Diamondbacks CEO Moorad resigns

Jan 3, 2009 - 12:19 AM PHOENIX (Ticker) -- The Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday announced the resignation of chief executive officer Jeff Moorad.

Moorad, who replaced Jerry Colangelo as CEO in August 2004, is pursuing ownership of the San Diego Padres.

The Diamondbacks immediately promoted president Derrick Hall to CEO to replace Moorad.

"Derrick has clearly demonstrated the ability to run a successful organization in his tenure as president of the D-Backs and was an easy choice to promote to chief executive officer after accepting Jeff's resignation (Friday morning)," Arizona managing general partner Ken Kendrick said.

"Jeff was an integral part of the D-Backs' many achievements on and off the field since joining the organization in 2004. However, it was necessary for him to tender his resignation with the organization as he pursues the acquisition of the San Diego Padres."

Prior to joining the Diamondbacks, Moorad served as a player agent for stars such as Manny Ramirez, Will Clark and Shawn Green. He negotiated Ramirez's eight-year, $160 million deal with the Red Sox prior to the 2001 season.

"Jeff was a tremendous leader here, but we are excited about this opportunity for him," Hall said. "Under his leadership, the current management team was formed with a clear vision to bring a disciplined business approach to the organization while committing to provide the fans with a winning team, a fan experience second to none and the most affordable ticket pricing in all of baseball."

Hall took over as president and day-to-day leader of the organization in September 2006 after originally joining the Diamondbacks as senior vice president, communications, on May 23, 2005.

He has been involved in community relations for Arizona, helping to raise more than $2.5 million for non-profit organizations in 2008 alone. He serves on more than 20 board of directors for non-profit organizations in Arizona.