Former ESPN and Fox Sports journalist Rob Neyer has been named the new commissioner of the West Coast League.

He is the WCL’s first commissioner since American Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame head coach Jim Dietz of San Diego State presided over the West Coast Collegiate Baseball League, which would become the WCL, during its formative years.

“I’m a passionate, longtime fan of baseball history generally, and Pacific Northwest baseball specifically,” said Neyer, who lives in Portland. “So, it’s difficult for me to imagine a more exciting opportunity, and I’m honored to be associated with such a fine organization.”

WCL members will look to Neyer to arbitrate and regulate during the season, to further connect the league and its teams with the baseball community and to act as a league ambassador.

A baseball writer known for his pioneering use of statistical analysis and sabermetrics, Neyer began his career working for Bill James and STATS, Inc. He also has worked as a columnist and blogger for ESPN, as national baseball editor at Vox Media’s SB Nation and as a senior baseball editor for Fox Sports.

The WCL’s Bend Elks open their season June 1 at home against the Cowlitz Black Bears.

— Corvallis Gazette-Times