FL Washington Wild Things

Washington Wild Things Name New Skipper

October 18, 2011 - Frontier League (FL)
Washington Wild Things News Release


Washington, PA - The Washington Wild Things, presented by Washington Financial, announced they have hired former Major League catcher Chris Bando to manage the Wild Things in 2012. The Wild Things will kick off the 2012 Frontier League season on the road and will celebrate their 11th home opener at CONSOL Energy Park on May 22, 2012.

"We're delighted that Chris is joining the Wild Things' staff," said Stu Williams, managing partner. "In addition to possessing the leadership qualities and character we wanted in a manager, Chris brings experience, knowledge, relationships, and contacts to our team. We are confident we made the right decision - one that will greatly impact our team and our community."

When Bando's playing career ended, he entered the coaching ranks with the Milwaukee Brewers. Among his accomplishments, he was voted the best Minor League Managing Prospect AAA; he was voted the #2 managing prospect by Major League General Managers, behind Terry Francona; and he managed and won the American League AAA All-Star Game.

"I'm passionate about baseball and especially about coaching baseball," said Bando. "Player development and community development are keys for me. I can't wait to come to Washington because I see what the team owners are doing and I want to do my part by bringing a championship to the Wild Things."

Bando, whose resume includes 28 years in professional baseball, is a native of Cleveland. He played college ball at Arizona State University and in 1974 hit the game winning home run in the College World Series. Bando was drafted in the second round by the Cleveland Indians, and after several years in the Minor Leagues, he was called to the Majors on August 13, 1981. He spent the next ten years in the Major Leagues, with a career best season in 1984, including batting .291 with 12 home runs and 41 RBIs.

Bando has coached and scouted in the Minor and Major Leagues. He is currently serving as the athletic director and head coach at San Diego Christian College. He and his wife, Mary Beth, have six children (five boys and one girl) who range in age from 18 to 27. All of the boys have played baseball on some level. "I never pushed them, but they've all become committed to the game," added Bando. "I'm really pleased that at least two of them want to coach because that's where you have the opportunity to develop leaders."

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