Steve Decker: Giants next manager?

[McCovey]

As the Bear recently posted in another thread, Steve Decker was promoted to AAA Fresno. Decker has managed in the Giants minor league system since 2005 and he has been nothing short of spectacular. In five minor league seasons Decker's record is 325-185 W-L (.637)! That is an incredible record for any manager. Here is his record.


Yr Team Level W L W% Finish
05 Salem-Keizer Low-A 45 31 .592 2nd place- 1 GB
06 Salem-Keizer Low-A 55 21 .724 1st Place- League Champion
07 Salem-Keizer Low-A 57 19 .750 1st Place- League Champion
08 San Jose High-A 85 55 .607 1st Place- Lost in 2nd round
09 Connecticut AA 83 59 .585 1st Place- Lost in finals


It has occured to me that we don't know much about Steve Decker. So I thought we could post Steve Decker news and info in this thread.

[Bear]

As a player he was a catcher who had a great glove, and was not much of a hitter. He signed with the Giants in 1988, and played his first game in the majors in 1990. I can remember people early on would say he was a real student of the game, and some day he would make a great manager. I guess they were right. He played his last game in the majors in 1999 and now is almost back as a manager in 2010. My guess is he has a real shot at being the next Giants field general. :)

[McCovey]

I'm trying to dig up some interviews that Decker may have given. I'm interested to read about his views on managing. His .637 winning percentage over five seasons can't be a fluke. That is simply an amazing record of an extended period of time. I wonder what he can do in Fresno this upcoming season? In recent years the Fresno Grizzlies haven't had the same level of success as the Giants lower level minor league teams have had. Since the Grizzlies were born in 1998 they have yet to win a single PCL title. Since 1998 the Grizzlies have had five last place finishes. If Decker can turn this team around then he is going to get the attention of many other major league clubs if he hasn't already. The Giants would be smart to think long and hard about Decker's long term future with the Giants. At the very least they should consider making him a coach with the Giants perhaps in 2011.

[Bear]

When is Bruce's contract up? The Bear wants a change.:eek:

[McCovey]

When is Bruce's contract up? The Bear wants a change.:eek:
After the 2011 season I believe. I think the Giants may already thinking of Decker replacing Bochy. I think this for two reasons.

1) Decker is a young manager and probably brings new ideas. I really hope he is sabermetrics savvy to some degree.

2) Decker, as a new major league manager, would be far cheaper salary-wise than resigning Bochy or another experienced manager.

[Bear]

After the 2011 season I believe. I think the Giants may already thinking of Decker replacing Bochy. I think this for two reasons.

1) Decker is a young manager and probably brings new ideas. I really hope he is sabermetrics savvy to some degree.

Big deal!:rolleyes:

2) Decker, as a new major league manager, would be far cheaper salary-wise than resigning Bochy or another experienced manager.

We have enough money for most managers. It's not like the make the billions the players make.:cool:

[McCovey]

Big deal!:rolleyes:

It is a big deal. More and more teams are using heavy statistical analysis in all aspects in how they run their teams. Right now that is in full swing in the front office jobs. It's starting to happen with managing as well. In the near a future if someone has zero understanding of the statistical aspect of the baseball they will not find many doors open to then. This article sheds light on this new way of thinking.

http://fullcountpitch.com/2009/12/02/ignorant-need-not-apply-the-mind-of-the-manager-must-evolve/

Decker, or any manager, doesn't have to be a sabermetrics genius. But a basic understanding will soon become mandatory.


We have enough money for most managers. It's not like the make the billions the players make.:cool:
The Giants are known for begin cheap. Why would they pay a manger $3 million per season if they could pay $500,000? :o

[Bear]

We will just have to agree to disagree.:eek:

[TkleMstr52]

U guys disagree A LOT!! :p

[Bear]

U guys disagree A LOT!! :p

It's a function of age. One of us knows it all and one of us thinks he knows it all.:pound::pound:

[WillTheThrill]

It's a function of age. One of us knows it all and one of us thinks he knows it all.:pound::pound:

And I bet BOTH of you think you're the know-it-all, too. :D

.

[Bear]

And I bet BOTH of you think you're the know-it-all, too. :D

.

Now that is how one could look at it. Not everyone, but some.:rotf:

[McCovey]

We will just have to agree to disagree.:eek:
What exactly are we disagreeing on? :shrug: I'm curious did you read the article I posted? I found the whole Yankee process if hiring Torre's replacement very interesting.

[Bear]

What exactly are we disagreeing on? :shrug: I'm curious did you read the article I posted? I found the whole Yankee process if hiring Torre's replacement very interesting.

We disagree on the overall importance of heavy statistical analysis. I agree it has a place but not to the same degree you do.:nono:

[WillTheThrill]

We disagree on the overall importance of heavy statistical analysis. I agree it has a place but not to the same degree you do.:nono:

Bear... not to insert myself into the debate between you and McCovey... but... in baseball, what else is there BESIDES statistics??? :D Without the ability to look at statistics, measure a player's past performance and see how they are growing or not growing, what is the point?

Otherwise, it would just be a game with a bunch of guys throwing a ball around and hitting it with a stick. You may as well be playing neighborhood softball or playing catch!

While I agree some statisticians go a little overboard, and I think that it is harder to measure some things (like defense) or a player's overall contribution to the team (leadership & chemistry) I think that heavy analysis of statistics is very, very important to the game of baseball.

Have you ever read "Men At Work" by George F. Will? Even though it was written 15+ years ago, everything in the book is very relevant. And the section on managing, which focuses on Tony LaRussa, shows how statistical analysis is SO important to the game.

If you've never read it, I highly recommend it. As a lifelong fan of baseball, I learned more about the sport reading that one book than years of following games. I have several copies on my shelf and lend it out to anyone who is interested in the game. :beerbang:

.

[McCovey]

We disagree on the overall importance of heavy statistical analysis. I agree it has a place but not to the same degree you do.:nono:
Well, I don't want to turn this into a debate and I wasn't really debating this point. All I was trying to say is that based on my close observation of baseball today, statisical analysis has become vital to nearly ever team. It doesn't matter if you don't think it is important or if I think that it is important. It is important to the people who run major league teams. In the article I posted it was obvious the the Yankees' GM Brian Cashmen wanted a manager with at least a basic knowledge of sabermetrics. Girardi got the job over Don Mattingly becasue he had a basic understanding and Mattingly apparently did not. Perhaps 30 years ago someone like Mattingly would easily get a managerial job. But today that kind of candidate will have an increasingly hard time getting a job because teams want a manager to think in new ways. And managers using statistical analyis is nothing new really. Earl Weaver was famous for it back in the 1970's.

[McCovey]

Bear... not to insert myself into the debate between you and McCovey... but... in baseball, what else is there BESIDES statistics??? :D Without the ability to look at statistics, measure a player's past performance and see how they are growing or not growing, what is the point?
And you see this in how teams have gotten smarter in signing older players. It will became harder for 33-34 years old players to land 4-5 year deals because teams finally understand player aging paterns and that signing 33-34 year olds to long term contracts is not a good use of their money.


Otherwise, it would just be a game with a bunch of guys throwing a ball around and hitting it with a stick. You may as well be playing neighborhood softball or playing catch!
The buisness of baseball is a multi-billion industry. All teams must use all the tools availble to them to get an edge.


While I agree some statisticians go a little overboard, and I think that it is harder to measure some things (like defense) or a player's overall contribution to the team (leadership & chemistry) I think that heavy analysis of statistics is very, very important to the game of baseball.
The things about sabermetrics is that it's a constantly changing field. New information, new theories are always being thought up. Right now defense is the holy grail of sabermetrics. Lots of very smart folks are working on analyzing defense. Eve nthey admit that defense is VERY difficult to quantify. It's like the weather, there are so many variable to take into consideration.


Have you ever read "Men At Work" by George F. Will? Even though it was written 15+ years ago, everything in the book is very relevant. And the section on managing, which focuses on Tony LaRussa, shows how statistical analysis is SO important to the game.
I love that book! I love how we get to see the nuts and bolts of getting ready for a game. The players and managers take such an analytical approach to playing the game. Most fans don't get to see that part of the game.

[Bear]

Well, I don't want to turn this into a debate and I wasn't really debating this point. All I was trying to say is that based on my close observation of baseball today, statisical analysis has become vital to nearly ever team. It doesn't matter if you don't think it is important or if I think that it is important. It is important to the people who run major league teams. In the article I posted it was obvious the the Yankees' GM Brian Cashmen wanted a manager with at least a basic knowledge of sabermetrics. Girardi got the job over Don Mattingly becasue he had a basic understanding and Mattingly apparently did not. Perhaps 30 years ago someone like Mattingly would easily get a managerial job. But today that kind of candidate will have an increasingly hard time getting a job because teams want a manager to think in new ways. And managers using statistical analyis is nothing new really. Earl Weaver was famous for it back in the 1970's.

Look it is the word Heavy that bothers me. I want a guy who has balance in his approach. Now Mc and I have gone around this block before and I dare say ten years from now we may still be going around the block on this matter but I don't want a guy who just looks at stats.:shakehead:

[McCovey]

Ok, I finally found a Steve Decker interview from March 2008.


Q&A with new San Jose manager Steve Decker

David Jay
SFHardball.com
Mar 10, 2008

After posting a ridiculous .689 winning percentage in three seasons with the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes, Steve Decker is moving up in the system this year, taking over the reins at San Jose. The former Giants catcher shares his thoughts on his transition to the Cal League and some of his former players looking to join him there.

Q: Having spent the last three years in short-season ball, how are you approaching this year differently?
I’m going to take from my experience as the hitting coach at Triple-A for a couple of years. The organization will prioritize who our top prospects are and who has to really be developed to a high level and you make sure that those guys are covered. You try to improve everybody as a team – again, we’re player development. There are certain aspects about what I try to get guys to understand about being a professional. How to come to the game every day and grind it out. I will have some of my players from Salem last season who have not played a full season, and some guys from Low-A that have played full season and will know how to do it a little better. I think you have to be more patient during a long season than a short season that’s really a sprint to the finish line.
What I tried to do the last couple years in Salem-Keizer was teach guys how to be a professional as far as work ethic, as far as on and off the field, preparing yourself to play every day mentally and physically. That will be a big part of it – our conditioning, stretching the pitchers out, saving the bullpen. The difference is – mentally – the grind of having to stay up for 144 games a year.

Q: Between your time as a player and the last seven years coaching in the system, you've been with the organization longer than just about anyone. Do you see any differences in the minor league camp this year under Fred Stanley compared to past years?
The numbers of people we have. We have a lot of people in camp and we’ve got a lot of guys competing for jobs. When there’s competition within, it usually makes your organization better. The one thing about the last few years of us having good teams up in Salem and Augusta is character. Hopefully, we can carry that through our player development and guys can keep progressing through High-A and then to Double-A and try to get us some impact players at the Major League level that are every-day position players.
An illustration of that, we’re really trying to develop some middle infielders right now, and I think you’ll see some future Giant middle infielders. We’ve got (Charlie) Culberson (http://sfgiants.scout.com/a.z?s=316&p=8&c=1&nid=3618532) and (Nick) Noonan (http://sfgiants.scout.com/a.z?s=316&p=8&c=1&nid=3615395); we’ve got (Manny) Burriss and (Brian) Bocock (http://sfgiants.scout.com/a.z?s=316&p=8&c=1&nid=3638683); we’ve got Sharlon Schoop (http://sfgiants.scout.com/a.z?s=316&p=8&c=1&nid=3203347); a kid we got in the Rule 5, Juan Ciriaco (http://sfgiants.scout.com/a.z?s=316&p=8&c=1&nid=3165058), so we’ve got some young, good-looking middle infielders that hopefully we can develop.

Q: You mentioned Schoop. He's a guy who took a step backwards last year. What do you see in store for him this year?
I wouldn’t really say he had a significant step backwards. The average age in the SALLY league is 19-and-a-half years old, and he came to the Northwest League where you have number one draft picks and college players, where the average age is 20-and-a-half. So, he went to an older league and actually played very well for me every day, so I think it was the right opportunity for him to play. He got off to a slow start in Augusta and he had Bocock and then Burriss, so he really just didn’t fit in to where he could play in every day, so it was a good situation (when he came back). He was only 20 years old, so he was actually younger than most of the guys in the league and I thought he played very well. He has some upside, some power potential. We need to fix a few things defensively with him, but he’s a good-looking young prospect.

Q: You have a situation with one of last year's first-rounders Jackson Williams (http://sfgiants.scout.com/a.z?s=316&p=8&c=1&nid=3618527) being in big-league camp early. Is that a challenge for you guys in terms of development since you've had limited opportunities to see him?
Not really. We’re in constant communication with Bill Hayes, who helps run things at the major league level as far as catching. I was over there for major league camp early. Brian Holtzman, the roving catching guy, was over there early, so we definitely all have our eyes on him. We’re in the cage with him when he’s working with Carney Lansford to make sure the terminology will stay consistent on what he needs to work with in terms of hitting. Everybody will be on the same page with him.

Q: In terms of some of the pitchers on your staff last year, what's happened with Jared Cranston (http://sfgiants.scout.com/a.z?s=316&p=8&c=1&nid=3203213)?
Jared decided to retire. He just felt like he couldn’t play this year. I don’t know exactly what it was, I just saw it on my list and was as surprised as you are. He was my ace last year, no doubt about it.

Q: Jesse English (http://sfgiants.scout.com/a.z?s=316&p=8&c=1&nid=3203257) was back with you again last year and finally put it together, putting up some crazy numbers before he went up to San Jose. How is he looking this spring?
I have not had a chance to see him throw. He was a guy for me that, in a two-week span, was the best pitcher in the league last year. Had a nice carry on his fastball, was getting his changeup over and learned how to develop a little bigger breaking ball, but I just don’t think he got real comfortable at A-ball, but I think this will be a big year for him.
He was probably better against right-handed hitters than lefties last year because of his changeup. He did a really nice job controlling both sides of the plate.

Q: Is there anyone who really stands out for you in terms of coming in and looking like he's really done the work he needed to this offseason?
I’d be able to answer that question in two to three weeks. There are guys who come in and look good physically. Matt Downs (http://sfgiants.scout.com/a.z?s=316&p=8&c=1&nid=3203304) in our first intrasquad went 4-for-4 with a home run and double and four RBI’s. He’s a guy that was the league MVP in the Northwest League that’s going to be fighting for a position, or fighting for a team this spring.
He’s working at second base, third base. He can play shortstop in a pinch or go to first base and be an above-average defender. It really is going to be where he fits in. They’re going to have to find someplace for him to play because he’s really forcing the issue the way he’s swinging the bat.

[McCovey]

Here's another Decker interview from December 2007.


12/18/2007

Former Major League Catcher To Manage San Jose Giants In 2008

In this edition of Giants Q and A, new San Jose manager Steve Decker chatted with radio voice Joe Ritzo. Decker was named the manager of the San Jose Giants last week after back-to-back championships as the skipper of the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes. He talked about his managerial style, coming back to San Jose, his championships teams in the Northwest League, and his thoughts on the upcoming season.

Joe Ritzo: Are there any adjustments to your managerial style going from a short-season league (76 games) to a full-season league (140 games)?

Steve Decker: You know what, last year was a sprint. Now, it’s more of a grind. You can’t get too caught up in a winning streak or a losing streak. I think the consistency of how we approach the game needs to stay the same. But as far as roller coaster ride – not getting too high or too low – because of the grind. One good thing you have in the Cal League is the halves. When I coached in Fresno, there were no halves. So if you got off to a slow start, it was going to be a long season.

JR: Going back to your playing days, had you always known you wanted to get into managing?

SD: I really didn’t know. I think I realized I was going to be a professional coach toward the end of my playing career. Sitting around and having a lot of the young players asking me questions all of the time. That’s when I knew. This is what I want to do, to be able to help someone. When I was player, it was more of “this is what they’re trying to do to you, get up there and try this.” It was talking to young pitchers and getting them to develop into big leaguers. At that point, that’s when I knew that coaching was going to be the deal.

JR: Many of your players from the last two championship teams in Salem-Keizer could be in San Jose this season. Do you think that makes your job easier?

SD: I don’t know if it makes it easier because I don’t know how much talent we have to succeed at a better level. That will be answered by the player. I know where you need to raise your game to at the A-ball level, the AA level, and the AAA level. You have to remember that the big jump for these guys is trying to make it out of A-ball. It’s going from San Jose to AA. It’s interesting for us because we look at player and go, “gosh, it’s going to be interesting to see how he does at this level.” I do look forward to the guys I’ve had because I know the type of competitors that they are and how they approach their business. That’s really what’s important to me – the effort side of the game of baseball. You can’t always control performance, but you can always control how hard you work. Taking extra days. Leaving your feet for a ball. I demand that. The players who have played for me know that and know who I am. I definitely have a different style than Lenn (Sakata) – there’s no doubt about that.

JR: You were quoted in the San Jose Mercury News last week that you’re “all about emotion and getting after it” when it comes to managing a team. How are you able to use emotion to help a team win games?

SD: I was never a talented enough player to just be laid back and cerebral. Now, there will be guys that go through San Jose that are like that. It’s my job as a coach to figure out who I need to pump up and who to settle down. I think that’s what coaching is. But that’s how I made it to the big leagues. For many players that you’ll see in A-ball, that how they’re going to make it to the big leagues. Stay focused and go out there when you get an opportunity and get after it. I don’t control the team that gets put out there. That’s the San Francisco Giants. My #1 job is to control development of who they give me. Believe me, winning or losing is a byproduct of how we go about our business starting at 2:00 in the afternoon.

JR: Will there be an adjustment process in that you’ll be working with a completely new coaching staff?

SD: The front office people (in San Francisco) hire quality individuals. I lean very heavily on my pitching coach. Obviously, I have the last word on who I put in the game, but I definitely lean heavily on the pitching coach with who I can and cannot use. I’m not going to win a ballgame at the risk of hurting a kid. I will definitely leave that in his hands and give him all the room he needs as far as protecting a kid. I will be heavily involved with the hitting. That’s who I am. I’m a hitting guy. I’ll work hand-in-hand with (hitting coach) Gary (Davenport) to try to get these kids developed and make them better.

JR: Can you compare the last two Salem-Keizer teams? Both set the league record for victories and both won championships?

SD: Yeah, the team (’06) with Emmanuel Burriss, we had athletes coming out of our ears. We had power. Adam Witter put up great numbers. The only thing we didn’t have was a great defensive catcher. This year, we had just okay starting pitching. The bullpen was out-of-this-world. We were 46-0 after the sixth inning if we were winning. But we didn’t have the speed or the power. We just had a bunch of gamers. They competed for nine innings. We weren’t supposed to win ballgames with this team, but we did. The year before, I had first rounders and the high picks were position players. We were supposed to win, so there was more pressure on me. Believe me, learning how to win a ballgame and compete in the seventh, eighth, and ninth innings is how you learn to become a big leaguer. It’s not just saying, “Okay, this is where your hand is or your release point.” It’s going out and doing it under pressure, so we can win at the big league level. I think both teams I had did that very well.

JR: What were your favorite memories, both on and off the field, from your playing days in San Jose?

SD: I had a very good manager in Duane Espy. I had a great host family. For me, I had only been a professional baseball player for three weeks before they moved me up to the Cal League and that’s a big jump as far as talent-wise. But I tell you what, it was very gratifying to go there and do well. Actually, I was moved up to AA after we won the first half. Wherever you go and have success, you’re always going to have fun. The people were very nice. It seems like San Jose is the place that helps you the most. The people there are “what can we do to help you?” And that really goes a long way in baseball because it’s such a grind.

JR: What was the most valuable thing you learned from your days in the major leagues that you can apply to being a successful manager?

SD: Like I said, I wasn’t a really talented player, but I got to the big leagues and was able to grind out parts of seven years with four different teams. I think that ability as a coach to keep working and working. I was one of those guys that really had to pay attention to what was going on around me, so I didn’t make mistakes. I wasn’t going to hit 30 home runs, so I better make sure I know how to call a ballgame or run a bunt play. I think I became a student of the game. I had a lot of wonderful coaches in my organization that helped me learn the game of baseball.

JR: What would best describe how you’re feeling about the upcoming season in San Jose?

SD: It’s a challenge for me. It’s a new role. It’s something I’m looking forward to. Anytime you have an opportunity to manage anywhere you look forward to that. It’s a different environment and in a way, the unknown can be a little scary at times. But I’m really excited to come up there and get some players in there, developing, and competing. The main thing for me that you have to understand is that I’m about developing first and competing second. People say, “well, your win-loss record is this.” I very rarely want anybody to talk about my win-loss record. I would just assume have a person tell me, “boy, I really like how your team plays, they really get after it.” That’s more gratifying to me than having a great record. I’ve had other people – scouts, coaches from other teams – say that “you play every game like it’s the seventh game of the World Series.” And I’m thinking, “well, isn’t that what we’re supposed to do? Isn’t that how we’re supposed to play?” Sometimes you don’t make friends doing that, but that’s the way it is.

JR: All right. Thanks, Steve. I’m looking forward to the season.

SD: Yep, me too.

[McCovey]

Another interview from October 2008.


10/16/2008

Manager Steve Decker Answers Questions About The 2008 Season

In this week’s edition of Giants Q & A, San Jose manager Steve Decker chatted with radio voice Joe Ritzo about the 2008 season. Among the topics discussed were which hitters showed the most improvement over the course of the year, what Buster Posey needs to do to become a successful major leaguer, Pablo Sandoval’s emergence at the big league level and long-term coaching aspirations.

Joe Ritzo: What were your overall thoughts of the past season?

Steve Decker: I was really happy with the development of a lot of our players. Pablo Sandoval and Ryan Rohlinger both got to the big league level after starting last year in San Jose. Matt Downs had a great year with 20 home runs, 20+ stolen bases and he hit over .300. We had a lot of guys who really started to learn who they were as players and evolved into very nice complements to each other. I was very happy with the way the season went. I thought we went out there and gave a good product to the San Jose crowd and played very hard.

JR: What was your reaction to seeing Pablo Sandoval have all of his success in the major leagues last August and September?

SD: You’re excited because you develop a personal relationship with him. When that happens, you really root for the kid and pull for him. It was very exciting to see him up there doing well, playing multiple positions and helping the big league club win. That’s what we’re here for. Develop the talent and help those guys win at that level.

JR: Which hitters on your team do you feel made the most improvement from day one through the end of the season?

SD: I would have to say Mike McBryde would be right up there at the top of the list. Matt Downs, who would have known he would hit for that kind of power. There were other guys. Brett Pill got off to a slow start, but finished really strong. D’Alessio showed some power. Brad Boyer, if he had enough at-bats maybe would have won a batting title, but couldn’t qualify. I’m sure there were other guys that I’m missing. All in all, I thought offensively, for the ballpark we played in, being the second-best hitting team in the league was a nice accomplishment for our players.

JR: Specifically with McBryde, how was he able to improve his batting average dramatically in the second half?

SD: I think the main thing was that he cut his strikeouts down. He established a better two-strike approach and was able to put the ball in play and let his speed work. There are still parts of his game that we need to develop. We need to develop his power a little more. He also bunted pretty well and was able to compete at the plate and wasn’t a three or four pitch out guy.

JR: What do you feel Buster Posey needs to do in the long-run to become a successful major leaguer?

SD: I think when you play against better competition at all the higher levels, you have to tighten up different aspects of your game. Being able to shorten your swing, being able to stay back, a better approach and plan. I think a lot of times in college your natural ability takes over and you just dominate the pitching. But in professional baseball, you’re going to see good pitching night after night and you’re going to have to make some adjustments. Defensively, he’s got some work to do. He’s got very soft hands. He’s got a lot of tools and a lot of skills, obviously being a high draft pick you know that coming in. Being able to play six or seven days a week and control a pitching staff. Be able to battle different elements of his game when he starts to struggle a little bit and get him back on track. He’s got a lot of tools and it’s our job to turn him into a professional player.

JR: Entering the season, I think everyone knew it was to be a big test for two of your youngest starting pitchers, Tim Alderson and Clayton Tanner. Were you pleased with their development over the course of the season?

SD: Yeah, I was very happy. Timmy Alderson led the league in pitching and was on the all-star team. Who could have imagined he would have put together the year that he did? Tanner, at times, pitched very well, but other times really fought his mechanics. He’s still in the learning stages of controlling and commanding his off-speed pitches. They both have a ton of upside and both did a great job for us. They’re both very good competitors and that’s the kind of people you want in the organization.


http://www.sjgiants.com/ConPics/Con1633/Decker_by_Chris_Talley_web.jpg

Steve Decker managed the San Jose Giants to
an 85-55 record last season (photo by Chris Talley)

JR: Your standout reliever was Joe Paterson, who held lefties to a .108 batting average last season. Could you see him one day becoming a left-handed specialist at the major league level?

SD: Well, I tell you if he keeps proving it on the way up. He did a wonderful job for us and has just got to keep doing the same things at the higher levels against better hitting. If he does that, I don’t think they can keep him out of the big leagues.

JR: With Matt Downs, he played all over the diamond in both San Jose and Fresno. Where do you ultimately see him playing if he were to reach the major leagues?

SD: I think his primary position is third base. He does have the ability to play multiple positions. He played some outfield in Instructional League. He holds a lot of value because when you have a guy like that who can hit, run and has a great arm that when someone goes down, he can jump right in there and fill that role. Matty has got a lot of value. Hopefully he keeps putting together big years and evolves into a big league player.

JR: For you as a manager, did you feel you had to change anything about your managerial style last season in going from the Northwest League to the California League?

SD: No, not really. I thought we had two different teams last year. We had a hitting team in the first half, guys with more pop. In the second half, we were more of a stolen base and situational hitting type of team. We had a better bullpen in the second half of the season which allowed us to compete a little better. You coach to the type of team you have. Having halves in the California League made it basically the same style of coaching. It’s a sprint to each half and then you try to get your team set up for the playoffs.

JR: Obviously all of the players you’re working with have major league aspirations. Do you have a goal of coaching or managing at the major league level?

SD: That’s a very good question, Joe. Obviously when you play there, you’d like to get back and coach at the highest level, but the Giants will dictate that on where they see me fitting in as far as developing the prospects. I just enjoy what I’m doing and if the cards hold that in my future, then that’s great. If it doesn’t and this is what I do, I player develop, I get a lot of enjoyment out of it. But you know me, you see me when the game is on, when the umpire says ‘play ball’ I kind of turn into a different personality and I really enjoy that aspect of it too.

JR: All right, Deck. Thanks for taking the time.

SD: You’re welcome, Joe.

[McCovey]

There is already talk about Decker's future as a major league manager.


December 11, 2009

Ex-Volcanoes manager promoted to AAA

Keizer's Decker gets top minor league job for San Francisco

By Chris Hagan
Statesman Journal

This spring, Steve Decker is taking a step closer to his Keizer home and to a return trip to the major leagues.

Decker, 44, a former Salem-Keizer Volcanoes manager, will be the manager of the Triple-A Fresno Grizzlies next year after one season at the helm of the Double-A Connecticut Defenders.

The promotion brings him back to the West Coast and makes him a candidate for a future big league job with the parent San Francisco Giants.

"It's just kind of good timing, I guess," Decker said.

The former big league catcher improved his stock within the organization by leading the Defenders to the Eastern League championship series and overseeing improvements in players such as Brett Pill and Brock Bond.

Although Decker would love a trip back to the majors someday, he's looking forward to more time with his wife, Maite, and their daughters, Hailey and Camden.

"The one thing I was very happy about is that I'm back on the West Coast," he said. "Last year, I was on the East coast and it was harder on the family.

"My daughter (Hailey, a sophomore at McNary) is really wrapped up in softball, so it was one of those things where it was really hard to see the family last year."

Fresno, about halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, means not only a chance to visit in the summer during California softball tournaments for Decker's daughters but on Grizzlies road trips to the Pacific Coast League's Portland Beavers.
"I had a real good experience in Connecticut, but the hardest part was the family," Decker said.

"When I'm on the field, it's easy. It's when I have to go sit in a hotel room or my apartment by myself, and that's when you (ask), 'Is this worth it? Is this what I want to do?'"

The move to Fresno means a slight change in philosophy. With players moving directly between Decker's club and the Giants, player development — the focus of most minor league work — has to be balanced with keeping older players ready for the majors.
"Some guys are family guys, some guys got two or three kids, other guys are young and in Triple-A for the first time, so it's a little bit of a different gig," Decker said. "I played a lot of Triple-A baseball. I've coached at the Triple-A level, and I look forward to the challenge of managing there."

One of the biggest question for the Giants has been what to do with top 2008 draft pick Buster Posey. The catcher was called up in September as the Giants fought for the wild card, but he got only 17 at-bats.

With starter Bengie Molina departing through free agency, San Francisco is trying to decide whether to start Posey this season or give the job to a veteran free agent.
As the top minor league manager in the Giants' system and a former catcher, Decker has taken a keen interest in the decision.

"He's got all the intangibles to be good, and now he just needs time, and that will be the front office, big league side's decision of when to put him at that level and say let's go, let's see if he can do it and be patient with him because he is a very good looking young player," Decker said.

"But again, do you want to rush him and have him fail, or are we in a position to compete against the Dodgers if he does fail?"

The other major league stock Decker is watching is his own, though he's not about to proclaim himself the next manager of the Giants.

Manager Bruce Bochy recently received a two-year extension along with general manager Brian Sabean.

"A goal of mine, obviously, the pinnacle of baseball is the big leagues, and I would like to get there and coach," Decker said. "Whether a manager job would ever open up, I don't know.

"There are third base coaching jobs, bench coaching jobs," he said. "I am a cog in the big wheel of the San Francisco Giants, and when I get a role — and my role this year will be to manage Triple-A — I try to do the best that I can.

"I work extremely hard when they give me an assignment and the organization has reflected that they are happy with that by giving me promotions."

Decker will remain in Keizer until February, when he goes to Arizona for spring training.

He has spent time watching Camden's sixth-grade basketball games, taking Hailey on college recruiting trips and making up for a season's worth of missed chores.

"It seems like there is a never-ending list of honey-dos around the house that I can always do being gone eight months out of the year," Decker said.
round in 1988.

Previous managing stops: In 2006 and 2007, he won Northwest League titles with the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes. In 2008, led the San Jose Giants to the best regular-season record in the California League. This year, he led the Connecticut Defenders to the AA Eastern League championship series.

Managing record: 325-185, .637 winning percentage.

[Bear]

Mc. Two great posts.:awesomework.gif

[McCovey]

Mc. Two great posts.:awesomework.gif
You're welcome, Bear. I'm interested to see where Decker ends up in the next few years. I hope he gets a shot at managing the Giants.

[WillTheThrill]

You're welcome, Bear. I'm interested to see where Decker ends up in the next few years. I hope he gets a shot at managing the Giants.

Anyone would be better than Bochy. :rolleyes:

.

[Bear]

Anyone would be better than Bochy. :rolleyes:

.

No, Bochy is not even the Giants worst manager:nono:

[SF Kid]

We could hire Mark McGwire.

LOL @ that idiot.

He used PEDs but it didn't help him. :rotf:

That dude is a mess.

[Bear]

We could hire Mark McGwire.

LOL @ that idiot.

He used PEDs but it didn't help him. :rotf:

That dude is a mess.

McGwire and Sosa saved baseball and for that alone they belong in the Hall. Also it does not hurt that they were great hitters.:beerbang:

[WillTheThrill]

We could hire Mark McGwire.

LOL @ that idiot.

He used PEDs but it didn't help him. :rotf:

Yeah, I think it's pretty amazing how self-deluded McGwire is if he thinks he still would have hit 70 HR's even without steroids.

I do believe that there is a lot of talent involved, with or without the steroids. I mean, I don't care HOW strong I am... I still wouldn't be able to hit a 95-mile-an-hour fastball. :D But when these guys on steroids DO make contact, the ball goes a whole heck of a lot further!

.

[SF Kid]

McGwire and Sosa saved baseball and for that alone they belong in the Hall. Also it does not hurt that they were great hitters.:beerbang:Hahaha...

Remarkable.

They saved baseball by cheating. That's perfect.

[Bear]

Yeah, I think it's pretty amazing how self-deluded McGwire is if he thinks he still would have hit 70 HR's even without steroids.

I do believe that there is a lot of talent involved, with or without the steroids. I mean, I don't care HOW strong I am... I still wouldn't be able to hit a 95-mile-an-hour fastball. :D But when these guys on steroids DO make contact, the ball goes a whole heck of a lot further!

.

The difference Steroids made was not in hitting the ball but the ability to stay healthy enough to have the number of at bats to do so.

Hahaha...

Remarkable.

They saved baseball by cheating. That's perfect.

Remarkable, but true. And I contend that the brass in MLB knew what was going on, and allowed it to happen. So who is really to blame?

[SF Kid]

The difference Steroids made was not in hitting the ball but the ability to stay healthy enough to have the number of at bats to do so.Absolutely WRONG. He always had the ability to make good contact with the baseball. The steroids gave him added strength a detail even lost on the idiot himself. Geeez man, get a grip. You're buying into the idiots bullshit? Remarkable.

[Bear]

Absolutely WRONG. He always had the ability to make good contact with the baseball. The steroids gave him added strength a detail even lost on the idiot himself. Geeez man, get a grip. You're buying into the idiots bullshit? Remarkable.

I buy into medical facts. Steroids allow you to recover faster thus play more games. :rolleyes:

[McCovey]

Anyway, back to Steve Decker. I think if he does well at AAA in '10 he'll start getting calls from other major league teams about managing for them.

[Bear]

Anyway, back to Steve Decker. I think if he does well at AAA in '10 he'll start getting calls from other major league teams about managing for them.

I think you are right and if this happens the Giants need to step up and do what it takes to keep him.

[McCovey]

I think you are right and if this happens the Giants need to step up and do what it takes to keep him.
What are thinking, Decker a S.F. coach in '11 then step right in in '12? Bochy's contract expires after the '11 season.

[Bear]

What are thinking, Decker a S.F. coach in '11 then step right in in '12? Bochy's contract expires after the '11 season.

That or let him manage in Fresno in 2011 with a promise of the BIG job in 2012.:)

[WillTheThrill]

I buy into medical facts. Steroids allow you to recover faster thus play more games. :rolleyes:

So what you're saying is... McGwire was able to hit all of those home runs simply because he played in more games??? That makes no sense at all, whatsoever. Everyone in the modern history of baseball has been able to play a maximum of 154 or 162 games.

Dude, repeat after me: The steroids made him STRONGER. Therefore he could hit the ball FURTHER. Yes, maybe he didn't go on the D.L. as often as he would have otherwise, but steroids make you bigger and stronger. Look at pictures of the dude's arms in '98. Look at pictures of Barry Bonds when he was on the Pirates (stringbean) and then compare them to what he looked like in 2001 (mr muscle).

Sheeeeeeeesh......... :D

.

[McCovey]

Anyway, back to Steve Decker....

[SF Kid]

So what you're saying is... McGwire was able to hit all of those home runs simply because he played in more games??? That makes no sense at all, whatsoever. Everyone in the modern history of baseball has been able to play a maximum of 154 or 162 games.

Dude, repeat after me: The steroids made him STRONGER. Therefore he could hit the ball FURTHER. Yes, maybe he didn't go on the D.L. as often as he would have otherwise, but steroids make you bigger and stronger. Look at pictures of the dude's arms in '98. Look at pictures of Barry Bonds when he was on the Pirates (stringbean) and then compare them to what he looked like in 2001 (mr muscle).

Sheeeeeeeesh......... :D

.Not sure how anybody doesn't get this except Mark McGwire. He's still in denial even as he sits down for an hour with Bob Costas to "come clean"...Friggin' idiot. I doubt he'll ever get into the HOF now. He exposed himself in that interview as a complete liar. That scum bag Concesco is still maintaing McGwire lied about shooting up before games. No reason to doubt the man as he's been on the money with everything he has said and written about.

[WillTheThrill]

Anyway, back to Steve Decker....

Yeah, I guess all this steroid stuff did hijack the Steve Decker thread. LOL. How did we get started on PEDs anyways???

Me <-- too lazy to re-read the thread! :beerbang:

.

[McCovey]

I think the Kid first mentioned McGwire. Back to Steve Decker. One thing that could be in Decker's favor in becoming the Giants next manager is that he managed a lot of the Giants young prospects.

[WillTheThrill]

I think the Kid first mentioned McGwire. Back to Steve Decker. One thing that could be in Decker's favor in becoming the Giants next manager is that he managed a lot of the Giants young prospects.

Yeah, because the Giants seem to think their young prospects are so important. They haven't been signing mid-thirties players to block them from getting playing time, or anything. :rolleyes:

.

[McCovey]

Yeah, because the Giants seem to think their young prospects are so important. They haven't been signing mid-thirties players to block them from getting playing time, or anything. :rolleyes:

.
I'm surprised they even let Pablo Sandoval play! :pound:

[WillTheThrill]

I'm surprised they even let Pablo Sandoval play! :pound:

Well, on the conference call today about signing Huff, Sabean announced that he's the new cleanup hitter and Sandoval will be batting third, now...

The slippery slope begins. :bugeye:

.

[Bear]

Well, on the conference call today about signing Huff, Sabean announced that he's the new cleanup hitter and Sandoval will be batting third, now...

The slippery slope begins. :bugeye:

.

I have no problem with this batting order. It will get Pablo 100 plus at bats a year more than if he hit 4th.:cool:

[McCovey]

A nice Decker article...


Former catcher Steve Decker is making strides as manager in Giants' system

By Andrew Baggarly
Updated: 03/13/2010

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Will Clark, Matt Williams and Robby Thompson were a sociable lot. When they populated the Giants' infield in the early 1990s, they never missed a chance to join in a conversation with a struggling pitcher on the mound.

"Conventions, we called 'em," Clark said.

One young delegate stood out. Even as a rookie catcher, Steve Decker was a take-charge guy.

"From the get-go," Clark said. "We liked that. He wasn't afraid to run the game. And I'll tell you what, that's translated to his managing."

The Giants are developing more than playing talent in a rebuilt minor league system. With Decker, they're fast-tracking a hot prospect in the dugout, too.

Nearly a decade after beginning his coaching career with the Giants as a part-time instructor, Decker is on the precipice of reaching the big leagues again. He has made a steady climb while managing highly successful runs at short-season Salem-Keizer in 2005-07 and Single-A San Jose in 2008.

He worked a virtual miracle last year, leading Double-A Connecticut to the Eastern League championship series — the club's first winning record in seven seasons as a Giants affiliate.

So it wasn't a shock when the Giants let go Triple-A manager Dan Rohn, even though he'd done a good job by all accounts. They recognized that Decker was owed another promotion.

"He's had success on every level," Clark said. "I don't see him not having success on this level, too."

Decker played parts of seven seasons in the big leagues but didn't consider a managerial career until 2000, when he finished his pro career as a 34-year-old for the A's Triple-A club in Sacramento.

"I was kind of the 'Bull Durham' guy there at the end," Decker said. "A lot of guys would come up and ask me questions. I kind of liked it. 'What did you do to be in the big leagues?' That kind of stuff."

Decker caught Barry Zito's final three starts in the minor leagues — a detail that Zito had forgotten. The left-hander was shocked to learn that his Triple-A catcher is now the Giants' Triple-A manager.

"Wow, thanks for making me feel old," Zito said, smiling. "But yeah, for sure, Deck was great."

Upon retiring, Decker went home to Keizer, Ore., where the Giants' short-season club happens to play in a postage stamp ballpark that abuts Interstate 5. It was the perfect arrangement. He got to spend time with his wife and two young daughters while seeing if coaching was in his blood.

It was. The Giants made him their Triple-A hitting coach in 2003-04, but he longed to go back to Salem-Keizer. He wanted a team of his own.

"I love managing," Decker said. "I love creating that energy and chemistry. The Giants determine which players you get, but they don't determine the character of your team or how they come to play every day. That's the fun part."

There isn't a vacancy on the Giants' big league staff for the foreseeable future. Bruce Bochy just signed a two-year extension. Ron Wotus is a respected bench coach — and fine managerial prospect in his own right.

But Decker's work ethic, exacting standards, clear communication skills, relentless preparation and high-energy style draw raves from inside and outside the organization.

Those qualities are reminiscent of another former catcher-turned-manager — the Angels' Mike Scioscia, who is regarded by many as the finest manager in the game.

Decker doesn't deny he's the aggressive sort. He likes to move runners, steal bases and force the other club to react.

"He'll squeeze with the cleanup guy," said left-hander Madison Bumgarner, who played for Decker at Connecticut last year. "You never know what he's going to do. But there's always a thought behind it."

Decker never lacks for information. At a banquet for sponsors and season-ticket holders in Fresno last month, he pulled aside broadcaster Doug Greenwald and spoke in firm tones.

"Just letting you know now," Decker told Greenwald, "I'm going to be counting on you a lot. Matchups, left-right splits, all those things."

He's especially tough on his catchers. His main guy last year, Jackson Williams, laughed when asked if Decker had ever taken him to task.

"Yeah, every day," Williams said. "There are days you don't have as much energy. It doesn't take him long to spot that. He's on you right away, telling you to dig deep. And you do."

Decker figures to be the perfect mentor for elite catching prospect Buster Posey, who is likely to start the season at Triple-A Fresno. Decker already has spent time watching games alongside Posey this spring, going over how he'd set up hitters or break down their weaknesses.

And when the Dodgers came to Scottsdale Stadium last week, Decker used it as another teachable moment.

"I was telling the guys, 'Hey, that's the team we hate,' " Decker said. "That blue? I hate that blue. We've gotta create that edge against the other team.

"I see fraternization on the field and I can't stand it. I really hate to see it. I'll shake your hand, say, 'How ya doin'?' I'll say 'Good to see you, good luck.' But I'm not going to stand there and hug you."

There's something else Decker doesn't embrace: speculation that he's the Giants' manager of the future.

"It's whatever they deem me to be," Decker said. "If helping out at Triple-A is the best thing, that's where I'll go and approach the job the same as anywhere else. I tell my players the one thing they can control is the present. That's all I can do, too. Just come to the ballpark and work as hard as I can to make these players better.

"But if someone considers me, I think that'd be a great honor."

[WillTheThrill]

Here's a follow-up by Andrew Baggarly, from his blog, including a bunch of stuff that he said didn't fit in the article that McCovey posted above. :beerbang:

A supplement on Steve Decker, including his plan for Buster Posey

Posted by Andrew Baggarly on March 13th, 2010 at 7:18 pm
-------------------------------

Here’s a scouting tip on Triple-A Fresno manager Steve Decker: If you interview him, use a tape recorder.

He’s what we in the business refer to as a fast talker. And it’s not just jibber-jabber. He’s insightful, interesting, opinionated and honest. And whatever he’s saying has passion behind it.

I profiled Decker for the Saturday paper, so please be sure to pick up a copy or find it online. (And if you sign up to follow me on Twitter, you’ll get an automatic update once any new Giants story hits the Web.)

But after a wide-ranging interview with Decker, there was a lot I couldn’t fit into the feature. For example, I was only able to squeeze in a passing mention of Decker’s likely assignment as Buster Posey’s mentor, which is of huge importance for the organization.

So here’s a lot more from our fast-paced discussion – at least, as much as I could scribble down before my hand cramped up. I’ll present it in a Q&A format:

Q: What’s allowed your teams to be so successful?

A: A win is just a byproduct of preparation and competing and doing the things the right way. I’ve always felt you create big league hitters in the seventh, eighth and ninth innings. It’s controlling your heartbeat and not feeling the pressure. Because it’s only going to get tougher. If you create those players, you’ll win at every level.

Q: I’ve heard you aren’t afraid to get in a few players’ grills. True?

A: I’m there to make you better, whether I’m your friend or not. I’d like to get along with everybody, but that’s impossible. You get the respect of the players when they understand you’re trying to make them a major leaguer.

Q: Players encounter challenges as they move up the food chain. What challenges will you face as you move from Double-A to Triple-A?

A: Handling personalities is the only thing that gets tougher. Guys have different levels of maturity. Some may have three or four years in the big leagues and are trying to get back. Another might be a young kid who’s challenged to be there. That’ll be the biggest challenge for me. But it’s the same game. You’ll see the same guy in the Triple-A dugout that you saw at Salem-Keizer. I’ll run hard to the third base coaching box and run hard off the field.

Q: What’s your tactical style?

A: I love to manage aggressive. You can’t be afraid to fail. We stole 200 bases at San Jose. Last year, we might have stolen 110 and been thrown out 110. (Actually, 205 SB and 76 CS for San Jose, 97 SB and 81 CS for Connecticut.) You don’t run yourself out of innings, and you adjust to your personnel, but you have to make something happen. A lot is patience and common sense. And coming to the field with an attitude.

Q: What do you hope to instill in the players?

A: Well, the other day was a good example. The Dodgers were here. I was talking with the guys, (and told them), `That’s the team we hate. That blue? I hate that blue.’ We’ve gotta create that edge against the other team. I see fraternization on the field and I can’t stand it. I really hate to see it. I’ll shake your hand, say, `How ya doin?’ I’ll say `Good to see you, good luck.’ But I’m not going to stand there and hug you.

Q: In what ways can you help bring along Buster Posey as a major league catcher?

A: We were talking the other day, watching (Tim) Lincecum against (Eric) Byrnes. (It was a 10-pitch at-bat.) I was telling him to control the hitter’s posture. If you see him leaning, bust him in. Change his posture. That’s how to set up the next pitch. Those kinds of things, ways to minimize pitches, knowing who’s available in the bullpen – these are all things he needs to know to be an effective major league catcher.

Q: Do you go over scenarios with him?

A: Oh, sure. When there’s a two-run lead in the ninth, you’ve gotta be aggressive with the fastball to the leadoff hitter. I could bring up scenario after scenario. You’ve got to have a reason behind everything you’re doing. Now, inevitably, the pitcher has the chance to shake his head. OK, do you let him do that? Or do you call timeout and go talk to him? All the nuances of game calling, the tempo of the game, controlling the emotions of someone like a Brian Wilson out there or whoever it may be … those are all part of the job. When you come out to the mound, what do you say to relax a pitcher? Or to get him going? These are all things you learn from experience. And as a hitter, you’ve got to be conscious of the same things. Understand what the pitchers are trying to do. Dusty (Baker) was such a good manager when it came to that. We’ve have our meetings and he’d say, `Here’s what the Dodgers are trying to do: Fastballs away, curveballs behind in the count, setting up the out pitch.’ He’ll be on a crash course to learn all of this.

Q: Is your aspiration to eventually manage in the major leagues?

A: The major leagues is the pinnacle. But it’s whatever they deem me to be. If helping out at Triple-A is the best thing, that’s where I’ll go and approach the job the same as anywhere else. I tell my players the one thing they can control is the present. That’s all I can do, too. Just come to the ballpark and work as hard as I can to make these players better. … A lot of it is being at the right place at the right time. But if someone considers me, I think that’d be a great honor.

–

Decker isn’t the only managerial prospect in the Giants organization. Andy Skeels has to be considered prime stock, too. All the New Zealand native has done the past two years is manage the team with the best record in the minor leagues.

It’s because of guys like Decker and Skeels that the Giants are having so much early success this spring. The younger guys and first-time campers like Roger Kieschnick and Brandon Crawford have acted and played like they belong here. Yet they’ve also quietly gone about their business, in keeping with their place as rookies.

If owner Bill Neukom truly believes in a Microsoft meritocracy, he’ll keep promoting from within. And that doesn’t only include the players.

–

Here’s one other observation from Will Clark that didn’t make the Decker story:

“The other night we’re in an organizational hitting meeting. Sitting there and listening to Deck, he’s going over some of these guys and he’s hitting the nail on the head. What a guy is strong in, what his weaknesses are, what adjustments he’ll have to make … We have some really impressive player evaluators going on.

“I saw it when I visited his club last year. He gives those guys all the information, all the advantages they can get. Then it’s up to them to go on the field and do it.”

.

[McCovey]

Sounds like Decker could be a young Earl Weaver or Whitey Herzog. :beerbang: His minor league .637 winning percentage is just ridiculous. For a 162 game schedule that comes out to 103-59 W/L. :eek:

[WillTheThrill]

I really wish the Giants would give Decker a shot managing the major league team. He seems to be earning the right to manage at this level. :beerbang:

But I'm afraid that since the Giants just gave Bochy a two year extension that Decker might get "grabbed up" by another team. Does anyone know if the Giants have some sort of exclusive rights to Decker beyond a certain point? How long is his current contract for?

Do minor league managers just get signed by an organization and "assigned" to teams, or is it like any other job and they sign contracts for each season (and can have multi-year contracts)? :shrug:

.

[Bear]

I have no clue about above questions but if they let him get away William H. Neukom will need to be replaced.:tantrum::twocents:

[McCovey]

I really wish the Giants would give Decker a shot managing the major league team. He seems to be earning the right to manage at this level. :beerbang:

But I'm afraid that since the Giants just gave Bochy a two year extension that Decker might get "grabbed up" by another team. Does anyone know if the Giants have some sort of exclusive rights to Decker beyond a certain point? How long is his current contract for?

Do minor league managers just get signed by an organization and "assigned" to teams, or is it like any other job and they sign contracts for each season (and can have multi-year contracts)? :shrug:

.
That's a good question. I'm not 100% sure but I believe that if any other major league team wants to talk to Steve Decker they would need permission from the Giants.

[Bear]

That's a good question. I'm not 100% sure but I believe that if any other major league team wants to talk to Steve Decker they would need permission from the Giants.

I am not sure about that. I think if his contract has run out he is free to talk to anyone. So the key here for the Giants is not to let Decker walk around free without a contract. Also they have to let Decker know he is in the plans near future or they would look bad for not allowing him to pursue a ML job.;)

[McCovey]

I hope Decker can at least be a coach with the big club next season or in '12. I am excited to see what he can do with AAA Fresno. Fresno has never had any success since they became the Giants' AAA affiliate in 1998.

[Bear]

I hope Decker can at least be a coach with the big club next season or in '12. I am excited to see what he can do with AAA Fresno. Fresno has never had any success since they became the Giants' AAA affiliate in 1998.

I believe Decker will be a winner where ever he manages until his message gets old. So far he has not been with the same club long enough for that to happen.:rolleyes:

[McCovey]

Steve Decker has the Fresno Grizzlies in first place in the PCL's Southern Division with an 11-7 record! Since the Giants AAA team moved to Fresno in 1998 the Grizzlies have never finished first and haven't had any kind of sustained success in Fresno. If Decker brings home a divivison title he has to be the Giant next manager. :)

Decker's minor league record now stands at 336-192 W/L (.636 W%)

[Bear]

Steve Decker has the Fresno Grizzlies in first place in the PCL's Southern Division with an 11-7 record! Since the Giants AAA team moved to Fresno in 1998 the Grizzlies have never finished first and haven't had any kind of sustained success in Fresno. If Decker brings home a divivison title he has to be the Giant next manager. :)

Decker's minor league record now stands at 336-192 W/L (.636 W%)

I have no problem with that. It would be a breath of fresh air.:beerbang:

[jimm]

.636? Stellar winning pct

[McCovey]

.636? Stellar winning pct
And that's in 5+ seasons! Simply amazing. That can't be a fluke.

[Bear]

And that's in 5+ seasons! Simply amazing. That can't be a fluke.

He is a much better manager than he was a player. This is often the case.
:shrug:

[WillTheThrill]

The Fresno Grizzlies continue to kick ass. They are 17-8 with a .680 winning percentage, 4.5 games ahead of Reno for first place in their division. They've won 3 in a row and 8 of their last 10. And they have the best record of all teams in the PCL!!! :beerbang:

(In fact, the Fresno Grizzlies have the best record in all of AAA baseball, unless you count Pericos de Puebla in the Mexican League who are 30-10 with a .750 winning percentage.)

On Monday night, Grizzlies right fielder Joe Borchard hit for the cycle and went 5-for-6 with six RBIs (!) as he helped lead the Grizzlies to a 14-4 win over the Colorado Springs Sky Sox. Yesterday, SS Ryan Rohlinger, LF Jesus Guzman and 1B Brett Pill had 3 hits each and a total of 7 RBIs between them as the Grizzlies beat the same team 9-6.

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[McCovey]

What Steve Decker is doing is simply amazing. The Grizzlies have never had any success since moving to Fresno in 1998. And Decker turns it around in one season? I bet Decker gets calls from other major league teams after this season. :)

[Bear]

What Steve Decker is doing is simply amazing. The Grizzlies have never had any success since moving to Fresno in 1998. And Decker turns it around in one season? I bet Decker gets calls from other major league teams after this season. :)

By then I hope the Giants have struck a deal with him so that he will not end up with another team.:beerbang:

[McCovey]

By then I hope the Giants have struck a deal with him so that he will not end up with another team.:beerbang:
Ageed! :beerbang:

[WillTheThrill]

What Steve Decker is doing is simply amazing. The Grizzlies have never had any success since moving to Fresno in 1998. And Decker turns it around in one season? I bet Decker gets calls from other major league teams after this season. :)

I've heard nothing but great things about Steve Decker... but I just have to wonder... isn't it possible that at least some of Decker's success is because he has seemingly "followed" the current crop of talent moving it's way up through the minor league system?

He has coached some of these guys, like Bumgarner, Posey, Pill, etc., multiple times at multiple levels.

Couldn't some of his success be becuase he has simply been lucky enough to be around these guys???

I honestly don't know. Just wondering. :shrug:

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[McCovey]

I've heard nothing but great things about Steve Decker... but I just have to wonder... isn't it possible that at least some of Decker's success is because he has seemingly "followed" the current crop of talent moving it's way up through the minor league system?

He has coached some of these guys, like Bumgarner, Posey, Pill, etc., multiple times at multiple levels.

Couldn't some of his success be becuase he has simply been lucky enough to be around these guys???

I honestly don't know. Just wondering. :shrug:

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I'm sure that is part of the reason, having great prospects. I would give that reason even more weight if it were just one or two seasons of outstanding success instead of five plus seasons. But other teams have great prospects too as well and don't have minor league managers with .639 winning percentages. This season should be interesting for Decker. He's going to lose Buster Posey at some point in the near future. I'm interested to see how the Grizzlies do after Posy is promoted.

[McCovey]

Decker has the Grizzlies at 21-11 (.658 W%) now. Wow. So Decker;s career minor league record is now at 346-196 (.639 W%). He's 150 games over .500?!! :eek:

[WillTheThrill]

Decker has the Grizzlies at 21-11 (.658 W%) now. Wow. So Decker;s career minor league record is now at 346-196 (.639 W%). He's 150 games over .500?!! :eek:

Pretty frickin' amazing. Can't wait for the Giants to fire Bochy and promote Decker! :rolleyes:

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[McCovey]

Decker has the Grizzlies at 28-12 (.700 W%)! :bowdone:

[WillTheThrill]

Decker has the Grizzlies at 28-12 (.700 W%)! :bowdone:

Hrrrmm. Maybe in 2-3 years when they promote Decker, the Giants will start winning like this.

Bochy sure isn't getting the job done. :rolleyes:

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[McCovey]

Hrrrmm. Maybe in 2-3 years when they promote Decker, the Giants will start winning like this.

Bochy sure isn't getting the job done. :rolleyes:

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I can almost guarantee that some other major league team will want to hire Decker way before 2-3 years from now. I hope the Giants don't screw up like the Dodgers screwed up with Mike Scioscia. The Dodgers slow rolled and twiddled their thumbs with Scioscia to be their manager so Scioscia went somewhere else. :rolleyes:

[WillTheThrill]

Wow, you don't actually think the Giants might "slow roll and twiddle their thumbs" too, do you??? :pound::rolleyes:

Man, if the Giants let Decker get away just because they just gave Bochy that ridiculous two-year extension last off-season... I'm gonna' be pissed.

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[WillTheThrill]

By the way, have you ever noticed on this board that this icon... :rolleyes: ... gets used a lot when we are talking about Giants' management??? LOL. I guess we have lots of confidence in them. :rolleyes:

Hey, there it is again!!!

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[Bear]

By the way, have you ever noticed on this board that this icon... :rolleyes: ... gets used a lot when we are talking about Giants' management??? LOL. I guess we have lots of confidence in them. :rolleyes:

Hey, there it is again!!!

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Thats a vote of "NO CONFIDENCE" !:rolleyes:

[McCovey]

Wow, you don't actually think the Giants might "slow roll and twiddle their thumbs" too, do you??? :pound::rolleyes:
:pound:


Man, if the Giants let Decker get away just because they just gave Bochy that ridiculous two-year extension last off-season... I'm gonna' be pissed.
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:rolleyes:

:p

[McCovey]

By the way, have you ever noticed on this board that this icon... :rolleyes: ... gets used a lot when we are talking about Giants' management??? LOL. I guess we have lots of confidence in them. :rolleyes:

Hey, there it is again!!!

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:pound: Maybe we should use another smilie to represent Giants management? These would work.

:wtf1: :banghead: :badidea: :thumbdown:

[Jackie-Moon]

Why would the Giants keep Bochy instead of giving the job to Decker? This guy looks like the real deal, and could become a Giants icon.
It makes no sense to keep Bochy for another few seasons, especially with this guy ready to go.

[SF Kid]

Bochy needs to be lead piped NOW. No sense in waiting until the end of the year. He can't manage. I bet the team would wake up and play better. Just a thought.

[WillTheThrill]

I think the only way that we will be rid of Bochy is if the Giants get rid of Sabean and Bochy in one fell swoop. And considering that the Giants just gave BOTH of them two-year contract extensions at the end of last season... I don't think that is going to happen any time soon. :(:mad::nono::gripe::lame::banghead::cry::puke:

I don't think the Giants are going to win the World Series... or even win the division... as long as Sabean and Bochy are running things.... :rolleyes:

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[EIM86]

He would be a good replacement. Gotta keep the youth movement going and get that ring!

[WillTheThrill]

Looks like Steve Decker will be staying with the Giants' organization. :beerbang: Does everyone still think he's a strong possibility to be the Giants next manager???

http://www.fresnobee.com/2011/01/11/2228488/decker-returning-as-grizzlies.html#ixzz1AnRdyRST

Decker Returning as Grizzlies Manager
Posted at 11:45 AM on Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2011
The Fresno Bee


Steve Decker will return as manager of the Triple-A Fresno Grizzlies this season, the parent San Francisco Giants announced today.

In his first season, Decker guided the Grizzlies to a 75-69 record in 2010, just the fourth winning season in the 13-year history of the franchise. Fresno at one point was 21 games above .500 and had a 12 1/2-game lead in its division, but the Grizzlies went 14-22 in August and September to miss the playoffs for a 12th straight year.

At the end of last season, Decker noted that the makeup of the Grizzlies during the early part of the year -- headlined by future Giants stars Buster Posey and Madison Bumgardner -- changed dramatically when those players were called up in late June and the Giants dealt two more key players, cleanup hitter John Bowker and top starter Joe Martinez, to the Pittsburgh Pirates.

"The team that created the lead was not the team that lost the lead," Decker said. "For me, personally, it all changed when we lost Bowker and Martinez."

The Giants also announced pitching coach Pat Rice will be back for his third season with the Grizzlies and Russ Morman is the team’s new hitting coach.

The Fresno Grizzlies begin their 10th season at Chukchansi Park on Thursday, April 7, against the Las Vegas 51s.

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[McCovey]

Odd that Steve Decker didn't get any interviews for a major league manager's position? :shrug:

[WillTheThrill]

Odd that Steve Decker didn't get any interviews for a major league manager's position? :shrug:

Maybe he did and we just didn't hear about it. Who knows?

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[BeALotOfHappy]

Barring a return of Dusty Baker or us throwing $10mil a year at Joe Girardi this guy sounds like our best option when Bruce is gone...

[Bear]

Barring a return of Dusty Baker or us throwing $10mil a year at Joe Girardi this guy sounds like our best option when Bruce is gone...

I totally agree. Welcome to the board.:beerbang:

[WillTheThrill]

Decker has the Grizzlies running like crazy. Even without a lot of speed on the team, they have like three times as many stolen bases as a team than the second place team has. :)

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[BeALotOfHappy]

I totally agree. Welcome to the board.:beerbang:

Thank you :) Been a Giants fan since 1994 :)

[BeALotOfHappy]

And nice. Id love that philosophy with the Giants. It would help alot with our anemic offense. Im annoyed that we are asking our staff to pitch out of their minds again instead of upgrading the offense.