Sea Dogs Now Accepting Nominations for William Troubh Community Service Award

The Sea Dogs established the award to honor Mr. Troubh in April of 2014. Mr. Troubh was a lifelong resident of the city of Portland, who dedicated his life to making Portland a great place to live and work. He served multiple terms on the Portland City Council and was Mayor of the city in 1974 and 1975 and again in 1983 and 1984. Troubh was instrumental in bringing the Portland Sea Dogs to the city in 1994. He also played a major role in the development of the Portland Waterfront, Cumberland County Civic Center and the Portland Ice Arena, now named in his honor. His contributions will be enjoyed by residents and visitors of the city for generations to come.

Additionally, Mr. Troubh was a passionate baseball fan. He stayed involved after his key role in helping to bring the Sea Dogs to Portland, serving as the team’s legal counsel and served six years as President of the Eastern League from 1997 through 2002. On most summer nights Troubh could be found at Hadlock Field enjoying a Sea Dogs game with family and friends. He was inducted into the Portland Sea Dogs Hall of Fame in 2010.

Nominations must be received by Friday, March 16th. Online nomination forms are available at www.seadogs.com. On the nomination form, people will be asked to describe the actions their nominee takes to make Portland a great place to live and work. Nominations may also be mailed to:

Portland Sea Dogs
ATTN: William Troubh Community Service Award
271 Park Avenue
Portland, ME 04102

When submitting a nomination please also include your contact information.

The winner will be announced and honored in a pre-game ceremony on Saturday, April 28th when the Sea Dogs host the Reading Fightin Phils at 1:00 PM at Hadlock Field.

Past winners include John Menario (2015), Roger Goodoak (2016), and Howard Spear (2017).

Job Fair and Ticketpalooza set for Saturday, February 24th

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils will be hosting their annual job fair for game-day staffing on Saturday, February 24th at FirstEnergy Stadium. New prospective employees are welcome to interview for open positions from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.

The Fightin Phils are seeking individuals for part-time roles such as:

  • Concessions
  • Dugout Suite Waiters/Waitresses
  • Mascot Performers
  • Security
  • Clean Team
  • Phunland Kids Area

Prospective employees should be expected to work both weeknights and weekends from April to early September. Minimum age and compensation vary by position. Applicants are encouraged to fill out an application in advance and should enter through the Fightins Team Store on the day of the event. Applications will be available on February 24th for applicants to complete if necessary.

Application can be found here: http://www.milb.com/documents/5/1/8/265546518/2018_Job_Application.pdf

The Fightins will also be hosting Ticketpalooza from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. where season ticket holders, mini-plan holders, and group leaders can pick up their plans or orders for the 2018 season. Fans can also purchase single game tickets for the 2018 season.

The best way to guarantee seats for the most popular promotions and games of the 2018 season is to purchase a Fightins season ticket or mini-plan package today online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, or in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. As a reminder, all season tickets and mini-plan packages are seated first, before single-game tickets go on sale. All season ticket and mini-plan holders will get the best seats at FirstEnergy Stadium as long as the tickets are purchased before February 15th.

Fightins representatives will also be on hand at Ticketpalooza to showcase our group tickets and buffet areas perfect for family get-togethers, corporate outings, church functions, and much more.

In conjunction with the Job Fair, the Fightin Phils team store will be open from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.

Singers and performing groups are welcome to audition for the National Anthem on Saturday, February 24th starting at 10:00 a.m. and will run until 12:00 p.m. Registration for the event will be taking place in the Fightins Team Store where they will then be directed to perform on the Good Life Financial Advisors Stage in Tompkins VIST Bank Plaza. The National Anthem event will also serve as the official tryout to fill any available dates during the 2018 season. All performers who would like to perform the National Anthem in 2018 are recommended to audition on February 24th. One person will be selected to perform the National Anthem at the 222 Showcase on Tuesday, April 3rd at 6:35 p.m.

Fans can also sign up for the Ceremonial Flag presented by Savage 61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. All active military and veterans, both living and that have passed, are honored at each home game during a pre-game ceremony beside their family and friends. During the ceremony, the Fightins will tell each story and explain that the American Flag flying in front of America’s Classic Ballpark, FirstEnergy Stadium, for that game is in honor of that specific person. Following the game, the Fightins will present the veteran or military member with the Ceremonial Flag as a taken of appreciation for that they have done in protection of the United States of America.

In addition to being honored, the veteran or military member will also receive complimentary tickets for them and their family thanks to Savage61 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Available game dates are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2018 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Sea Dogs to Hold Food Drive

Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs, in partnership with Maine’s Credit Unions, will hold their 18th annual Food Drive which will run from Tuesday, January 9th through Friday, February 2nd. All the collected food items will be donated to the Good Shepherd Food Bank.

As in the past, this year’s food drive will be “Buy One, Bring One, Get One.” For every ticket purchased and every donated food item you bring, you will receive a free Sea Dogs ticket to the same game. For example, if you buy three tickets to the June 18th game and bring in three food items, you will receive three additional complimentary tickets of equal or lesser value to the June 18th game. The offer is good for Box Seats, Reserved, General Admission, and Pavilion seating (excluding All-You-Can-Eat tickets); subject to availability.

Fans may take advantage of this offer by bringing their non-perishable food items to the Hadlock Field Box Office. The Sea Dogs Ticket Office is open Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

“Raising both funds and awareness about hunger is an important part of why we are so committed to the cause of ending hunger in Maine. Through our partnership with the Sea Dogs, we are once again focusing attention on this significant issue in Maine. Since 1990, Maine’s credit unions have raised more than $7.2 million to help end hunger in Maine, however, much more work remains to be done not only in terms of collecting food and money but getting it to the people who need it most. We continue to look for opportunities to make a difference and look forward to working with the Sea Dogs once again,” said Todd Mason, President of the Maine CU League.”

Each year the Sea Dogs have been able to donate hundreds of food items to the Good Shepherd Food Bank thanks to the generosity of Sea Dogs’ fans.

The Sea Dogs open the 2018 season on Thursday, April 5th in Binghamton, New York. The home opener is scheduled for Friday, April 13th at 6:00 PM against the Binghamton Rumble Ponies.

Thunder Give to United Way of Greater Mercer County on Giving Tuesday

The Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, announced today that, in partnership with BUSH’S Beans, they will provide a donation to United Way of Greater Mercer County as part of #GivingTuesday, a global day of giving fueled by the power of social media and collaboration on Tuesday, Nov. 28.

Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thankgiving and the widely-recognized shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday, #GivingTuesday kicks off the charitable season, when many focus on their holiday and end-of-year giving. Since its inaugural year in 2012, #GivingTuesday has become a movement that celebrates and supports generosity and philanthropy.

This past season, Zack Zehner was named the BUSH’S Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the 2017 Eastern League All-Star Game in Manchester, New Hampshire, after going 2-for-3 with a two-run double in the East Division’s 7-1 victory. As an extension of this award, BUSH’S and the Thunder will provide a $1,000 donation to the United Way of Greater Mercer County.

“The United Way of Greater Mercer County focuses on education, income and health, which are fundamental building blocks for a good quality of life,” said Thunder GM/COO Jeff Hurley. “We are thrilled that BUSH’S Beans’ donation will support a great partner that has the best interests of our local community in mind at all times.”

BUSH’S Beans sponsored 11 All-Star Game MVP awards throughout Minor League Baseball this summer. BUSH’S is making a donation to a charitable organization chosen by each MVP Award winner’s home club,

“One of the things that attracted BUSH’S to Minor League Baseball is how the clubs and their local communities support each other,” said Mike Morris, Senior Brand Manager at Bush Brothers & Company. “We are proud to recognize the contributions of each BUSH’S MVP Award winner by giving back to his team’s local charity.”

Minor League Baseball unveiled a multi-year, strategic partnership with BUSH’S Beans last December, making it the “Official Beans of Minor League Baseball,” and a “Preferred Partner” of a number of MiLB teams, beginning in 2017. Bush Brothers & Company is the recognized brand leader in beans. The partnership was activated across a range of touch-points this year, including in-ballpark celebrations such as National Baked Bean Month in July and the integration of a variety of BUSH’S Beans products in teams’ concessions.

Your Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, will begin the 2018 season, the 25th in franchise history, on Thursday, April 5 when they host the Richmond Flying Squirrels (San Francisco Giants). Season tickets, Pic-A-Plans, Mini Plans and Group Tickets are on sale now at www.TrentonThunder.com and by phone at 609-394-3300.

Fightins and Rip it Batting Cages Announce Baseballtown Baseball Classic

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils are excited to announce a new partnership with Rip It Batting Cages and Baseball Skill Training and the 2018 Baseballtown Baseball Classic.

The 2018 Baseballtown Baseball Classic will welcome the most amateur baseball games to America’s Classic Ballpark in the stadium’s long history! The collection of games will be known as the 2018 Baseballtown Baseball Classic, and will give the Citizens of Baseballtown an unprecedented opportunity to not only enjoy 70 Fightins home games, but also many terrific amateur games at the historic ballpark. Thanks to Rip It’s sponsorship, the Fightins will host the following amateur baseball games at FirstEnergy Stadium:

  • Wilson High School vs. Governor Mifflin High School – Sunday, April 29th at 6:00pm
  • Albright College vs. Kutztown University, Date TBD
  • Baseballtown BCIAA High School Semi-Finals (2) – Tuesday, May 15th
  • Baseballtown BCIAA High School Championship – Thursday, May 17th
  • PIAA District 3 High School Championship Games – Thursday, May 31st
  • Baseballtown High School All Star Game, Date TBD
  • Additional High School Game Dates are Available!
  • More game dates will be announced at a later time.

The most exciting aspect about Rip It’s sponsorship is that it gives additional area high schools the opportunity to play at America’s Classic Ballpark! The high school games are designed to be a gathering for the two competing towns, as is the case with the Wilson vs. Governor Mifflin game on April 29th. In that example, both the Wilson Youth Baseball and Softball program, and the Mifflin Area Youth Baseball Association, have partnered for what guarantees to be an amazing event. Before the high school game, every youth baseball player in the Mifflin Youth Baseball program, along with every member of the Governor Mifflin Middle School and High School teams (Freshman, JV and Varsity) will be introduced on the field. Following that, every youth baseball and softball player in the Wilson Youth Baseball and Softball program, along with every member of the Wilson West Middle School, Wilson Southern Middle School and Wilson High School baseball and softball teams (Freshman, JV and Varsity) will be introduced on the field. In addition, both the Mifflin Area Youth Baseball Association and the Wilson Youth Baseball and Softball Program will host their player photo sessions at FirstEnergy Stadium that day. The event guarantees that every baseball and softball player from both school districts will be introduced, and then watch the Wilson High School vs. Governor Mifflin High School baseball game that evening. Other area High School baseball teams, and youth organizations, are encouraged to contact Stephen Thomas at the Reading Fightin Phils to schedule their High School game, and youth photo day! Stephen can be reached at sthomas@fightins.com, or at 610-370-BALL, ext. 213. A limited number of game dates are still available, and Rip It Batting Cages and Baseball Skill Training underwrites much of the cost.

“We can’t thank Rip It Batting Cages and Baseball Skill Training enough”, said Scott Hunsicker, General Manager of the Reading Fightin Phils. “Thanks to their sponsorship, the 2018 Baseballtown Baseball Classic looks to welcome literally thousands of high school and youth baseball and softball players to FirstEnergy Stadium. We have this wonderful baseball facility, and the thought was how we can open the field up to even more area baseball and softball players. We sincerely hope many more high schools and youth baseball and softball programs will partner together, like Wilson and Mifflin have.”

Rip It Batting Cages and Baseball Skill Training is located at 1037 MacArthur Road in Reading, PA, near Reading Airport (it is the former home of Grand Slam USA). The facility is owned and operated by Mike Spidale and Eric Valent, two Baseballtown Hall of Famers who played for the Reading Fightin Phils. As part of Rip It’s sponsorship of the 2018 Baseballtown Baseball Classic, youth baseball and softball players that attend the games will also receive free hitting tokens for the Rip It batting cages. More information about Rip It Batting Cages and Baseball Skill Training can be found at ripit.org.

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2018 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Tickets Purchased This Holiday Season To Benefit Area Non-Profits

The 13th annual Trenton Thunder Gift of Baseball program begins today, giving fans the chance to share the experience of their hometown team with underprivileged families in our community. For each Season Ticket, Pic-A-Plan and Mini Plan purchased before January 2, the Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, will provide tickets for families in the Holiday Gift Outreach program run by the Children’s Home Society of New Jersey as well as other area non-profits to a 2018 Thunder game.

“As we prepare for our 25th season here at ARM & HAMMER Park, we wanted to continue to provide an opportunity for families to share in the family fun atmosphere of a Thunder game,” said Thunder GM/COO Jeff Hurley. “I thank the Children’s Home Society of New Jersey and all of our area non-profit partners for the great work they do and we’re thrilled to give back to our community this holiday season.”

In the first 12 years of the Gift of Baseball program, the Thunder have donated 8,824 tickets to the Children’s Home Society of New Jersey.

“Trenton Thunder continues to be a strong and caring community partner,” praised Donna Pressma, President & CEO of CHSofNJ. “The Children’s Home Society of New Jersey is honored to have the opportunity through their generosity of offer the Gift of Baseball to so many of our children and families. The emphasis on family values that the Thunder and CHSofNJ shares has remainined a high priority for both organizations throughout our partnership.

“Family outings are often too rare for our children,” said Pressma. “Spending a day at the ballpark watching our home team play with determination and heart gives hope and makes memories that our children will keep for the rest of their lives. Thank you Trenton Thunder and all of your caring fans who make this possible.”

2018 Mini Plans are on sale now. Mini Plans include five to ten of the most popular games on the schedule, free food at each game, savings off game-day pricing, and complimentary tickets to Opening Night, and start as low as $60. More information about Mini Plans can be found here: MINI PLANS.

Pic-A-Plans allow fans to choose any ten or more games that best fit their schedule. This flexible plan includes a savings off game-day pricing, a free food option, and complimentary tickets to Opening Night. More information can be found here: PIC-A-PLANS.

Season Tickets are available as either a full (70 games) or half (35 games) and include added value like early entry, a picnic with players, bus trips and more. More information about Season Tickets can be found here: SEASON TICKETS.

All plan holders will have the opportunity to purchase tickets to the 2018 Eastern League All-Star Celebration before they go on sale to the general public.

The Children’s Home Society of New Jersey provides at-risk children and their families with a range of services that empower them to achieve their potential. They are child-oriented, family focused, community based and outcome-oriented.

Your Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, will begin the 2018 season, the 25th in franchise history, on Thursday, April 5 when they host the Richmond Flying Squirrels (San Francisco Giants). Season tickets, Pic-A-Plans, Mini Plans and Group Tickets are on sale now at www.TrentonThunder.com and by phone at 609-394-3300.

Baysox Accepting Nominations, Donations for 11th Year of Louie’s Holiday Hope Project

BOWIE, Md. – The Bowie Baysox announced on Wednesday afternoon that Louie’s Holiday Hope Project will return for the 11th year to brighten the holiday season for local families in need. Beginning now and continuing through early December, the team will be accepting nominations for families that need assistance this holiday season. The Baysox will also be collecting gently used coats, new socks and other warm clothing to be donated to area families.

Louie’s Holiday Hope Project began in 2007 and over the last ten years, has aided close to one hundred area families and over 275 children. This year, the team is proud to partner with Prince George’s County Fire/EMS department, the Bowie Police Department and Bowie Youth & Family Services to help as many families as possible.

“We’ve partnered with the Louie’s Holiday Hope Project for the last several years and have been impressed with all that the Baysox have done to make the holiday special for so many Bowie families. Without this assistance, many area parents would not be able to prepare a special meal or provide gifts for their children” said Wendy Wilcox, Executive Director of Bowie Youth and Family Services.

The Baysox welcome help from fans and members of the local community in order to help as many families as possible. Members of the community can nominate families that need assistance by e-mailing a nomination to info@baysox.com. Submission information can be found at the Baysox website, www.baysox.com. Submissions will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Friday, December 1.

WARM CLOTHES & SOCKS COLLECTION

Prince George’s Stadium will also serve as a collection point for warm clothes and sock donations in conjunction with Louie’s Holiday Hope Project. The team invites fans to bring gently used winter coats, new socks and other warm clothing to the Baysox front office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Monday, December 4) to donate to local families and individuals in need.

The Bowie Baysox 2018 season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. The Baysox will return in 2018 to celebrate their 26th Season. Season ticket and Holiday Ticket packages are now on sale at baysoxshop.com. The team’s 2018 home opener will be Thursday, April 5 against the Harrisburg Senators at 6:35 p.m. To keep up with Baysox news during the offseason, visit www.baysox.com and be sure to follow the Baysox on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Senators Holiday Food Drive to Benefit the Salvation Army

With the holiday season just around the corner, the Harrisburg Senators announce today that they are partnering with Karns Quality Foods on a one-day holiday food drive to benefit the Salvation Army. The food drive takes place at FNB Field on Wednesday, November 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Fans donating any of the below listed items will have an opportunity to draw a prize out of the Senators prize bin! The prizes include Senators koozies, April 2018 ticket vouchers, autographed baseballs, free turkeys from Karns Quality Foods and more! The Senators team store will be open during the food drive and offering 30% off all items in the store.

To donate please park in front of the Carousel Pavilion and walk up the front steps as if coming to a game, and enter the Senators front office.

The list of items includes:

  • Instant Mashed Potatoes
  • Boxed Stuffing Mix
  • Canned Cranberry Sauce
  • Gravy Mix (Turkey or Chicken)
  • Canned Vegetables
  • Canned Fruit
  • Rice
  • Boxed Dessert Mix (1-step is best)
  • Cooking Oil
  • Spices
  • Canned Meats
  • Canned Soups
  • Peanut Butter
  • Jelly

We look forward to seeing you on November 8!

The Senators offices are open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily during the off-season. The 2018 home opener is Friday, April 13th against the Bowie Baysox. For information about season tickets, ticket plans, group tickets please call the Senators at 717-231-4444 or visit the Senators online at www.senatorsbaseball.com.You can find the Senators on Facebook at facebook.com/senatorsbaseball or @hbgsenators on Twitter.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

FirstEnergy Stadium to host 11th Annual Eastern PA Toy Run

(Reading, PA) – FirstEnergy Stadium will welcome the 11th Annual Eastern PA Toy Run presented by Classic Harley-Davidson on Sunday, November 5th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Tompkins VIST Bank Plaza at FirstEnergy Stadium.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the United States Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program and The Children’s Home of Reading.   Folks will be admitted to the holiday event by presenting a new, unwrapped toy of any value or by making a monetary donation that will be used to purchase additional toys for children.

Motorcycle registration for the toy run will begin at 9:00 a.m. at Classic Harley-Davidson. Santa Claus will lead the ride as it departs from Classic Harley-Davidson on Route 183 at 11:00 a.m. and follows a 25-mile course until arriving at America’s Classic Ballpark for an estimated noon arrival. All motorcycles, Jeeps, and classic cars are welcome to participate in the Eastern PA Toy Run with a donation of an unwrapped toy or game.

Upon his arrival at noon, Santa will be on hand until 2:00 p.m. for photos with those on both the naughty and the nice list. There will also be live music on the Hardball Cider Performance Stage throughout the afternoon.

The Eastern PA Toy Run began in 2007 after the Berks County Toys for Tots motorcycle run was potentially cancelled after the Marine Corps Reserve Unit was deployed. Multiple motorcycle runs combined and teamed with the Fightin Phils in order to continue benefiting Toys for Tots in Berks and Lebanon County and The Children’s Home of Reading.

The Steve Moyer Subaru Fightin Phils Team Store will also be open with special holiday sale pricing, so fans can pick up discounted gifts for the holidays. There will be steep discounts of up to 50% for one day only. Those attending will be able to check out FirstEnergy Stadium signage and player line-up cards available for purchase. Fans can own a piece of FirstEnergy Stadium history!

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2018 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Nine Dogs Adopted Through Diamond Dog Program in 2017

BOWIE, Md. – 2017 proved to be a successful year at Bowie Baysox games for the Diamond Dog of the Game as a total of nine dogs found new homes over the course of the season.

This marked the second year of the program and a total of 14 dogs have now been adopted over those two seasons.

The focus of the Diamond Dog of the Game program is to find suitable homes for dogs in the area that are in need and also to raise more awareness regarding pet adoption.

The Baysox partnered with seven local organizations to bring different canines out to the ballpark on a nightly basis: Chesapeake Cats & Dogs, Humane Society of Calvert County, Partnership for Animal Welfare, PG County Shelter, SPCA of Anne Arundel County, SPCA/Humane Society of Prince George’s County and Bowie CLAW.

Below is a list of the dogs that were brought home by various families during the 2017 season:

Belle-Keeshound                                            Humane Society of Calvert County

Bugs-Greyhound & Dutch Shepard Mix        SPCA/Humane Society of PG County

Emmy-Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever   Partnership for Animal Welfare

Murphy-Older Mixed Breed Dog                   Bowie CLAW/Black Dogs & Co.

Harry-Beagle                                                   Bowie CLAW/Beagle Rescue of So. Maryland

Zack-Black Lab                                              Bowie CLAW/LRCP

Rosie-Beagle                                                   Humane Society of Calvert County

Luna-Beagle Mix                                            SPCA/Humane Society of PG County

Matilda-Redbone Coonhound                         Chesapeake Cats & Dogs

The Bowie Baysox season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. The 2017 Baysox season has ended, but the team will return in 2018 to celebrate its 26th Season. The team’s 2018 home opener will be Thursday, April 5 against the Harrisburg Senators at 6:35 p.m. To keep up with Baysox news during the offseason, visit www.baysox.com.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Fightins Nominated for John Henry Moss Community Service Award

(Reading, PA) – The Eastern League has announced the Reading Fightin Phils have been nominated for the John Henry Moss Community Service Award. For the John Henry Moss Community Service Award, which is given to a club that demonstrates an outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, support and leadership, the Eastern League has recognized the Reading Fightin Phils. The winner of this award is selected by Minor League Baseball and will be honored at the Baseball Winter Meetings in Orlando, Florida.

This past June, the Fightin Phils broke ground on the brand new Savage 61 Dream Field, which is a facility that will provide children with physical and developmental disabilities the opportunity to play baseball. The unique rubberized surface is the first field of its kind to be built in Berks County. The project is being fully funded by Baseballtown Charities, the Reading Fightin Phils charitable organization. As part of the fundraising efforts the Fightin Phils hosted the first ever “Dinner Under the Stars” last October and raised $650,000 towards the project. Those fundraising efforts for the Dream Field were in addition to the regular charitable efforts of the franchise that included in-stadium fundraising and support for numerous charitable organizations.

“We are thrilled to be the Eastern League nominee for the John Henry Moss Community Service Award”, said Fightin Phils General Manager Scott Hunsicker. “The Moss award is a goal of our staff and everyone associated with Baseballtown Charities, as we continuously try to give back to the community as much as possible.”

In addition, Baseballtown Charities and IM ABLE Foundation announced a partnership in January to build an adaptive playground at the new Savage 61 Dream Field Complex in Berks County. The playground will create a motivating and encouraging environment that will allow all children including those with physical or cognitive challenges to play together. Children who use a wheelchair, cane or crutches will be able to move freely throughout the playground. The surface of the playground will be rubber tile.

Baseballtown Charities’ Dream League is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization based in Reading, Pa. that focuses on making dreams come true one pitch at a time. Since 2002, Baseballtown Charities has worked to build inclusive baseball diamonds as well as bonds between players, teammates and supportive communities. For more information, visit www.baseballtowndreamleague.com.

The Eastern League also announced their nominations for the Rawlings Woman Executive of the Year Award (Richmond), the Charles K. Murphy Patriot Award (Binghamton), the Larry MacPhail Award (Erie), and the John H. Johnson President’s Award (Richmond).

America’s Classic Ballpark is proud to be a part of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Season tickets for the 2018 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter at @ReadingFightins and like them on Facebook via www.facebook.com/fightins.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Baysox to Hold Online Auction to Aid Hurricane Harvey Relief

BOWIE, Md. – In conjunction with Minor League Baseball Charities, the Bowie Baysox are participating in an online auction to provide relief to the MiLB communities that have been affected by Hurricane Harvey.

Minor League Baseball Charities is collecting funds on behalf of Minor League Baseball’s 160 teams to provide relief to those communities affected by Hurricane Harvey. MiLB will match all donations provided by its teams, up to $10,000. 100% of the proceeds from these auction items will help those clubs whose communities are affected.

Items the Baysox have up for bid through our website (or directly through Baysox.milbauctions.com) include a 2017 team autographed authentic game jersey signed by Orioles #2 prospect Austin Hays, Ryan Mountcastle, Cedric Mullins, Eastern League wins leader Yefry Ramirez, Tanner Scott and Eastern League MVP Garabez Rosa. There are also Eastern League baseballs signed by Hays, Mountcastle, Mullins, Scott and DJ Stewart that are up for bidding.

The auction runs through 3:00 pm on Thursday, September 15.

The 2017 Bowie Baysox season is presented by Money One Federal Credit Union. Single game playoff tickets are for the Western Division Championship Series vs. the Altoona Curve are available at www.baysox.com.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

RubberDucks Offer Special Labor Day Ticket Deal for Hurricane Harvey Relief

(AKRON, OHIO) Sept. 1, 2017 – The Akron RubberDucks announced today a special ticket deal for Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 4, to raise money for the Hurricane Harvey relief efforts in Texas. Reserved tickets, which are normally $11, will only be available online until midnight Sunday for $7 with $2 from each ticket set to be donated.

Monday’s game is the annual Fan Appreciation Day and is scheduled for 1:05 p.m. vs. Erie SeaWolves. Fans can purchase the Hurricane Harvey relief tickets directly at https://groupmatics.events/event/HurricaneHarvey or through a link on the front of http://akronrubberducks.com.

“Even though our season winds down at Canal Park with a fun fireworks-packed holiday weekend, our thoughts and prayers are with the people in Texas who have had their lives thrown into chaos by Hurricane Harvey,” said RubberDucks General Manager Jim Pfander. “Our tremendous fans have always supported us with great enthusiasm, and we know they will show that same level of support helping out in this crisis.”

FAN APPRECIATION MONDAY, September 4 at 1:05 p.m. vs. Erie SeaWolves, presented by Plato’s Closet in Sagamore Hills

Probables: Erie – RHP Sandy Baez (0-1, 7.20) vs. Akron – RHP Shane Bieber (2-1, 2.42)

  • Fan Appreciation Day (1:05 p.m. start)
  • Fans will have a chance to win fantastic prizes throughout the game such as 2018 RubberDucks tickets, autographed baseballs, and pre-game experiences! All fans will also receive a 10% discount with their game ticket at the BRAND NEW Plato’s Closet in Sagamore Hills.

Regular-season RubberDucks tickets start at $5 and fans can purchase tickets by stopping at the Akron RubberDucks box office at Canal Park weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., or on a game day starting at 10 a.m. and running until gates open one hour before the scheduled game time. Tickets are also available by calling 330-253-5151 or on www.akronrubberducks.com.

All RubberDucks games are broadcasted on Fox Sports 1350 AM, the WARF iHeart channel, and the TuneIn Radio App. All RubberDucks home games are also available via MiLB.TV.

The Akron RubberDucks are the Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians and defending Eastern League champions. The 2017 season is the franchise’s 21st since moving to Akron. For more information about the team, please visit akronrubberducks.com, on Facebook facebook.com/AkronRubberDucks, Twitter @AkronRubberDuck, and Instagram at @akronrubberducks.

Flying Squirrels Announce Hurricane Relief Efforts

RVA – The Richmond Flying Squirrels, Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, have teamed up with the American Red Cross, VCU & Hilldrup Moving & Storage in an effort to help raise funds and items for those affected by Hurricane Harvey. Flying Squirrels Charities, a nonprofit 501 (c)3, will be leading off the efforts with a $2,000 donation on behalf of Flying Squirrels fans. This donation, along with any cash donations received from fans at The Diamond to the American Red Cross Thursday-Sunday, will be matched by Minor League Baseball Charities (up to $10,000).

Additionally, Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., The Diamond will be a donation center for items needed in Houston-area shelters (specific items listed below). VCU Head Basketball Coach Mike Rhoades, a former Houston-resident, is spearheading the relief efforts. Rhoades and his family will be on hand to assist in taking donations at The Diamond, Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. VCU basketball players as well as Flying Squirrels players, will accompany Rhoades at the park in rotating shifts.

“I know RVA will once again come through for those that need our help,” said VCU Head Basketball Coach Mike Rhoades. “We need you to contribute and assist all those in the Houston-area who were decimated by this terrible storm. This initiative will directly make it better for those that need it. My family, our team and our VCU community will be actively involved at The Diamond.”

The Red Cross will be at The Diamond from Thursday-Sunday and will be accepting cash donations. Fans can also donate to the American Red Cross through the coded link provided here to receive a matching contribution from MiLB Charities. The Flying Squirrels will also donate the proceeds from Saturday’s raffle and Launch-A-Ball to the relief effort. A silent auction will also be a contributor during Saturday’s game.

“Obviously, our hearts go out to all involved in Texas,” said Flying Squirrels VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell. “We have several players and front office staff who we care deeply about, who have families and friends deeply affected by this and we always want to do what s right and lead here in Richmond, so we were happy to be involved in this with our partners at VCU and Hilldrup Moving and Storage.”

VA Blood Services will also be at The Diamond on Saturday from 1-4 p.m., for those who wish to give blood. Blood is a much a needed commodity in the relief effort. A financial contribution wiull be made on behalf of each participating donor

SPECIFIC ITEMS NEEDED

Please only bring new items listed below. Hilldrup Moving & Storage will be on site at The Diamond to collect the items from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 2. Items will be delivered to the Salvation Army in Houston.

  • Diapers
  • Baby Formula
  • Blankets
  • Toiletries
  • Towels / paper towels
  • Non-Perishable Food Items
  • Work Gloves / latex & non-latex gloves
  • Protective footwear / boots
  • Mops / brooms
  • Plastic garbage bags
  • Extension cords
  • Socks / Underwear

“The devastation from Hurricane Harvey is nothing short of heartbreaking, and the thoughts and prayers of everyone at Hilldrup go out to all those who’ve been affected,” said Charles W. McDaniel, President and CEO of Hilldrup. “We thank everyone in the Richmond community for their generosity and are honored to help the victims by getting these donations to those in need.”

Richmond continues the last homestand of the season at The Diamond on Wednesday at 6:35 p.m. Wednesday is a Wine Up Wednesday with wine specials from 5:30-7:30 p.m. A full rundown of the season’s final promotions can be found here. Tickets and additional details can be found at www.squirrelsbaseball.com.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Thunder To Support Hurricane Harvey Relief

The Thunder, Double-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, and their 501(c)3 The Grand Slam We Care Foundation announced today that it will make a contribution to relief efforts from Hurricane Harvey.

“I’m sure that throughout the 24 years of Thunder baseball we’ve had players, coaches, staff or fans that have visited or were raised in areas affected by Hurricane Harvey,” said Thunder GM/COO Jeff Hurley. “It’s heartbreaking to see so many people displaced from their homes, lose all of their belongings and we want to provide relief to those in their time of need.”

Thunder fans will have the opportunity to support relief efforts on every ticket order placed online at www.TrentonThunder.comfor the remainder of the 2017 season. The optional donation can be made for any amount before entering payment information. During their online ticket transaction, fans will be prompted with the option to donate to the Hurricane Harvey relief effort. If fans have already purchased tickets for the games this upcoming weekend, they can visit or call the Thunder Box Office at (609) 394-3300 ext. 101 and a donation can be entered without having to purchase additional tickets.

Fans purchasing tickets to Saturday or Sunday’s game against the Reading Fightin Phils may purchase a wristband for $3 to watch fireworks from the field. Wristbands may be purchased online with your tickets or in-person at ARM & HAMMER Park for either of the final two post-game fireworks shows in 2017.

The donations collected from The Grand Slam We Care Foundation, online ticket sales and wristband sales will be distributed to the MiLB Hurricane Harvey relief fund.

The Thunder return to ARM & HAMMER Park on Friday, September 1 for a four-game series with the Reading Fightin Phils. For tickets and the latest information on Thunder baseball visit www.TrentonThunder.com.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.