Jim Hickey steps down as Cubs pitching coach

CHICAGO -- Cubs pitching coach Jim Hickey has resigned his position with the team, citing personal reasons, after one year on the job, the team announced Tuesday.

"Jim Hickey notified us yesterday of his decision to step down as pitching coach and leave the organization for personal reasons," the Cub said in a news release. "We thank Jim for his season with the Cubs and his positive impact on our pitchers. Jim has our full support, and we all wish him well."

Hickey, 57, was hired before the 2018 season after a decade with the Tampa Bay Rays, where he worked with manager Joe Maddon. He re-joined Maddon after Chris Bosio was fired at the end of 2017. The Cubs indicated that a search for Hickey's replacement is underway. The turnover marks two straight offseasons that the team will be hiring new hitting and pitching coaches.

Hitting coach Chili Davis was let go after one season in favor of former Texas Rangers hitting coach Anthony Iapoce. Davis took over for John Mallee after he was fired before 2018.

The Cubs also are searching for an assistant hitting coach, as Andy Haines took the top job with the Milwaukee Brewers earlier this week. Haines worked under Davis last year. Now Hickey joins both as former Cubs coaches.