Moore to step down as MiLB president

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- Mike Moore, who has guided Minor League Baseball through a period of outstanding growth and success during his 16 years as President, will step down from that position when his current term ends in December.

During his four terms, Minor League Baseball established national marketing and licensing programs, franchise values increased dramatically and attendance soared to record heights, setting all-time marks in the last three consecutive seasons, reaching 41.7-million in 2006.

Moore, who took over as President in 1992, informed the Board of Trustees (BOT) and Council of League Presidents (COLP) of Minor League Baseball of his decision Wednesday with the following message:

"The past 16 years our industry has made great progress in many areas. This progress was achieved through the results of the cooperative efforts of many outstanding people who have served on the BOT and the COLP, plus the talented and hard-working contributions of the Minor League Staff.

"I have enjoyed being a part of this historic period in Minor League Baseball and working closely with those mentioned above.

"As I approach my 67th birthday and face a number of health issues, which have limited my activities, I find that I cannot continue to devote the same time and effort toward future goals.

"It is, therefore, with thanks to all who have provided friendship and help over the years toward our common efforts, I officially inform you that I will not seek re-election following this final year of my current term.

"I will continue to provide and contribute any assistance possible to Minor League Baseball following the end of my current term."