Pickens, who manned the hot corner as well as second base for the Nine from 2051 through 2055, was an All Star for Yellow Springs in 2053. He batted .268 with 94 home runs and an OPS of .780 along with 14.4 WAR during that time. For his entire career, stretching from 2042 with Jacksonville to 2058 with Des Moines, Pickens hit .261 with 1902 hits, 281 homers, OPS of .760 and WAR of 38.8. Most importantly for his new role, Pickens stole 221 bases against 104 caught stealing and was a three-time Zimmer award winner at third. He also won a Puckett in 2046.
"We're so very glad to have Jeremy back with the team as a coach," said GM Rob McMonigal. He was one of my most reliable players when I first came to the Nine and I felt like we had a great relationship. He suffered through injuries here but never complained. He'll bring that determination to the field as a coach, I'm sure of it."
"I never had a team face Pickens," added manager Bill Inkster. "But I knew him by reputation. He's going to be a great fit on my staff. We're already in discussions to have him take over teaching the infielders as well as how to run the bases."
"The Yellow Springs Nine are a historic franchise," said Pickens. "While we've been through some hard times and never could punch our ticket back to the playoffs, the team and the fans always keep their heads high. We've got a lot of ground to cover to get back into the playoffs, but I am sure I can help the team do it. Nine Nine!"
Yellow Springs will have a Jeremy Pickens Coaching Jersey Night, with the exact date and details to be announced.
