Former Dodgers GM Colletti to be hockey scout

Longtime Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti has a new job … as a pro hockey scout.

Colletti is joining the NHL's San Jose Sharks, per a team release Friday announcing additions to its scouting department. The Sharks say Colletti will scout at both the developmental AHL and the NHL level.

Colletti was the Dodgers' GM for nine seasons from 2006-14, leading Los Angeles to four National League West division titles, five postseason appearances and three League Championship Series. During his tenure, the Dodgers went 783-674, a .537 winning percentage.

In the Sharks' announcement of Colletti's hiring, San Jose GM Doug Wilson said, "Ned has an extensive background working in professional sports and talent evaluation, and he will bring a fresh perspective to our organization's evaluation process. This was a unique opportunity to add someone of Ned's experience to our staff."

The Sharks note that Colletti "religiously attended" Blackhawks games growing up in Chicago, but he has old professional ties to the NHL, too -- Colletti was once the Flyers beat writer for the Philadelphia Journal.

When the newspaper folded in 1981, Colletti ended up getting a job in the Cubs' media relations department. That began his decades-long career in professional baseball, which included 13 years in the Cubs' front office and 11 years in the Giants' front office before he joined the Dodgers.