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Jerry Manuel gets increased role with MLB group

Former manager Jerry Manuel gets increased role with MLB diversity task force

NEW YORK (AP) -- Former major league manager Jerry Manuel is taking on an increased role with Major League Baseball's on-field diversity task force.

The commissioner's office said Thursday that Manuel will oversee the group's day-to-day efforts.

Manuel managed the Chicago White Sox and New York Mets after playing five years in the majors as an infielder. Detroit Tigers President Dave Dombrowski is chairman of the task force.

MLB has been concerned about the declining number at all levels of minority players, particularly African-Americans.

Among other initiatives, baseball wants to work with current and former big leaguers who could be coaches and youth leaders in urban communities.