Trammell Tabbed as Bench Coach

The Chicago Cubs today announced that six-time American League All-Star shortstop Alan Trammell has agreed to a two-year deal to be the Cubs bench coach and infield instructor.

Trammell, 48, spent his 20-year Major League career with the Detroit Tigers (1977-1996) amassing a .285 batting average with 185 home runs and 1,003 RBI in 2,293 games, fifth-most in Tigers history.

"We are extremely happy to add Alan to the staff. His credentials on the field as a player, instructor and coach speak for themselves," said Cubs Vice President and General Manager Jim Hendry. "He will be an invaluable person for Lou Piniella to lean on during the game and he brings a special expertise in working with our infielders."

At the time of his retirement in 1996, Trammel had more career home runs (185) and a higher fielding percentage (.977) than any Hall-of-Fame shortstop. He turned 1,321 double plays in his career, mostly with teammate Lou Whitaker.

Trammell was named to the American League All-Star team in 1980, 1984, 1985, 1987, 1988 and 1990. He won four Gold Glove awards at shortstop (1980, 1981, 1983, 1984) and three Silver Slugger awards as the top offensive shortstop (1987, 1988, 1990).

In 1984, Trammell led the Tigers to their most recent World Series title, hitting .450 (9-for-20) with two home runs and six RBI in five games en route to MVP honors against San Diego.

Trammell most recently managed the Detroit Tigers from 2003-2005, posting a 186-300 (.383) mark. Prior to that, he served as the first base coach for the San Diego Padres from 2000-2002 after one season as the Tigers hitting coach in 1999.