Jeff Isom was introduced as manager of the Joliet Slammers today. (Photo courtesy of the Joliet Slammers)

Jeff Isom, a former pitcher and manager in the Midwest League, was introduced as the new skipper of the independent Frontier League’s Joliet Slammers during a press conference today. He previously managed Joliet in 2004-05, when the team was known as the Joliet JackHammers.

Isom’s managerial career includes two years at the helm of the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, in 2009 and 2010. Current Timber Rattlers manager Matt Erickson served as his hitting coach both years.

Current Timber Rattlers manager Matt Erickson (left) and his predecessor, Jeff Isom, at Brewers spring training in 2012. (Photo by Chris Mehring/Rattler Radio)

I found the next shot of Isom on Wikipedia, which didn’t provide a photo credit. I think it’s fair to assume it was taken by the Timber Rattlers’ team photographer, but I don’t know that for certain. Regardless, it’s a great photo.

Isom managed six seasons in the Milwaukee Brewers organization, and 2014 will be his ninth year as an independent-league manager. His pitching career lasted seven years, including two in the Midwest League.

Isom went 0-3 with a 1.32 ERA, four saves and 29 strikeouts in 34 IP for the 1994 Springfield Sultans. He went 8-8 with a 3.40 ERA, two saves, a shutout and 94 strikeouts in 116.1 IP for the 1995 Clinton LumberKings. Both teams were affiliated with the San Diego Padres.