Denny Hocking Named Manager of 66ers, Reigning California League Champions

The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim recently announced that Denny Hocking will be the manager of the Inland Empire 66ers for the 2014 season. This will be Hocking’s first managerial position in the California League. Hocking will be joined by fellow California League newcomer Matt Wise, who takes over as the team’s new pitching coach. Rounding out the staff are returnees Brenton Del Chiaro, Omar Uribe and Sergio Rojas. Del Chiaro will serve as the hitting coach while Uribe and Rojas will return as the athletic trainer and strength and conditioning coach, respectively. Hocking comes to the Inland Empire after compiling a 30-26 record as manager of the Angels’ Arizona League rookie club. Prior to his first managerial role, he spent the 2010 through 2012 seasons in the Orioles organization. Originally from Torrance, Calif., Hocking spent 12 years in the major leagues, playing for the Minnesota Twins, Colorado Rockies and Kansas City Royals. A versatile player his entire career, Hocking played every position except pitcher and catcher, with his best season coming in 2000, when he hit .298 with four home runs and 47 RBIs while also playing 10 or more games at seven different positions. He also recorded over 100 games at shortstop, second base, third base and right field during his career. Wise joins the 66ers after previously serving as Hocking’s pitching coach for the Angels’ Arizona League team. Also a native of California, hailing from Montclair, Wise was originally drafted by the Angles in the sixth round of the 1997 MLB draft. He made his major league debut on Aug. 2, 2000 with the Angels. In his eight year career, Wise also spent time with the Milwaukee Brewers and New York Mets. In 209 career appearances, he had an ERA of 4.23. The Inland Empire 66ers begin their title defense on April 3, when they travel to face the High Desert Mavericks. The 2014 home opener will take place a week later when the Mavericks visit San Manuel Stadium on April 10.