Dennis Martinez to Springfield
Dennis Martinez, whose 245 wins are first among Latin American pitchers in baseball history, has been named Springfield's new pitching coach. The Nicaragua native played for five different Major League organizations, making the All-Star Team four times. As a member of the Montreal Expos in 1991, Martinez hurled baseball's 13th perfect game at Los Angeles against the Dodgers. "El Presidente" enters his fourth year in the St. Louis system, and comes to Springfield by way of Palm Beach, where he's spent the last two seasons.
"Dennis has three years of pitching coach experience to go along with a long and successful career as a player," said Vice President of Scouting and Player Development Jeff Luhnow. "He has proven to be an effective teacher and motivator for all our players and has been an especially positive influence on our younger Latin players who see him as a role model. As more of these players reach the upper levels of the minor leagues, Dennis can maximize his impact and prepare them for the big leagues. His big league experience helps all our players and staff and we look forward to watching him continue to develop as a pitching coach in Springfield."
Martinez will replace Bryan Eversgerd, who will join the Palm Beach Cardinals as their Pitching Coach, after serving in the same position with Springfield over the last two seasons.
After taking Springfield to the playoffs in two of his first three seasons as a Double-A Manager, Warner brings in a three-year mark of 218-196.
Warner will be joined by Hitting Coach Derrick May, who also enters his fourth year in Springfield. Athletic Trainer Jay Pierson will return to Springfield for his third season.
"Having "Pop" back continues the great continuity for the club on the field," Vice President / General Manager Matt Gifford stated. "I think our fans have come to appreciate how hard he and his staff work to develop future St. Louis Cardinals. We're also very excited to welcome Dennis Martinez to Springfield, along with returning staff members Derrick May and Jay Pierson."
TICKET PRICES REMAIN STEADY
Although the coaching staff will change, the ticket prices will not. Ticket prices for the upcoming 2010 season of Springfield Cardinals Baseball will continue to be the same affordable value as in 2009.
"We're lucky to have such great fans and hope they continue to "Escape to Cardinals Baseball" again in 2010," said Gifford. "It's important to continue to keep ticket prices the same, ensuring affordable family entertainment here in the Ozarks."
THANKS AND GOOD BYE TO MIKE LINDSKOG
The Springfield Cardinals would like to wish a fond farewell to Mike Lindskog, who has served as the "Voice of the Springfield Cardinals" and Public Relations Manager for the first five years in franchise history. Lindskog will be moving to California to accept the same position with the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes, a Los Angeles Angels affiliate in the California League.
"Leaving Springfield is professionally and personally, one of the hardest things I've ever had to do," said Lindskog. "The friendships I've made here have been incredible and the way the fans have treated me means so much to me. The city of Springfield and the Cardinals' organization will always be very special to me. Thank you!"
"Mike's impact on the organization and in the community, both on and off the air, have been immeasurable," said Gifford. "We're all going to miss him, but wish him and his family the very best. We will now begin a comprehensive nationwide search for Mike's replacement."
Season Tickets for the upcoming 2010 season are now on sale by calling (417) 863-0395. Be sure and check out the 2010 schedule and stay up to date with all the off-season moves by visiting springfieldcardinals.com. We hope to see you at Hammons Field very soon!