Revered Carpsucker Skipper Replaced by Unknown Newcomer
Oct 24, 2018 19:52:28 GMT -6
Post by drhanson on Oct 24, 2018 19:52:28 GMT -6
Feb. 18, 1967
The Independence Bulletin-Journal
QUASQUETON: The Quasqueton Quillback Carpsuckers surprised the baseball world today when they announced that long-time manager Al Lopez will not be returning for the 1967 season. The short announcement described Lopez’ departure as a “mutual decision,” but no explanation for the move was offered. A spokesman for the team said that “The Carpsuckers and our fans will always be grateful for everything Al has done for the team, and we wish him nothing but the best in his future endeavors.” Lopez issued a short statement that said he “wanted to thank the Carps for having faith in a rookie manager back in 1948. I have enjoyed being a part of this franchise and will always have fond memories of Quasky players and fans.” Neither the team nor Lopez would comment further.
Carps fans were stunned by the news. Lopez is the all-time Carpsucker leader in victories by a manager, with a 1,696 – 1,279 record over the past 19 seasons. He also holds the team’s managerial records for most first place finishes (7), postseason appearances (13), pennants (8), and World Series titles (4). The only team managerial record he does not own is best win-loss percentage. That record is held by Bill McKetchnie who compiled a .663 record from 1927 through 1936.
Some observers theorized that Lopez had resigned, possibly due to a salary dispute, or perhaps because the 58-year-old skipper simply wanted a new challenge or even just a change of scenery after spending 19 years in one job. One Quasqueton resident speculated that Lopez was tired of working in a town that had only one restaurant. “The Big Q Cafe has a heck of a meatloaf platter, but maybe after 19 years a guy wants to try something else.”
But others suspect that Lopez was fired after the Quillbacks failed to meet expectations in each of the last three seasons. Quasqueton finished 1st in the league in both 1964 and 1965 but failed to make it through the playoffs either year, and then finished in a disappointing 5th place tie in 1966.
The Independence Bulletin-Journal
CARPS, LOPEZ PART WAYS IN SURPRISE MANAGER CHANGE
Unclear Whether Lopez Resigned or Was Fired;
Quasky Replaces Legend With Unknown Minor League Mgr.
Unclear Whether Lopez Resigned or Was Fired;
Quasky Replaces Legend With Unknown Minor League Mgr.
QUASQUETON: The Quasqueton Quillback Carpsuckers surprised the baseball world today when they announced that long-time manager Al Lopez will not be returning for the 1967 season. The short announcement described Lopez’ departure as a “mutual decision,” but no explanation for the move was offered. A spokesman for the team said that “The Carpsuckers and our fans will always be grateful for everything Al has done for the team, and we wish him nothing but the best in his future endeavors.” Lopez issued a short statement that said he “wanted to thank the Carps for having faith in a rookie manager back in 1948. I have enjoyed being a part of this franchise and will always have fond memories of Quasky players and fans.” Neither the team nor Lopez would comment further.
Carps fans were stunned by the news. Lopez is the all-time Carpsucker leader in victories by a manager, with a 1,696 – 1,279 record over the past 19 seasons. He also holds the team’s managerial records for most first place finishes (7), postseason appearances (13), pennants (8), and World Series titles (4). The only team managerial record he does not own is best win-loss percentage. That record is held by Bill McKetchnie who compiled a .663 record from 1927 through 1936.
Some observers theorized that Lopez had resigned, possibly due to a salary dispute, or perhaps because the 58-year-old skipper simply wanted a new challenge or even just a change of scenery after spending 19 years in one job. One Quasqueton resident speculated that Lopez was tired of working in a town that had only one restaurant. “The Big Q Cafe has a heck of a meatloaf platter, but maybe after 19 years a guy wants to try something else.”
But others suspect that Lopez was fired after the Quillbacks failed to meet expectations in each of the last three seasons. Quasqueton finished 1st in the league in both 1964 and 1965 but failed to make it through the playoffs either year, and then finished in a disappointing 5th place tie in 1966.
As if Lopez’ departure wasn’t surprising enough, the Carpsuckers then announced that they were turning the team over to a virtually unknown rookie skipper who has never played, coached, or managed in the majors. Thirty-six year old Earl Weaver will take over the helm after managing in the minor leagues for the past 10 years. While little is known about Weaver’s managerial skills or strategic preferences, an encouraging sign for Carps fans is that he has compiled an 840-662 record in the minors. Time will tell if he can successful in the majors.
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