Archives for February 2022

BlueClaws Recognize Staff on National Girls & Women In Sports Day

 

The BlueClaws would like to recognize the 11 amazing women on our staff as part of National Girls & Women In Sports Day on February 2nd.

In the above photo, from left to right:

Bottom Row: Kayla Reilly (Director of Events & Operations), Jamie Bertram (VP of Promotions & Entertainment), Gianna Fiocco (Promotions Manager), Susan Wallace (Hospitality Manager)

Top Row: Haley Kopf (BlueClaws Sales Academy), Tori Boughton (Account Executive), Kristina Poetsch (BlueClaws Sales Academy), Jane Rogers (Administrative Coordinator), Rachael Pabon (Food & Beverage Coordinator), Jamie Wagner (Merchandise & Ticket Sales Manager).

We asked these staff members about working in the sports industry, their experiences, and their stories.

Kayla Reilly: For me, the best thing about working in sports is the relationships I have made across the industry and having the chance to work with incredible people from diverse and varied backgrounds. Honestly, I never thought I would be working in the sports industry. (I thought I would be teaching in an elementary school!) So it is always a *pinch me* moment when I realize how far I have come in the last few years and the historic events I have seen and been a part of.

Jamie Bertram: I love being able to take my artistic side and bringing that out in our theme nights, gate giveaways, jersey designs and in game experience. It is really cool to see what you have been working on for months come to life and thousands of people enjoying what you created. Being able to inspire and help other women break into the Sports Management world truly brings me joy and seeing them grow professionally and be so successful makes me very proud.

Gianna Fiocco: My favorite part about working in sports is getting to meet people from all walks of life, from local fans who enjoy a summer game at the stadium to game-day staff from all over the country, to managers from across the globe. I consider myself very lucky to work in an industry where I can learn from the diverse backgrounds of those I encounter on a daily basis. I am most proud of being a woman in such a male dominated industry. I have learned so much from the women that I work with, and am more successful everyday because of them. I am proud to be part of such an amazing team.

Susan Wallace: There is nothing like the thrill of working in sports! Every day is a new adventure, every game is like opening night! The sight of a packed stadium, the sound of the screaming fans, the smell of fresh popcorn popping… there’s nothing else like it! The highs are high, the lows are low, but the thrill of the game makes it all worth it! As a woman working in a previously male-dominated industry, I am most proud of how I am accepted and respected in my role. As the great Venus Williams once said, ‘Sports are a great place to show that equality can happen.’ ”

Haley Kopf: My favorite part about working in sports is the excitement of knowing you are part of a team that leads to the ultimate success of a sports organization. I also love the idea of networking and meeting new people in this industry. You never know who you are going to meet and how that can lead to new opportunities. I am most proud of the tremendous opportunity of growth for women in the sports industry. Seeing how far we have already come and the major advances we’ve taken inspires me to achieve my goals while hopefully inspiring the next generation of women to start their career in sports as well.

Kristina Poetsch: The best part about working in sports for me are the fan interactions! You never know when it could be a child’s first baseball game and getting to be a part of something like that is really special. What we do everyday leading up to the season is all for the fans and without them, the energy and atmosphere of the ballpark wouldn’t be the same. Just to be a woman in sports in general is what I’m most proud of and I think all women in sports can agree. Given that this is a predominantly male profession, it’s important for us women to be shown the same respect as our male colleagues. I love that the number of women working in sports has increased year after year, and it just goes to show you that women can do anything just as well (if not better) than men.

Jane Rogers: I am thrilled to be working in sports. It is a fast-paced environment and every day brings new challenges. Find your challenge, work hard at it, and you will feel engaged and fulfilled. Being a woman in sports for nearly 25 years, I don’t realize how fortunate I am. I’ve been lucky enough to work with so many talented people, cultivated many relationships and contributed to the professional development of many employees. I’ve always been someone that people look up to for advice. It’s been a pleasure sharing my work knowledge with everyone. Climbing the racks from an Office Manager to President/GM of a minor league baseball team is something I will always be proud of.

Jess Szewczyk (not pictured): I’m not a sports fan, but the design aspect of the sports industry is so fun. You can’t even imagine how many different things need to be designed for the stadium. I get to design everything from concession stand stadium signage to Star Wars theme night advertisements. And seeing my designs being used while the game is happening and the stadium is filled. Being a woman in a male-dominated industry is hard, but it’s also totally cool. I feel like the women in the office consistently prove that we deserve to be here just as much as the men do. And by working closely with our interns and assistants, we set a precedent for the future of sports by showing them that women do an exceptional job in all aspects of the sports industry.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

Delmarva Shorebirds Announce 2022 Job Fair February 19, 2022!

 

Salisbury, MD – The Delmarva Shorebirds, in conjunction with Professional Sports Catering, are excited to announce the upcoming Shorebirds Job Fair at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium on Saturday, February 19, 2022 from 10 AM – 1 PM. The Shorebirds and Professional Sports Catering will be hiring for all positions and candidates that are interested in working for the Shorebirds this season must show up for the Shorebirds Job Fair on Feb. 19.

The Delmarva Shorebirds and Professional Sports Catering are seeking people to fill a wide variety of roles for the 2022 season of Shorebirds baseball. Positions include Grounds Crew, the Flock, Pressbox, Amusements, food service jobs, and many more that can be located in the Shorebirds 2022 Job Fair application.

Job seekers are encouraged to fill out an application prior to the Shorebirds Job Fair, which can be found by clicking here, however, applications will be available at Perdue Stadium on the day of the Job Fair if needed. The interview process should take less than 30 minutes and candidates should refrain from returning their application to Perdue Stadium prior to February 19.

As a member of the Shorebirds staff, gameday employees will receive the following additional benefits:

  • Complimentary Tickets for friends and family to select Shorebirds games
  • Shorebirds Staff Shirt and Jacket for the season
  • Shorebirds Merchandise Employee Discount
  • Opportunity to be entered into an incentive program to win special prizes at the end of the season
  • Shorebirds end of the season staff party

The ideal candidate must be trustworthy, outgoing, reliable, and enthusiastic. All applicants must be 16 years of age or older by April 8 in order to work for the Shorebirds or Professional Sports Catering.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to [email protected] or call 410-219-3112.

The Shorebirds staff is vital to powering the Shorebirds each and every season and making the magic of Perdue Stadium a reality for fans. The Shorebirds encourage all candidates to show up to the Shorebirds Job Fair on February 19 to be part of the best crew on the shore!

Celebrating Black Greenville Drive Players and Coaches

 

As part of Black History Month, and the Drive’s participation in Minor League Baseball’s new “The Nine” initiative, we’ll be spotlighting all of our Black alumni during the month of February. Over the span of the Drive’s 15 seasons, we’ve had 20 Black players, and 7 Black field staff members.

We’ll be highlighting the players in alphabetical order, and concluding with the field staff. This write-up will be added to every week during the month of February, and will include additional photos of each player on Drive social media platforms – Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Luke Bandy, Outfielder // 2021

Began the 2021 season with the Drive…appeared in 19 games (14 in centerfield and 5 in leftfield)…amassed a .972 fielding percentage…hit his first professional home run on May 18th, 2021 at the Asheville Tourists…drafted by the Red Sox in the 29th round of the 2019 MLB Draft…spent three seasons at Dallas Baptist University, where he earned First-Team All-MVC honors as a junior, also being named to the league’s All-Defensive Team

Mookie Betts, Infielder // 2013

One of the Drive’s most heralded alumni…appeared in 76 games with the Drive during the 2013 season, hitting .296 with 8 home runs, 63 runs, 26 RBI, 63 runs scored, 24 doubles, and 18 stolen bases before a July call-up to the Salem Red Sox…was named a mid-season South Atlantic League All-Star…made his MLB debut with the Boston Red Sox on June 29th, 2014 – becoming the 37th Greenville alum to reach the big leagues…in 2018, he became the first player in MLB history to win the MVP, Silver Slugger, Gold Glove, batting title, and World Series all in the same season…MLB accomplishments include a 5x All-Star (2016-2019, 2021), 2x World Series Champion (2018, 2020), 2020 MLB First Team (2020), All-MLB Second Team (2019), 4x Silver Slugger (2016, 2018-2020), 5x Gold Glove (2016-2020), Wilson Defensive Player of the Year (2016), and 30/30 Club (2018)

Jackie Bradley, Jr, Outfielder // 2011

Following a standout career at the University of South Carolina, where he was a two-time College World Series Champion (2010, 2011) and named the CWS Most Outstanding Player honors in 2010, was selected 40th overall by the Red Sox in the 2011 MLB Draft…appeared in 4 games with the Drive at the end of the 2011 season, all on the road – which means he’s played more games at Fluor Field as a member of the Gamecocks than he did with the Drive…made his MLB debut on April 1st, 2013 for the Red Sox, becoming the 24th Drive alum to reach the big leagues…in 2016, amassed a 29-game hit streak tying Johnny Damon for the fourth longest in Red Sox franchise history…earned MLB’s AL Player of the Month honors for May 2016…became a World Series Champion and won a Gold Glove in 2018…was named the American League Championship Series MVP in 2018

Ryan Dent, Infielder // 2009

Appeared in 99 games with the Drive in 2009, helping lead the team to the South Atlantic League’s First-Half Southern Division Championship…tied a career-high with 6 homers while, tying for third on the club with 24 doubles…spent 8 seasons in the minors, reaching Triple-A with both the Red Sox (Pawtucket 2012 and 2013) and Cubs (Iowa in 2015) organizations…was a career .236 hitter, totaling 508 hits, 144 doubles, and 288 runs scored…spent the 2019 season with the independent York Revolution, where he was named a mid-season All-Star…originally selected by the Red Sox as the 32nd overall pick in the 2007 MLB Draft

Nashville Sounds Foundation Now Accepting Scholarship Applications 

 

The Nashville Sounds Foundation announced today its 2022 Scholarship Program is now accepting applications. The foundation will award four scholarships worth $2,500 each to graduating high school seniors who plan to attend college in the Fall of 2022.

The program, which began in 2016, has awarded $60,000 in scholarships and is designed to assist deserving Nashville and Middle Tennessee students in paying for college tuition during their freshman year.

“The Nashville Sounds Foundation is proud to continue this impactful annual tradition for aspiring college students in the Middle Tennessee area,” said Nashville Sounds General Manager Adam English. “From the donations and fundraising efforts of the foundation to the thoughtful essays put together by students and the letters of recommendation from their teachers and coaches, this is truly a community-wide effort.”

Interested seniors must complete the application process here. The process includes submitting a 250-or-less word essay explaining how diversity and inclusion will impact their time at college.

In addition to the essay, each submission must include at least two letters of recommendation from a teacher and/or coach and an official high school transcript. The scholarship will be awarded based on the culmination of the student’s schoolwork, extracurricular activities and involvement in the community.

Each winner will receive tickets to a select 2022 Nashville Sounds game and a special surprise from the Nashville Sounds Foundation. The deadline to be considered for the 2022 scholarships is Friday, March 18, 2022. Scholarship winners will be notified no later than April 29, 2022.

Winners from 2021 include Solyana Asefa (Middle Tennessee State University), Mary Kathryn Walt (College of Charleston), Marvin Joseph Brown and Rebecca Williams (Columbia University).

The Nashville Sounds are the Triple-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers and play at First Horizon Park. Season ticket memberships for the 2022 season are on sale now. For more information call 615-690-4487 or e-mail [email protected].

About the Nashville Sounds Foundation:

The mission of the Nashville Sounds Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, is to utilize baseball to positively impact the communities throughout Middle Tennessee by emphasizing the importance of social responsibility, education and the power of sport to transform lives.

The Nashville Sounds Foundation is funded through monetary donations, private entities, memorabilia auctions and in-game custom public address announcements.

Job Fairs Set for Feb. 9 & Feb. 19 at Five County Stadium

 

ZEBULON – The Carolina Mudcats are hiring! The Mudcats are looking to add to the club’s part-time and seasonal full-time staff by hosting two job fair hiring events ahead of the upcoming 2022 season. Both events will be held at Five County Stadium in Zebulon, with the first scheduled for Wednesday, February 9 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and the second on Saturday, February 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Interested job seekers ages 16 and over wishing to work for the Mudcats are encouraged to attend the job fairs in person.

The Mudcats also request that applicants fill out an online application, or download, print and submit an employment application form found online at carolinamudcats.com before attending.

Through the job fair the Mudcats will look to fill multiple positions across various departments including stadium operations, video operations, promotions, ticketing, merchandise, and concessions. A full list of available positions, including job descriptions, can be found online at carolinamudcats.com. Additional information is also available by calling (919) 269-2287.

Interviews will take place at Five County Stadium in Zebulon, and are conducted on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking will be available in the main parking lot adjacent to NC Hwy 264 and near the team front office.

Applicants should arrive early; the interview segment of the first job fair on Wednesday, February 9 will begin promptly at 4:00 p.m. Additionally, the interview portion of the Saturday, February 19 job fair will begin at 10:00 a.m.

The Carolina Mudcats are the official Single-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. First established in 1991, the Mudcats are entering their 32nd year at Five County Stadium in Zebulon, N.C. Season ticket packages for the 2022 season are on sale now at www.carolinamudcats.com/season and by calling (919) 269-2287. Opening Day 2022 is scheduled for Friday, April 8 against the Down East Wood Ducks at Five County Stadium. Follow the Mudcats online at www.carolinamudcats.com, and on social media at facebook.com/carolinamudcats, twitter.com/carolinamudcats, tiktok.com/@carolinamudcats and instagram.com/carolinamudcats.

###

MiLB adds to inclusion efforts with ‘The Nine’

 

Minor League Baseball has announced the launch of “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport, provide new opportunities for youth baseball and softball participation, further diversify the business of baseball, and embrace millions of passionate fans throughout MiLB’s 120 communities nationwide.

Named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946, The Nine will connect MiLB teams’ existing, Black-community focused development efforts with new national programming and future special events in a coordinated and centralized campaign. The new inclusion initiative follows MiLB’s Copa de la Diversión — the Latino fan engagement platform introduced in 2017 that included 76 MiLB teams in 2021.

The Nine will recognize and honor numerous Black pioneers and trailblazing civil rights leaders in all 120 MiLB communities, ensuring the heroes of the past and their contributions continue to be celebrated through ceremonies and events at MiLB ballparks and in the community. Recent tributes and celebrations have included Negro Leagues commemorative games honoring the Austin Black Senators in Round Rock (TX), the Bradenton (FL) Nine Devils, and Page Fence Giants near Lansing (MI). Additional tribute games are being planned for the 2022 season and beyond.

“The Nine will shine bright spotlights on these successful initiatives and transform them into national campaigns reaching more fans and communities, further showcasing our teams’ commitment to representing, honoring, and welcoming all fans to MiLB’s unique brand of fun,” said Kurt Hunzeker, MLB’s Vice President of Minor League Business Operations. “The Nine is just the latest example of MiLB teams being true community champions.”

In addition to player- and team-related content, The Nine will focus heavily on creating new opportunities for youth participation among young Black boys and girls, particularly in communities where youth baseball and softball programming is either nonexistent or difficult to access.

Central to this youth-focused push is a planned expansion of Major League Baseball’s Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) Program throughout MiLB’s national footprint. New competitions in MLB’s Pitch, Hit & Run and Junior Home Run Derby event series will also debut in MiLB markets beginning in 2022.

MiLB teams will continue to build relationships with local Black-owned and operated businesses, local artists and entertainers in an effort to embrace Black culture and make MiLB ballparks a hub for culturally relevant concerts, shows, and community events.

With several MiLB teams having a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in their community, opportunities will be provided for those schools to start internship and mentorship programs with their local team, creating opportunities for on-the-job experience for students prior to entering the job market. Additionally, MiLB recently partnered with TeamWork Online to create a more inclusive virtual job fair and ongoing talent pipeline that aims to recruit and position qualified and ready-for-hire candidates from across the country for potential management- and executive-level roles within MiLB team front offices.

Minor League Baseball Announces “The Nine,” a New Initiative to Celebrate, Engage and Welcome Black Fans

NEW YORK, NY, Feb. 1, 2022 — Minor League Baseball® (MiLB™) today announced the launch of “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport, provide new opportunities for youth baseball and softball participation, further diversify the business of baseball, and embrace millions of passionate fans throughout MiLB’s 120 communities nationwide.

Named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946, The Nine will connect MiLB teams’ existing, Black-community focused development efforts with new national programming and future special events in a coordinated and centralized campaign. The new inclusion initiative follows MiLB’s Copa de la Diversión Latino fan engagement platform introduced in 2017 that included 76 MiLB teams in 2021.

The Nine will recognize and honor numerous Black pioneers and trailblazing civil rights leaders in all 120 MiLB communities, ensuring the heroes of the past and their contributions continue to be celebrated through ceremonies and events at MiLB ballparks and in the community. Recent tributes and celebrations have included Negro Leagues commemorative games honoring the Austin Black Senators in Round Rock (TX), the Bradenton (FL) Nine Devils, and Page Fence Giants near Lansing (MI). Additional tribute games are being planned for the 2022 season and beyond.

“The Nine will shine bright spotlights on these successful initiatives and transform them into national campaigns reaching more fans and communities, further showcasing our teams’ commitment to representing, honoring, and welcoming all fans to MiLB’s unique brand of fun,” said Kurt Hunzeker, MLB’s Vice President of Minor League Business Operations. “The Nine is just the latest example of MiLB teams being true community champions.”

In addition to player- and team-related content, The Nine will focus heavily on creating new opportunities for youth participation among young Black boys and girls, particularly in communities where youth baseball and softball programming is either nonexistent or difficult to access.

Central to this youth-focused push is a planned expansion of Major League Baseball’s Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) Program throughout MiLB’s national footprint. New competitions in MLB’s Pitch, Hit & Run and Junior Home Run Derby event series will also debut in MiLB markets beginning in 2022.

MiLB teams will continue to build relationships with local Black-owned and operated businesses, local artists and entertainers in an effort to embrace Black culture and make MiLB ballparks a hub for culturally relevant concerts, shows, and community events.

With several MiLB teams having a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in their community, opportunities will be provided for those schools to start internship and mentorship programs with their local team, creating opportunities for on-the-job experience for students prior to entering the job market. Additionally, MiLB recently partnered with TeamWork Online to create a more inclusive virtual job fair and ongoing talent pipeline that aims to recruit and position qualified and ready-for-hire candidates from across the country for potential management- and executive-level roles within MiLB team front offices.

Fightins to Host Breast Cancer Awareness Night

 

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils are pleased to host a Breast Cancer Awareness night at America’s Classic Ballpark, FirstEnergy Stadium on Sunday, May 15th at 5:15pm. Thanks to the Reading Hospital McGlinn Cancer Institute, the R-Phils will honor those who are battling, have survived or have lost their fight to cancer. Families and friends can honor a loved one through our personalized pink Breast Cancer Awareness jerseys as the Fightins take on the Bowie Baysox (Orioles).

The Reading Fightin Phils players will wear special themed jerseys honoring 25 different women who have battled breast cancer, either in the past, or currently. The first 25 families and friends that purchase 20 or more tickets for reserved seating or a picnic area for the Sunday, May 15th game will have the opportunity to have a loved one represented on a jersey during the game for no additional charge.

About 1 in 8 U.S. women will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. Most of us know or have been these women. It is important to recognize the struggle and bravery of these women whether they have won or lost their battle with cancer. The R-Phils continue to admire the strength of these women and help to build awareness and funds to battle cancer.

The pink specialty jerseys will be personalized with the honoree’s name on the back. Players will receive a photo and bio of the honoree they are representing on the field. A special post-game jersey ceremony will take place with the 25 jersey honorees receiving their game-worn jersey on the field. If the honoree is present, they will receive the jersey. If the honoree has passed, the family will receive the jersey.

Please complete this form to reserve the opportunity for a jersey to be worn by a player during the May 15th game. A Reading Fightin Phils representative will contact you to confirm your submission and coordinate your group outing for the game on May 15.

Fans can also celebrate and enjoy a belated Mother’s Day with their mom or mother figure! The first 1,500 women will receive a theme giveaway upon entry. This day can be difficult for some fans, especially those who have lost a relative to cancer. Take the time to remember the special women in your life and celebrate them with a beautiful family outing at America’s Classic Ballpark.

Contact Matt Koch at [email protected] with any questions!

_America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region and was voted the #1 stadium in all of Double-A by MiLB’s Ben Hill. Follow the R-Phils at rphils.com, on Twitter and TikTok at @ReadingFightins, on Instagram @fightins, and like them on Facebook via_www.facebook.com/fightins for all information.

Top 5 Black Players in Sugar Land History 

In celebration of Black History Month, throughout February, teams across Minor League Baseball are taking a look back at five of the best Black players to suit up for their club.

While some of these standout performers went on to long and illustrious Major League careers, others simply had great Minor League careers or, in some cases, just one incredible season that went down as “a year for the ages.”

As we gear up for the first season in Sugar Land Space Cowboys history, here is a look at five of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up in Sugar Land.

Jeremy Barfield

Jeremy Barfield became the first Sugar Land player to be awarded the Atlantic League Player of the Year, blasting a team-record 27 home runs in 2016. Sugar Land also went on to win its first Atlantic League Championship that season. The son of former Major League All-Star, Jesse Barfield, Jeremy ranks top-10 in the franchise’s independent history in batting average, hits, doubles, home runs and RBI.

Marty Costes

Costes was a fixture in the Sugar Land lineup during the second half of the 2021 season. Costes hit .262 with four home runs and 19 RBIs in 40 games with Sugar Land, following a promotion from Double A Corpus Christi. One of those four home runs left his bat at 115 mph, making it the hardest-hit home run in terms of exit velocity hit at Constellation Field in ‘20. Including his time with Corpus Christi, Costes ranked fifth of all MiLB players last season (min. 400 plate appearances) with a .427 on-base percentage.

Ronnie Dawson

Ronnie Dawson was a consistent presence in the Sugar Land lineup during their first season as the Houston Astros Triple A affiliate in 2021. Dawson was tied for fourth on the team with 90 games played and hit .249 with seven home runs and 43 RBI. Dawson quickly emerged as a fan-favorite at Constellation Field for his upbeat style of play and ability to engage with fans. Dawson hit the first-ever Triple A grand slam at Constellation Field on May 30. Dawson also made his Major League debut with the Astros in ‘20 prior to debuting in Sugar Land.

Deacon Jones

While Deacon Jones never donned a Skeeters or Space Cowboys uniform as a player, he’s undoubtedly one of the most influential in the organization’s history. Jones was an instrumental figure in bringing professional baseball to Sugar Land in 2012. He worked with City of Sugar Land officials and leaders of the community to bring a quality baseball product to Constellation Field. Since 2012, he’s served as a Special Advisor in the Sugar Land front office. His No. 4, which he wore as a player, was retired in 2019. He became the first person to have their number retired in the organization’s history. Jones played for the Chicago White Sox from 1962-63, ‘66. He proceeded to have a decades-long coaching and scouting career, which included stints as the hitting coach for the Houston Astros and San Diego Padres.

Tracy McGrady

Yes, you read the name correctly. The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall-of-Famer had a brief stint in Sugar Land as a pitcher while the club was still playing in the independent Atlantic League. McGrady, who spent six seasons with the Houston Rockets, made four starts for Sugar Land in 2014. He also started the 2014 Atlantic League All-Star Game at Constellation Field. The organization honored McGrady with his own bobblehead night in 2018, as he returned to Constellation Field that night to throw out the ceremonial first pitch. Although McGrady’s stint in Sugar Land was brief, he’s positively one of the most iconic players in franchise history.

Bisons join “The Nine”, a new initiative to Celebrate, Engage, and Welcome Black Fans

 

Minor League Baseball has announced the launch of “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport, provide new opportunities for youth baseball and softball participation, further diversify the business of baseball, and embrace millions of passionate fans throughout MiLB’s 120 communities nationwide.

Named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946, The Nine will connect MiLB teams’ existing, Black-community focused development efforts with new national programming and future special events in a coordinated and centralized campaign. The new inclusion initiative follows MiLB’s Copa de la Diversión — the Latino fan engagement platform introduced in 2017 that included 76 MiLB teams in 2021.

The Nine will recognize and honor numerous Black pioneers and trailblazing civil rights leaders in all 120 MiLB communities, ensuring the heroes of the past and their contributions continue to be celebrated through ceremonies and events at MiLB ballparks and in the community. Details on ‘The Nine’ celebrations and tributes at Buffalo Bisons home games this season are to be announced.

“The Nine will shine bright spotlights on these successful initiatives and transform them into national campaigns reaching more fans and communities, further showcasing our teams’ commitment to representing, honoring, and welcoming all fans to MiLB’s unique brand of fun,” said Kurt Hunzeker, MLB’s Vice President of Minor League Business Operations. “The Nine is just the latest example of MiLB teams being true community champions.”

In addition to player- and team-related content, The Nine will focus heavily on creating new opportunities for youth participation among young Black boys and girls, particularly in communities where youth baseball and softball programming is either nonexistent or difficult to access.

Central to this youth-focused push is a planned expansion of Major League Baseball’s Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) Program throughout MiLB’s national footprint. New competitions in MLB’s Pitch, Hit & Run and Junior Home Run Derby event series will also debut in MiLB markets beginning in 2022.

MiLB teams will continue to build relationships with local Black-owned and operated businesses, local artists and entertainers in an effort to embrace Black culture and make MiLB ballparks a hub for culturally relevant concerts, shows, and community events.

With several MiLB teams having a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in their community, opportunities will be provided for those schools to start internship and mentorship programs with their local team, creating opportunities for on-the-job experience for students prior to entering the job market. Additionally, MiLB recently partnered with TeamWork Online to create a more inclusive virtual job fair and ongoing talent pipeline that aims to recruit and position qualified and ready-for-hire candidates from across the country for potential management- and executive-level roles within MiLB team front offices.

Dynamic Didi, Record Holder Hamilton Lead Top Black Players In Blue Wahoos History 

 

In celebration of Black History Month, throughout the month of February, teams across Minor League Baseball are taking a look back at five of the best Black players to suit up for their club.

While some of these standout performers went on long and illustrious Major League careers, others simply had great Minor League careers or, in some cases, just incredible one incredible season that went down as “a year for the ages.”

Here is a look at five of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for the Pensacola Blue Wahoos.

DIDI GREGORIUS

In the same year he made his major league debut, Didi Gregorius was part of the Blue Wahoos inaugural Opening Day lineup at shortstop on April 5, 2012 in the team’s historic first season at Blue Wahoos Stadium.

After signing an international contract at 18-years-old with the Cincinnati Reds, the Amsterdam, Netherlands native had already built acclaim before arriving to Pensacola.

He began that season as the Reds’ No. 6 prospect by Baseball America and was known for being able to speak eight different languages. He played 81 games for the Blue Wahoos in 2012, captivating Pensacola fans with his defensive wizardry, along with speed on the basepaths.

He batted .279 with 31 RBI for the Blue Wahoos, along with eight triples, 11 doubles and a home run. He was named a Southern League All-Star. He quickly became a fan favorite and often engaged with fans during pregame, along with signing autographs.

Gregorius was elevated to Triple-A Louisville in the second half of 2012 and made his MLB debut with the Reds on Sept. 4, 2012 against the Philadelphia Phillies.

Ironically, he was acquired by the Phillies in 2020 and remains under contract with that team.

BILLY HAMILTON

When Gregorius was promoted in 2012, Billy Hamilton joined the Blue Wahoos from the Cincinnati Reds’ High-A affiliate in Bakersfield, Calif. for the second half of that season.

When he got to Pensacola, Hamilton was already well on his way to breaking the Minor League Baseball stolen base record. Anticipation and fan interest then grew with every game, each successful stolen base.

History happened on August 21 at Blue Wahoos Stadium against the Montgomery Biscuits when Hamilton recorded his 146th stolen base, breaking the mark set in 1983 by former St. Louis Cardinals star Vince Coleman when he played for former affiliate Macon (Ga.) Redbirds.

Hamilton’s chase and record-setting feat provided the Blue Wahoos with national attention. It gave the team notice on ESPN and MLB Network and other national media outlets.

Hamilton, a second-round pick by the Reds in 2009 from Taylorsville, Miss., finished with 155 stolen bases in 2012, including 51 with the Blue Wahoos. He played 50 games for Pensacola, batting .286 with five triples, four doubles and one home run that was an all-time memorable inside-the-park HR during a Sunday home game at Blue Wahoos Stadium.

He then returned to loud ovations in 2015 for three games, while on a injury rehab assignment with the Reds.

PHILIP ERVIN

After joining the Blue Wahoos in the second half of the 2015 season, Philip Ervin helped the team make its first post-season appearance under first-year manager Pat Kelly.

The following year, Ervin played 123 games as a versatile outfielder and was a big part of why the Blue Wahoos attained their first winning season in franchise history. He was a key part of the team that won both half-season, division titles in the Southern League before losing in the playoffs.

Ervin, who was the Cincinnati Reds’ first round selection in 2013, collected 100 hits with 45 RBI in 2016 with 13 home runs. He also stole 36 bases. The games he played often had a family contingent of fans. He grew up in Leroy, Alabama, a tiny town 55 miles north of Mobile and played three sports – football, basketball and baseball – at his high school.

During his career at Samford, he was named the MVP of the Cape Cod League, following his sophomore year in 2012. He began 2013 as a preseason All-American and MVP of the Southern Conference.

Ervin made his MLB debut in 2017 with the Reds and played four seasons in the big leagues.

AMIR GARRETT

As part of the Blue Wahoos talented starting rotation in 2016, Garrett put together one of the best years by a pitcher in team history.

Chosen by the Reds in the 22nd round of the 2011 draft out of St. John’s University, the left-handed hurler from Victorville, Calif. rapidly progressed in 2016 to become the Reds Minor League Pitcher of the year, as well as a Southern League All-Star for the Blue Wahoos.

Garrett, a 6-foot-5, former basketball player at St. John’s, compiled a 5-3 record in 12 starts for the Blue Wahoos, but he allowed just 20 runs in that span with only 15 earned runs. He did not allow a home run in any appearance. His 1.75 earned run average with the Blue Wahoos led all Reds’ minor league pitchers that season.

He played in the Sirius-XM Futures Game after being promoted to Triple-A Louisville on June 17 that season. He threw two hitless innings in the game.

Garrett made his MLB debut in 2017 and figures to again be part of the Reds starting rotation in 2022.

SHED LONG

The Blue Wahoos championship season in 2017 included outfielder Shed Long, who then returned in 2018 to have a big year in the team’s final season as a Cincinnati Reds affiliate.

Long, a Birmingham native, was a 12th round selection by the Reds in 2013. He bypassed a potential college football career to play professional baseball. In 2018, Long batted a team-high .261 in 126 games and his 56 RBI were second-best. He was a Southern League All Star selection that year.

He finished the season leading the Blue Wahoos with most at-bats, runs scored (75), hits (118), doubles (22), triples (5) total bases and walks (57). His 19 steals tied for team best.

Following the 2018 season in Pensacola, Long became an Arizona Fall League All-Star. He was then traded by the Reds to the Seattle Mariners in a three-team deal with the New York Yankees.

After spending parts of the past three seasons in the major leagues with the Seattle Mariners, where Long made his MLB Debut in 2019, he is now a free agent.

Bats Join MiLB In Launch Of “The Nine” Outreach Program

 

LOUISVILLE, KY. – The Louisville Bats, in conjunction with Minor League Baseball, today announced the team will be at the forefront of a nation-wide outreach program to help connect Black communities to baseball. The new program, “The Nine,” will feature local outreach initiatives from 60 participating teams across Minor League Baseball during the 2022 season.

Named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946, The Nine will connect MiLB teams’ existing, Black-community focused development efforts with new national programming and future special events in a coordinated and centralized campaign. The new inclusion initiative follows MiLB’s Copa de la Diversión Latino fan engagement platform introduced in 2017 that included 76 MiLB teams in 2021.

The Bats initiatives for The Nine during the 2022 season will include:

  1. Dedicating a memorial at Eastern Cemetery for Felton Snow, a former baseball player for the Louisville Black Caps and Louisville White Sox of the Negro Southern League. The Bats, Louisville’s chapter of the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR), Louisville Urban League and Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory will help host a special recognition ceremony for the dedication later this season.
  2. The Bats front office staff will completely renovate two youth baseball fields at Shawnee Park this March. All labor will be volunteers and the Bats’ staff will be joined by participants from the Louisville Sports Commission and HUMANA.
  3. Continuing the “Playing it Forward” initiative with item drives for youth sports equipment during the 2022 baseball season. The Bats have partnered with Humana and Louisville Sports Commission each of the last three years for the campaign, working to provide new or gently-used youth baseball or softball equipment to low-and moderate-income families.
  4. Paying tribute and honoring the history of the former Negro League teams of Louisville on Friday, Sept. 2 vs. Indianapolis.

–

For additional information on The Nine, visit MiLB.com.

Baysox & MiLB adds to inclusion efforts with ‘The Nine’

 

Minor League Baseball has announced the launch of “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport, provide new opportunities for youth baseball and softball participation, further diversify the business of baseball, and embrace

Minor League Baseball has announced the launch of “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport, provide new opportunities for youth baseball and softball participation, further diversify the business of baseball, and embrace millions of passionate fans throughout MiLB’s 120 communities nationwide.

Named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946, The Nine will connect MiLB teams’ existing, Black-community focused development efforts with new national programming and future special events in a coordinated and centralized campaign. The new inclusion initiative follows MiLB’s Copa de la Diversión — the Latino fan engagement platform introduced in 2017 that included 76 MiLB teams in 2021.

The Nine will recognize and honor numerous Black pioneers and trailblazing civil rights leaders in all 120 MiLB communities, ensuring the heroes of the past and their contributions continue to be celebrated through ceremonies and events at MiLB ballparks and in the community. Recent tributes and celebrations have included Negro Leagues commemorative games honoring the Austin Black Senators in Round Rock (TX), the Bradenton (FL) Nine Devils, and Page Fence Giants near Lansing (MI). Additional tribute games are being planned for the 2022 season and beyond.

“The Nine will shine bright spotlights on these successful initiatives and transform them into national campaigns reaching more fans and communities, further showcasing our teams’ commitment to representing, honoring, and welcoming all fans to MiLB’s unique brand of fun,” said Kurt Hunzeker, MLB’s Vice President of Minor League Business Operations. “The Nine is just the latest example of MiLB teams being true community champions.”

In addition to player- and team-related content, The Nine will focus heavily on creating new opportunities for youth participation among young Black boys and girls, particularly in communities where youth baseball and softball programming is either nonexistent or difficult to access.

Central to this youth-focused push is a planned expansion of Major League Baseball’s Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) Program throughout MiLB’s national footprint. New competitions in MLB’s Pitch, Hit & Run and Junior Home Run Derby event series will also debut in MiLB markets beginning in 2022.

MiLB teams will continue to build relationships with local Black-owned and operated businesses, local artists and entertainers in an effort to embrace Black culture and make MiLB ballparks a hub for culturally relevant concerts, shows, and community events.

With several MiLB teams having a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in their community, opportunities will be provided for those schools to start internship and mentorship programs with their local team, creating opportunities for on-the-job experience for students prior to entering the job market. Additionally, MiLB recently partnered with TeamWork Online to create a more inclusive virtual job fair and ongoing talent pipeline that aims to recruit and position qualified and ready-for-hire candidates from across the country for potential management- and executive-level roles within MiLB team front offices.

Black History Month: The Best Black Players to Play for the Red Wings

 

In celebration of Black History Month, throughout February, teams across Minor League Baseball are looking back at five of the best Black players to suit up for their club or play for a team within its market.

While some of these standout performers went on to long and illustrious Major League careers, others simply had great Minor League careers or, in some cases, just one incredible season that went down as “a year for the ages.”

Here is a look at five of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for the Rochester Red Wings.

DON BAYLOR—Don Baylor played parts of three years for the Red Wings (1968, 1970-1971) winning The Sporting News Minor League Player of the Year award in 1970 (.327-22-107 with 26 SB) before starring for the legendary 1971 Red Wings team that won the Governors’ Cup and the Junior World Series. Baylor would play 19 years in the Major Leagues as an outfielder, first baseman and DH accumulating 2,135 hits and 338 home runs. He won the American League Most Valuable Player award in 1979 with the Angels and played on the World Series winning Twins in 1987. After his playing days, Baylor managed the Rockies and the Cubs in the Major Leagues.

LUKE EASTER—Despite segregation keeping Luke Easter out of the big leagues until he was in his 30s, the slugging first baseman crushed more than 25 home runs three straight seasons for Cleveland from 1950 to 1952. Easter became one of the most feared sluggers in the International League after his Major League career was over winning the IL MVP with Buffalo in 1957. Even though he was well into his 40s, he played for parts of six years for the Red Wings at the end of his playing career, and—with his gregarious personality—became one of the most popular players to ever play in Rochester. His number 36 is one of only two retired numbers—along with Joe Altobelli—among former players in the long history of the Red Wings franchise.

BOB GIBSON—One of baseball’s greatest right-handed pitchers of all-time, Gibson won 251 games in a 17 year MLB career spent entirely with the Cardinals. A nine-time All Star, Gibson won the National League Cy Young Award in 1968 and 1970 while also winning the NL MVP Award in his historic 1968 season when he posted a 1.12 ERA. He was also one of the best fielding pitchers of all-time winning nine Gold Glove Awards. Additionally, Gibson performed well when it mattered most earning World Series MVP honors in 1964 and 1967. Gibson pitched in Rochester in 1958 and 1960 shortly after being a two sport athlete (baseball and basketball) at Creighton University in his hometown of Omaha, Nebraska. Gibson was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1981.

EDDIE MURRAY—One of only six men with 3,000 hits and 500 home runs in Major League history, Murray was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2003. The first baseman played 21 years in the big leagues winning the 1977 American League Rookie of the Year Award with the Orioles while being selected to the All Star Game eight times. The Los Angeles native has the second most hits (3,255) and the second most home runs (504) of any switch-hitter in baseball history. Amazingly, Murray started switch-hitting in 1975 while in the Minor Leagues…just one year before he joined the Red Wings. On an IL pennant winning team in 1976, Murray hit 11 home runs and batted .274 in only 54 games before making his Major League debut one season later.

FRANK ROBINSON—The first African-American manager in Major League Baseball history, Robinson was also the first African-American manager in the history of the Red Wings. Robinson first managed in the big leagues as a player/manager for Cleveland in 1975-1977 at the end of his Hall of Fame playing career. He took over as the Red Wings manager in 1978 after Ken Boyer left the team early in that season to take over as the big league skipper of the Cardinals. Aside from his original managerial stint with Cleveland, Robinson would also manage the Giants, Orioles, Expos and Nationals at the Major League level. In his stellar playing career, Robinson amassed the 10th most home runs in MLB history (586). He won the American League Triple Crown with Baltimore in 1966 while winning Most Valuable Player honors in both leagues….1961 with the Reds and 1966 with the Orioles. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1982.

MiLB, Palm Beach Cardinals Launch “The Nine” and Recognize Outstanding Black Players

 

In celebration of Black History Month, throughout February, teams across Minor League Baseball are taking a look back at five of the best Black players to suit up for their club.

Minor League Baseball announced the launch of “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport. The initiative aims to provide new opportunities for youth baseball and softball participation, while further diversifying the business of baseball that embraces millions of passionate fans.

While some of these standout performers went on to long and illustrious Major League careers, others simply had great Minor League careers or, in some cases, just one incredible season that went down as “a year for the ages.”

Here is a look at five of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for the Palm Beach Cardinals.

Tommy Pham

Palm Beach Cardinals outfielder Tommy Pham lays down a bunt at Roger Dean Stadium in 2009. The then 21-year-old hit eight home runs that year on his way to a .691 OPS that season.

Tommy Pham was a Cardinal, both for the big league club in St. Louis and as a coveted prospect in the minor league system. Selected by the Redbirds in the 16th round of the 2006 Major League Baseball draft, the outfielder reached Palm Beach in 2008.

The Las Vegas native spent parts of three seasons with the Beach Birds, including all of 2009. He slashed .232/.313/.378 that year, following that up with a .262/.377/.392 line in 68 games in 2010. Pham also hit 12 homers across his 209 total games with Palm Beach before earning a promotion to Double-A Springfield midway through ‘10.

Pham would reach the majors with a callup to St. Louis in 2014, the same season he was named a St. Louis Cardinals Minor League All-Star. The right-handed slugger would remain in St. Louis until midway through 2018.

Xavier Scruggs

Xavier Scruggs of the Palm Beach Cardinals in action during a 2011 game against the Tampa Yankees at the George Steinbrenner Field in Tampa.

After the Cardinals took Xavier Scruggs in the 19th round of the 2008 draft, the first baseman spent 2010 and 2011 with Palm Beach and stood out for his power. Scruggs hit 34 homers in 204 total games with the club. After compiling an OPS of .834 in ‘11, the California native was promoted to Double-A Springfield.

Scruggs earned a call to the majors in 2014 while also spending 2015 in St. Louis. The then 28-year-old did not return to MLB after 2016, instead finishing his career with stints in the Korean and Mexican leagues. In 2021, he returned to the Cardinals as the organization’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Consultant while also taking an analyst position at ESPN.

Adron Chambers

Adron Chambers slugs a line drive against the Tampa Yankees in 2009. The outfielder batted .284 in his lone season with Palm Beach.

Hailing from Pensacola, Fla., Adron Chambers was selected in the 38th round of the 2007 MLB Draft by St. Louis out of Pensacola State College. The lefty reached Class-A Advanced in 2009, spending the entire season with Palm Beach. He sported a .284/.370/.400 slash line in the Florida State League before earning a promotion to Double-A Springfield ahead of 2010.

Chambers is perhaps best known for his role in the 2011 World Series championship run for the Cardinals. The outfielder only saw action in 18 regular season games for the club, but accumulated a .375 batting average during that stretch. Chambers scored the game-winning run as a pinch runner against the Chicago Cubs on September 24, helping the team clinch a playoff berth by a single game. The Cardinals would beat the Texas Rangers in a thrilling seven-game World Series one month later, bringing the franchise its 11th world title.

Sam Freeman

Sam Freeman pitches for Palm Beach during the 2009 season. The southpaw threw 33.0 innings on the year.

Sam Freeman was another major leaguer who went through Palm Beach on his way to ‘The Show.’ Selected by the Cardinals in the 32nd round of the 2008 draft out of the University of Kansas, he only appeared in a single game for Palm Beach after spending most of the season in the Rookie Leagues.

Freeman stood out as a member of the Florida State League club in 2009, where in 26 appearances, the relief pitcher boasted a 1.64 ERA and a 0.939 WHIP.

The native of Houston recovered from Tommy John surgery in 2010 before earning a callup to St. Louis in 2012. He spent parts of three seasons with the Cardinals and would remain a major leaguer through 2020.

Maikel Cleto

Maikel Cleto delivers a pitch for the Triple-A Memphis Redbirds in 2013. The right-handed arm would pitch in the big leagues in 2011, 2012 and 2013.

Maikel Cleto was signed as an international free agent from the Dominican Republic. The right-handed pitcher was part of a trade to the Cardinals organization in 2011 after spending time as a prospect for both the New York Mets and Seattle Mariners. In five starts for Palm Beach, Cleto accumulated a 2.48 ERA and a WHIP of 1.034 in 2011. The impressive numbers helped earn him a promotion to Double-A Springfield, before being called up directly to the majors in June.

Cleto would spend time with both the Cardinals and Chicago White Sox from 2011-14, where he saw action in 41 big league matchups as a relief pitcher.