Patrick Osborn Takes the Helm in Omaha, Following a Royals Icon
There’s a new skipper in Omaha, and he’s no stranger to the clubhouse. Patrick Osborn has officially been named the 20th manager in Omaha Storm Chasers history, stepping into a role previously held by Royals legend Mike Jirschele. After serving as Jirschele’s bench coach last season, Osborn now takes the reins of Kansas City’s Triple-A affiliate with a clear sense of gratitude-and a full understanding of the legacy he’s following.
“I’ve been in the game for a decent amount of time, and I understand this opportunity doesn’t come around often,” Osborn said. “Especially not for someone only in their second year with the organization.”
That humility is part of what’s made Osborn a respected figure in dugouts across baseball. But make no mistake-he’s also earned this shot.
Jirschele, who retired after the 2025 season, spent nearly four decades in the Royals system, including 17 seasons managing in Omaha. His influence runs deep, not just in the win column, but in the development of countless Royals players who passed through Omaha en route to Kauffman Stadium. Osborn knows the shoes he’s stepping into-and he’s not shying away from the challenge.
“Taking over for Jirsh… the history doesn’t usually bode well for the guy that follows the legend,” Osborn admitted. “But I’m honored.
He’s an icon in the organization. I’m sure we’ll be in touch throughout the year.”
That connection to Jirschele-and to the Royals’ developmental philosophy-will be crucial as Osborn works closely with Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro and the front office. The Royals retained most of Jirschele’s staff for the 2026 season, a move that underscores the value of continuity as the organization looks to build a stronger foundation at the Triple-A level.
For Osborn, that familiarity matters.
“The relationship with both the players and the staff will be paramount,” he said. “There are a lot of difficult conversations that happen at this level. But when you’ve built real relationships, those conversations become easier-and more impactful.”
That relational approach will be key as Omaha looks to rebound from a tough 62-86 campaign. The 2025 season was marked by constant roster churn, with several top prospects-like Jac Caglianone and Carter Jensen-making their big-league debuts, while others, including John Rave, Nick Loftin, and Steven Cruz, bounced between levels. That kind of instability can wreak havoc on team chemistry and performance.
“The amount of turnover we had last year… hopefully we don’t have that again,” Osborn said. “It impacts performance, continuity-everything you hope to control.”
There’s reason to believe things could stabilize in 2026. The Royals added several MLB veterans this offseason-Isaac Collins and Lane Thomas to the lineup, Matt Strahm and Alex Lange to the bullpen-which could allow younger players more time to develop in Omaha rather than being rushed into big-league roles.
That breathing room could be a game-changer for Osborn and the Storm Chasers. With fewer disruptions, the team has a better shot at building the kind of consistency that leads to both individual development and collective success.
Osborn brings a strong track record to the job. He’s entering his seventh season as a minor-league manager, with previous stops in the Yankees system where he racked up a 375-310 record, five postseason appearances, and a 2019 Eastern League title with Double-A Trenton. He’s also worn multiple hats in the Marlins organization, including time as a pro scout and field coordinator-experience that’s helped shape his well-rounded approach to player development.
But beyond the resume, what drew Osborn to Kansas City’s system was something less tangible.
“There’s a humility to this organization that resonates deeply with me,” he said. “That’s what really locked me in and said, ‘This is where I want to be.’”
Now, with the keys to Omaha in hand, Osborn isn’t just managing a team-he’s helping shape the next wave of Royals talent. And with his steady presence, deep experience, and respect for the game’s grind, the Storm Chasers look to be in good hands.