ELKHART COUNTY MIRACLE: A.J. Van Bogaert will play double duty for 2025 season

ELKHART — The Elkhart County Miracle have found their second-ever manager just in time for the 2025 baseball season.

A.J. Van Bogaert, a name recognizable to most Miracle fans as one of the consistent talents in the starting lineup, will be a player-coach for Elkhart County in its title-defense season.

The organization’s third campaign was set to begin on Wednesday at American Park inside the Elkhart Athletic Complex off Division and Waterfall Drive. The Miracle’s game against the Northwest Indiana Oilmen was postponed following extensive rain in the area near gametime. A new date has not been announced.

The Miracle and Oilmen met to close the season in last year’s three-game championship series which Elkhart County won in Game 3 in Whiting.

Van Bogaert was named the manager on Monday at the club’s media day.

“A.J. is a consummate professional who will help lead our team in a unique role as player-manager,” founder and president Craig Wallin said. “We are extremely fortunate to have A.J. back following last year’s Northern League Championship run.”

Wilson Valera was the former coach of the Miracle for their debut season in 2023 as well as last year’s championship team.

Van Bogaert will again play left field and hit in the middle of the lineup.

Fans interested in watching the Miracle this season can purchase tickets at the gate and online at elkhartcountymiracle.com.