Santana and Lakin to Return
Published on March 13, 2013 under Frontier League (FL)
Southern Illinois Miners News Release
Marion, IL - The Southern Illinois Miners and manager Mike Pinto have announced that hitting coach Ralph Santana and assistant coach/advance scout John Lakin will be returning in 2013.
Santana will be entering his seventh season with the Southern Illinois Miners, sixth as a coach. Since 2010, Santana has been coaching third base along with his hitting responsibilities. In 2008 and 2009, he coached first base as well as infield and base running.
He played with the Miners during their inaugural season in 2007 and still holds the team's single season batting record with an average of .342. Last season for his coaching efforts, Santana was named Frontier League Coach of the Year.
"Ralph is a big part of the success we have had on the field," said Pinto. "He works tirelessly with our hitters and the guys know how much he really cares about their success. I have greatly enjoyed watching his transition from a dominant player for me to the dedicated coach that he is today. Ralph has a big future ahead, but in the meantime we are fortunate to have him in Southern Illinois"
Santana played seven professional seasons in the minor leagues. He was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 42nd round of the 2001 Major League Baseball Draft. Santana played in the Brewers system from 2001-2003, getting as high as High-A with the High Desert Mavericks of the California League.
In 2004, Santana played with the Clearwater Threshers (A+) of the Philadelphia Phillies. The following season, Santana played with the Winnipeg Goldeyes of the Northern League and in 2006 played with the Sioux Falls Canaries of the American Association.
Lakin returns for his fourth season in Southern Illinois. He will be resuming his role as an assistant coach and advance scout for the Miners. Lakin will be at most home series and select road series throughout the season. When he is not with the team, he is active in his scouting duties for the Miners.
"John is an important part of our behind the scenes work that translates to success on the field," said Pinto. "His scouting and the valuable information on opposition tendencies gives us the little distinctions that can make the difference between a win and a loss."
Lakin also serves as Chief of Police in Glen Carbon, Illinois.
The Southern Illinois Miners are the 2012 Frontier League Champions and have been awarded the Frontier League Organization of the Year three times since its inception. It has also set a new Frontier League attendance record in 2007. For media inquiries concerning the Miners, please contact Mike Ventola, Director of Media Relations 618-998-8499 ext. 8547 or mikev@southernillinoisminers.com [1]. For ticket information please contact the Rent One Park Box Office at 618-998-8499. For any additional information, visit our website at www.southernillinoisminers.com.
Frontier League Stories from March 13, 2013
- Aviators Re-Sign Granitz, Add Two New Faces - Rockford Aviators
- Lake Erie's Eric Gonzalez-Diaz Pitches in World Baseball Classic - Lake Erie Crushers
- Santana and Lakin to Return - Southern Illinois Miners
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