ST. CLOUD, MN- The St. Cloud franchise of the Northwoods League has announced that Augie Rodriguez will be the team’s Field Manager for their inaugural season.

Rodriguez returns to St. Cloud after spending time as the Pitching Coach last season with the St. Cloud River Bats where his staff led the Northwoods League in combined ERA (3.21).

“The Northwoods League is an incredible league.” Rodriguez said. “It’s an honor to be involved in the league again, and I couldn’t be more excited to get back to central Minnesota.”

Rodriguez is currently an Assistant Coach at Augusta State University where his primary duties include managing the Jaguars pitching staff, but he also serves as one of the top assistants for head coach Chris Cooper.

The 2012 Field Manager also spent six years playing professional baseball in the United States and abroad, including stops in Puerto Rico and Europe. He notched a 12-10 record with 11 saves with a 3.03 ERA and 1.29 WHIP in 76 appearances equaling up to 191 innings during his stint in the minor leagues.

“We couldn’t be happier to have Augie.” St. Clouds Vice President Scott Schreiner said. “He’s a great person and mixes very well with this outstanding community. He’s a perfect fit for our inaugural season.”

“I’m going to be a part of history.” Rodriguez said. “I’m looking forward to starting the season, joining this new organization, and really being a part of something special.”

The Northwoods League season kicks off on May 30, but the home opener for the St. Cloud franchise will be on Saturday, June 2 when they take on Mankato.

The Northwoods League has more teams, plays more games, and draws more fans than any other Summer Collegiate Baseball League in North America. The League has 16 teams in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Michigan, and Ontario.