Former Big League Pitcher to Guide Pitching Staff
May 2, 2010 - Northern League (NL)
Joliet JackHammers News Release
JOLIET, IL - The JackHammers are proud to announce that former Major League pitcher, Willie Blair, will guide the pitching staff in 2010. Blair will assume the pitching coach duties from Bryce Florie, who stepped down to pursue other opportunities. Blair brings 12 seasons of big league experience to the JackHammers coaching staff.
Blair pitched for eight Major League teams (Toronto, Cleveland, Houston, Colorado, San Diego, Arizona, New York (NL) and Detroit) in his 12 seasons, compiling a 60-86 record with a 5.04 earned-run average in 418 career games (139 starts). The Morehead State product enjoyed his finest season in 1997 with Detroit, recording a 16-8 mark with a 4.17 ERA. Blair finished sixth in the American League that season with the 16 victories and eighth in winning percentage at .667.
"Willie is a guy that comes with a great reputation for molding young pitchers even in his big league playing days," said JackHammers Manager Chad Parker. "The knowledge that he will bring our staff will be far superior to any they have received before and that will be the backbone of our club. We will have a staff under Willie that will compete like no other, show class and integrity in all they do and have a tremendous work ethic."
Originally drafted in the 11th round of the 1986 draft by the Toronto Bluejays, Blair's career highlights include being named the starting pitcher for the final Opening Day in Tiger Stadium history. He was traded five times in his career, including a 1991 deal that sent Blair and Ed Taubensee from Cleveland to Houston for Kenny Lofton and Dave Rohde.
"I am excited about getting this opportunity to get back into professional baseball," commented Blair. "I hope to use my experiences as a player to have a positive impact as a coach and am looking forward to the challenge."
Blair has transitioned into coaching since his playing days and currently serves as the head JV baseball coach at Lexington Christian Academy in Lexington, Kentucky. Willie has also worked as a pitching instructor the Champions Baseball Academy in Nicholasville, Kentucky and has experience coaching an elite level summer league team. Blair currently resides in Nicholasville with his wife, Trina, daughter Paige, and sons, Taylor and Jaxson.
LOOSE GRAVEL: The Joliet JackHammers open the 2010 season on May 21st against the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks in North Dakota. The Home Opener is Friday, May 28th at 7:10 p.m. against the Lake County Fielders, one of two Northern League expansion teams. Season tickets, group outings and suites are available now. For more information, call the JackHammers at 815.726.BALL (2255)
Northern League Stories from May 2, 2010
- Former Big League Pitcher to Guide Pitching Staff - Joliet JackHammers
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