SCHAUMBURG, Ill. — The Schaumburg Boomers, presented by Wintrust Community Banks, have announced the departure of original Boomer Cam Roth to become the manager of the Lake Erie Crushers. 

Roth was serving as Jamie Bennett’s pitching coach this season, his fifth year with the organization. The pitching staff has sported an ERA of nearly half a point less in the month of June as the Boomers have turned into one of the hottest teams in the league.

“I would like to thank Cam and Derek for the time and effort they have put into the Boomers organization over the last five years,” Bennett said. “They will always be a part of the boomer family and, while we will miss them here, it is exciting to see them take this next step in their careers.”

Roth came to the team as a pitcher in 2012 and owns the distinction of starting the first home game in franchise history. The left-hander went on to become an All-Star in 2012, pitching two innings at the league’s marquee event. Roth started 20 games for the Boomers in 2012 and sported a record of 8-10 with a 3.75 ERA in 129.2 innings. The Virginia native came to the team after two years in the Baltimore Orioles organization following his selection in the 29th round of the 2010 draft out of UNC-Wilmington. Roth owns the single season franchise record for starts and innings.

During the 2013 season, Roth returned to pitch but was sidelined due to a back injury that ultimately led to retirement from playing. While not officially a member of the coaching staff, Roth acted as a coach during the team’s run to a first championship. The 27-year old officially joined the staff in 2014, serving as bench coach during the team’s second run to a Frontier League title. The versatile coach moved into hitting coach duties for 2015 before taking over as pitching coach this year.

“I want to extend the upmost gratitude and appreciation to the Schaumburg Boomers organization especially the Salvi family, Pete Laven, and Jamie Bennett for an unforgettable experience over these last five years,” Roth said in a Lake Erie press release. “I can't stress enough the amount of respect and admiration I have for Jamie Bennett as not only a true professional of the game, but as my mentor and dear friend.”

Along with Roth, Derek Shomon will also move over to the Lake Erie staff. Shomon has been on the staff since the original season of 2012, moving from bullpen catcher to bullpen coach to bench coach and most recently to the role of strength and conditioning coach. Shomon will serve as the catching and bullpen coach with Lake Erie.

“As an original Boomer, we will miss Cam’s presence here in Schaumburg, but couldn’t be more proud to see his hard work and dedication turn into a managerial opportunity with a great organization in Lake Erie,” Boomers’ general manager Pete Laven said. “On behalf of the Schaumburg Boomers and owners Pat and Lindy Salvi, we are excited for Cam and wish him the very best.”

Roth’s first game as manager will take place on Tuesday in Ohio against the Florence Freedom.

The Boomers (21-18) open a brief three-game road series on Tuesday night at Southern Illinois before returning home for Independence Day weekend. Make the Boomers part of your holiday plans before it is too late by calling (847) 461-FOWL (3695). Hear all of the action on AM 1410 WRMN with the voice of the Boomers, Tim Calderwood.

More Info: The 2013 & 2014 Frontier League Champions and 2013 Organization of the Year, the Schaumburg Boomers are an independent professional baseball franchise based in Schaumburg, IL. Named after the Greater Prairie Chicken, which once roamed throughout Schaumburg and the surrounding areas in the 19th century, the Boomers excel in providing fun, affordable family entertainment and the best customer service in the business.  With 48 home games including 20 fireworks shows, Boomers Stadium is the place to be for summer family fun!  For more information, visit www.boomersbaseball.com.