PHOENIX, Arizona — January 25: Headshot of team players taken on January 25, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo Credit: Kelsey Grant/Arizona Diamondbacks)

Mobile, Alabama (WKRG) – The Major League Baseball star has been appointed to the University of South Alabama’s board by Alabama Governor Kay Ivey, according to a university announcement.

Luis Gonzalez will take the seat of the United States Congress beginning October 1, 2023. That seat is currently held by Margie Tuxon, who will continue to serve the remainder of her term through September.

Gonzalez began his MLB career with the Houston Astros as a fourth-round pick in the June 1988 draft from the University of South Alabama. During his time in the United States, he earned Baseball America All-Freshman Second Team honors. Gonzalez was later inducted into the American Hall of Fame. Gonzalez was a five-time Major League All-Star and won the World Series title in 2001 while playing for the Arizona Diamondbacks.

He currently serves as Senior Advisor, CEO and Managing Partner of the Arizona Diamondbacks.

“I would like to thank Governor Ivey for appointing me to the University of South Alabama Board of Trustees. said Gonzalez. “I am honored to have the opportunity to give back to Southern Alabama and the mobile community for making such a big impact on my life and giving me valuable educational and life skills to pursue my passions both on and off the baseball field. I am honored to continue the tradition of the University and Board of Directors in providing impactful and meaningful higher education experiences to our communities.”

Governor Ivey also re-elected Ron Graham, Dr. Steve Farr, Dr. Lennus Perkins, and Dr. Steve Stokes to the Board.