With only 56 days until opening day, the El Paso Chihuahuas formerly introduced new field manager Edwin Rodriguez today at Southwest University Park. The Puerto Rico native and former Florida Marlins skipper will be the fourth manager in team history. Rodriguez managed the Padres' High-A affiliate in Lake Elsinore over the last two seasons, and he brings nearly 40 years of professional baseball experience to the Chihuahuas. Hitting coach Morgan Burkhart, fielding coach Lance Burkhart, and pitching coach Bronswell Patrick will all return to the dugout with Rodriguez for 2019.

In an unrelated move, the Chihuahuas also announced that they have extended their Player Development Contract with the San Diego Padres through the 2022 season. "The Padres have been exceptional partners and we are excited to continue with them through 2022 as our Major League affiliate," General Manager Brad Taylor told 600 ESPN El Paso. "Their on field success, as seen through 42 Chihuahuas players making their major league debuts, 4 straight division titles, 2 conference titles and one league championship in addition to their affinity for our city makes this an easy decision for us."

El Paso has been the Padres' Triple-A affiliate since their inaugural season in 2014, and fans have been rewarded with four consecutive playoff teams and one Pacific Coast League championship. ESPN's Keith Law recently named the Padres his Top MLB Farm System for 2019.

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