A week or two ago, I posted an article about former Illini infielder Shawn Roof getting picked up by the Baltimore Oriole organization. Now, it seems like there is more to the story.
I exchanged communication with Shawn before the holidays and he tells me that the Orioles did sign him but he’ll be coming on in the role as coach. The Orioles will be adding a fourth coach at each level and Shawn will be taking on one of those positions. At this point, Shawn doesn’t know where he’ll be.
I’m excited for Shawn. I’ve always felt that when the time comes, Shawn would make a great coaching material. Since I’ve known him, he’s been a “people person” and a real motivator. And of course, coaching runs in his family. His father, Gene Roof has coached at the major league level and managed in the minors. His uncle Phil Roof who played in the majors, also coached and managed as well.
I’m looking forward to hearing more from Shawn and where his journey takes him. In my opinion, he’s an Illini baseball legend and I wish him the best of luck.