Hannibal Cavemen Announce 2016 Coaching Staff

The Hannibal Cavemen have tapped as their new field manager someone with a wealth of experience in a number of different arenas.

Cavemen co-owner and General Manager Bob Hemond Tuesday announced that San Diego, California native Dick "LT" Dent will manage the local Prospect League squad for 2016.

Dent's resume includes military service as an Army platoon leader in Vietnam, 14 years as head strength and conditioning coach for the San Diego Padres, involvement with the America's Cup team, along with stints with the NFL San Diego Chargers and the San Diego Sails of the ABA.

According to Hemond, "The entire Hannibal Cavemen organization is thrilled to have "LT" as the leader of our team. He brings a wealth of knowledge from sports and a major leadership role in military combat. His background will be such a positive influence on the young men in the Cavemen uniform to best prepare them for their journey to become future professional ballplayers, as well as, positive citizens."

Joining Dent on the Cavemen coaching staff are Ryan Doran and Travis Ruppel.

Doran played for hall of famer Tony Gwynn at San Diego State University, and advanced to the Double A level professionally in the Arizona Diamondbacks organization.

Ruppel is the local connection on the Cavemen staff. He is a graduate of Quincy University and is currently the head baseball coach at Western High School in Barry, Illinois.

The Cavemen's 2016 season opens Thursday, May 26 at Clemens Field.