Johnny Hernandez has been hired as the team’s new field manager for the 2014 Northwoods League season.
The 33-year old native of Brooklyn, NY., is currently an assistant coach at Long Island University-Brooklyn. Hernandez was selected by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 15th round of the 1998 Major League Baseball Draft and played professionally in the Cardinals organization as well as Independent League baseball with the Bridgeport Bluefish and Long Island Ducks in the Atlantic League.
A former outfielder, he was named a 2009 Atlantic League All-Star while a member of the Ducks, was named the club’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2009 and 2010, and team captain in 2010.
Hernandez enlisted in the United States Navy in April 2004, attached to ACU 1 task force. He completed tours in both Iraq (2007) and Africa (2008) before returning home.
Hernandez was the head coach of the Shelter Island (NY) Bucks in the Hampton Summer Collegiate Baseball League during the 2013 season and guided the club to a 17-23 record.
"The Border Cats organization is very excited to have Johnny as our new manager," stated team President/ General Manager Brad Jorgenson. "Johnny’s experience as a player and coach and his strong recruiting ties with several Division-1 programs around the United States will produce an excellent roster for the 2014 season", Jorgenson added.
"I am very excited at the opportunity to manage the Border Cats and in the Northwoods League, one of the premier summer collegiate leagues in North America", stated Hernandez. "I look forward to the challenge of bringing a winning club and playoff contender to the fans in Thunder Bay", he added.
Hernandez and wife Colleen reside in Brooklyn with their three children. While coaching, Hernandez earned a degree in Bachelor of Arts in education studies from the University of Ashford.
He becomes the 11th manager in Border Cats history and replaces Dan Holcomb after the Cats compiled a franchise low 21 wins in 2013.
Border Cats 2014 season tickets are on sale at the team’s office located in the Canada Games Complex on Winnipeg Avenue or by calling (807) 766.CATS. Fans can also visit www.bordercatsbaseball.com.