Mike Ellis named new NWL President

The Northwest League of Professional Baseball Board of Directors chose the Missoula Osprey's Michael Ellis as the next President of the Northwest League, effective January 1, 2013. Ellis succeeds Bob Richmond, who retires after serving as League President for 30 years.

The Northwest League office will relocate to Missoula, where Ellis currently is President of Mountain Baseball LLC, the group that owns and operates the Missoula Osprey. The Northwest League is an eight team Short Season Class A league with teams in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and British Columbia, Canada.

"Mike Ellis has developed a sterling reputation within Minor League Baseball through his club ownership, service on the Board of Trustees and seats on various committees within the National Association," said Pat O'Conner, President of Minor League Baseball. "As a League President, I fully expect his administrative skills, knowledge of the business of baseball and stable demeanor to serve the Northwest League well for years to come."

Ellis will remain in his current position with the Osprey as the move and new position will not affect the Osprey or their operations in Missoula.

Outgoing Northwest League President Bob Richmond said, "Mike is a most capable baseball man and he will do a terrific job as president of the Northwest League. I am most pleased that the League has chosen him as my successor."