Two ALPB coaching positions have been filled as of Monday. The Somerset Patriots added Ty Wright to lead their offensive attack, while the 2020 edition of the Road Warriors have their first public face with manager Ellie Rodriguez.
The Patriots signed a familiar face, Ty Wright, to fill the roles of Hitting Coach and 3rd Base Coach in 2020. Wright spent the final season of his playing career with Somerset in 2014. For the past 2 seasons, Ty could be found serving as Hitting Coach for the Carolina League’s (High-A) Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Additionally, Jon Hunton will return as Somerset’s Pitching Coach and Director of Baseball Operations. Fox Beyer returns to the club as an Assistant Coach on a volunteer basis.
Ellie Rodriguez is returning to the managing position he held with the ever-traveling Road Warriors in 2018. Beyond already having experience with the rare challenge of managing a professional ball club without a home field, Rodriguez brings plenty of vital skills to the benefit the Road Warriors’ roster. Previously, Rodriguez spent 15 seasons as a Player Development Consultant for the Atlantic League. Player development experience could be vital for a team that needs to grow their talents and make strategic adjustments without many of the benefits that come with having a home clubhouse to work out of. The addition of this 2-time MLB all-star is a great early step toward a competitive Road Warriors team in 2020.
For more on the Road Warriors past challenges and 2020 prospects, check back for ALPB Roundup’s upcoming article about the club.
