CalL1 Inland Empire 66ers

66ers Staff Set For 2008

Published on January 2, 2008 under California League (CalL1)
Inland Empire 66ers News Release


San Bernardino, CA - The Los Angeles Dodgers announced the field staff that they are sending to San Bernardino to coach the Inland Empire 66ers in 2008. Dave Collins, who led the team to the playoffs last year, will be back as the Manager. Former Dodger knuckleball pitcher Charlie Hough, will again be the squad's Pitching Coach. The one change to the staff will be at Hitting Coach. Los Angeles will have former Boston Red Sox infield John Valentin serves as the 66ers-hitting instructor.

This will be Collins second season as Manager of the 66ers. Last year, he led the team to the California League playoffs with a record of 72-67. He guided the Dodgers affiliate to a first half record of 39-31, which was tied for the best record in the Cal League. The former first round pick, known for his hard work and attention to the little things in baseball, facilitated the number one defense (.974 fielding percentage) in the Cal League in 2007. Collins' team also had the most one-run victories in the league with 27. The 16-year Major League veteran worked as the first base coach with the Colorado Rockies for four seasons prior to coming to San Bernardino.

Hough will remain with the team as the organizations pitching expert. Hough played at the Major League level for 25 seasons, 10 of which, were with the Dodgers. His pitching staff had 1165 strikeouts and 43 saves, both tops in the Cal League South Division. Also, his starting pitcher Marlon Arias throw a no-hitter on May 9th verses Bakersfield, which was one day from being the 10th anniversary of the last no-no in San Bernardino.

Valentin will take the role of Hitting Coach in 2008. He spent 11-seasons in the big leagues with the Red Sox and Mets. Valentin will show up to southern California with some impressive accomplishments under his belt. In 1995, he was the American League Silver Slugger winner at shortstop. Another notable fact is Valentin is the only player in major league history to hit for the cycle and turn an unassisted triple play. Finally, the New York native possessed an amazing .347 batting average during the playoffs and had a three-homer game during the ALDS in 1999.

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California League Stories from January 2, 2008


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