Rockies officially name Weiss as manager
The Colorado Rockies named former shortstop Walt Weiss their new manager.
Before making the official announcement, the team sent an email to their season-ticket holders. Weiss is expected to be announced at a Friday news conference.
The 48-year-old replaces Jim Tracy, who resigned on Oct. 7. As a player, Weiss spent 1994-97 with the Rockies.
"It has moved fast and it's a great opportunity," Weiss told The Denver Post. "It's who I am, having lived in this city, and played for this organization. It's been part of my identity the last 20 years. I am not motivated by the terms of contract. I am just focused on the job."
Weiss had a 14-year career as a switch-hitting shortstop, batting .258. He was the 1988 American League Rookie of the Year with the Oakland A's and played on the 1989 World Series championship team.
He returned to Denver after retiring in 2000, and worked as a special assistant to Rockies GM Dan O'Dowd from 2002-08.
Last year, he became head coach for his son's baseball team at Regis Jesuit High School, in Aurora, Colo.
The Rockies had narrowed the field to four finalists, including Jason Giambi, before deciding on Weiss.
