On this day in 1952, Doug Melvin was born in Chatham, Ontario, Canada. As a professional player he pitched in 128 games over six minor league seasons in the Pirates and Yankees organizations, but never made the major leagues. He's better known, of course, for what came after that: Melvin has been a major league general manager for all but one season since 1994 and the Brewers' GM since replacing Dean Taylor following the 2002 season.
Melvin has been GM of the Brewers through some of the brightest and darkest days in franchise history. His first and second teams in 2003 and 2004 each lost 94 games, tied for the sixth highest total in franchise history. But he was also at the helm when the Brewers went 81-81 in 2005 (their first non-losing season since 1992), 83-79 in 1997 (their first winning season since 1992) and 90-72 in 2008, making their first playoff appearance in 26 years.
Overall the Brewers are 686-724 in Melvin's 8-plus seasons at the helm. At times we have both praised (CC Sabathia, Casey McGehee, Nyjer Morgan) and criticized (Jeff Suppan, Eric Gagne, J.J. Hardy) his decision making, but it's tough to argue against this: the organization's short and long term outlook is certainly brighter now than it was when he took over.
Melvin turns 59 today. We'd also like to wish a happy birthday today to third base coach Ed Sedar, who turns 50.