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NON-PROFIT GROUPS EARN IN EXCESS OF $400,000WORKING ISOTOPES PARK CONCESSIONS IN ‘22

December 16, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

The Albuquerque Isotopes today announced that the 10 non-profit groups working concessions at Isotopes Park cumulatively raised 405,731 during the 2022 season.

Since the facility opened in 2003, stadium concessionaire Oak View Group has employed non-profit groups to operate many of the concessions stands at the ballpark, helping raise funds for their individual organizations. The cumulative amount raised by these non-profit groups since the Isotopes’ inaugural 2003 season is now in excess of $4 million.

“We are extremely proud to have such a positive impact working with these groups and to allow them to have such meaningful fund raising opportunities,” Isotopes General Manager John Traub said. “Our goal as an organization is to help the community in a multitude of ways, and we are very pleased with this initiative.”

“Non-profit groups are a big part of our operation and are a key to the success of the ballpark,” Oak View Group General Manager Brad Six said. “But the impact it has on the community and the charities the groups are working towards is very important to us.”

Groups must work a minimum number of games and will then split the net proceeds from their concession stand with the Isotopes. Any groups interested in learning how they can raise money working concessions at Isotopes Park in 2023 can contact Brad Six at (505) 222-4032 or [email protected].

Tagged as : Albuquerque Isotopes, Colorado Rockies, Fundraising Opportunities, New Mexico, Pacific Coast League, Supporting the Community { }

“BREAKING BAD/BETTER CALL SAUL” AUCTION RAISES $100,790 FOR CHARITY

July 31, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

The Albuquerque Isotopes “Breaking Bad/Better Call Saul” silent auction raised $100,790. All of the proceeds will be split between the New Mexico Veterans Integration Centers and Children’s Cancer Fund of New Mexico.

Top three selling items:

Salamanca Cousin Boots – $10,600

Walter White Life-Size Bust: $7,000

“Better Call Saul” Pilot Script: $6,500

Thirteen of the 37 packages sold for $4,000 or more.

 

Tagged as : Albuquerque Isotopes, Cancer Awareness, Charity Auctions/Raffles, Children's Health and Development, Colorado Rockies, Hospitals/Medical Research, Military & Veterans, Pacific Coast League { }

Spokane Indians and Les Schwab Tires Team Up to Restore Fairchild AFB Softball Fields

July 26, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

The Spokane Indians and Les Schwab Tires teamed up in support of our Armed Forces and restored a pair of softball fields at Fairchild Air Force Base on Tuesday, July 19th as part of the team’s Community Fields Project presented by Les Schwab Tires.

“We always enjoy supporting baseball and softball at a grassroots level in our community and getting the chance to do it for our friends at Fairchild was especially meaningful,” said Otto Klein, Spokane Indians Senior Vice President. “We’re grateful for the sacrifices they’ve made and hope they enjoy utilizing these refurbished fields.”

Indians front office staff and members of the grounds crew as well as volunteers from Les Schwab removed weeds and rocks, added new sod to the infield skirt, spread field conditioner, installed new mounds and bases on both fields, and striped and prepped the fields.

“Les Schwab is proud to invest time and resources into events and organizations that promote responsibility, hard work and serving the community – values our company believes in,” said Chris Zimmerman, Airway Heights Les Schwab Store Manager. “We are happy to have the opportunity to support our friends at Fairchild.”

Additional supplies and materials for the project were made possible by supporting sponsors AAA and Bulldog Rooter.

Previously restored fields include War Veterans Memorial Field in Wellpinit, Washington in 2021 and Glover Field (now Redband Park) in Peaceful Valley in 2017.

Through the Community Fields Project, the Indians and partners have pledged to restore a minimum of one baseball/softball field in the Spokane region each year. Suggestions for new fields to be included in the program can be submitted to: [email protected].

Tagged as : Children's Health and Development, Colorado Rockies, Field Renovations, Northwest League, Spokane Indians, Supporting the Community, Volunteering, Youth Sports { }

BRYAN CRANSTON, AARON PAUL TO HOST “BREAKING BAD” MEMORABILIA SILENT AUCTION FOR CHARITY JULY 30 AT ISOTOPES PARK 

June 30, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

The Albuquerque Isotopes today announced “Breaking Bad” stars Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul will host a silent auction Saturday, July 30 at Isotopes Park. The Emmy-winning actors are also scheduled to throw out the ceremonial first pitch and sing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” during that evening’s game.

Proceeds from the auction will benefit two local charities:

New Mexico Veterans Integration Centers**:** A resource for Veterans and their families in New Mexico, the VIC provides many services, including multiple housing assistance options, peer support, food and nutrition, and case management services to Veterans, their families, and the community.

Children’s Cancer Fund of New Mexico: From the moment a New Mexico child is diagnosed with cancer, the CCFNM is there to help. Generous donations directly support these children and their families in the following manner: Assistance for transportation costs, food vouchers, prizes for children and teens to help minimize the trauma of painful procedures, scholarship assistance and much more.

All silent auction items will be donated from the personal collections of both Cranston and Paul, who starred in the hit television series from 2008-2013. The auction—which will be held exclusively at Isotopes Park—will begin when the gates open at 5:30 pm and will last through the fifth inning. The specific auction items will be announced in the coming weeks. The auction winners will be invited to attend a private photo op with both Cranston and Paul during that night’s game.

“Albuquerque was our creative home throughout the run of Breaking Bad, and will always have a warm place in my heart,” Cranston said. “Now, Aaron and I thought we can do something to say thank you in the best way possible, by raising money for two very important charities that serve the ABQ community, while also having fun at the ballpark.”

“ABQ…we see you. Doing the math – the city has been the host to Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul for sixteen years! That is a long-term relationship,” Paul said. “We were so grateful the city was an important part of the stories, because it was a character as well. Thank you, Albuquerque. See you at the game, everyone!”

The auction will highlight a festive evening, as the 6:35 pm game vs. Las Vegas will feature Blake’s Lotaburger Green Chile Cheeseburgers Night and a post-game Fireworks Spectacular.

Cranston and Paul will be returning to Albuquerque, in part, to promote their Dos Hombres Mezcal which has become the number six Mezcal in North American sales in just under three years. Dos Hombres Margaritas will be available at Isotopes Park starting in mid-July.

An updated version of the Isotopes 2022 schedule is linked here. Fans can purchase individual tickets to all remaining Isotopes home games here. Information on group outings can be found here.

Tagged as : Albuquerque Isotopes, Charity Auctions/Raffles, Children's Health and Development, Colorado Rockies, Family Relief/Resources, Military & Veterans, New Mexico, Pacific Coast League, Shelters/Housing { }

Yard Goats to Host HBCU/Negro League Celebration Three-Day Event 

June 14, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

“LEVELING the PLAYING FIELD” June 15th-17th

(Hartford, CT) The Hartford Yard Goats Baseball Club, the Double-A Eastern League affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, announced it will be hosting a three-day event called LEVELING the PLAYING FIELD from June 15th through June 17th in Hartford. The events will take place at the South End Boys & Girls Club, Hooker Live and Dunkin’ Donuts Park. The three-day event is presented by the Hartford Yard Goats Foundation, and Charter Oak Family Health Center.

In 2021, the Yard Goats celebrated the 100th Anniversary of the Negro Baseball Leagues through music, dance, exhibitions, presentations and more. This year, the Yard Goats are excited to highlight the history and experience of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Both the Negro Leagues and Black Colleges were formed as a result of racial discrimination, and on the premise of providing equal opportunities for Black students and baseball players.

Events Schedule:

Day 1: WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15**th* *(5:00 PM)**

Location: SOUTH END BOYS & GIRLS CLUB (129-131 Ledyard Street, Hartford)

“LEGEND BEHIND THE PLATE” -THE JOSH GIBSON STORY

* -Documentary & talk back with Sean Gibson (great grandson of Josh Gibson)*

* -Doors open at 5:00 and program begins at 5:45*

Day 2: THURSDAY, JUNE 16**th* *(5:00 PM-7:00 PM)**

Location: HOOKER LIVE (1 Sequassen Street, Hartford)

AN UNFILTERED PANEL DISCUSSION AROUND RACIAL AND GENDER EQUITY

* -Moderated by Jay Williams, President & CEO of The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving*

-Panel includes: Sean Gibson (President of Josh Gibson Foundation), Mary-Jane Foster (President & CEO of Interval House), Tony Womack (former MLB All-Star & World Series Champion), Cheryl Sharp (Civil Rights Attorney/Deputy Director of CHRO), JP Blandin (Head Coach of Delaware State University Baseball)

Day 3: FRIDAY, JUNE 17 (4:00 PM)

PRE-GAME BLOCK PARTY

Location: Heaven Skate Park

YARD GOATS GAME

Location: Dunkin’ Donuts Park

Virginia State Trojans Marching Band, Live DJ Wrexx & Big Regg, Greek Strolls, Steppers, Dancers, Youth Marching Bands from across Connecticut, Painting & More

The first-place Yard Goats return home for a six-game homestand tonight (7:05 PM) against the Akron RubberDucks. Tickets for all games are available on the Yard Goats website (yardgoatsbaseball.com), or over the phone or in person at the Click-It-Or-Ticket Box office.

Tagged as : Arts Appreciation, Children's Health and Development, Colorado Rockies, Diversity/Inclusion, Eastern League, Hartford Yard Goats, Honoring History, Supporting the Community { }

FREE Play Ball Baseball Clinic on Sunday, June 12th

May 25, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

SPOKANE, Wash. – Join the Spokane Indians on Sunday, June 12th as we celebrate Play Ball Weekend at Avista Stadium! This free baseball youth clinic is presented by Leo’s Photography and will feature instruction from Athletic Edge, a local baseball, softball, and fastpitch training facility.

All participants will receive a complimentary Franklin Wiffle-Ball and Bat set following the conclusion of this clinic. Space is limited to the first 200 registrants.

WHEN: Sunday, June 12th. Session One runs from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Session Two runs from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

WHERE: Avista Stadium (602 N. Havana St)

WHO: Kids between the ages of 5-12, limited to the first 200 registrants (100 per session)

HOW: Please CLICK HERE to register for Session One or CLICK HERE to register for Session Two.

COST: FREE!

*ABOUT THE PLAY BALL INITIATIVE
*

PLAY BALL Weekend is a concerted effort from Major League Baseball to promote the games of baseball and softball to youth across the combined 150 Major League and Minor League markets. Youth are encouraged to learn more about the games and will be provided opportunities to gain new skills in a fun environment.

ABOUT THE SPOKANE INDIANS

The Spokane Indians are the High-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies located in Spokane, Washington, and were named 2021 MiLB Organization of the Year. Avista Stadium is home to the MultiCare Kids Bench Seat. Parking at all Spokane Indians games is FREE. The Spokane Indians office and team store hours are 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM on Monday through Thursday and 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM on Fridays. On game days, the office and team store are open from 10:00 AM through the end of the game.

Tagged as : Baseball Camps/Instruction, Children's Health and Development, Colorado Rockies, Northwest League, Spokane Indians, Youth Sports { }

Spokane Indians and Avista Utilities Team Up to Host Fairchild Families

May 12, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Spokane, WASH. – Each quarter, Fairchild Air Force Base hosts family members of deployed personnel on base, providing a welcome distraction and the chance to spend time with families facing similar challenges. At these events, the goal is to provide a free meal and entertainment while enjoying each other’s company and support.

This spring, in light of recent world events, the Spokane Indians and Avista Utilities teamed up to host this event with over 100 family members of deployed personnel from Fairchild at the ballpark on Friday, April 22nd.

The group enjoyed a ballpark-catered dinner in the Coors Light Caboose and cheered on the Indians to a 7-3 victory over the Hillsboro Hops on a gorgeous spring night at Avista Stadium.

Lindsey Diaz, whose grandfather played in the New York Mets organization, threw out the first pitch before the game. Her husband, Lt. Col. Valentino “Tino” Diaz, has been in the Air Force since 2005 and is currently stationed in the European Theater.

“It means everything to have someone who is going through the same things you are going through,” said Lindsey. “And an event like this to bring it all together – it’s super fun.”

Marissa Korzilius’ husband Lt. Col. Joshua Korzilius, who was in the same class at the Air Force Academy as Lt. Col. Diaz, has been in the European Theater since October. The mother of four is thankful to have the support of the Spokane community and fellow military spouses like Lindsey.

“Things like this help, seeing the community rally around you,” said Marissa. “The kids are able to do something fun and get their mind off missing dad.”

The night at the ballpark for the deployed families started with a light rain but ended with an Indians win, a beautiful sunset, and a rainbow over the Caboose, showing that — with a little help from the community and support from friends and family – there are brighter days ahead.

NEXT HOMESTAND

The Indians return home to Avista Stadium for a six-game series against the Eugene Emeralds starting on Tuesday, May 17th with the Businessperson’s Special Day Game presented by the Journal of Business & KXLY AM 920/100.7 FM. Daytime baseball is back at Avista Stadium with a first pitch at 12PM. Move your afternoon business meetings to the ballpark for a hot dog and beer! Bring your gently used neckties to donate to local charities. CLICK HERE for tickets.

ABOUT THE SPOKANE INDIANS

The Spokane Indians are the High-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies located in Spokane, Washington, and were named 2021 MiLB Organization of the Year. Avista Stadium is home to the MultiCare Kids Bench Seat. Parking at all Spokane Indians games is FREE. The Spokane Indians office and team store hours are 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM on Monday through Thursday and 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM on Fridays. On game days, the office and team store are open from 10:00 AM through the end of the game.

Tagged as : Colorado Rockies, Family Relief/Resources, Military & Veterans, Northwest League, Spokane Indians, Washington { }

Celebrating Earth Day with the Spokane Indians

April 22, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Spokane, WASH. – In 2019, the Spokane Indians expanded sustainability efforts with the announcement of the Zero Waste campaign and the stated goal of achieving Zero Waste Facility status at Avista Stadium. In 2021, Spokane County Regional Solid Waste joined the campaign, but the overall objective remained the same: to be an industry leader in sustainability in Minor League Baseball. In addition to waste reduction efforts, the Spokane Indians have identified energy and water initiatives as a way to round out the environmental strategy.

WASTE

Over 60 Zero Waste stations with directive signage have been installed throughout the stadium to help fans get their waste into the proper stream – Landfill, Compost, or Recycling. To educate and further engage fans, there are nightly PA announcements, radio spots, and several promotional elements tied to the zero waste efforts including a recycle-focused between inning promotion and Kids Zone games. In addition, there are dedicated waste reduction staff members called the

Green Team: One of the duties of this group is running the in-house sorting area which is located behind the right field bench seats. Sorting occurs during and after every home game in the “Compost Corner”. You will also see the Green Team wearing their Spokane County Regional Solid Waste branded shirts during the game on the inner concourse keeping the stadium clean, educating fans, and answering questions. During the 2021 season the diversion rate (recycling and compost waste that doesn’t go to a landfill) at Avista Stadium was 58%. In 2022 the Indians are looking to build on this success, switching several concession items to compostable containers and improving sorting practices.

ENERGY

The Spokane Indians have been conscious of energy usage since 2001 when game times were moved to 6:30 PM, taking advantage of natural light and reducing energy consumption. During the 2022 season Saturday games in April and May will start at 5:09 PM and all Sunday games (with the exception of the season finale) will start at 1:05 PM.

Solar panels were installed on the administrative building in 2013, and they have been providing power to the grid for over eight years now. In addition, the Spokane Indians participate in Avista Utilities programs centered around carob footprint reduction and investment in solar and other renewables. Most notably, the Spokane Indians have been a part of the Avista “My Clean Energy” program since 2010. A program that provides an avenue for customers to support renewable energy projects and offset their carbon footprint. To date, the Spokane Indians have contributed to an offset equivalent of 94.4 metric tons of CO per year.

The Spokane Indians are committed to working with Avista on improving the energy efficiency of Avista Stadium.

WATER

In 2017, the Spokane Indians Baseball team, together with the Spokane Tribe of Indians and City of Spokane introduced the Redband Rally Campaign in honor of Spokane’s signature fish, the native Redband Trout. This campaign is designed to bring awareness to the Redband trout’s habitat in the Spokane River while rallying the community to protect and keep the river clean.

To create a visible presence and to honor the native Redband trout, the baseball team introduced a new logo that is featured on apparel, signage, headbands, and artwork. In addition to in-stadium promotions, the Spokane Indians established the Redband Rally Fund to financially support local and regional projects that further the campaign’s mission. To date the fund has raised nearly $40,000 and helped to support several projects that improve Redband habitat and the health of the Spokane River.

You can help further our mission with a donation to the Redband Rally campaign through our partners at the Innovia Foundation, or by purchasing official Redband Rally merchandise as a portion of each sale is donated to the Redband Rally fund.

ABOUT THE SPOKANE INDIANS

The Spokane Indians are the High-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies located in Spokane, Washington, and were named 2021 MiLB Organization of the Year. Avista Stadium is home to the MultiCare Kids Bench Seat. Parking at all Spokane Indians games is FREE. The Spokane Indians office and team store hours are 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM on Monday through Thursday and 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM on Fridays. On game days, the office and team store are open from 10:00 AM through the end of the game.

Tagged as : Colorado Rockies, Environmental Awareness/Recycling, Northwest League, Spokane Indians, Sustainability { }

Hartford Yard Goats & Eversource Launch Student Reading Challenge 

March 22, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Hartford Yard Goats & Eversource Launch Student Reading Challenge Students who read five books will earn two tickets to a Yard Goats game at Dunkin’ Donuts Park

Hartford, Conn- The Hartford Yard Goats Baseball Club, the Double-A Affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, in partnership with Eversource, New England’s largest energy delivery company, has launched a student reading challenge for the 2022 season. Students (K-8th grade) who read five books outside of the school curriculum between now and August 10th will earn two tickets to a Yard Goats game at Dunkin’ Donuts Park in Hartford. One lucky student will be selected to throw out the ceremonial first pitch. Students can submit their five books and preferred game date through an online form.

“We are extremely excited to partner with Eversource on the Yard Goats Reading Challenge for students throughout Connecticut,” Yard Goats President Tim Restall said. “This program will be a fun way for students to set reading goals, and get rewarded for their efforts with tickets to a Yard Goats game. We look forward to honoring all of these diligent readers at a game this summer.”

The Yard Goats encourages all school principals, teachers, and parents to share this exciting program with their students. The Yard Goats introduced the reading challenge with a video story of “Just a Dream” by Chris Van Allsburg, which is available on (www.yardgoatsbaseball.com)), and can be shown in class. This is a story about a boy who does not care about the environment until he a terrifying dream about the future of the planet. This dream changes the boy’s perspective and encourages him to make positive energy and environmental behavior changes to keep the planet healthy.

“We’re proud to support the Reading Challenge this year and kicking it off by reading ‘Just A Dream’ is a great way to not only share the importance of reading but also teach students the value of energy efficiency,” said Eversource Vice President of Energy Efficiency Tilak Subrahmanian. “We’re always working to help our customers save money and energy, and educating kids allows them to use what they learn to help save energy in their own homes and share that information with their families.”

The Yard Goats open the 2022 season on Friday, April 8th (7:05 PM) against the New York Mets affiliate, the Binghamton Rumble Ponies. Individual game tickets, season tickets, group tickets, and luxury suites are now available for purchase on the Yard Goats website (yardgoatsbaseball.com), or over the phone

(860-246-4628), and all tickets will be delivered digitally. The Click-It-Or-Ticket Box office is open from Monday-Friday (10AM-5PM).

Tagged as : Colorado Rockies, Connecticut, Eastern League, Hartford Yard Goats { }

Top 5 Black Players in Fresno Grizzlies History

February 23, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

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.”

Here is a look at five of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for the Fresno Grizzlies:

Fred Lewis

Fred Lewis was selected by the San Francisco Giants in the 2nd round of the 2002 draft out of HBCU Southern University and A&M College. Lewis dominated the lower levels of the Giants system before being called up to Fresno for a cup of coffee in 2004. After that quick stint, Lewis would make it back to the Grizzlies for the 2006 season. Over 120 games, Lewis batted .276 with an .828 OPS and at the time, a single-season, franchise-record 11 triples. His season was extended as he earned a September call-up to the Giants. In 2007, Lewis split time with Fresno and the Giants, appearing in a combined 100 games with a .290 batting average. Lewis’ last stint in Fresno came in 2010, playing in seven games. Lewis finished his career in 2015, but was known as a crowd favorite among both Grizzlies and Giants fans.

Tony Kemp

Tony Kemp was selected by the Houston Astros in the 5th round of the 2013 draft out of baseball powerhouse Vanderbilt University. Kemp vaulted through the lower levels of the Houston system before reaching Fresno during the middle of the 2015 season. For the next couple of years, Kemp would bounce between the Grizzlies and Astros. When he donned the F-slash, Kemp was unstoppable. Over four seasons (2015-18) with the Grizzlies, Kemp appeared in 296 games, slashing .312/.373/.425. He also ranks in the Top 10 of four different offensive categories for Grizzlies career records. He is first in triples (21), fourth in steals (67), eighth in runs (206) and 10th in hits (372). Despite multiple trades and teams, Kemp is still talked about as one of the biggest and kindest-hearted players to ever play for the Fresno Grizzlies.

Calvin Murray

Calvin Murray was selected by the Cleveland Indians in the 1st round of the 1989 draft, but decided to not sign and take his talents to the University of Texas. Three years later, the San Francisco Giants drafted Murray with the 7th overall pick and he signed. Murray was a part of the first 1998 Fresno Grizzlies team after spending a couple of seasons with the Phoenix Firebirds. He would spend three seasons in Fresno (1998-99, 2001), with the major chunk of it coming in 1999. In that year, Murray would go on to win the PCL Most Valuable Player, one of only two Grizzlies to ever earn those honors. Murray played 130 games, racking up 183 hits, 297 total bases and scoring 122 runs. The latter three statistics are all single-season Grizzlies records. Murray also stole 42 bases and batted .334 (top 10 single-season marks). That season will go down as one of the best offensive displays in Grizzlies history, despite it being only the second year of the Grizzlies’ existence. Besides that, Murray is known as the batter facing Randy Johnson when Johnson hit a dove with a fastball in a spring training game in 2001 and is the uncle of NFL Quarterback Kyler Murray.

Emmanuel Burriss

Emmanuel Burriss was selected by the San Francisco Giants in the 1st round of the 2006 draft out of Kent State University. Burriss spent his first couple of seasons at the Single-A Level before making the leap to Fresno in 2008. After two weeks-worth of games, Burriss had his contract selected by the Giants. For the next four years, Burriss would split time between the Central Valley and the Bay Area. He enjoyed a couple of bright spots over those four years, which included being San Francisco’s youngest Opening Day starting second baseman (2009) since Robbie Thompson back in 1986. In 2011, Burriss batted .297 over 45 games with the Grizzlies, stealing 24 bases and scoring 31 times. Most notably, he swiped a Grizzlies franchise-record four bags on April 8th against the Las Vegas 51s. Burriss finished his Fresno career playing 172 games over five seasons and became one of the best do-it-all players in Grizzlies history.

Jalal Leach

Jalal Leach was selected by the New York Yankees in the 7th round of the 1990 draft out of Pepperdine University. After playing for eight years and a trio of teams, Leach still hadn’t cracked the big leagues. At that point, he was offered a coaching position by Brian Sabean, despite still wanting to play. After some roster moves, Leach was activated as a player and would head to Fresno for the next four years, which included joining the 1998 Grizzlies club. Over those four seasons, Leach became one of the most lethal bats in the Pacific Coast League and Grizzlies history. He finished his Fresno career with four Top-10 franchise records, which included homers (8th, 52), triples (6th, 15), doubles (7th, 73) and RBI (7th, 216). The culmination of his determination and prowess at the plate earned him his long-awaited call-up to the Giants in 2001. Leach is the definition of Farm Grown in Fresno.

Tagged as : California, California League, Colorado Rockies, Diversity/Inclusion, Fresno Grizzlies, Honoring History { }

Yard Goats Recognize Influential Black Players In History 

February 22, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

We take a look back at some of the most influential black players in the long history of the Yard Goats organization during the month of February.

As we celebrate Black History Month, 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, 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.

The Nine was named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946. The Hartford Yard Goats celebrated this launch by recognizing some of the top black players in our franchise history.

As many know, the Yard Goats franchise can be traced back to 1973 when the Bristol Red Sox became the Red Sox Double-A affiliate. This would be the birth of the longest continuous professional sports team in the state of Connecticut. The franchise began with a home run as 20-year-old outfielder Jim Rice won the league batting title before going on to have a Hall of Fame career with the Boston Red Sox. Rice, who was an All-Star in Double-A, led the league with a .317 batting average and was the team leader in batting, hits, home runs (27), RBI (93), Slugging, and OPS.

Bristol also had star pitcher Dennis “Oil Can” Boyd, who went 14-8 with a 2.81 ERA in his only season at the Double-A level in 1982. “The Can” was called up directly from Bristol and pitched three games for Boston that season. He joined the Red Sox rotation full time the following season and played ten years in the Major Leagues while helping lead the Red Sox to the 1986 American League Pennant.

The Bristol Red Sox relocated to New Britain, and future American League MVP and Connecticut native Mo Vaughn arrived in 1989. The “Hit Dog” actually began his professional career in the Hardware City and batted .278 with 15 doubles, 8 home runs and 38 RBI in 74 games after a stellar college career where he became one of the most prolific hitters in Seton Hall history. In the Major Leagues, Vaughn blasted 26 plus home runs in nine consecutive seasons and was named to three All-Star teams. The Norwalk product led the AL with 126 RBI in his MVP season of 1995 and is a member of the Red Sox Hall of Fame.

Former 18-year Major League veteran Ellis Burks had his longest minor league stint with this franchise. The two-time MLB All-Star played in 257 games in New Britain, including the entire 1985 and 1986 seasons before starting his major league career in 1987. The former first round pick, played six seasons in Boston, a year with the White Sox, and became an All-Star again with the Colorado Rockies. After five seasons with the Rockies, Burks played three with the Giants and Indians and then returned to Boston where he finished his career in 2004. He is a member of the Red Sox Hall of Fame.

The New Britain Red Sox became the New Britain Rock Cats with a new affiliation, the Minnesota Twins. In 1996, a 20-year-old outfielder Torii Hunter arrived and became the team’s first big star. Like Burks, Hunter spent most of his minor league time in New Britain, playing in over 300 career games with the Rock Cats. Over that span, he cranked 21 homers and had 121 RBI, and his spectacular defense gave everyone a preview of his future nine gold gloves that he would win in the majors. The five-time MLB All-Star played 11 seasons with the Twins, five with the Angels, and two with the Tigers, before returning to Minnesota for his final season in 2015. He is a member of the Twins Hall of Fame.

Some of the other tremendous black players to wear the Rock Cats uniform include outfielders Matt Lawton, Jacque Jones, Denard Span, Ben Revere and Aaron Hicks who all went on to play eight or more seasons in the Major Leagues. Lawton was a two-time All-Star, Jones helped the Twins win three straight American League Central Division titles, Span led the majors in triples in 2013 and set a Nationals’ franchise hits record while leading the National League in 2014, Revere led the NL in runs scored in 2014, and Hicks, about to start his 10th season in the Majors, has enjoyed 3 years where he finished in the top 5 in outfield assists.

Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton was on the fast track to the bigs after being the second overall pick in the 2012 draft out of high school. Buxton reached New Britain as a 20-year-old, with just over a year of professional experience with the wooden bat. It was unfortunate that Buxton got hurt in his only game as a Rock Cats player but many knew that he had a bright future. He is known for his outstanding play in the outfield and is one of the fastest runners in Major League Baseball. Buxton is coming off one of his best offensive seasons in 2021 when he batted .306 with 23 doubles, 19 home runs and 32 RBI with the Twins.

On April 13, 2017 the Harford Yard Goats played their first ever game at Dunkin’ Donuts Park in Hartford. Right-handed pitcher Yency Almonte started for the home team and pitched well, recording eight strikeouts in five innings of work in front of a capacity crowd. The following season in 2018, Almonte reached the Major Leagues and posted a 1.84 ERA in 14 relief outings with the Colorado Rockies. He spent parts of the past four seasons in Colorado.

Tagged as : Colorado Rockies, Connecticut, Diversity/Inclusion, Eastern League, Hartford Yard Goats, Honoring History { }

The Nine: The Early Years (1888-1971)

February 18, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

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. It’s named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946. The Albuquerque Isotopes will look back at the rich history of Black ballplayers in the Duke City by highlighting the Top Nine over various eras.

P/2B Bud Fowler – 1888

Bud Fowler played professional baseball all over the United States, usually only one year at a time due to the color of his skin. Fowler integrated baseball in New Mexico in 1888, playing for a team in Santa Fe, the only year of the New Mexico Baseball League, and also co-owned a barber shop at the Plaza. Historians estimate he played for more than a dozen leagues and Fowler himself said “22 different states and in Canada.” In 1909, the Berkshire Eagle wrote, “For 16 years he was a pitcher and for 12 years a second baseman, and he never wore a glove, taking everything that came his way with bare hands. He was considered the equal of any man who ever covered the position.” Fowler will be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in July 2022.

1B/C/OF Bill Pettus – 1902-03, 1906

Bill Pettus skirted the so-called “gentlemen’s agreement” for many years, playing baseball in 1902 and 1903 in Albuquerque, the only Black player on an otherwise all-White team. Pettus was manager and team captain in 1905 for a team made up of 10 Mexicans and 2 Blacks. They went 48-1 that season. After a year as the only Black player on teams in Oakland and San Francisco, Pettus returned to Albuquerque in 1906. He caught for the Santa Fe Salmon Grays in 1907. Pettus also made money boxing and working the coal mines near Madrid, NM. He accumulated a .330 lifetime batting average over 12 years in the Negro Leagues for teams in Kansas City, Brooklyn, New York and Philadelphia.

OF/1B William Guice – 1953-54

William Lee “Bill” Guice attended high school in Alabama, where was a three-sport star, and served four years in the Air Force. Guice was one of three Black players on the 1953 pennant-winning Albuquerque Dukes team. Guice was unstoppable, compiling a .351 batting average, 32 doubles, 18 triples, 23 home runs and 145 RBIs in 139 games. He slugged .602, posted a 1010 OPS and was a West Texas-NM League All Star. The Chicago Cubs purchased his contract after the season and he played two more years in the minors, but a career-ending knee injury forced him to retire. Guice and his wife, Gladys, moved to Limo, Ohio. He worked the rest of his life at General Motors and the Teledyne Ohio Steel Foundry, and remained an active ballplayer and bowling in community leagues.

1B/OF Herbert Simpson – 1952-54

One of the biggest trailblazers for integrating baseball in the West, Herbert Harold “Briefcase” Simpson was one of the last links to Negro League Baseball when he died in 2015. Simpson integrated the Class-A Western International League in 1952, when he played at Spokane, then integrated the Class-C West Texas-New Mexico League when his contract was sold to the Dukes. Simpson played three years in Albuquerque and was one of the most popular players. His best season was 1953, when he slashed .372/.475/.563, as the Dukes won the league title. Dukes owner Cy Fausett invited Simpson to marry his high school sweetheart, Sophie Harris, at home plate before a game at Tingley Field in 1954. When Simpson injured his right ankle, the Dukes donated 10 percent of the proceeds from a game to help offset his medical bills.

LHP Grover Blacksher – 1953-54

A few days after graduating from El Cerrito High in Northern California, pitcher Grover Blacksher was signed by the Oakland Oaks of the Pacific Coast League and assigned to the Albuquerque Dukes in the West Texas-NM League. At age 18, Blacksher nearly threw a no-hitter for the Dukes on Sept. 13, 1953, giving up one hit in the eighth inning of a 5-0 win over Lubbock. That was Game 2 of the playoff series against Lubbock. Two weeks later, Blacksher was on the mound for the pennant-clinching victory over Clovis. A diminutive lefty who was listed at 5’7, 150 pounds, Blacksher was a consistent pitcher for the Dukes for two seasons.

RHP Reggie Lee – 1956

The Dukes were affiliated with the New York Giants in 1956 and played in the Class-A Western League. One of their pitchers was born James Reginald Lee in 1933 in Philadelphia. As a player, he went by Reggie Lee and he was a workhorse for the Dukes. Lee started 25 games and went the distance 10 times. Lee compiled an 11-9 record and 4.14 ERA. In an era when strikeouts were rare, Lee whiffed 183 batters in 176 innings (and also walked 115). Lee also hit one home run. Lee played two more seasons of minor league baseball before his professional playing career ended.

OF Willie Crawford – 1966-67

Los Angeles native Willie Crawford was clocked at 9.7 seconds in the 100-yard dash, making him a highly recruited running back for college. But two days after graduating from high school in 1963, Crawford signed with the Dodgers for $100,000. This was before the draft and the “Bonus Baby Rule” meant that Crawford had to spend time in the majors immediately, so Crawford make his debut at age 17 in 1964, and got a pinch-hit single in the 1965 World Series. Crawford played for Double-A Albuquerque in 1966 and 1967. The latter year he led the team to a first-place finish. Crawford was sixth in average (.305), seventh in homers (21) and eighth in OPS (888). He played 14 years in the major leagues and was a starting outfielder on the Dodgers 1974 World Series team.

RHP Leon Everitt – 1967

In an era before pitch counts and innings were monitored closely for young pitchers, Leon Everitt had the type of season in 1967 that would never occur now. At age 20, in his second full season of pro ball, Everitt made 30 starts, went the distance 16 times, tossed two shutouts, and compiled 222 innings. Everitt was 15-13 with a 3.45 ERA, and the Dodgers thought so highly of him, he was included on their roster for a Goodwill Tour to Japan that offseason. McBean reached the majors in 1969 with the expansion San Diego Padres, where he pitched in five games, but that proved to the final season of his career.

OF Von Joshua – 1968, 1972, 1988-92

Von Joshua crosses over a lot of significant markers in the Duke City’s baseball history. In 1968, he played for the Double-A Albuquerque Dodgers in the final season at Tingley Field. In 1972, he played for the Albuquerque Dukes in the first season as a Triple-A affiliate. Joshua won the PCL batting title that year with a .337 average, while adding 47 extra-base hits and 17 stolen bases. He played 10 years in the major leagues, then turned to coaching, and returned to Albuquerque again as the Dukes hitting coach from 1988-92. Joshua was inducted into the Albuquerque Professional Baseball Hall of Fame in 2014.

Other The Nine Articles:

The Nine: Isotopes Era (2003-Current)

The Nine: Triple-A Dukes Era (1972-2000)

Tagged as : Albuquerque Isotopes, Colorado Rockies, Diversity/Inclusion, Honoring History, New Mexico, Pacific Coast League { }

The Nine – Triple-A Dukes Era (1972-2000)

February 9, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

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. It’s named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946. The Albuquerque Isotopes will look back at the rich history of Black ballplayers in the Duke City by highlighting the Top Nine over various eras.

2B Davey Lopes — 1972

Known as part of “The Infield” that was together from 1973-81, Davey Lopes actually started his pro career as an outfielder. Lopes was already 27 years old when he made his Major League Debut, but still played 16 years through his age-42 season. On the 1972 Dukes, Lopes showed the skills that would define his career: .317 batting average, .411 on-base percentage and 48-of-58 stolen bases. Lopes was a four-time All Star, received the most votes of any player for the 1980 All-Star Game, won a Gold Glove, led the league in stolen bases twice, stole 38-straight bases, and was successful on 83% of his career steal attempts.

OF Larry Hisle — 1972

The 1972 Dukes team is one of the best in minor league baseball history, and Hisle was arguably the best player on it. Hisle batted .325 with 23 home runs, 91 RBI and 20 stolen bases over 131 games. That season in Albuquerque was three years _after _Hisley had finished fourth in Rookie of the Year voting and it resurrected his career. Hisle was a two-time All Star with the Twins, leading the league with 119 RBIs in 1977 and mashing 34 home runs the year after. Hisle also owns the unique distinction of being the first designated hitter of a spring training game, in 1973, when he connected on two home runs. As a coach with the Blue Jays, he won World Series titles in 1992 and 1993.

OF Jeffrey Leonard – 1976, 1978

A three-sport star at Overbrook High, Jeffrey “HacMan” Leonard had 60 scholarship offers to play college football and five for basketball, but chose pro baseball even though he wasn’t drafted. Leonard made a mockery of PCL pitching in 1978, slashing .365/.443/.532 with 48 extra-base hits, 93 RBIs and 36 stolen bases. With a crowded outfield, the Dodgers traded Leonard to the Astros and he was the runner-up Rookie of the Year in 1979. Leonard is most remembered for his years with the Giants, when he went from Jeff to Jeffrey, reached his first All-Star Game, became known for his “one-flap down” home run trot, and won the 1987 NLCS Most Valuable Player award, even though his team lost the series.

RHP Dave Stewart – 1977, 1979-80

Known for his “Death Stare” on the mound, Stewart spent the entire 1979 and 1980 seasons with the Dukes. He nearly won the pitchers Triple Crown in 1980, leading the league in innings with a staggering 202, tied for the league lead with 15 wins, and finished second with 125 strikeouts. Stewart won 20 or more games in four straight years for his hometown Oakland A’s from 1987-90 and tossed a no-hitter. But he was most known for his postseason dominance, making 18 starts, posting a 2.84 ERA, a 1.10 WHIP, and winning the MVP three times (1989 World Series, 1990 ALCS and 1993 ALCS). Stewart has worked as a coach, general manager, agent and TV analyst after his playing career ended.

OF Mike Devereaux — 1988

Coming out of powerhouse Arizona State, Mike Devereaux was already a five-tool prospect and his 1988 season with the Dukes vaulted him to one of the best prospects in the sport. Devereaux batted .340, hit 13 home runs en route to a .513 slugging percentage, stole 33 bases and played outstanding center field for the Dukes. But the Dodgers needed pitching, so he was traded to the Orioles for right-hander Mike Morgan. It took Deveraux a few years to get established, then he finished seventh in MVP voting in 1992 with 24 home runs and 107 RBIs. Devereaux won a World Series with the Braves in 1995 and was the MVP of the NLCS. In all, Devereaux played 12 years in the majors and is a member of the Orioles Hall of Fame.

RHP Ken Howell – 1983-84, 1987-88

Whatever role was needed, Ken Howell filled it. He was a swingman for the Dukes in 1984, starting nine games, relieving in nine games, winning eight, finishing seven, and going the distance three times. Howell saved a combined 24 games for the Dodgers in his initial two years in the majors, before a trade to the Phillies and a switch back to the starting rotation. Howell returned to the Dodgers organization in 1988 and posted a dominant 10-1 record with a 3.27 ERA with the Dukes. Howell was a coach for the Dodgers in the majors and minors, and instrumental in the conversion of Kenley Jansen from catcher to pitcher. Diagnosed with diabetes, Howell brought attention to the disease, before passing away in 2018 at age 57.

INF Eric Young, Sr. – 1991-92

Despite being a 43rd round draft pick, Eric Young reached the major leagues and stayed there for 15 seasons. Young’s final year in the minors was in 1992 with the Dukes, when he walked more times (33) than he struck out (18), compiled a .337 batting average and stole 28 bases. Young was a Dodger then, but his connections to the Rockies are stronger. Selected in the expansion draft, Young hit a leadoff home run in the Rockies first home game in 1993, was an instrumental member of their 1995 playoff team, and his son Eric Junior played for the Rockies as well. Senior won a World Series as a member of the Braves coaching staff in 2021.

OF Darryl Strawberry – 1993

Darryl Strawberry went 10 years between appearances in the minor leagues, from his final game as a top prospect with Triple-A Tidewater in 1983, until starting a rehab assignment for the Dukes in 1993. Strawberry was returning from a back injury that only allowed him to play 32 games that year for the Dodgers. He signed autographs for seemingly everyone in Albuquerque and talked to reporters frequently during his rehab assignment. Strawberry went 6-for-19 with two doubles, a home run and two RBIs in five games for the Dukes. Strawberry played 17 years in the major league, was selected to eight All-Star Games, won World Series titles with the Mets in 1986 and the Yankees in 1996 and 1999.

1B Eddie Murray — 1997

Eddie Murray thought his playing career was over when the Angels released him on August 14, 1997. But six days later, after a call from Dodgers General Manager Fred Claire, Murray was at the Albuquerque Sports Stadium, wearing a Dukes uniform and talking to reporters. The 41-year-old Murray played nine games for the Dukes, batted .308, hit a pair of home runs, then the Dodgers brought him back to the major leagues to conclude his Hall of Fame career. Murray was an eight-time All-Star, three-time Gold Glove and Silver Slugger award winner, won the 1977 Rookie of the Year, finished in the Top 6 of MVP voting seven times, and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2003.

Check back to www.abqisotopes.com throughout February as we celebrate the most prominent Black players in the Duke City’s history from the Isotopes era (2003-current), the Dukes Triple-A era (1972-2000), and the Early Years (1888-1971).

Tagged as : Albuquerque Isotopes, Colorado Rockies, Diversity/Inclusion, Honoring History, New Mexico, Pacific Coast League { }

The Nine: Isotopes Era (2003-Current)

February 4, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

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. It’s named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946. The Albuquerque Isotopes will look back at the rich history of Black ballplayers in the Duke City by highlighting the Top Nine over various eras.

1B Ryan Howard — 2017

When news broke that Ryan Howard was attempting a comeback, that he signed with the Colorado Rockies, and was assigned to Triple-A Albuquerque, the initial thought was disbelief. Really? The three-time All-Star first baseman, the 2005 Rookie of the Year, the 2006 Most Valuable Player, the slugger with 382 home runs is really coming to the Isotopes? Yes, it was true. Howard made his Isotopes debut on August 13, 2017. He played in 16 games over the last three weeks, and while his batting average was only .192, seven of his 10 hits were for extra bases, including a walk-off home run to defeat Reno on August 30.

Manager Glenallen Hill – 2015-19

Once or twice a year, Glenallen Hill stepped into the batting cage at Isotopes Park, and with an effortless swing, launched balls out of the ballpark and into the CNM Parking Lot. It was a reminder of the feared slugger who blasted 182 home runs over 13 years in the majors, including one onto the Rooftops across the street from Wrigley Field. Hill’s job with the Isotopes was manager, however, and his calm demeanor was appreciated by Triple-A players whose careers are often at a crossroads. Hill nearly guided the Isotopes into the playoffs in 2016 and 2017, and always had a knack for finding a creative way to tell players they were going to The Show.

Hitting Coach Franklin Stubbs – 1983-85, 2013-14

The baseball life of Franklin Stubbs went full circle when the Dodgers made him their hitting coach at Triple-A Albuquerque for the 2013 and 2014 seasons. As a player, Stubbs was a former first-round pick by the Dodgers in 1982 and played parts of three seasons with the Dukes from 1983-85. Stubbs etched his name into the baseball history books on June 2, 1983, when he hit four home runs in one game at the old Albuquerque Sports Stadium. After his playing career ended, Stubbs took to mentoring younger players as a coach. Stubbs’ star pupil in 2014 was Joc Pederson, the Pacific Coast League’s Most Valuable Player.

1B John Lindsey – 2010

“Big John” was a baseball lifer who played 21 seasons of professional baseball, appearing in 2,277 games and accumulating 9,213 plate appearances. His best season came in 2010, at age 33, when Lindsey slashed .353/.400/.657 for the Isotopes. Lindsey just missed a batting title by percentage points, but that .353 average remains the best in Isotopes history. Lindsey added 41 doubles and 25 home runs, drove in 97 RBIs, and was rewarded with his only callup to the Major Leagues in September. The only thing bigger than Lindsey’s potent bat was his constant smile. Isotopes fans voted him their “Fan Favorite” by the end of the season.

OF Trayvon Robinson – 2011, 2014

It seemed like destiny that Trayvon Robinson would play for the Dodgers organization. He attended Crenshaw High in Los Angeles, the same as Darryl Strawberry. His last name was the same as Jackie, the trailblazer whose uniform is retired by all MLB teams. The Dodgers selected Trayvon in the 10th round and his five-tool prowess was on display in 2011, when he was selected to the PCL All-Star Game, hit 26 home runs, drove in 71 runs, compiled a .938 OPS and elegantly chased down flyballs in the spacious Isotopes Park outfield. Robinson returned to the Topes in 2014 and was ecstatic to catch the ceremonial first pitch thrown by Petie Gibson, the grandson of Hall of Famer Josh Gibson, on Negro League Tribute Night.

OF Tony Gwynn, Jr. – 2012-13

The first time Tony Gwynn Jr. played at Isotopes Park was during his collegiate years at San Diego State, when his Hall of Fame father was the head coach. Tony has another family connection to the Duke City. His uncle, Chris Gwynn, played for the Dukes from 1987-89. As a Topes player, Tony left his biggest mark in Albuquerque during Game Four of the 2012 playoffs, when the Topes trailed, 10-3, in the seventh inning and were facing elimination. Gwynn’s go-ahead, three-run homer capped a nine-run rally that sent the ballpark into delirium. Gwynn hit an even .300 in 2013, and compiled a .393 on-base percentage, with his discerning eye. But fans also recall the numerous catches Gwynn made on the unique “Topes Slope” in center field.

CF Matt Kemp – 2012-13

Some rehab assignments are more famous than others. When Kemp came to Albuquerque in 2012, he was coming off a runner-up finish in the Most Valuable Player voting, a Gold Glove award in center field, a Silver Slugger, and he’d come tantalizingly close to joining the “40/40 Club” with 39 home runs and 40 stolen bases. On May 27-28, Kemp put on a show, going a combined 5-for-7 with a home run in each game and five RBIs. He returned later in 2012 and again in 2013 on rehab assignments, adding demand at the box office and electricity in the stands.

SS/2B Dee Strange-Gordon – 2011-13

Before he was a two-time All Star, Gold Glove and Silver Slugger winner in the Major Leagues, Gordon terrorized Topes opponents with his speed and hand-eye coordination for the Isotopes. He first arrived at Triple-A in 2011 as a shortstop, hit .333, scored an astounding 51 runs in 70 games, and was successful on 30-of-34 stolen bases, a pace of 118 runs and 69 steals for a 162-game season. After the Dodgers traded for Hanley Ramirez, Gordon was back with the Topes late in the 2012 season and helped them reach the playoffs. Then, in 2013, Gordon made the successful conversion to second base, led the league with 49 stolen bases, and compiled a 20-game hitting streak before returning to the majors for good.

OF Wynton Bernard – 2021

Even before he arrived in Albuquerque, outfielder Wynton Bernard knew all about the city, the food, and the sports facilities. His older brother, Walter, was all All-Conference defensive back for the University of New Mexico football team, and family outings to the Duke City were a regular occurrence. On the diamond, Bernard joined Lindsey and Robinson in getting selected “Fan Favorite” by Isotopes fans in 2021. Bernard wowed fans with his speed, once scoring a game winner on a shallow flyball to left field once, and scored from second base on a groundout to the pitcher. The highlight was making a circus catch, falling down on The Hill in center field, then waving and blowing kisses to the fans while still seated.

https://www.krqe.com/sports/local-sports/isotopes-outfielder-wynton-bernard-has-childhood-ties-to-lobo-football/

Check back to www.abqisotopes.com throughout February as we celebrate the most prominent Black players in the Duke City’s history from the Isotopes era (2003-current), the Dukes Triple-A era (1972-2000) and the Early Years (1888-1971)

Tagged as : Albuquerque Isotopes, Colorado Rockies, Diversity/Inclusion, Honoring History, New Mexico, Pacific Coast League { }

Yard Goats Announce Game Day Application Process for 2022

January 25, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

Yard Goats Announce Game Day Application Process for 2022 Season

Baseball Club looking for upbeat, fan-friendly individuals to work at Dunkin’ Donuts Park this upcoming season

Hartford, Conn- The Hartford Yard Goats Baseball Club, the Double-A Affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, has announced the employment application process for the 2022 season. Starting today, job seekers have the opportunity to apply on the website (www.yardgoatsbaseball.com) for a number of seasonal positions available with the team. For those that are unable to apply on the website, the Yard Goats will also be hosting a Job Fair at Dunkin’ Donuts Park on Saturday, February 19th from 10:00 AM until 1:00 PM.

The Yard Goats are seeking applicants to fill a wide range of game day positions and looking for upbeat, fan-friendly individuals to help make the upcoming season in Hartford another huge success. The Yard Goats was recently named the winner of the Double-A Bob Freitas Award by Baseball America as the top franchise for community involvement, long-term business success, and consistent operational excellence. Dunkin’ Donuts Park attracted over one-million fans over its first three seasons in Hartford.

The Yard Goats and their food and beverage provider, Professional Sports Catering, have opportunities available and will staff an average of 300 positions which include: ushers, ticket takers, box office personnel, merchandising, grounds crew, concessions, kitchen personnel, and catering.

“We are looking for individuals that would like to join us in helping enhance the fan experience with outstanding customer service at Dunkin’ Donuts Park,” Yard Goats General Manager Mike Abramson said. “There is so much excitement leading into the 2022 season and we can’t wait to get our new employees ready for Opening Night on April 8th.”

The Yard Goats open the 2022 season on Friday, April 8th (7:05 PM) against the New York Mets affiliate, the Binghamton Rumble Ponies. Yard Goats season tickets are available by calling 860-246-GOAT (4628).

###

CONTACT:

Jeff Dooley

Hartford Yard Goats Media Relations

Tagged as : Colorado Rockies, Connecticut, Eastern League, Employment Opportunities, Hartford Yard Goats { }

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