The Huntsville Times
The manager of Huntsville’s Short Season A-level minor league affiliate has retired, effective immediately.
David Vélez, 64, informed franchise executives of his decision to step down as manager of the San Pedro de Macoris Green Sox on Sept. 30. He had managed the club for the last two seasons, going 35-35 in 2038 and 32-38 in 2039.
David Vélez
Observers said Vélez, who earned $308,000 per year, had no better than an average reputation around the BBA’s minor league systems, although his managerial career spanned 22 years.
Vélez said he had simply grown weary of the demands of managing at the professional level and looks forward to retirement with his wife, Marjorie.
“Who knows? I may see if our local high school program needs a little coaching help, or maybe I’ll just spend some time as a fan,” he said.
Vélez thanked the organization for the opportunity to manage the Green Sox for the past two years.
“It was a wonderful experience, but like all things, must come to an end. Now is the time,” he said.
Although most of Vélez’s career was spent managing at the college or minor league level, he did spend parts of 2034 and 2035 managing the BBA’s Vancouver Mounties. He compiled a record of 92-110 there.
Vélez did qualify teams for the post-season 8 times in his 22 years, and twice won collegiate level championships with the AmGen Chemists, in 2023 and 2024.
Franchise officials said a search for Velez’s replacement will begin immediately.