The Milwaukee Brewers have hired Jim Skaalen as the clubs batting coach. Prior to joining the Brewers, Skaalen was Director of Player Development with the San Diego Padres for three seasons (1997-99). He also spent six seasons as the Coordinator or Minor League Instruction with the Seattle Mariners (1991-1996), following four seasons with the Texas Rangers organization.
In 1998, Skaalen managed Double-A Tulsa to a League Championship and was named the circuit's Manager of the Year. Skaalen began his coaching career with Single-A Daytona Beach, an affiliate of the Houston Astros, in 1981. The following season he joined the San Diego Padres organization where he managed for five seasons.
Skaalen was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in 1976 and played three seasons in the minor leagues.