The rumor flying around Dwyer Stadium during the playoffs about Batavia Muckdogs General Manager Dave Wellenzohn not returning for next year is true.
The Rochester Red Wings Managment, LLC and Wellenzohn just released a joint press release confirming that he will not be back in 2009.
"In order for the Rochester Red Wings to proceed towards branding our product in Batavia better, Dave and Rochester Community Baseball both recognize that we should have somebody with more Red Wings' experience running day-to-day operations," said Red Wings Chairman of the Board Naomi Silver.
Silver thanked Wellenzohn for the work he did over the winter to keep the organization together while the the New York-Pennsylvania League, the Rochester Red Wings and the City of Batavia worked to keep the team in Batavia.
Having a very short promotional season, Wellenzohn still managed to sell outfield signs to local businesses, bring in a staff to work games and had some unique promotions to help sell season tickets.
Both parties are leaving on good terms, according to the press release.
"I feel the experience I've gained during my time in Batavia will only help me down the road and I look forward to my next opportunity in professional baseball. The 2008 season was a great year in Batavia, with winning the New York-Penn League Championship, and I'm glad I had a chance to be apart of it," Wellenzohn said.
"I have nothing but high marks for Rochester Community Baseball and have every confidence that they'll do a great job in Batavia, just like they have in Rochester."
Wellenzohn has already been in contact with several organizations about possible job opportunities.
The 2008 NY-P League champions expect to announce their new front office staff sometime in the early fall.
I've known Dave only a short
I've known Dave only a short time, but he seems like a great baseball man. It's been fun seeing his enthusiasm for the team, the game and the community. He did a heck of a job during the off season. I'm sorry to know he's leaving, but it's understandable that the Red Wings would want to bring in their own management.
Good luck, Dave ... stay in touch, let us know where you work next.
I also wish Dave the best in
I also wish Dave the best in his future. What he accomplished in a time of turmoil and and uncertainty in the 2008 season was amazing. Thanks for the hard work and dedication, good luck to you.
City of Batavia...Last August
City of Batavia...Last August my wife and I traveled to Batavia to watch our son play baseball. I might get long winded but I need to thank so many people for helping our son out this summer.We were first greeted by Dave Wellenzohn and he asked if we would throw out the first pitch...yes I threw about an 80 mph fastball...my son told me to. Dave told the crowd to welcome us and show us how Batavians are. To our surprise people at restaurants and stores were coming up to us and saying nice things about our son. Dave I'm sorry you are leaving...I too want to know where you land!
Brian..Thank you for finding our son a place to stay...Thank you to our sons host and to all you who gave these young men a place they could call home.
People of Batavia you have a great Coach in DJ. My son said he has learned more in a few months than he had in 3 years of College ball. DJ is not just a coach...he is a teacher of life. He helped my son out during difficult times. My father passed away while my son was coming home from college. He arrived on Friday...the Memorial was on Saturday...my son left for Batavia on Sunday. DJ we are forever grateful for helping him through this time...Grandpa always wanted him to pursue his dream!
The fans of Batavia you were so nice to us while we visited. Many came up to introduce themselves throughout the week. My hopes and prayers for you all is that you will keep baseball in your town. You have tradition there in Batavia....don't let it go away.
Molly...finish your degree! Wayne and Pat...Thanks for broadcasting the games so we could be a part of the team. Wayne his name is not Curt...Ha Ha
My son, my family will always remember Batavia for what happened this year. Be proud Batavia!
Rick, thanks for leaving a
Rick, thanks for leaving a comment. It's great to hear from the parents of one of our players. It was a joy to watch Colt play. He's a solid young ballplayer. He has a bright future, I bet.