Shoemaker named 'Captain' of development
Longtime Minor League manager was drafted by Dodgers in 1977
LOS ANGELES -- The Dodgers, who haven't had a captain on the Major League team since Davey Lopes in 1979, now have a "Captain" of player development.
John Shoemaker, the dean of the organization's Minor League system, was given the appointment by director of player development Gabe Kapler.
Shoemaker, currently manager of the Rookie League Ogden Raptors, has been in the organization for 39 years.
"Shoe is the epitome of what we, as the Dodgers, search for in our staff members," said Kapler. "He deserves this honor based on his continual demonstration of superior teammate behavior over the course of his 39 years with our organization. He brings infectious positivity and professionalism on a daily basis. I can say with certainty that this appointment will be disputed by no soul who regularly comes into contact with Shoe."
Since Shoemaker, 58, was selected by the Dodgers in the 35th round of the 1977 Draft, the Dodgers have had nine general managers, eight Major League field managers and four owners.
But Shoemaker has soldiered on as a player, manager, coach and coordinator. He played for four seasons, coached for six, then managed up and down throughout the system. He has compiled a 1,320-1,295 (.505) managerial record in 21 seasons.
Shoemaker was a two-sport star at the University of Miami (Ohio) and was drafted in the sixth round of the 1978 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls.
Shoemaker will be recognized with a "C" on his jersey to acknowledge this accolade.