How KC Royals created special family moment for Storm Chasers manager Mike Jirschele
Omaha Storm Chasers manager Mike Jirschele has seen his share of spring training games.
On Sunday, he got a chance to experience something different. The Kansas City Royals tasked Jirschele to exchange the club’s lineup card at home plate. Jirschele, who is assisting in Royals camp this spring, was met by a familiar face.
The White Sox sent his son, Justin, to greet him prior to the game. Justin was recently promoted to third base coach and will hold the role under first-year manager Will Venable.
“It’s very exciting,” Jirschele said. “I mean it’s family and he is my son. I can remember when he was in the dugout with me coming up through the system. It’s nice to see the success that he’s had. I hope he does a great job up there and I know he’ll do a great job because he has learned about the game all the way through the system.”
Jirschele was in his Triple-A office when he learned of Justin’s promotion. He got a phone call and stepped outside to receive the news. It was a special moment as Justin has worked tirelessly as the Charlotte Knights manager since 2023.
“It made me feel really good,” Jirschele said. “I mean, he has never played in the big leagues and he has put in his time and worked hard now. You know, he gets along with the players and knows how to handle players. He does a good job with that and is very knowledgeable in the game and is continuing to learn more.”
Jirschele is in his third stint with the Storm Chasers. He managed the team from 1995-1997 and from 2003-13. Last season, Omaha won 89 games and was crowned International League champions.
In his career, Jirschele served as the Royals third base coach from 2014-2019 under former manager Ned Yost.
