Pitching Coach Zeller Named Manager of New Joliet Team
Published on January 25, 2011 under Frontier League (FL)
Southern Illinois Miners News Release
MARION, Ill. - Former Southern Illinois Miners Coach Bart Zeller has accepted the job as the manager of the Joliet Slammers, the newest franchise to join the Frontier League. Zeller was the Miners hitting coach since the team's inaugural 2007 season and made the switch to pitching coach for the 2010 season.
Zeller has been a member of Mike Pinto's coaching staff since 2005, including two seasons as the bench coach for the Sioux Falls Canaries who played in the Northern League and then the American Association.
"I could not be happier for Bart," Pinto said. "This is a great opportunity for him, and it's the perfect match for him to be teamed up with Ron Biga. Bart will do an outstanding job for them. He knows the game, is very organized and communicates well with players as evidenced by his time here in Southern Illinois."
A native of Chicago, Zeller spent seven seasons as a catcher in the Cardinals organization. He reached the majors for one season as a catcher and coach.
The Slammers will be entering their first season in the league this summer. They play their home games at Silver Cross Field, former home of the Joliet Jackhammers of the Northern League. Earlier this offseason, former Miners Coach Ron Biga was named Vice President of Baseball Operations for the new Joliet club.
"Whenever your team has the winning seasons we have had here," Pinto said. "It's normal to have coaches be approached with opportunities of their own. Joliet has a great owner who is committed to doing things right, and they have a wonderful stadium. Coaching in Joliet at the start of my career, I know they have great fans. We only play Joliet six times, but other than those days when we fight and claw for each win, we will have a great working relationship."
Zeller and the Slammers will make their first trip to Rent One Park to face the Miners on June 29.
The Miners will open the 2011 season on Friday, May 20 on the road against the Gateway Grizzlies. The home opener is scheduled for Tuesday, May 24, at 7:05 p.m. against the Evansville Otters. For the latest news and updates about the Miners and upcoming events at Rent One Park, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.
Frontier League Stories from January 25, 2011
- Wild Things, Green Bay Team Make "Cheesy" Bet - Washington Wild Things
- Steve Alexander Re-Signs for 2011 - Normal CornBelters
- Pitching Coach Zeller Named Manager of New Joliet Team - Southern Illinois Miners
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