Victoria Seals Hand Reigns To Bret Boone
March 9, 2010 - Golden Baseball League (GBL)
Victoria Seals News Release
Victoria, BC - The Victoria Seals are proud to announce the hiring of Bret Boone as Field Manager for the 2010 Golden Baseball League season. With this announcement, Boone becomes the second manager in club history.
A 14-year veteran of the Major Leagues, Boone collected three All-Star nominations and four Gold Glove Awards while patrolling second base for the Seattle Mariners, Cincinnati Reds, Atlanta Braves, San Diego Padres and Minnesota Twins. Boone's position with the Seals marks his first foray into professional baseball management.
"This is a fantastic opportunity for me to start the second chapter of my baseball career," said the 40-year-old Boone. "Returning to the Pacific Northwest is a thrill for me, and I can't wait to start pulling together a winning franchise here in Victoria."
As a player, Boone made history by becoming the first-ever third generation Major League Baseball player, following in the footsteps of his grandfather Ray Boone (1948-1960) and father Bob Boone (1972-1990). Posting his best season in 2001 with Seattle, Boone collected a league-leading 141 RBI's and notched career highs in batting average (.331), home runs (37) and hits (206) while leading his team to the American League Championship Series. That summer the Mariners also tied the all-time record for wins in a season with 116, matching the 1906 Chicago Cubs.
"I'm very happy to bring Bret into our organization. He is a recognizable name that gives instant credibility to our team, and will encourage people to come down to the ball park to see him and the team this summer," said Seals President Darren Parker. "We expect him to be a gritty manager who will get the respect of the players from the get-go and bring the best out of the players at this developmental professional level."
The connection between the Parker family and Boone dates back to the early 1990's when the infielder laced up as a member of the AAA Calgary Cannons, owned by current Seals part-owner Russ Parker. During that time, Darren Parker was also involved with the Cannons, working in the team's promotions department.
Boone finished his playing career with a.266 batting average, 252 home runs and 1,021 RBI's in 1,780 games. After two years away from the game, the new bench boss will immediately begin recruiting and signing players for the 2010 season, while the Seals finalize a new coaching staff for the upcoming campaign.
The 2010 Victoria Seals season kicks off May 21 when the brand new Na Ikaika Koa Maui arrive at Royal Athletic Park. Season tickets for the 2010 campaign are on sale, available through the Victoria Seals office. Call (250) 480-4487 for more information, or to book your seat today!
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Golden Baseball League Stories from March 9, 2010
- Victoria Seals Hand Reigns To Bret Boone - Victoria Seals
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