Cats Announce New Manager for Upcoming Season
January 7, 2013 - North American League (NAmL)
Fort Worth Cats News Release
FORT WORTH - Fort Worth Cats Co-Owner Byron Pierce announced Monday afternoon that former major league player and manager Jim Essian has been hired as the new manager for the Fort Worth Cats in preparation for the upcoming 2013 season.
"The Fort Worth Cats are extremely excited to have Jim Essian as our new field manager," exclaimed Byron Pierce. "His experience as a player, coach and former big league field manager makes him a great addition to our league and the city of Fort Worth. Jim will bring an attitude of professionalism and dedication to the game second to none."
Jim Essian was a catcher and occasional infielder for seven different major league teams, including multiple seasons with the Phillies, White Sox, and Athletics. He also managed for the Chicago Cubs organization.
The Detroit, Michigan native made his MLB debut on September 15, 1973 for Philadelphia after being signed by the Phillies organization at just eighteen years old. In 1975, Essian was traded to the Atlanta Braves for Dick Allen and former Rangers manager Johnny Oates.
Jim Essian made his last appearance professionally in 1984 for the Oakland Athletics after amassing a .244 batting average and 304 runs batted in.
The right-hander later became a coach for the Chicago Cubs, and was promoted to manager in 1991 after Don Zimmer was fired. Essian has spent the past few seasons as the head coach for the Greek National Baseball Team.
"I'm excited to manage again, especially with an organization like the Fort Worth Cats who are approaching their 125th anniversary," said new hire Jim Essian. "My son played there, and Fort Worth is a great city. It will be a great thrill for me."
He will head a Fort Worth Cats squad that lost in the United League championship last season. The Cats begin their 2013 campaign beginning in mid-May at LaGrave Field.
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North American League Stories from January 7, 2013
- Cats Announce New Manager for Upcoming Season - Fort Worth Cats
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