New manager to lead Columbia Fireflies this season

The Columbia Fireflies will have a new manager on the bench this season.

Pedro Lopez replaces Jose Leger as the Fireflies’ manager when the season begins in April. Leger, who managed Columbia the past two years, was named the Latin American Field Coordinator for the St. Louis Cardinals.

Lopez managed the Mets’ Triple-A affiliate in Las Vegas last season and is in his 11th year with the organization.

Lopez also managed in Kingsport (2008), Brooklyn (2009), Savannah (2010), St. Lucie (2011), Binghamton (2012-2016) and Las Vegas (2017). In 2013, he was named the Eastern League Manager of the Year after leading Binghamton to a record 86 wins and a trip to the postseason. In 2014, he guided Binghamton to an 83-59 record (.585) and the Mets captured the Eastern League Championship.

“I’m excited to be back in the South Atlantic League and for having the opportunity to work with the young talent,” Lopez said. “I’m also looking forward to winning some games, and giving the fans another fun year at Spirit Communications Park.”

Lopez was a 21st round draft pick by the San Diego Padres in 1988 and spent 12 seasons with three different teams.

Jonathan Hurst will be back in this third year as Fireflies’ pitching coach while Ender Chavez takes over as hitting coach. Other members will be athletic trainer Hiroto Kawamura, strength coach Tanner Miracle and assistant coach John Kozuch.

Season ticket packages are now available for the season as well as tickets for South Carolina’s game against College of Charleston. Both can be purchased by calling 803-726-HITS or by visiting www.ColumbiaFireflies.com .

This story was originally published January 17, 2018 at 4:28 PM with the headline "New manager to lead Columbia Fireflies this season."