Slammers Hire New Manager with Joliet Ties
Mike Pinto, the winningest manager in Frontier League history, to lead the team
The Joliet Slammers are excited to announce the hiring of Mike Pinto as the team’s manager. Pinto started his professional coaching career in 2002 in Joliet with the JackHammers before going on to manage the Sioux Falls Canaries in the American Association. In 2007, Pinto joined the Southern Illinois Miners in their inaugural season. He went on to win 770 total games as the only manager in Miners history.
“I couldn’t be more excited to return to Joliet. First of all, I absolutely love that stadium. I started there as a Coach with the JackHammers back in 2002 and have many great memories at that park and of the fans there. Until the last few years I lived in Plainfield, so it will be like coming home. I am also very excited to work with the investment group and management team. We are looking forward to doing great things together. Now the work begins to build a roster of players that will not only play the game well, and right, but also be great ambassadors for the Joliet community we will represent. I am also excited to return to the Frontier League. So many players and coaches have seen their big league dreams come true because of their starts in this league. I look forward to helping many more realize that dream as well.” said Pinto.
During 14 seasons with the Miners, Pinto had 13 winning seasons, seven playoff appearances, four division titles, and one Frontier League Championship. His teams produced 5 Pitchers of the Year, an MVP, and Rookie of the Year. He also facilitated the signing of 60 Miners’ players to affiliated contracts, with four of those players reaching MLB. Five coaches from Pinto’s staff have gone on to coach or scout in affiliated organizations. Many of his former players have also gone into the affiliated coaching ranks, or into scouting roles with MLB organizations. Between coaches and players, three have reached major league baseball positions.
“From the moment I saw Mike’s name, I was thrilled at the prospect of bringing him on board to lead the Slammers. His excellent track record of winning teams, creating strong cultures, and ability to connect with players and communities is going to make for quite an exciting year on the field for our fans. I can’t wait to open our gates in 2024 and welcome Mike back to the Joliet community!” said Slammers Executive Vice President Sales & Marketing, Night Train Veeck.
Pinto and his wife Lynne have two sons and two grandchildren with whom they love spending time. In his spare time, Pinto plays drums for San Antonio Transit, a regional touring Chicago tribute band. He is also a passionate cook.
The Joliet Slammers will open their 2024 season on Friday, May 10 against the Evansville Otters. Gates will open at 5:35pm, and the game will begin at 6:35pm.
Season and Group ticket packages are now available for the 2024 season! To join in on the FUN, head to jolietslammers.com or call 815-271-7792 to learn more about suites, picnics, and more!
To learn more about the Slammers or the 2024 season, visit www.jolietslammers.com
