Pena is named director of Latin American operations

A report is comfirmed on Friday, Ramon Pena is hired as their director of Latin American operations. Pena spent the last three seasons overseeing the Mets' Latin American operations as a special assistant to Mets general manager Omar Minaya. Before that, he spent 21 years in the Tigers' scouting ranks, taking charge of their Latin American efforts. He was honored as Detroit's Scout of the Year in 1997. He currently serves as a sports advisor to Dominican president Leonel Fernandez.

"We are extremely fortunate to have someone of Ramon's experience, track record and influence join our organization," Indians assistant general manager John Mirabelli said. "We are excited to add Ramon and feel he could impact our organization in a very positive way." Pena will work directly with Latin American players to help them deliver the cultural transition to the United States.