Argonauts hire Michael ‘Pinball’ Clemons as General Manager

The Toronto Argonauts are welcoming a legend back to the franchise.

Shortly after firing Jim Popp, the team announced Tuesday that they are hiring the great Michael ‘Pinball’ Clemons as their new general manager.

The decision, which comes in the midst of a disastrous 2-12 season, is something president Bill Manning hopes can change the franchise’s fortunes in the immediate future.

“Michael Clemons is the Toronto Argonauts personified and bleeds Double Blue. His passion for this team and this city, and his championship pedigree, will have a profound impact on the direction of this team moving forward” said Manning.

“Today is a first, but important, step to address that issue and we are confident that Michael will unite this team towards our championship goal.”

Clemons, 54, played professionally for the Argonauts from 1989-2000. During that span, he accumulated 5341 rushing yards, and 33 touchdowns in 12 CFL seasons with Toronto. He was also a two-time CFL All-Star and won three Grey Cups.

Once his playing career ended, he immediately turned to coaching. He served as the Argonauts’ head coach for seven seasons from 2000-2007, posting a combined 67-54-1 record, and winning 2 East Division Championships and a Grey Cup.

He has been the franchise’s Vice-Chairman since 2007.