Former Warthogs' manager selected to lead Diamondbacks
Published on November 1, 2004 under Carolina League (CarL1)
Winston-Salem Dash News Release
Winston-Salem, NC â Former Winston-Salem Warthogs' manager, Wally Backman, has been picked as the new manager of the Arizona Diamondbacks. A former New York Mets second baseman with a reputation for intensity, Backman was selected minor league manager of the year this season by The Sporting News after leading Arizona's Class A affiliate, Lancaster, to the best record in the California League. It was his first year in the Diamondbacks' organization. Backman, 45, was given a two-year contract with two team options. He was chosen over former Seattle Mariners manager Bob Melvin and Montreal Expos third base coach Manny Acta. Backman played 14 seasons in the major leagues, the first nine with the Mets. He had a .275 career average with 240 RBIs and 117 stolen bases.
Backman managed the 2001 Warthogs to a 54-86 record. The Warthogs open the 2005 season at defending league champion Kinston on Friday, April 8. For ticket and sponsorship information call the Warthogs at (336) 759-2233.
Carolina League Stories from November 1, 2004
- Former Warthogs' manager selected to lead Diamondbacks - Winston-Salem Dash
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