In a surprise move Thursday, the Colorado Rockies decided to part ways with longtime Asheville Tourists Manager, and South Atlantic League Hall-Of-Famer, Joe Mikulik.

Those of us that know Joe well, know he was looking at making a change, for various reasons. And this is just a hiccup. The Rockies have not given a specific reason for the termination, but Asheville Tourists President, Brian DeWine, said this:

“The Colorado Rockies have informed the Asheville Tourists that Joe Mikulik will not be the team’s manager for the 2013 season. The Tourists are very appreciative of the 13 seasons in which Joe guided the team, including this past season when he led the Tourists to the South Atlantic League championship. With Joe being the longest-tenured manager in the history of affiliated professional baseball, no one will wear his number 20 uniform again with Asheville. We wish Joe the best in all of his pursuits and again express our appreciation for his assistance in helping make the Asheville Tourists a successful franchise both on the field and in the community.”

Joe may be leaving, but his name will be in the record books forever...938 wins as Tourists Manager (most all-time), four time S.A.L. Manager of theYear, and member of the South Atlantic League Hall of Fame. And let's not forget the Championship he and the boys delivered, just this past season.

Joe Mikulik and I began working for the Tourists in the same season, 2000, so he's the only manager I've known. I've announced over 900 games at McCormick Field, so there's too many on-field memories to mention. So many great wins and heart-breaking losses. What I'll remember most is the man himself. Joe is one-of-a-kind, a true original. Those that only know him for his "Sportcenter moment" don't even know half the story. I'm honored to call Joe a friend, and always will.