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Now Accepting Most Improved Student Nominations

March 5, 2022

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

 

Bridgewater, New Jersey- The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, and NJEA are accepting nominations for most improved students to be honored at TD Bank Ballpark this season.

The Most Improved Student program is designed to recognize those students that have shown improvement in various areas throughout the 2021-2022 school year including social, behavioral and academic categories. Students must be nominated by their teacher!

CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE!

Selected students will receive two complimentary tickets to attend one of two Most Improved Student Nights at the ballpark.

The Patriots will recognize students from Somerset and Union Counties on Tuesday, April 26 and students from Middlesex and Hunterdon Counties on Wednesday, April 27. Both games are scheduled for 6:35 pm against the Portland Sea Dogs (Boston Red Sox).

About the Somerset Patriots

The Somerset Patriots are the New York Yankees Double-A Affiliate and develop today’s top minor league talent into the pinstriped superstars of tomorrow for MLB’s winningest team. The Patriots compete in the Double-A Northeast League and play their home games at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ, where fans of all ages and levels of baseball fandom get to enjoy the unique experience that is minor league baseball.

To learn more, visit: www.somersetpatriots.com

About NJEA

The New Jersey Education Association is proud of our great public schools, ranking #1 in the nation year after year. The mission of the NJEA is to advance and protect the rights, benefits, and interests of members, and promote a quality system of public education for all students. To learn more, visit: www.njea.org

Tagged as : Children's Health and Development, Eastern League, Education/Teacher Support, New Jersey, New York Yankees, Somerset Patriots, Ticket Donations { }

‘Fightin Cancer’ Night with Phillies PA Announcer Dan Baker!

March 2, 2022

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

 

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils are pleased to host ‘Fightin Cancer’ Night at FirstEnergy Stadium on Wednesday, May 25th. The stadium voice of the Phillies and cancer survivor Dan Baker will make an appearance as the R-Phils will honor and support the Darren Daulton Foundation throughout the night. Fans have the opportunity to pay tribute to their own loved ones by participating in the specialty ‘Fightin Cancer’ jersey program.

The R-Phils are proud to stand up and raise money and awareness for one of baseball’s most important fights. This night allows all types of cancer and all different battles to be recognized. We encourage our fans to join us in championing these fighters.

The Cancer Awareness jerseys the R-Phils will wear on May 25th will recognize all forms of cancer that individuals battle. The FIRST 25 families and friends that purchase 20 or more tickets for reserved seating or a picnic area for the May 25th game will have the opportunity to have a loved one represented during the game for no additional charge. The 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.

Dan Baker, best known for his public address announcing at Veterans Stadium, Lincoln Financial Field, and Citizens Bank Park, will be in attendance for a Meet and Greet. He will throw out a ceremonial first pitch and address the crowd. Baker is the longest tenured announcer in Major League Baseball. 2022 represents his 50th season after postponing the milestone due to his cancer and radiation treatment. He had a long stay in the hospital recovering, especially working to regain strength in his voice. After receiving cancer-free scans, the Phillies announced they would induct Baker to their prestigious Wall of Fame.

Please complete this form to reserve the opportunity for a jersey to be worn by a player during the May 25th Fightin Cancer game. A Reading Fightin Phils representative will contact you to confirm your submission and coordinate your group outing for the game on May 25.

The R-Phils have been consistent supporters of the Darren Daulton Foundation, whose mission is to provide financial support to families that are experiencing financial challenges due to treatment of a malignant primary brain tumor diagnosis. Former Fightin Darren “Dutch” Daulton underwent surgery to fight his glioblastoma. He put up a strong fight against cancer after going into remission once, and created this group to help others afflicted by the same disease. He will always be remembered as a giving and loving family member, friend, and teammate. The foundation helps his memory lives on this way. Daulton played 113 games in Baseballtown in 1983.

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._

Tagged as : Cancer Awareness, Eastern League, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Phillies, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events, Reading Fightin Phils { }

National Anthem Auditions Set for April 2

March 1, 2022

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

 

The Bowie Baysox will host live auditions at Prince George’s Stadium on Saturday, April 2, 2022 to perform the national anthem before a 2022 Baysox home game. Stadium gates will open for registration at 9:00 a.m. and auditions will begin at 9:30 a.m. The team will feature a live performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” before all 69 home games this season as it has done for all home games since 1994.

Every participant must register in person, and auditions will be conducted on a first-come, first-audition basis. The auditions will be held rain or shine. National Anthem word/lyric sheets will not be permitted to be used during the audition process nor will they be permitted to be used by those selected to perform the anthem on a game date. All auditions must be done in person. No recordings or videos will be accepted as an audition. People who either performed or were approved to perform during the 2021 season do not have to audition again this year.

The auditions are open to any individual or small group that is interested. Auditions are open to singers and instrumentalists.

Large groups such as school or church organizations interested in performing the national anthem at a game should call the Baysox at (301) 464-4880 during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and speak with a member of our Group Events department.

The 2022 Bowie Baysox season will begin on Friday, April 8, 2022 against the Richmond Flying Squirrels at 7:05 p.m. Keep up to date with all the Baysox news during the offseason by visiting baysox.com and be sure to follow the Baysox on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

For Anthem Audition questions, please e-mail [email protected] with the subject “Anthem Auditions”.

Tagged as : Arts Appreciation, Baltimore Orioles, Bowie Baysox, Contests/Competitions/Auditions, Eastern League, Maryland { }

Patriots Now Accepting National Anthem Submissions For 2022 Season

March 1, 2022

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

 

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, have announced that the team will begin accepting submissions to perform the National Anthem before large crowds at TD Bank Ballpark for games during the 2022 season.

Throughout the month of March, individuals and groups will be able to submit their entries to be considered to perform “The Star Spangled Banner” before Patriots games.

CLICK HERE TO ENTER!

Interested performers will need to upload a video audition for review.

The Patriots promotions team will then judge all applicants on accuracy of notes, strength of voice, confidence, and other criteria that will translate to a strong performance before a game.

Besides traditional group bookings for schools, choruses, and bands, the online submission process will be the only way for performers to audition for the team this season. Entries will not be accepted after 11:59 p.m. on March 31.

About the Somerset Patriots

The Somerset Patriots are the New York Yankees Double-A Affiliate and develop today’s top minor league talent into the pinstriped superstars of tomorrow for MLB’s winningest team. The Patriots compete in the Double-A Northeast League and play their home games at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ, where fans of all ages and levels of baseball fandom get to enjoy the unique experience that is minor league baseball.

To learn more, visit: www.somersetpatriots.com

Tagged as : Arts Appreciation, Contests/Competitions/Auditions, Eastern League, New Jersey, New York Yankees, Somerset Patriots { }

Curve Join Minor League Baseball in Celebration of Black History Month: Josh Bell

February 28, 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.”

After taking a look back at the careers of four of the greatest Black players in Curve history, we wrap up Black History Month by diving into the career of first baseman Josh Bell.

1B Josh Bell (2015)

A native of Irving, Texas, first baseman Josh Bell roared through the Pirates minor league system and quickly established himself as one of the top power hitters in the National League.

Selected by the Pirates in the second round (61st overall) of the 2011 draft, Bell quickly emerged as one of the top prospects in the Pirates minor league system and in his first full season of professional baseball was named a South Atlantic League Mid-Season and Post-Season All-Star with the West Virginia Power. Bell batted .279 with a league-best 37 doubles, two triples, 13 home runs and 52 runs batted in to lead the Power to a Northern Division title and an 82-58 record under future Curve Manager Michael Ryan.

Bell began his 2014 campaign at High-A Bradenton and immediately established himself as one of the leagues best. In a league that was notoriously difficult for young power hitters, Bell grew his game at the plate and found a more contact-oriented approach that led to a third-place finish in batting average (.335) and a 13th place finish in on-base percentage (.385) to go with 20 doubles, four triples ad nine home runs. Named a Mid-Season Florida State League All-Star, Bell earned a late-season promotion to Altoona and batted .284 with seven runs batted in in 24 games. For his outstanding efforts, Bell was named the Pirates Minor League Player of the Year, an award he would claim a second time in 2016.

The 2015 Curve opened the season with high expectations as Bell, Tyler Glassnow, Chad Kuhl and Adam Frazier highlighted the star-studded group. Bell, a consensus top-60 prospect in minor league baseball according to multiple outlets, starred in the middle of the order. At age 22, Bell put together another All-Star worthy campaign, earning a selection to the Eastern League’s Mid-Season All-Star team, hosted bt the Portland Sea Dogs at Hadlock Field. Bell would also earn a spot in the Futures Game; played in Cincinnati. His 2015 season in Altoona found its way into the record books with a .307 average, the best mark in a single season in franchise history by a switch-hitter. Teaming with Adam Frazier, the Curve had two players bat .300 during the season (minimum 300 plate appearances) for just the fourth time in franchise history. While Bell became one of 12 Curve players to earn a promotion to Triple-A Indianapolis during the season, Altoona reached the postseason for the first time since 2010. Under the direction of Manager Tom Prince, Bowie eliminated Altoona in four games, capping off a season in which the Curve had its highest attendance total in nine seasons. The campaign earned the Eastern League’s nomination for the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the top honor in Minor League Baseball.

After spending much of the 2016 season in Triple-A, Bell reached Pittsburgh to make his major league debut. That season saw 14 different Curve alumni make their MLB debut including Alen Hanson, Jameson Taillon, Jacob Stallings, Adam Frazier, Chad Kuhl, Steven Brault, Tyler Glasnow, and Max Moroff all debuting with Pittsburgh. Bell made his debut on Friday, July 8, 2016 in an 8-4 win over the Chicago Cubs with a pinch-hit single off Jake Arrieta in the bottom of the seventh inning. Bell would go on to play 45 games in his rookie season with Pittsburgh, batting .273 with a .368 on-base percentage and three home runs.

Bell grew into the starting role in 2017 and blossomed into the one of the National League’s best young players. At just 24 years old, he swatted 26 home runs, good for second-most among NL rookies and his steady presence in the middle of the Pirates order helped him drive in 90 runs and earn a third-place finish in the NL Rookie of the Year voting. Bell’s 24th home run of the season set the record for most home runs by a rookie switch hitter in major league history.

After managing just 12 home runs in the 2018 season, Bell found his stroke in 2019 and capitalized on his massive power potential. Bell became the fourth player in PNC Park history to hit a ball directly into the Allegheny River on May 8. Just two weeks later he hit another home run into the river as part of dazzling month at the plate. Bell earned the National League Player of the Month in May of 2019 after hitting .390/.442/.797 with 12 doubles, 12 home runs, 31 runs batted in and 11 walks in 29 games played. Bell became the third player in NL history to log at least 12 doubles and 12 home runs in a single calendar month, joining Hall of Famers Hank Aaron (July 1961) and Frank Robinson (July 1961). Bell’s month of May also saw him record three multi-homer games, the first Pirate to do so since Brian Giles in August 1999.

Bell was named to his first Major League All-Star Game in the summer of 2019. Leading the league with 70 runs batted in and in extra base hits with 54, Bell became the first Pirates first baseman to be named an All-Star since Jason Thompson in 1982.

While the Pirates sagged in the standings, Bell managed to put the finishing touches on an outstanding campaign in 2019. He finished the season ninth in the league with 37 home runs and sixth in the league with 116 runs batted in. Overall, he hit .277/.367/.569 with 37 doubles, three triples and a .936 OPS which ranked tenth-best in the league.

Following a down 2020 season, the Washington Nationals acquired Bell in exchange for RHP Wil Crowe and RHP Eddy Yean and he bounced back with 27 home runs and a .260 average in his first season with the Nats. Through six major league seasons, Bell has hit 113 home runs and holds a .261 career batting average.

Tagged as : Altoona Curve, Diversity/Inclusion, Eastern League, Honoring History, Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh Pirates { }

Flying Squirrels hosting four job fairs ahead of 2022 season

February 24, 2022

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

 

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Flying Squirrels will host four job fairs in the coming weeks to fill part-time, game-day positions for the upcoming 2022 baseball season.

Positions are available in food & beverage, ticketing and other areas for the team’s home games from April through September. Information on the Flying Squirrels’ upcoming job fairs can be found here.

The job fairs will take place at The Diamond (3001 N Arthur Ashe Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23230) on the following dates:

  • Saturday, February 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Thursday, March 10 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Saturday, March 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Saturday, April 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Interested candidates can enter the stadium through the main gates next to Arthur Ashe Boulevard.

Available positions include:

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Concession Stand Managers

Cashiers

Food Runners

Bartenders

Line Cooks

Prep Cooks

Banquet Servers

Dishwashers

Fry Cooks

Vendors

Warehouse Runners

TICKETING

Ticket Sellers

OPERATIONS

Grounds Crew

Anyone interested in working with the Flying Squirrels can fill out the Candidate Information Form and return it to [email protected]. The Flying Squirrels’ 2022 game schedule can be found here.

Tagged as : Eastern League, Employment Opportunities, Richmond Flying Squirrels, San Francisco Giants, Virginia { }

Patriots And NJEA To Honor A+ Educators

February 23, 2022

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

 

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, have teamed up with New Jersey Education Association to honor A+ Educators.

The A+ Educator program is designed to recognize the work of teachers and education support professionals (ESPs) that provide an inclusive learning environment, engaging instruction and curriculum, encourages lifelong learning, and inspires a passion for education beyond the classroom and into the future.

CLICK TO NOMINATE YOUR FAVORITE EDUCATOR!

“We always appreciate the work of our educators and everything they do to help children learn in the classroom and achieve their goals beyond,” said Patriots President/General Manager Patrick McVerry. “This program is a way for our team to recognize a few of these very special people in the field of education that make a positive and lasting impact on students.”

The Patriots and NJEA are asking for nominations through the team’s website. Nominations will be accepted through an online entry form that will include a writeup of why teachers/ESPs should be considered for the honor. In order to be eligible, educators must work at a public school in Somerset, Middlesex, Union, Hunterdon, or Morris counties.

Nominations are now open and will end on Friday, June 10, 2022. 25 total teachers and ESPs will be selected by judges and honored on the Patriots website, social media platforms, at TD Bank Ballpark, and throughout the season. Selected educators will receive four complimentary tickets to enjoy a 2022 Patriots game.

The A+ Educator program continues the Patriots and NJEA’s partnership to honor education professionals that make a difference in the lives of their students and impact the community as a whole.

“The A+ Educator program is an exciting way for us to work with the Patriots and recognize the extraordinary work of our members,” said Meredith Barnes, Associate Director of Communications for NJEA. “The goal is to showcase some of our best public school educators out on the field at the ballpark and with the greater Somerset Patriots community through the team’s various multi-media platforms.”

About the Somerset Patriots

The Somerset Patriots are the New York Yankees Double-A Affiliate and develop today’s top minor league talent into the pinstriped superstars of tomorrow for MLB’s winningest team. The Patriots compete in the Double-A Northeast League and play their home games at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ, where fans of all ages and levels of baseball fandom get to enjoy the unique experience that is minor league baseball.

To learn more, visit: www.somersetpatriots.com

About NJEA

The New Jersey Education Association is proud of our great public schools, ranking #1 in the nation year after year. The mission of the NJEA is to advance and protect the rights, benefits, and interests of members, and promote a quality system of public education for all students. To learn more, visit: www.njea.org

Tagged as : Children's Health and Development, Eastern League, Education/Teacher Support, New Jersey, New York Yankees, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events, Somerset Patriots { }

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 { }

Curve Join Minor League Baseball in Celebration of Black History Month: Josh Harrison

February 22, 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.”

After taking a look back at the careers of LHP Shane Youman, speedster Rajai Davis, and the always popular Andrew McCutchen, let’s throw it back to the 2010 season with infielder Josh Harrison.

IF Josh Harrison (2010)

A native of Cincinnati, Ohio native, Harrison was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the 6th round of the 2008 Amateur Draft out of the University of Cincinnati. As the 2009 trade deadline approached, the Pirates acquired Harrison in a five-player deal that sent pitchers John Grabow and Tom Gorzelanny to Chicago.

The Pirates identified a speedy player with a versatile glove on the infield and a knack for making solid contact that would blossom into an All-Star contributor for their playoff teams in the mid 2010’s. After finishing off the 2009 season with a Carolina League Championship at High-A, Harrison opened the 2010 season in Altoona with many of his same teammates and immediately established himself as one of the Eastern League’s best hitters.

On Opening Day 2010, Altoona was greeted by a prospect-laden roster that included four of the Pirates Top-10 prospects according to Baseball America and eight of the Top-30 overall prospects. It was also a roster that had veteran talent, and it proved to be the perfect mix to get Altoona off to a nearly perfect start as the club started the season 7-1, a drastic turnaround after starting 2009, 0-8.

Included in those first eight games was one day where everything seemed to fall into place for a memorable afternoon at BCB. After the first three games of the season were played under dreary cold conditions, mother nature opened the skies for a perfect 67-degree day on April 11th when the national spotlight turned to Altoona for the first professional start of Harrisburg Senators phenom Stephen Strasburg. More than 70 media members from around the country and upwards of 7,800 people came to watch the professional debut of the heralded Strasburg on the picture-perfect day in Curve, Pa. The Curve managed to get four runs off the future Major League All-Star but fell 6-4 to the Senators.

Harrison bounced between second and third base that season on the field. He went on to knock 156 hits, tied for the fourth-most in a single season in Curve history. He also set the record for the most doubles in a game with four on June 27 against Bowie. He was selected as an Eastern League Mid-Season All-Star.

The Curve remained at the top of the Western Division standings throughout the summer and eventually finished the season with an 82-60 record, the second-most wins in a season in franchise history and the team’s second-ever division title.

Bouncing between second and third base, Harrison finished off the regular season with an even .300 average, 33 doubles, three triples, four home runs and 75 runs batted in. He added 19 stolen bases and played a significant role in Altoona’s push toward the Eastern League Championship. After defeating the Harrisburg Senators in four games, the Curve overcame another Major League All-Star on the mound, New York Yankees left-hander Andy Pettitte, in the opening game of the Eastern League Championship Series and secured their first title in franchise history. During the playoff run, Harrison recorded a team-best 11 hits in eight postseason games and homered three times, matching Chase D’Arnaud and Jordy Mercer for the team lead.

Harrison began the 2011 season with Triple-A Indianapolis and got the call to Pittsburgh for the first time on May 31, 2011 and suited up against the New York Mets, going 2-for-4 with an RBI. His debut season saw him work mostly in a bench role with 65 appearances on the diamond, showcasing a versatile glove and a solid approach at the plate.

After shuttling back and forth between Indianapolis and Pittsburgh, Harrison finally took hold of an everyday spot in the starting lineup in 2014. Named to the National League All-Star team that summer, Harrison batted .315 with a career-high 38 doubles, 13 home runs and 52 runs batted in. Harrison’s season finished the season ninth in the MVP voting helping the Pirates to an appearance in the National Wild Card Game. His .315 batting average was second-best in the National League, just behind Colorado’s Justin Morneau.

Harrison picked up a second National League All-Star selection in 2017 with a slight bump in the power department, smashing a career-best 16 home runs, and finished his eighth season with the Pirates in 2018. A .317 hitter in his time in the Steel City, Harrison has since appeared with the Detroit Tigers, Washington Nationals and Oakland Athletics. Headed into his age-34 season in 2022, Harrison has played in more than 1,000 major league games and holds a career batting average of .277. He is currently a free agent after finishing off the 2021 campaign with 48 appearances with the Athletics.

Tagged as : Altoona Curve, Diversity/Inclusion, Eastern League, Honoring History, Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh Pirates { }

RubberDucks to Host Virtual Auditions for National Anthem Performers

February 21, 2022

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

 

(AKRON, OHIO) February 21, 2022 – The Akron RubberDucks are launching a virtual search for National Anthem performers for the 2022 season. All interested singers, vocal groups (five singers or fewer), and musicians must send a digital submission via video of their acapella or unaccompanied performance of the National Anthem no later than Friday, March 11th.

Virtual submissions are the ONLY way to audition for 2022 national anthem performances at Canal Park, no other arrangements can be made at this time.

Performers can submit their auditions by sending their video, along with their name(s), address, and phone number to [email protected]. Digital submissions can be accepted via YouTube video, Vimeo, WeTransfer, or other transfer site that allows for downloading videos.

All virtual auditions must meet the following criteria:

  • All auditions must be no longer than two minutes
  • All participants are encouraged to use the highest possible audio and video recording available, within reason. Cell phone videos are perfectly acceptable. Please make sure the camera is steady, oriented horizontally, and that the performer(s) are shown clearly in the center of the shot if possible.
  • Auditions should be recorded in a well-lit area.
  • It is not required to have a clear or scenic background; however, an area free from distractions is best.
  • Duet and group auditions are acceptable

The Akron RubberDucks are the Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians. The RubberDucks season is powered by FirstEnergy at Canal Park, with the home opener April 12, 2022, against the Reading Fightin Phils at 7:05 PM. Fans can purchase tickets by calling 330-253-5151 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, or visit akronrubberducks.com/. For more information about the team, please call 330-253-5151, visit the website at akronrubberducks.com, Facebook page facebook.com/AkronRubberDucks, or on Twitter @AkronRubberDuck, and Instagram @akronrubberducks.

Tagged as : Akron RubberDucks, Arts Appreciation, Cleveland Indians, Contests/Competitions/Auditions, Eastern League, Ohio { }

Fans and Players to Join Together for Celebrate Your Faith Nights!

February 18, 2022

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

 

(READING) – Minor League players from all over acknowledge their faith as a significant part of their journey to the Major Leagues. They are no different from the average person who tries to embody faith throughout their daily lives including all the highs and lows. The Reading Fightin Phils will host three different Celebrate Your Faith nights during the 2022 season. The first will take place on Thursday, June 16th, with two others scheduled for Thursday, July 14th, and Thursday, August 4th. Each Faith Night concludes with a spectacular post-game firework show.

On Celebrate Your Faith nights at FirstEnergy Stadium, players and fans come together to reflect on the impact that their respective faiths have had on their journeys. This is a great opportunity to see how faith moves throughout life. Sports offer a lot of joy and a lot of stress and fans can see how players utilize their belief system to handle daily challenges in the face of adversity and show true thanks in triumph.

A faith discussion will take place, where fans will have the opportunity to listen to players speak about its impact in their lives and careers. Fans are encouraged to participate in the question-and-answer session that will last for about 20 minutes. Typically two to four R-Phils athletes take part in the discussion.

The discussions are non-denominational and do not promote any specific beliefs. All faiths are welcome, and the room is often a mixed congregation. R-Phils players began speaking about their faith with fans during the 2003 season when about a dozen fans/groups took part in the program. The 2022 season will be the 18th year of the program’s existence.

“Celebrate Your Faith nights have become a fun forum for Reading Fightin Phils fans to learn about the lives of professional baseball players and how they are able to incorporate their faith into a lifestyle that makes it very difficult to stay connected with their friends, family, and their places of worship,” said Joe Bialek, Reading Fightin Phils Executive Director of Sales. Bialek moderates the discussions on Celebrate Your Faith Nights, and is also the liaison between the team and Baseball Chapel.

Groups of 20 or more are encouraged to book an outing to celebrate the evening with their church, youth group, or friends in faith. As a special bonus, each church may select one representative to throw out a free ceremonial first pitch prior to the game.

Celebrate Your Faith Nights in 2022:

Thursday, June 16th – 7:00 pm vs Portland Sea Dogs (Red Sox), Fireworks

Thursday, July 14th – 7:00pm vs New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Blue Jays), Fireworks

Thursday, August 4th – 7:00pm vs Hartford Yard Goats (Rockies), Fireworks

Groups (minimum 20) interested in attending a discussion and ballgame should contact Matt Koch at [email protected] or call 610-370-BALL.

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.

Tagged as : Eastern League, Faith-Based Organizations, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Phillies, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events, Reading Fightin Phils { }

Curve Join Minor League Baseball in Celebration of Black History Month: Andrew McCutchen

February 16, 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

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.”

After taking a look back at the careers of LHP Shane Youman and speedster Rajai Davis, we move to one of the most popular Curve players of all time, Andrew McCutchen.

OF Andrew McCutchen (2006-07)

One of the most popular players in Altoona’s franchise history, Andrew McCutchen has gone onto a brilliant major league career with Pittsburgh, San Francisco, New York (AL) and Philadelphia.

Drafted 11th overall in 2005 by the Pirates out of Fort Meade HS in Fort Meade, Florida, McCutchen immediately became one of the top prospects in the organization and overall, in baseball. Prior to the 2006 season, Baseball America named McCutchen the #50 prospect in the minors as he embarked on his first full-season campaign as a professional, opening the season with Single-A Hickory where he was named an SAL All-Star and earned a late-season promotion to Altoona. Reaching Double-A as a 19-year-old, McCutchen continued his dominance at the plate by hitting .308 in the final 20 games of the regular season and aiding the Curve to a fourth straight postseason appearance. Despite being the youngest player to suit up for the Curve at 19 years, ten months and five days, McCutchen picked up four hits in a five-game postseason series with Akron; a series won by the Aeros with a 5-2 decision in the decisive fifth game.

McCutchen returned to Altoona as the Opening Day Center Fielder and immediately put together an All-Start worthy campaign in the Eastern League. Named as a top-15 prospect in the minors by both Baseball America and _Baseball Prospectus_, McCutchen showed off an impressive power/speed combination with 33 extra base hits and 17 stolen bases in 118 games while batting .258 with a .327 on-base percentage while playing as one of the youngest players in the league. At just 20 years-old, McCutchen was named an Eastern League All-Star and earned a promotion to Triple-A Indianapolis late in the season. Combined in 2007, he batted .265/.329/.388 with 11 home runs and 21 stolen bases. After the season he played for the Phoenix Desert Dogs of the Arizona Fall League and was named a Rising Star and to the AFL’s All-Prospect Team.

After a Futures Game appearance in 2008, McCutchen finally reached Pittsburgh to make his Major League debut after 49 games in Indianapolis to start the 2009 campaign. Following a June 3 trade of center fielder Nate McLouth to Atlanta, the Pirates recalled McCutchen and he singled in his first career at bat off Mets starter Mike Pelfrey to begin a two-hit day at the plate and lead the Pirates to an 11-6 win at PNC Park. McCutchen’s rookie campaign saw him finish fourth in the National League Rookie of the Year voting after he batted .286/.365/.471 with 26 doubles, nine triples, 12 home runs and 54 runs batted in.

McCutchen blossomed into one of the National League’s brightest stars in his nine seasons in Pittsburgh. 2011 marked the first of five consecutive All-Star Game selections, four Silver Slugger Awards, a 2012 Gold Award and in 2013 he earned the National League MVP Award; becoming the first Pirate to claim the award since Barry Bonds in 1992. McCutchen secured 28 of 30 first place votes in the MVP voting batting a sensational .336 from April 30 to the end of the regular season, the best mark in the league. McCutchen was one of three National League players to rank in the top-seven in batting average (.307), on-base percentage (.404), and slugging percentage (.508) and led the Pirates to their first postseason appearance since 1992, defeating Cincinnati in a one-game Wild Card Playoff before meeting fellow NL Central rival, St. Louis in the Divisional Round. The Cardinals pitching staff proved to be too much for Pittsburgh, who could manage only two runs over the final two games of the series, in a five-game series. McCutchen and the Pirates remained one of the NL’s best teams in 2014 earning a second straight postseason appearance, but again ran into elite pitching as San Francisco’s Madison Bumgarner delivered a four-hit shutout at PNC Park to lead the Giants to an 8-0 win over the Pirates in the National League Wild Card Game.

A model of consistency, McCutchen homered at least 20 times in each of his final seven seasons with the Pirates. In nine seasons total in the Steel City, McCutchen batted .291/.379/.487 with 203 home runs in 1,346 games. Prior to the 2018 season, the final year of a six-year contract extension he signed before the 2012 campaign, the San Francisco Giants acquired McCutchen and cash considerations for righty Kyle Crick, outfielder Bryan Reynolds and International Bonus Slot Money.

Tagged as : Altoona Curve, Diversity/Inclusion, Eastern League, Honoring History, Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh Pirates { }

SeaWolves Announce Three Hiring Events

February 15, 2022

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

 

The SeaWolves announced today that the team will host three Game Day Crew hiring events. The team is seeking outgoing, enthusiastic individuals (ages 16 & up) to fill a variety of game day positions for the 2022 baseball season.

The hiring events will take place in the UPMC Park Stadium Club located at 831 French St. on Saturday, February 26 (10 a.m. – 12 p.m.), Wednesday, March 9 (5 p.m. – 7 p.m.) and Saturday, April 30 (10 a.m. – 12 p.m.). Interested individuals will enter the Stadium Club through the ground level lobby and then take the elevator to the fourth floor. Prospective Game Day Crew Members will fill out applications and audition on the spot.

Available Crew Member positions include:

  • Food Service (Cashiers, Cooks, Servers, Runners & Vendors)
  • Stadium Operations (Post-Event Cleaning and Event Day Porters)
  • Team Store Associates
  • Funland Attendants
  • Camera Operators
  • Wolf Pack Entertainment Team

Opening Night, presented by Plyler Entry Systems, is Friday, April 8 as the SeaWolves host the Akron RubberDucks at 6: 05 p.m. Single-game tickets are now available (online only) at SeaWolves.com. SeaWolves Ticket Memberships, Paw Pack flexible ticket books, suites, picnics, Stadium Club events, and Bud Light Party Deck groups are now available for the 2022 season by visiting SeaWolves.com or by calling 814-456-1300.

Tagged as : Detroit Tigers, Eastern League, Employment Opportunities, Erie SeaWolves, Pennsylvania { }

Curve Host Teacher Appreciation Night on April 23

February 15, 2022

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

 

CURVE, PA – The Altoona Curve will celebrate Teacher Appreciation Night on Saturday, April 23 when the Curve host the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Toronto Blue Jays) at 4:00 p.m.

“Teachers fill such an important role in our lives as kids and they rarely receive the recognition they deserve for their efforts,” said Curve General Manager Nate Bowen. “I can’t think of a better way to finish off a successful school year than to honor some of the most impactful teachers in our community at a Curve game.”

Teacher Appreciation Night, presented by 1ST SUMMIT BANK, will honor individuals who lend their passion and skills to educating the next generation. Nominations for Teacher of the Year will be accepted through March 31 and all submissions can be made here.

“1ST SUMMIT BANK is continuously looking for ways to support the members of our community and this partnership with the Altoona Curve to recognize our local teachers presented a great opportunity,” said Sean McCool, Public Relations & Communications Manager at 1ST SUMMIT BANK. “Our teachers give so much of themselves, especially over the last two years. All of us at 1ST SUMMIT BANK commend the commitment of teachers in our community, and we want to recognize you for your efforts.”

The Curve will honor the Teachers of the Year with a pre-game ceremony where winners will receive a $100 cash prize as well as gifts from the Curve and 1ST SUMMIT BANK. All nominated teachers will receive two Grandstand tickets good for the Curve’s April 23 game at Peoples Natural Gas Field.

Teacher Appreciation Night will also host a Book Drive which will benefit elementary school students who come from a low-income background. Fans are asked to drop off books at the gate upon entrance and a suggested list of books will be made available here.

The Curve are slated to begin the 2022 season on Friday, April 8 with a three-game series against the Harrisburg Senators. For tickets and more information, visit AltoonaCurve.com, call 877.99.CURVE or stop by the PNG Field box office. Additionally, the Stockyard Team Store is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., during every home game and online 24/7/365.

Tagged as : Altoona Curve, Book Drives, Children's Health and Development, Eastern League, Education/Teacher Support, Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh Pirates, Public Recognition/Celebrations/Events { }

RubberDucks to Host Job Fairs on March 1 and March 3

February 14, 2022

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

 

(AKRON, OHIO) February 14, 2022 – The Akron RubberDucks will host job fairs for a variety of gameday staff positions on Tuesday, March 1 and Thursday, March 3, in the Duck Club by Firestone. Both events will take place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Applying is easy! Interested candidates only need to bring a resume and may complete an application before or at the job fair. Candidates do not need to pre-register for an interview. They may come to either event and enter the Duck Club through the doors facing Main Street.

Gameday staff positions available are:

  • Ushers
  • Ticket takers
  • Fun Zone attendants
  • Team Shop Associates
  • Clean Team members
  • Daytime suite cleaners
  • Gate Security
  • Concession stand managers
  • Concession stand attendants
  • Servers
  • Bartenders
  • Cashiers
  • Food and beer vendors
  • Picnic attendants
  • Warehouse attendants

If interested in a position, please send your resume to [email protected]. Returning gameday staff can attend either event to make sure their paperwork is accurate and updated for the 2022 season.

The Akron RubberDucks are the Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians. The RubberDucks season is powered by FirstEnergy at Canal Park, with the home opener April 12, 2022, against the Reading Fightin Phils at 7:05 PM. Fans can purchase tickets by calling 330-253-5151 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, or visit akronrubberducks.com/. For more information about the team, please call 330-253-5151, visit the website at akronrubberducks.com, Facebook page facebook.com/AkronRubberDucks, or on Twitter @AkronRubberDuck, and Instagram @akronrubberducks.

Tagged as : Akron RubberDucks, Cleveland Indians, Eastern League, Employment Opportunities, Ohio { }

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