Pulaski, VA – With only a few months until the home opener at Calfee Park, the New York Yankees have selected the 2016 Coaching Staff for their second season in Pulaski, Virginia. After a successful inaugural year and a solid playoff run, six out of seven coaches from the 2015 staff will be returning to Motor Mile Field.
Tony Franklin, Pulaski Yankees Field Manager for 2015, is set to lead the team once again this summer. Franklin, a Maine native, led the Rookie-League Yankees to a 45-23 record and stood as the leader of the regular season standings. They were a top contender in the Appalachian League playoffs.
General Manager, Blair Hoke, comments on the 2016 season, “The Pulaski Yankees are fortunate to have such a respected Manager as Tony Franklin return to Historic Calfee Park for the 2016 season. Franklin exemplifies what it means to be a good role model not only for the players and coaches but also the fans and community.”
Coaches that are returning for a second year after the 2015 season are; Edwar Gonzalez (Hitting Coach), Hector Rabago (Defensive Coach), Josh DiLoreto (Trainer), Danny Russo (Strength Coach), and Nick Avanzato (Video Manager).This veteran staff will be accompanied by a new Pitching Coach, Butch Henry, who spent last season with the Staten Island Yankees. Last year’s Pitching Coach, Justin Pope, will not be returning to Pulaski, as he was called-up to the Single-A Yankees affiliate, The Charleston RiverDogs.
“We are excited for another successful season with such a strong coaching staff returning,” commented Hoke on the upcoming direction.
With a strong first season under their belt, the 2016 Pulaski Yankees Staff will be ready for another standout year. The first pitch of 2016 is slated for June 23, a home opener against the Danville Braves.
The Pulaski Yankees are a Short-Season Rookie League team in the Minor League Baseball Organization. 2016 marks the second year as Pulaski Yankees, a direct affiliate of the New York Yankees.
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