Gedman hired as Lowell hitting coach

LOWELL, Mass. - The Lowell Spinners, Class A Short-Season affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, announced Rich Gedman will be the team's hitting coach in 2011, marking a return to the organization he started his professional career with in 1977. Gedman is the final addition to the 2011 Spinners coaching staff, joining Manager Carlos Febles, Pitching Coach Paul Abbott and Head Athletic Trainer Mauricio Elizondo, previously announced in December.

A native of Worcester, Mass., Gedman signed with the Red Sox in 1977 after going undrafted in 1977 Major League Draft, making his Major League Debut in September of 1980. He earned The Sporting News Rookie of the Year honors in 1981 and was named to the American League All-Star teams in 1985 and 1986.

"We are pleased to welcome Rich Gedman back to the Red Sox organization and into the Spinners family," said Spinners President/General Manager Tim Bawmann. "Having been a part of Red Sox nation, Roger Clemens 20 strikeout game and the 1986 World Series as part of a fantastic career, Rich has a wealth of baseball knowledge he can impart on our young players."

Gedman, who has served as the manager of the Worcester Tornadoes (Can-Am) since 2005, will appear at the Spinners 9th annual Alumni Dinner January 19 at the Tsongas Center. The dinner, highlighted by Clay Buchholz receiving the Dick Berardino Alumni Award, will represent Gedman's first appearance as a member of the Spinners organization.

The announcement represents a complete overhaul of the Spinners 2010 coaching staff, with manager Bruce Crabbe promoted to Hi-A Salem, hitting coach George Lombard taking over as manager with the Gulf Coast League Red Sox and pitching coach Laz Gutierrez returning to his role as an area scout.

The Spinners open their 2011 season, presented by Lowell General Hospital, against the Connecticut Tigers June 17 at LeLacheur Park.