Baez Named Ducks Manager
Published on November 17, 2010 under Atlantic League (AtL)
Long Island Ducks News Release
(Central Islip, N.Y., November 17, 2010) - The Long Island Ducks today announced that former New York Met and Ducks' infielder/coach Kevin Baez has been named the fifth manager in the history of the franchise.
"I'm thrilled to have this opportunity," said Baez. "The fans of Long Island can look forward to seeing a strong ballclub on the field next year."
2011 will be Baez' seventh season with the Ducks, the previous six years having been spent as a coach. The former Ducks and big league infielder became a full-time coach with Long Island on May 20, 2005, and also spent the entire 2006, 2008, 2009 and 2010 seasons with the club.
"As we head into our 12th season, we are excited to have Kevin lead our team," says Ducks CEO/owner Frank Boulton. "He brings a wealth of experience as a player and a coach, and I am certain he will enjoy great success at the helm."
The Long Island resident will begin work immediately with the front office to build out the 2011 Ducks' coaching staff.
"Kevin has earned his shot," said GM Michael Pfaff. "He's been a part of our family for a long time and we're confident he can lead us to a championship."
Baez was a vital member of the Ducks' 2004 championship team, batting .256 with 36 runs scored and 40 RBI in 98 games played. He took home MVP honors at the Atlantic League All-Star Game that year with a 2-for-4, two RBI performance in the North's 10-8 victory over the South at Campbell's Field in Camden. In the 2004 playoffs, Baez hit .263 en route to his first professional baseball championship. The Brooklyn native was named to three Atlantic League All-Star teams during his playing career.
"Kevin's always been a hard worker," added Senior VP of Baseball Operations Bud Harrelson. "He's been a great player and coach and I think he'll be a great manager as well"
The 43-year-old is a veteran of 63 Major League and 1,750 minor league contests. He made three stops in the big leagues with the Mets (1990, 1991, 1993), and made his MLB debut on September 3, 1990 under then-Mets manager Bud Harrelson. He registered career highs in hits (113) and doubles (27) in 2000 with the Norfolk Tides (AAA, Mets).
The Long Island Ducks are members of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball and have led all of independent baseball in attendance for 11 consecutive seasons. For season ticket or advertising information, visit www.liducks.com or call 631-940-DUCK.
Atlantic League Stories from November 17, 2010
- Baez Named Ducks Manager - Long Island Ducks
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