Laredo, TX - The Laredo Broncos welcomed a familiar face to their family on Thursday. Dan Shwam, a veteran minor league manager, and former manager of the Laredo Broncos in 2006 returns for his second stint. Shwam led the Broncos to the semifinals in 2006 after taking over for former Manager Mike Smith in mid season.
“It feels great to come back to Laredo and help the Broncos win a championship.” I enjoyed my time in Laredo in 2006 and I’m really looking forward to help bring a good team here.” Shwam mentioned. Shwam spent last season managing the Can Am Grays of the Can Am league and set a record for most wins by a traveling team.
Laredo Broncos General Manager, Jose Melendez was excited about bringing Shwam onboard, “this season, I really wanted to focus on bringing an experienced manager that knows how to win and who will be a great role model to the community. With Dan’s 20 years experience and the great relationship I had with him in 06, I felt this was a win/win situation for the Laredo Broncos and the community of Laredo.” “ I expect great things this season and I think the City of Laredo would be proud of Dan’s style of winning baseball.” Melendez added.
Shwam comes to the Broncos as
being one of the most successful independent league managers of
all time. Shwam currently is third in wins by an independent
league manager with over 600 wins. During his 20 year managerial
and coaching career, Shwam has captured a total of 4
championships, two as a manager and two as a coach. Shwam’s
teams have also qualified for the playoffs a total of 10 times
during his career. His most recent championship came in 2003
while managing the Jackson Senators of the American Association.
The Jackson Senators General Manager at that time was current United League President Craig Brasfield. Shwam also spent four years scouting for the Florida Marlins, Montreal Expos and Milwaukee Brewers
After finishing his playing career with the California Angels, Shwam received his first coaching gig with the Salt Lake City Trappers in 1987, affiliate of the Angels. During his stint as a coach, his team set a record for winning 29 games in a row. After his coaching stint, Shwam has had a myriad of managing jobs from Laredo, Texas to Catskill, New York and everything in between.
Shawm, a Southern California native, is married to wife Melody and has a son Brad, who played college baseball and daughter Heather. They currently reside in Utah.