Manager Takashi Miyoshi speaks with infielder Scott David during a 2017 home game at Peoples Home Equity Ballpark at Arnold Field. (James W. Toy III / Sonoma Stompers)
SONOMA, Calif.– While Sonoma Stompers Manager Takashi Miyoshi set a league record for wins in a season, Vallejo Admirals skipper PJ Phillips lead his team to their first-ever Pacific Association Championship.
“Yoshi is an enormous asset to our organization and to this league. He’s poured his heart and soul into this organization, and the return on that has been great success for our ball club and the players who’ve gone on to higher levels. Additionally, you won’t find a single manager in this league more professional, harder working and more respectful of the game,” said 2017 Stompers President and General Manager Theo Fightmaster.
The two managers tied for the league’s 2017 Manager of the Year award, selected by three members of each Pacific Association team. Miyoshi was also the recipient of last season's Manager of the Year award after leading the Stompers to the 2016 championship.
"I am extremely humbled and honored to receive this award for second time in my career. I want to thank my players for all of their hard work," Miyoshi said. "Most importantly, I want to thank the fans. Without their support, I would not get this award."
When he was promoted in 2015, Miyoshi became the first Japanese-born manager in American professional baseball. He notched his 100th managerial win in July.
Miyoshi thanked his coaching staff, the Stompers' ownership and front office as well as a few important members of the Stompers family.
"I would like to dedicate this award to the legend of (longtime Sonoma Valley High Varsity Baseball Coach) Don Lyons and his family. Being a part of the Sonoma baseball community is special for me," Miyoshi said. "Thank you all for everything you have done for me."
Phillips, the brother of longtime Major Leaguer Brandon Phillips, took his team from a 12-27 record in the first half to a 24-15 record in the second, securing a spot in the Pacific Association Championship game.
While Phillips’ squad lead the league in hits, home runs and doubles, the Stompers scored 74 more runs than their league opponents and recorded the most RBIs.