Backman returns as Ducks manager for a second season after being named the Atlantic League’s Manager of the Year in 2019. He led Long Island to an 86-54 record during the regular season, breaking the franchise record for most wins in a single season that was previously achieved by Bud Harrelson (82, 2000). He also became just the second manager in Ducks history to win both the first and second half of the season, joining Kevin Baez, who accomplished the feat in 2011. During the postseason, the 61-year-old led the Ducks to a 6-2 record en route to the franchise’s fourth Atlantic League championship. Backman saw a team-record 15 players have their contracts purchased in 2019, including nine by Major League organizations.

The Oregon native has over 20 seasons of managerial experience across professional baseball, having amassed a 1,213-1,131 overall record (.517 winning percentage). In that time, he has led his teams to seven division championships and four league championships. Prior to his coaching career, Backman enjoyed a 14-year Major League playing career. Nine of those seasons (1980-88) were played with the New York Mets, where he helped lead the team to a World Series Championship in 1986. He also spent time in “The Show” with the Minnesota Twins (1989), Pittsburgh Pirates (1990), Philadelphia Phillies (1991-92) and Seattle Mariners (1993). The infielder compiled a .275 lifetime batting average with 240 RBIs, 482 runs scored, 893 hits, 138 doubles and 117 stolen bases in 1,102 MLB games.