THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, September 1, 1994 TAG: 9409010711
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: C5 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY TOM ROBINSON, STAFF WRITER
LENGTH: Short : 35 lines
Odd man out on the Norfolk Tides in May, Jeff Manto today is the International League's most valuable player for the Rochester Red Wings.
Manto, the league leader in home runs and RBIs, was named the All-Star third baseman and MVP in balloting of managers, coaches, media and club representatives that was released Wednesday.
The Richmond Braves and Syracuse Chiefs led with three All-Stars each. Brad Woodall was named the top starting pitcher and most valuable pitcher, Luis Lopez was chosen as the designated hitter and Grady Little earned manager of the year honors.
Syracuse was represented by outfielder Shawn Green, also the rookie of the year, shortstop Alex Gonzalez and relief pitcher Randy St. Claire.
A 30-year old from Bristol, Pa., Manto was signed to be a bench player in the majors with the Mets. But when he failed to make the team, he joined the Tides and batted just .261 with four home runs and 17 RBIs in 37 games.
Squeezed out of playing time by Butch Huskey at third, Rico Brogna at first and Jim Lindeman at designated hitter, Manto was shipped to the Baltimore Orioles' Triple-A affiliate May 20.
The Mets have said the move was a favor to Manto. He showed his appreciation by, through Tuesday, hitting 25 home runs, knocking in 81 runs and batting around .300 for the Red Wings.
Manto becomes the second consecutive third baseman and fifth in the last seven years to be named MVP. Charlotte's Jim Thome won last year's award. by CNB