first-base coach from 2024-25. In this role, Johns oversaw outfield and baserunning, as well.

“Michael shares the same values that are important to me and to our organization,” Butera said. “He’s humble, has an incredible work ethic and his preparation and attention to detail are unmatched. He played a major role in building Tampa Bay’s player development system and brings valuable recent Major League experience. More than anything, I know he’ll do everything he