KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Smokies open their season on Friday at Smokies Stadium against the Rocket City Trash Pandas.
The team held a media day leading up to it, where they discussed their excitement surrounding the season with a new manager. Lance Rymel, who was a former Smokies player before becoming a coach, has been named the manager of the Chicago Cubs Double-A affiliate.
Rymel said he's excited to be back coaching a team he once played for.
"It's great to see the upgrades they've made to the ballpark here," said Rymel. "I'm happy to be back as a manager now, and the team is excited to get rolling for opening day."
After two years as South Bend's manager, Rymel enters his first season coaching the Smokies. While there, he guided the 2022 Cubs to the Midwest League title. About a dozen South Bend players have followed Rymel to Tennessee, and RHP Cade Horton said those premeditated connections have been great to have in the off-season.
"It's great for a team to know the manager right off the bat and get going early," said Horton.
Rymel also says it's beneficial when it comes to team chemistry.
"These players already know the expectations and the goals that I have set for them," he said. "I'm happy to have the talent we have, and the players and the coaching staff ... So, it's going to shape up for a great season."
Several returners are back on the team, in addition to the players Rymel brought over. Shortstop and second baseman Matt Shaw said the mix of veterans and new guys is well-balanced.
"There's a lot of new faces, but we have some returners too, and I think we are going to mesh well together," said Shaw.
The Smokies won their first Southern League Championship since 1978 last season. The team wants to bring over that winning mentality into the 2024 season.
"I think there was a lot of confidence last year, so bringing that confidence and energy back ... You know, the hard part is to repeat, but that's what we are shooting for," said Horton.
The Smokies play the Trash Pandas to open their season. The first pitch is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Friday.
