14-year MLB veteran and 20-year manager becomes sixth skipper in franchise history
 

(Central Islip, N.Y., Nov. 28, 2018) – The Long Island Ducks today announced Wally Backman has been named the sixth manager in team history. Backman replaces Kevin Baez, who signed with the Rockland Boulders of the Can-Am League earlier this week.

“Kevin Baez is the winningest manager in Ducks history and our organization respects him tremendously,” said Ducks President/GM Michael Pfaff. “Entering our 20th Anniversary Season, it is time for the Ducks to move in a new direction, and we are very excited about our future with Wally Backman.”

Backman is most well known in the New York Metropolitan area for a successful nine-year stint playing with the New York Mets, highlighted by winning the 1986 World Series. Following a 14-year MLB playing career, the former first round draft pick transitioned into coaching and now has 20 years of experience as a manager, winning six division championships and three league championships. He has compiled an overall managerial record of 1,127-1,077 (.511) and was named 2014 Pacific Coast League Manager of the Year for the Las Vegas 51’s, the Triple-A affiliate of the New York Mets.

“I’m excited to join the Ducks knowing the professionalism of the organization and how much they care about winning,” said Backman. “It’s an added bonus that this opportunity brings me back to New York and keeps me in the Atlantic League, where I have enjoyed managing.”

Backman spent the 2018 season managing the Ducks Liberty Division rival in the Atlantic League, the New Britain Bees, and saw five of his players signed by Major League organizations (four Triple-A, one Double-A assignment).

“We are delighted to bring Wally aboard,” said Ducks Founder and CEO Frank Boulton. “Our aim is to put the best possible product out on the field for fans as we enter our 20th season of play. We’re confident Wally will help us achieve all of our goals.”

The Long Island Ducks are members of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball and play their home games at Bethpage Ballpark. For further information, call (631) 940-DUCK or visit www.liducks.com.

About the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB)

The Atlantic League has been a leader in professional baseball and a gateway to Major League Baseball since 1998. Over 40 million fans have attended Atlantic League games and more than 900 players and 70 managers and coaches have joined MLB organizations directly from the ALPB. The Atlantic League emphasizes winning baseball games, showcasing the talent of top-caliber players and offering affordable family entertainment.

For more information, please visit www.atlanticleague.com.
 

###