Fightins to Host Breast Cancer Awareness Night

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

R-Phils Remember the Greats During Black History Month

 

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 Reading Phillies and Fightin Phils. This is by no means a complete list of the best, just some great names to look back on.

Ryan Howard spent his entire 13-year Major League career with the Philadelphia Phillies. He was originally taken by the Phils in the 5th round in 2001. Howard, a top-ranked prospect, skyrocketed after the 2004 season when he spent the majority of his time in Reading. With the R-Phils, he batted .297 in 103 games while driving in a team-high 102 runs. He also hit 37 home runs to break the R-Phils record and was named the Eastern League MVP. He went on to hit 46 homers in total that season between Double-A, Triple-A and the Major Leagues. Nicknamed “The Big Piece”, he not only led the National League in homers (48) and RBI (146) in 2008, he also helped to lead the Phillies’ to their first World Series Championship in 28 years. The first-baseman was a three-time All-Star, was named the MVP of the NL Championship Series in 2009, and won an exciting home run derby in 2006. Howard is one of only four players, along with Cal Ripken Jr., Dustin Pedroia and Kris Bryant, to win an MVP Award (2006) the year after having won the Jackie Robinson Rookie of the Year Award (2005). The R-Phils honored Howard with an induction into the Baseballtown Hall of Fame in 2018.

Jimmy Rollins joined the farm system after being drafted in the 2nd round in 1996. Just three years later Rollins made his debut in Baseballtown, where he developed into an all-around hitter and fulltime shortstop. He recorded 145 hits, including 21 doubles, eight triples, and 11 home runs. The speedster also stole 24 bases. But most impressively, Rollins walked (51) more times than he struck out (47). Howard’s teammate on the 2008 World Series champion Phillies, Rollins took MVP honors the previous season. In a 17-season career that also included time with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago White Sox, Rollins amassed 2,455 hits and 470 stolen bases. He was a three-time All-Star, four-time Gold Glove winner and still stands as the Phillies all-time hits leader. Rollins entered Reading’s Hall of Fame in 2019.

Outfielder Marlon Byrd went around the block in the Major Leagues. Originally drafted by Philadelphia in 1999, he also spent time with the Nationals, Rangers, Cubs, Red Sox, Mets, Pirates, Reds, Giants, and Indians. Byrd spent 2001 in Reading in addition to three games in 2003 as a part of a rehab stint. In an incredible campaign, he finished with a .316 batting average, leading the team in home runs (28), RBI (89), triples (8), hits (161), runs scored (108), and stolen bases (32). Rightfully so, Byrd was named the Eastern League MVP, Rookie of the Year, and post-season All-Star. He led his team to the Championship Series which was ultimately cancelled due to 9/11. The following year he was selected to the Futures Game for top prospects. In his rookie season with Philadelphia (’03), he drove in 45 runs on 150 hits. With a stellar .303 BA, he finished fourth in the Rookie of the Year voting. After a career spanning fifteen years in the majors, Byrd ended with a .275 batting average, 159 home runs, 710 runs batted in, and one All-Star game appearance.

Marlon Anderson spent a season and a half in Baseballtown and made his mark in the history books. He joined the farm system in 1995 after being drafted in the second round. In 1997, his full summer, he led the R-Phils in triples (6), hits (147), runs (88), stolen bases (27), and sac bunts (9). Anderson made an impressive debut as a Major Leaguer by hitting a pinch-hit home run. After his time with the Phillies, he also played with the Devil Rays, Cardinals, Mets, Nationals, and Dodgers. On June 11, 2005, Anderson hit an inside-the-park home run at Shea Stadium in the bottom of the ninth to tie the game. He will forever be known for his clutch hitting and utility defense.

Michael Bourn was drafted by the Phillies in the fourth round of the 2003 draft. He worked his way up the system, skipping Clearwater to join Reading in 2005 and 2006 as an outfielder. He was a fiend on the basepaths, leading the team with 68 stolen bases in 215 games. He also led in triples (’05, 8; ’06, 6), runs scored (’06, 62), and walks (’05, 63). Bourn earned the reputation as a windshield-wiper type outfielder for his ability to cover a lot of turf by throwing out 21 base runners from the outfield. After parts of two seasons with Philadelphia, he was traded with Geoff Geary and Mike Costanzo to the Houston Astros in exchange for Brad Lidge and Eric Bruntlett. Bourn also spent part of his career with the Atlanta Braves, Cleveland Indians, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Baltimore Orioles. Throughout his eleven-year career, he received two Gold Gloves, was named to the NL All-Star team twice, and was a three-time National League stolen base leader.

Like the Copa de la Diversion initiative that brought about Los Luchadores de Reading and Fiesta Friday’s, Minor League Baseball is working towards greater inclusivity with the introduction of The Nine, the first Black-centric outreach program in MiLB’s storied history. “Named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946, The Nine will connect Clubs’ local market efforts in a coordinated and centralized campaign that authentically engages and welcomes Black fans, businesses, schools, and civic leaders into MiLB’s fun-filled experiences, both in the ballpark and in the community.” The Reading Fightin Phils are a community-oriented organization that is dedicated to providing an inclusive experience for all different kinds of fans. America’s Classic Ballpark is a safe, family-friendly place to gather, celebrate, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

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.

Flying Squirrels named team captain of “The Nine,” a new Minor League Baseball initiative to celebrate, engage and welcome Black fans

 

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Flying Squirrels have been named a team captain of “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform launched by Minor League Baseball® (MiLB™) 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 Flying Squirrels are one of five MiLB clubs selected as team captains for the national platform.

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

“The Flying Squirrels are honored to be a captain of The Nine and will continue to utilize our platform to promote equality and change inspired by Jackie Robinson and others before us,” Flying Squirrels CEO Todd “Parney” Parnell said. “We look forward to continuing and growing our initiatives with the Richmond 34 Legacy Campaign, the Career Advancement & Mentorship Program and Flying Squirrels Charities.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

In 2021, the Flying Squirrels launched a series of initiatives to honor and recognize the Richmond 34, a group of 34 Virginia Union University students who were arrested following a peaceful sit-in protest at the whites-only lunch counter of Thalhimers Department Store in downtown Richmond on February 22, 1960. The Richmond 34 sit-in ultimately led to the integration of Thalhimers and influenced legislation in the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The Richmond 34 Legacy Campaign collaborates on educational and community outreach programs to tell the story of the Richmond 34.

Additionally, the Flying Squirrels’ Career Advancement & Mentorship Program, in partnership with Virginia State University and Virginia Union University, offers students at both institutions opportunities to gain professional experience working with the organization in various capacities. The program was designed to create a more diverse and inclusive workforce with the goal of elevating more minorities into leadership positions throughout the professional baseball industry.

Akron Black Tyrites Logo on Social Media for February

 

In honor of Black History Month and to help share the story of Negro League Baseball in Akron, the Akron RubberDucks will change their social media profile pictures to logos inspired by the Akron Black Tyrites for all of February.

The Akron Black Tyrites were a member of the Negro National League in 1933. The club began that year in Columbus before moving to Akron for just 10 games. The team finished the season in Cleveland as the Giants.

The name was originally supposed to be “Tyr-ites” from the British word for tire, “tyre,” but the name soon became “Ty-rites” to match Akronites.

The team played their games at Akron’s League Park, which was a $135,000 ballpark constructed in 1928 on property at Crosier Street, Park Avenue, and Long Street.

Since the team only played a small number of games in Akron, only a few photos of the front of the uniform jersey appeared when the RubberDucks front office staff began research. To celebrate and honor the original Akron Black Tyrites, the RubberDucks created logos and uniforms in a style the team might have worn in 1933. These designs and new uniforms were created and planned to be unveiled during the 2020 season to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Negro League Baseball.

However, the cancelled 2020 season pushed the re-debut of the Akron Black Tyrites until September 2, 2021. In a game against the Altoona Curve, the RubberDucks became the Akron Black Tyrites and took a combined no-hitter into the ninth inning before yielding a hit with two outs. Akron completed a one-hit shutout to defeat Altoona, 5-0.

The RubberDucks will honor the Black Tyrites in future seasons by wearing the uniforms for special games.

To help the RubberDucks celebrate and share the story of the Akron Black Tyrites, you can preorder your own Akron Black Tyrites merchandise by visiting https://bit.ly/3ue7ntl.

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.

Patriots And Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 2137 Donate $9,700 For 2021 Home Runs

 

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, and their partners at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2137 have donated $9,700 to local non-profits through the Home Runs For Charity program.

For every home run hit by the Patriots at TD Bank Ballpark during the 2021 season, the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2137 generously donated $100 to help the community. Somerset’s offense hit a franchise record 175 home runs last season, including 97 in Bridgewater.

Eight non-profits have been selected by the team and organization to each receive $1,212.50. The benefiting non-profits are:

  • Here Alternatives, Inc
  • Easter Seals of NJ
  • Matheny Medical & Education Center
  • Hugs for Brady Foundation
  • Samaritan Homeless Interim Program
  • St. John’s Episcopal Church
  • The Beez Foundation
  • Operation Shoebox New Jersey

The Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2137 has a long history of charitable work supporting both local as well as national causes. The motto “people helping people” is the driving force behind their efforts to help those less fortunate throughout the community. Over the years, Bridgewater Aerie # 2137 has provided monetary support for programs that assist the homeless and hungry, funded scholarships for deserving high school seniors, donated to groups that assist our veterans as well as local police, fire and rescue groups.

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.

Twelve $2,500 scholarships will be awarded to local high school student-athletes

 

Manchester, N.H. — The New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Toronto Blue Jays Double-A affiliate) and the Fisher Cats Foundation are pleased to open applications for the 2022 Scholar-Athlete Scholarship program at NHFisherCats.com starting Tuesday, February 1.

Twelve $2,500 scholarships will be awarded to local high school student-athletes: ten from New Hampshire and two from northern Massachusetts. Scholarship recipients will be notified by May 31, and honored on the field at Delta Dental Stadium during a Fisher Cats game this season.

High school seniors, click here apply for the Scholar-Athlete Scholarship

Since 2007, the Fisher Cats Foundation has awarded over $395,000 to graduating seniors through the Scholar-Athlete Scholarship program.

“We’re proud to continue this annual tradition; it’s one of the most rewarding things we do each season,” said Fisher Cats President Mike Ramshaw. “We’ve been so inspired by the number of applications we’ve received over the years, and look forward to helping further the education of these outstanding student-athletes.”

Scholarship recipients will be selected using criteria that includes academic achievement, athletic achievement, and active citizenship.

For more information, email Fisher Cats Foundation Executive Director Stephanie Fournier at [email protected].

Fisher Cats Opening Day is scheduled for Tuesday, April 12, with a magnet schedule giveaway from Eastern Propane & Oil and a spectacular postgame Atlas Fireworks show. For more information, visit NHFisherCats.com.

Yard Goats Announce Game Day Application Process for 2022

 

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

HomePlate Catering & Hospitality Is Offering Concessions Fundraising Program 

 

Bridgewater, New Jersey- HomePlate Catering & Hospitality, the concessions partner of the Somerset Patriots, is once again offering a program for local non-profit organizations to work at TD Bank Ballpark during the 2022 season to raise money for their charities.

CLICK HERE TO RECEIVE INFORMATION!

HomePlate Catering & Hospitality is looking for four to 40 people per group to run the two large concessions or various portable carts during the 69 Patriots home games this season. The season begins on Tuesday, April 12th and will run through Sunday, September 18th with a chance of additional playoff games and events.

The organizations will earn a percentage of the revenue at each location worked with bonus incentive programs available.

The concessions fundraising program has been successful for many non-profit organizations including school sports and clubs, high school project graduations, little leagues, religious groups, and more.

HomePlate Catering & Hospitality is asking for a three event minimum for interested organizations.

For more information, or to sign-up your organization, please contact Aly McGrath, HomePlate Catering & Hospitality’s Director of Operations, at (908) 255-1427 or amcgrath@homeplatecatering.net.

R-Phils to Host Job Fair for Upcoming Season

 

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils are hiring interns and gameday employees for the 2022 season! Join us at our first Job Fair for the 2022 season on Monday, December 20th from 2:00-4:30 pm at FirstEnergy Stadium. The R-Phils offer a variety of positions that make great first jobs, part-time opportunities, and flexible options. America’s Classic Ballpark is a fun work environment that is open to people of all ages (15+) and skillsets. Here, you can make friends and gain experience that will last a lifetime.

The Fightins are seeking part-time employees in various positions, including concession workers, merchandise store assistants, grounds crew, ticket takers, waiters/waitresses, mascot performers, security, clean team, Phunland kids’ zone, and lifeguards. Game-day job seekers are encouraged to fill out an application in advance. Applications can be found online at rphils.com/jobs, and will also be available at the job fair on December 20th.

The R-Phils are also looking for interns for the upcoming season which will feature a variety of experiences and insider knowledge of how a Minor League Baseball team runs. This will include training in numerous different aspects of the industry. Specific departments including Ticketing, Food & Beverage, Operations, Grounds Crew, and Merchandise are looking for assistance. Reading is a fast-paced, exciting atmosphere that has continually proven to set interns up for success in the work force. Prospective interns should bring an updated resume.

Prospective employees should be willing and able to work weeknights and weekends from April through early September. Compensation will vary by position.

Individuals should enter the job fair through the Fightins Brentwood Industries Team Store on the day of the event. If you can’t attend this event, please feel free to visit rphils.com/jobs for more information or email [email protected]. In addition, be on the lookout for more job fairs to come in the New Year.

_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.

Patriots Announce Tropical Storm Ida Relief Donations

 

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, have announced the recipients of the team’s fundraising efforts to assist those affected by the flooding and damage caused by Tropical Storm Ida.

$35,000 was raised by the team through an online auction, ballpark 50-50 raffles, and a donation match by the Kalafer family, Flemington Car & Truck Country Family of Brands, Clinton Honda, and Jaguar Land Rover Princeton.

“First we need to thank everyone that donated to our efforts, whether that was items for the auction or monetarily,” said Patriots President/General Manager Patrick McVerry. “They helped us raise a significant amount of money that was matched by our very generous ownership and the dealerships.”

The money raised through the Somerset Patriots Children’s Educational and Sportsmanship Foundation was earmarked to assist with recovery efforts for Central New Jersey residents and businesses.

The selected recipients of the fundraising efforts were:

The Food Bank Network of Somerset County: DONATE

(L to R): Sparkee, Gordon White, President of the Board of Directors; Steve Katz, Executive Director; Patrick McVerry, Sparky Lyle.

  • The donation will help distribute food and provide other basic human needs to those in Somerset County affected by the flooding and destruction caused by Ida.

Greater Somerset County YMCA: DONATE

(L to R): Sparky Lyle, Patrick McVerry, David Carcieri, President/CEO; Sparkee.

  • The donation will assist families and children through social programs designed to help them stay healthy and strong, as well as provide financial assistance to those displaced, underprivileged, or in need due to the impact of the storm.

The ARC of Somerset County: DONATE

(L to R): Jill Glassman, Director of Early Childhood Services; Chris Corvino, Associate Executive Director; Lauren Frary, Executive Director; Patrick McVerry, Sparky Lyle, Jen Prior, Sparkee.

  • The donation will help the organization assist those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families that were affected by the flooding and damage from the storm.

Somerset Health Care Foundation: DONATE

(L to R): Jessica Ust, Director of Development; Sparky Lyle, Donna Castronovo, Vice President, Foundation and Development; Sparkee, Patrick McVerry, Patrick Delaney, Chief Operating Officer at RWJUH Somerset.

  • The donation will be used to help displaced health care workers and hospital support staff due to the flooding and assist with their needs during the recovery.

Thomas J. Kavanaugh VFW Post 2290 (Manville): DONATE

(L to R): Sparky Lyle, Andy Henkel, Commander; Patrick McVerry, Sparkee.

  • The donation will be used to assist with the cost of shelter operations and aid the victims directly to help get back into their homes.

Checks were personally delivered on Monday, November 22nd and Tuesday, November 23rd by McVerry, Patriots Manager Emeritus Sparky Lyle, and Sparkee the Mascot.

“You really couldn’t ask for a better time to give than Thanksgiving week,” said Lyle. “To be able to say thank you to our friends doing such important work to help our community felt really good. And while the devastation to the area put a spotlight on their efforts, it’s really something they do all year long and deserves to be recognized.”

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.

Patriots, Flemington Car & Truck Country, Clinton Honda, and Jaguar Land Rover Princeton Continue Tradition Of Giving With Donation Of Holiday Meals For Local Families

 

Bridgewater, New Jersey– The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, along with Flemington Car & Truck Country, Clinton Honda, and Jaguar Land Rover Princeton are donating holiday meals and personal care items to local families through the Food Bank Network of Somerset County and the Flemington Area Food Pantry.

The donation for Somerset County residents was made at the Food Bank Network of Somerset County’s main warehouse in Bound Brook on Friday, November 19th. Jonathan Kalafer and his son Broden were joined by Patriots President/General Manager Patrick McVerry, team mascot Sparkee, County Commissioner Director Shanel Robinson, Commissioner Douglas Singleterry and the President of the Board of Directors of the Somerset County Food Bank Network, Gordon White.

“Anybody who is in need, or has ever been in need, the first thing people think of is ‘what am I going to eat tonight,’” said White. “It’s not ‘do I pay the rent or do I go to a doctor?’ It’s how do I feed myself and how am I going to feed my family. If we can’t meet that first level of support, people don’t have the will or the energy or the mental stamina to devote to anything else.”

The mission of The Food Bank Network is to distribute food and to provide other basic human needs to those less fortunate in the community in a manner which recognizes and advances self-worth and human dignity. The Food Bank Network of Somerset County is incorporated as a charitable, not-for-profit organization. The majority of their food and funding are donations provided by individuals, families, philanthropic organizations, businesses and corporations of all sizes. For more information, or to make a food or monetary donation, please visit somersetfoodbank.org.

“Donations this time of year are important to the fabric of what makes family and communities a community,” said Commissioner Director Robinson. “That we are all working together to make sure that we are all made whole and that we have a great time with our family and friends, but more importantly, there’s nothing else that matters when you are coming together with family than coming to break bread.”

Added Commissioner Singleterry, “This has been a tough time for a lot of people, and I applaud the work that the Food Bank does, and all the people that support the Food Bank, not just during the holiday season, but throughout the entire year. This is really helping a lot of people out and the work they do is appreciated.”

Giving back to the community is an important tradition for the Kalafer family and the businesses they own and operate.

“This was a core value that my father built his businesses on. I have heard countless stories of his generosity over the years and feel blessed to have learned the importance of community from him,” said Jonathan Kalafer.

Steve Kalafer passed away in April from a battle with cancer. That tradition of giving back continues on to the next generation of the Kalafer family as Jonathan’s 13-year-old son, Broden, lent a hand.

“I am very proud of Broden. He created a charitable initiative called ‘Hearts to Help’ as part of the process when he was preparing for his Bar Mitzvah last year. Even though the service requirement for his Bar Mitzvah is over, he has decided to continue on with it,” said Jonathan Kalafer. “He has added personal care items to the families holiday meals through his personal fundraising and money he earned working at a hair salon on the weekends. It is hard doing this without our dad this year, but I know he would be so proud to see Broden here.”

The Kalafers and Sparkee also visited the Flemington Food Pantry to make the donation for Hunterdon County residents to Executive Director, Jeannine Gorman. In addition to the donation, they also received a bag full of gift cards donated by associates and staff from the Kalafer businesses who wished to participate in the effort.

“We never had a clue of how many people would show up to our door, but we have faith that no matter how many people there are, that we have the support of the community to have everything we need in order to ensure people have the food that they need for their families,” said Gorman. “For us, having strong partners like the Kalafer family and their businesses is absolutely critical to everything that we do.”

Raritan Township Mayor Gary Hazard and Committeeman Jeff Kuhl were in attendance for the presentation.

“It’s so great to see a family like the Kalafer family, now third generation here, that Steve taught them so well,” Committeeman Kuhl said. “They always want to give back to the community that they serve. The Somerset Patriots and Flemington Car and Truck Country are great for the community and so is the Kalafer family.”

The Flemington Area Food Pantry provides food and personal care items to needy Hunterdon County families regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background. The Flemington Area Food Pantry depends on the generosity of the Hunterdon County community for its very existence. Without donations of food and funds, the Pantry would not exist. More than 80% of Pantry in- come is derived from contributions of cash and groceries. For more information, or to make a donation, please visit flemingtonfoodpantry.org.

“We know these donations will help feed families and bring some joy to those in need,” said Josh Kalafer, Co-Owner of Flemington Car & Truck Country and Clinton Honda, Chairman of Jaguar Land Rover Princeton, and Co-Chairman of the Patriots. “It’s a way for our family, team, and dealerships to do good in our community during a time when it is very much needed. It is how our businesses have always operated under my father’s guidance and they will continue to do so long into the future.”

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 Flemington Car & Truck Country, Clinton Honda, and Jaguar Land Rover Princeton

Flemington Car & Truck Country, Clinton Honda and Jaguar Land Rover Princeton are Authorized Automotive Sales, Service and Parts Dealerships serving Hunterdon and other surrounding New Jersey and Pennsylvania counties since 1976. They have locations on Routes 202, 31, 22 and 206. For more information, please visit Flemington.com, ClintonHonda.com, or JLRPrinceton.com.

Patriots To Host Holiday Toy And Food Drive

 

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, have announced that the team will host a Holiday Toy and Food Drive at TD Bank Ballpark on Saturday, December 11th.

The event will take place from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm in the Team Store located by the main gate of the ballpark.

New and unwrapped toys will be collected to donate to Central New Jersey Toys For Tots to bring holiday cheer to less fortunate children throughout the area.

The team will also be accepting donations of canned and non-perishable food items for the Food Bank Network of Somerset County to help fight hunger.

Patriots Manager Emeritus Sparky Lyle will be on site to meet fans, sign autographs, and take pictures from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. Sparkee the Mascot will also be at the event during those times.

The Team Store will feature new arrivals, holiday items, and restocked favorites from the season.

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.

FirstEnergy Stadium to Host 15th Annual Eastern PA Toy for Tots

 

(Reading, PA) – FirstEnergy Stadium will welcome the 15th Annual Eastern PA Toy Run, presented by Classic Harley-Davidson, on Sunday, November 7th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Tompkins VIST Bank Plaza. Please note this is Daylight Savings so make sure to turn your clocks back and join us at the ballpark for a good cause!

Proceeds from the event will benefit the United States Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program and The Children’s Home of Reading. Bikers will come from Classic Harley-Davidson and present a new, unwrapped toy in exchange for a free Berks Hot Dog and hot chocolate.

Everyone is encouraged to bring a toy of any value or make a monetary donation that will be used to purchase additional toys for children.

The Grand Slam Grill and the Yuengling Tap Room will be open for classic ballpark food and drink. In addition, the Brentwood Industries Fightin Phils Team Store will be open during the event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be live music in the plaza!

Motorcycle registration for the Toy Run will begin at 9 a.m. at Classic Harley-Davidson. The ride will depart from Classic Harley-Davidson on Route 183 at 11:30 a.m. and will follow a direct route to America’s Classic Ballpark arriving at approximately 11:50 a.m. All motorcycles, Jeeps, and classic cars are welcome to participate in the Eastern PA Toy Run with a donation of an unwrapped toy.

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

For all information about this night and all events at FirstEnergy Stadium please visit rphils.com/events.

FirstEnergy Stadium is the Double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies and the home of the Reading Fightin Phils. The stadium is located at 1900 Centre Avenue, Reading, PA 19605.

T-Mobile and the R-Phils Celebrate First Responders Day

 

The Reading Fightin Phils are partnering up with T-Mobile to commemorate National First Responders Day. On Thursday, October 28, they will host a FREE lunch at FirstEnergy Stadium for all first responders in the area.

From 11:45AM-2PM, T-Mobile will be providing a FREE lunch to support our police, firefighters, and other first responders in the area. Food will be provided by a local food truck at the ballpark thanks to Gourmand Café. Gourmand’s food truck specializes in artisan street food for all different types of eaters to enjoy.

To register for the free lunch, please RSVP at this link: https://forms.gle/FDimTy61n8XpYWex9. T-Mobile will also be on hand with giveaways and a prize entry to win a $100 Door Dash Gift Card! They want to use this opportunity to thank first responders for their service and provide some great local food to enjoy!

The R-Phils express this same sentiment about celebrating first responders for their hard efforts and caring energy. Front office member, Anthony Pignetti appreciates their attention and commitment to the community. “First Responders often put us in front of themselves,” Pignetti said. “I am looking forward to this event to thank them for their continued strength and compassion.

For all information about this lunch and all events at FirstEnergy Stadium please visit rphils.com/events.

FirstEnergy Stadium is the Double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies and the home of the Reading Fightin Phils. The stadium is located at 1900 Centre Avenue, Reading, PA 19605.