Burleson reflects on a job well done

Rich Burleson plans on exploring all of his options before deciding whether to return to the Seattle organization next year

For the second consecutive season, Burleson found the right buttons to push to help the JetHawks reach the playoffs. This season, he led the JetHawks to a franchise best 78-62 mark and the Valley Division wild-card berth, one year after Lancaster finished 75-66 under his guide.

"I've really enjoyed my time here," Burleson said. "I think I've had two good teams to work with."

While Burleson, 47, left the door open for his return to Lancaster for a third season, he knows all to well after spending 22 season in professional baseball that things could change quickly.

"They never let you know until October, and sometimes even later," he said. "If they don't want you anymore, then you have to scramble to try to find somebody who does."

Burleson also said he would have to consider any opportunities for advancement, whether it's with the Mariners or in another organization.

"You have to keep all your options open, because you never know what will happen," he said.

While Burleson isn't exactly sure what the future holds, he said he is pleased that he got a chance to work in Lancaster.

"I've enjoyed the people here," Burleson said. "They've been really good to work for. The facility, the staff, the Ellises. It's all been a very positive experience for me."

So has working with the Lancaster coaching staff this season, Burleson said. For the second straight year, he was teamed with pitching coach Jim Slaton, who still lives in Palmdale. He, like Burleson, will most likely have to weigh his options during the offseason.

"The chance to work with Jim again was one of the main reasons I came back," Burleson said before the season started.

Burleson also was pleased to add Scott Steinmann to the staff after Doug Saunders, who opened the season as the team's hitting and outfield coach, left the team for personal reasons in late May. Steinmann immediately contributed and he even got to manage two games in Visalia during Burleson's suspension.

"I think Steinmann came in and he fit right in," Burleson said. "He did a good job of helping out wherever he could."

The same could be said for Korean coach Charlie Lee, who was with the team to learn American baseball.

"Charlie got along with the guys real well and was willing to spend the time to help them improve," Burleson said. "He knows a lot about the game, and he made my job a lot easier."

As did the help he got from the JetHawks front office and the fans of Lancaster, Burleson said.

"This is really a first-class act and first-class operation here," he said. "And the facility was so great."