The Greats: Marauders Celebrate Black History Month

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

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 Marauders.

Evan Chambers (Outfielder, 2011-12) — A third-round draft pick in 2009 out of Hillsborough Community College in Tampa, Chambers played nearly 200 games across two seasons for the Marauders, hitting 12 home runs and stealing 31 bases. The Lakeland native brought a radiant smile and a positive presence to the field and the clubhouse.

In December 2013, Chambers died in his sleep at the age of 24 of an undetected genetic heart condition. In his memory, a sign bearing his number 53 adorns the boardwalk in right field at LECOM Park. He was posthumously inducted into the Florida State League Hall of Fame in 2017.

Ke’Bryan Hayes (Infielder, 2017) — The Pirates selected Hayes in the first round of the 2015 draft out of Concordia Lutheran High School in Texas. Hayes enjoyed an outstanding season with the Marauders in 2017, hitting .278 while stealing 27 bases, second-most among Pirates farmhands. He earned a selection to the Florida State League all-star game and was named a Gold Glove award winner at third base for all of Minor League Baseball.

Hayes made his major league debut in 2020 and batted .376 with a .442 on-base percentage in the shortened season, finishing sixth in National League rookie of the year voting.

Hayes is a proud second-generation major leaguer; his father, Charlie, played 14 seasons in the majors from 1988 to 2001, most notably with the Phillies and Rockies.

Cal Mitchell (Outfielder, 2019) — Mitchell, the Pirates’ second-round pick in 2017, patrolled right field for the Marauders throughout the 2019 season and led all Florida State League right fielders with a .977 fielding percentage.

Mitchell’s 15 home runs that season ranked second on the team, and he was selected to the Florida State League all-star game in Jupiter. He started in right field and earned all-star game MVP honors, going 2-for-4 with a pair of doubles and a run scored.

Gift Ngoepe (Infielder, 2010; 2012-13) — Ngoepe, a native of Randburg, South Africa, made baseball history as the first African-born player in the major leagues when he debuted for the Pirates in 2017. On his way to the majors, Ngoepe spent all or parts of three seasons in a Marauders uniform, stealing a total of 29 bases and providing solid infield defense.

Ngoepe made his major league debut on April 26, 2017 at PNC Park, going 1-for-2 with a single in his first at-bat. Time zone differences meant that, in his native South Africa, Ngoepe’s debut fell on the morning of April 27, known as Freedom Day—a date commemorating the nation’s first post-apartheid election.

After brief stints with the Blue Jays and Phillies organizations and a short return to the Pirates’ system in 2019, Ngoepe has continued his career in the independent leagues, most recently with the Quebec Capitales of the Frontier League in 2021.

Cole Tucker (Infielder, 2016-2017) — The Pirates’ first-round pick in 2014, Tucker starred at shortstop for the Marauders in the second half of 2016 and the first half of 2017. In addition to his slick defense, Tucker ran rampant on the basepaths, swiping 41 bases in 133 total games as a Marauder.

On May 12, 2017, Tucker homered from both sides of the plate in a 20-2 Marauders victory, finished a single shy of the cycle, and drove in seven runs, tying a franchise record.

Tucker made his major league debut for the Pirates on April 20, 2019, going 1-for-3 with a two-run homer for his first major league hit.

Black History Month: Five of the Top Black Players in Clearwater History

In celebration of Black History Month, throughout February, teams across Minor League Baseball are taking a look back at some 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 Clearwater.

Ron Jones (1986)

After turning down draft offers in 1982 and 1983, Ron Jones signed with the Philadelphia Phillies as a free agent in 1984.

During his 108-game stint with Clearwater in 1986, the outfielder led the team in every offensive category aside from home runs and led the Florida State League in batting average (.371), hits (153), slugging percentage (.524), on-base percentage (.423) and triples (12). His stand-out numbers led to Jones being voted FSL MVP. It would have been a unanimous decision, but since teams are not allowed to vote for their own player, Jones did not get the two votes from Clearwater representatives.

Jones was part of the first duo of players to win a Paul Owens Award, an honor given out annually since 1986 to the best position player and pitcher in the Phillies minor league system.

The left-handed hitter had thirteen game-winning RBIs for the Single-A team before skipping Double-A and being promoted straight to the Triple-A club (Portland).

Jones made his major league debut on August 26, 1988, for the Philadelphia Phillies. In just 33 games to finish out the 1988 season, Jones drove in 26 runs including eight home runs for the big-league club. However, Jones’ major league career was plagued with injuries to both knees that ultimately ended his flourishing career. After retiring from the game in 2000, Jones turned to coaching and eventually opened the Big League Batting Academy in Houston, Texas, along with former teammate Charlie Hayes.

Jimmy Rollins (1998)

Jimmy Rollins was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the second round of the 1996 June Amateur Draft out of Encinal High School (Alameda, CA).

At 18 years old, Rollins was the youngest member of the 1998 Clearwater (A+) team. The switch hitter totaled a .244 batting average with six home runs in 119 games with the Florida State League club. As a shortstop with Clearwater, Rollins carried a league-best .952 fielding percentage. His top-notch fielding earned Rollins a spot on the mid-season FSL All-Star Team.

He made his big-league debut with the Phillies on September 17, 2000. During his sixteen-year career, he led the National League in triples four times. He is a three-time All-Star (2001, 2002, 2005), was named the National League MVP in 2007, won the Gold Glove award four times (2007 – 2009, 2012), and garnered a Silver Slugger award in 2007. The shortstop played an important role in the Phillies’ 2008 World Series Championship and was honored at the end of the season with a Fielding Bible Award as the top shortstop that season. Rollins was inducted into both the Clearwater Phillies and Threshers Wall of Fame and the Florida State League Hall of Fame in 2013. He was a co-recipient of the Roberto Clemente Award in 2014.

After he retired from playing in 2017, Rollins returned to the Phillies as a special advisor for the team and acted as an on-air commentator for television broadcasts.

Ryan Howard (2003)

Ryan Howard was signed by the Philadelphia Phillies in the fifth round of the 2001 MLB Draft out of Missouri State University.

Howard spent the entirety of the 2003 season with the Clearwater Phillies. He was voted Florida State League MVP, named Best Power Prospect in the FSL, and led the league in three categories: average (.304), home runs (23), and slugging percentage (.514). He was the 2003 and 2004 recipient of the Paul Owens award and played in the 2003 All-Star Futures game.

The first baseman was a September call-up for the Phillies on September 1, 2004. Howard was named National League Rookie of the Year in 2005 after leading all rookies with 22 home runs and posting a .288 average and 63 RBI in just 88 games. Nicknamed “The Big Piece”, Howard is known for being the player to reach 100 home runs and 200 home runs the quickest. He spent his entire 13-year career playing for the Phillies.

The lefty was awarded National League MVP in 2006, finishing the season with a .313 batting average 58 home runs, and 149 RBI. He was part of the 2008 Phillies World Series Championship team contributing six RBI including three home runs during the series. Howard was inducted into the Clearwater Phillies and Threshers Wall of Fame in 2016.

Greg Golson (2006)

Greg Golson was signed by the Philadelphia Phillies in the first round of the 2004 MLB draft out of John B. Connally High School (Austin, TX).

Golson made his professional debut that summer with the Gulf Coast League Phillies, hitting .295 in 47 games. After continuing to show power and speed in Lakewood with a .264 average and 25 stolen bases, Golson was added to the squad in Clearwater late in 2006. He started the 2007 campaign back in Clearwater, and in 99 games with the Threshers that year, Golson hit .285 with 12 long balls and 52 RBI to land himself a spot on the Florida State League All-Star team. His 139 games with the Threshers make him the first-round pick to play in the most games with the Clearwater club.

Golson appeared in the 2008 futures game and made his major league debut the same year as a September call-up with the Philadelphia Phillies. The outfielder was traded to the Texas Rangers in 2009 and played the next two years with the New York Yankees before making his final appearance in September of 2011. Golson was later hired by the Los Angeles Dodgers as part of their pro scouting department in 2019.

Quintin Berry (2008)

Quintin Berry was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the fifth round of the 2006 MLB Draft out of San Diego State University.

Berry began his career in Batavia (A) and led the club in walks. He was a Paul Owens award recipient in 2007 before joining the squad in Clearwater in 2008. The speedster had the most stolen bases (51) in the Florida State League and throughout the entire Phillies Minor League system. He was the only player to represent the Threshers on the 2008 Postseason All-Star team.

The outfielder was claimed off waivers by the San Diego Padres and played around the minor leagues with the Padres, Mets, Reds, and Tigers organizations. Berry made his major league debut with the Tigers on May 23, 2012. He set an American League record for most bases stolen without being caught stealing (21). Berry earned a World Series ring in 2013 as a pinch-runner and defensive replacement for the Boston Red Sox, swiping three postseason bases.

Berry transitioned into coaching after his retirement in 2018. In 2019, he became the Milwaukee Brewers outfield and base running coordinator and in 2021 he was promoted to the major league coaching staff as the first base coach.

MLB Pioneer Johnny Joe Lewis Leads Pensacola’s All-Time Greatest Black Baseball Players 

 

Nearly 50 years later, Kevin Saucier’s amazement has grown from his unique connections with Pensacola’s history of its greatest Black baseball players.

The left-hander was making his pitching debut with the Pulaski (Virginia) Phillies in the Appalachian League. It was weeks after the Philadelphia Phillies had selected Saucier in the second round of the 1974 draft from Escambia High School.

In the opposing lineup that night for the Covington (Va.) Astros was an outfielder named Joe “JJ” Cannon, who Saucier knew from Cannon’s success at Pensacola State College, formerly Pensacola Junior College.

“He was in the top three of the batting order,” Saucier said. “I wish I could remember how I did against him, but I knew JJ could run and I didn’t want him on base. But imagine that, your first game and guy from Pensacola you’re going against.”

Both players continued incredible journeys to reach the major leagues.

Cannon was the first PJC player to be drafted and continued a trailblazing path set by predecessors Johnny Joe Lewis and Hosken Powell to be among Pensacola’s greatest Black baseball players who reached the major leagues.

Saucier, nicknamed “Hot Sauce,” rose in the Phillies organization to win a World Series title with Philadelphia in 1980.

As part of Black History Month, Major League Baseball is recognizing players who advanced the game and became inspirations as part of an initiative to recognize top Black players in the communities of minor league affiliates.

The Blue Wahoos have chosen Cannon, along with Lewis, Powell, then Mark Whitten and Adron Chambers, as five of Pensacola’s greatest.

All played Major League Baseball and overcame long odds to do so. Saucer brings perspective with knowing all of them.

“I have all the respect in the world for these guys because they had a lot of things against them to get to the big leagues,” said Saucier, whose playing career transitioned into becoming an MLB regional scouting director and works with the Blue Wahoos during their home schedule as a liaison with current scouts and MLB team executives who travel to Pensacola to attend games.

“When you look at these guys, especially guys like Johnny, Hosken and JJ, you remember there was no such thing as (youth team) travel ball in those days and the summer league opportunities for them were nowhere near the same as for white players,” Saucier said.

“They had to overcome a lot and stay with it. And these five guys were some of the best players to ever come out of Pensacola.”

Saucier played against Cannon in high school and pro ball. He pitched against Powell in spring training games. He then got to know Lewis well in his later years. He then got to know and became friends with Whiten and Chambers during his scouting career.

In honor of Black History Month, here is a look at Pensacola’s top five Black baseball players.

JOHNNY JOE LEWIS – During his prep career at Booker T. Washington, Lewis grew up less than a decade removed from Jackie Robinson breaking baseball’s color barrier.

He was signed as a free agent by the Detroit Tigers, but broke into pro ball with the St. Louis Cardinals organization in 1959. He made his MLB debut with the Cardinals in 1964. Lewis played five seasons in the big leagues, including the final three years with the New York Mets.

He had 174 hits, 24 doubles, six triples, 22 home runs with 74 RBI in the majors. One of those home runs was a historic solo homer in 1965 against the Cincinnati Reds, breaking up a 10-inning, no-hitter by Reds pitcher Jim Maloney – one of the longest no-hitters in MLB history.

Following his playing career, he became the Cardinals first Black assistant coach in 1973 and stayed with the organization for the next two decades. He died in 2018 at age 78 and is considered one of Pensacola’s most famous names in Major League Baseball.

“When I got into coaching, that’s when I really started to get to know who Johnny Joe was,” Saucier said. “He was such a great guy and everyone in the game knew who he was. He had to have such an influence on everyone at that time in Pensacola.”

HOSKEN POWELL – One of the top players in Pensacola’s prep baseball history, Powell, a Woodham High graduate and outfielder, was twice a first-round draft pick in the same year while playing at Chipola Junior College. After being chosen by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1975 as the 19th overall pick in primary draft in January, Powell was later chosen by the Minnesota Twins as the third overall pick in the June secondary draft phase.

One of his roommates at Chipola was Century High grad Buck Showalter, now manager of the New York Mets.

Powell signed with the Twins and made his MLB debut with the Twins in 1978 and played six years in the big leagues.

“I remember I was a freshman in high school (Escambia) and on the JV team and we were playing Woodham. All I heard about was this guy named Hosken Powell,” Saucier said, laughing. “Let me tell you I could not get him out. You knew then, that this guy was going to be someone special.

“He had a lot of influence on baseball in Pensacola.”

JJ CANNON – While playing prep baseball at Camp LeJuene, N.C., Cannon’s family moved to Florida and he later signed to play at Pensacola Junior College. That’s where he caught attention from pro scouts and the Houston Astros made him the 16th overall pick in the 1974 draft.

Three later, following his rookie year with Saucier in the Appalachian League, Cannon made his MLB debut with the Astros in 1977 before being traded to the Toronto Blue Jays in 1979. His four-year career in the big leagues was followed by an extensive tenure as a minor league coach and manager. Cannon managed five different teams in four different leagues.

In 1991, he had a stadium in Hanover, Maryland named in his honor.

“The Appalachian League back in the 70’s was not an easy way to break into professional baseball for young black players,” Saucier said. “So I know JJ had to go through a lot.”

MARK WHITEN

Former Pensacola High football coach Leo Carvalis convinced Whiten to become a two-sport athlete and try out for the baseball team. His progression earned him a baseball scholarship at PJC and he chose that route as opposed to trying college football.

In 1986, Whiten was drafted in the fifth round by the Toronto Blue Jays. That organization became one of nine different MLB teams that Whitten played for during his 11 year career. While with the Phillies in 1993, he hit four home runs in a game and now is among 18 players in MLB history to attain that feat.

Whitten’s four homers resulted in 12 RBI which is tied for the all-time record in MLB history. He embraced the nickname of “Hard-Hittin’ Mark Whiten.”

“When Mark was in high school and PJC, he had a heck of an arm as a rightfielder,” Saucier said. “He had talent, but was raw as heck back then. And he just kept getting better.”

The Blue Jays scout who signed Whiten had to convince his director that it was a worthy choice. Whiten finished his career in 2000 with the Cleveland Indians and his career numbers included a .259 batting average with 105 home runs and 423 RBI.

ADRON CHAMBERS

A star quarterback and defensive back at Pensacola High, who led the Tigers to a state semifinal appearance in 2004, Chambers signed a football scholarship at Mississippi State. He then turned to baseball and joined Pensacola State College where he earned a pro opportunity during a tryout camp in 2007 with the St. Louis Cardinals.

Four years later, Chambers became part of the Cardinals’ World Series march and earned a championship ring with the Cardinals in 2011. In a four-year climb through the minor leagues, Chambers went from hitting .238 in Low-A in 2008 to .290 in Triple-A with the Memphis Redbirds in 2010.

That earned him a place on the Cardinals’ 40-man MLB roster. He spent parts of the 2012-13 seasons with the Cardinals and minor league affiliate, then played with the Houston Astros and Toronto Blue Jays organizations. He signed a free-agent deal with the Chicago Cubs before the 2015 season and was a teammate of former Cubs’ shortstop and Pace High grad Addison Russell that year.

“It is so amazing when you consider that Adron did not even play baseball at Mississippi State,” Saucier said. “And then he stayed with it (after 2011) to play several years in the minors.

Jumbo Shrimp to hold next food & beverage job fair Feb. 12

 

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – With the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp’s 2022 season of Affordable Family Fun on the horizon, the club will hold its next food & beverage job fair for 2022 seasonal food and beverage positions from 9 a.m.-noon on Saturday, February 12 at 121 Financial Ballpark.

The Jumbo Shrimp are seeking candidates for:

· Concessions Lead

· Concessions Floor Supervisor

· Warehouse Coordinator

· Suite Attendant

· Concessions Attendant

· Cook

· Bartender

· Warehouse Worker

· Party Deck Attendant

· Vending Hawker

· Kitchen Utility

· Kitchen Lead

· Office Coordinator

· Clean Team

Interested applicants may find full position descriptions and an application form at www.jaxshrimp.com. Applicants may bring a completed application to the job fair. All applicants should be prepared to interview at the job fairs and are encouraged to bring a resume and dress appropriately. Potential employees are subject to a background check and drug test.

Parking for the events will be in Lot P and applicants may enter through the Home Plate Gate at the corner of A Philip Randolph Blvd. and E. Adams St.

Open positions are for seasonal employment, including but not limited to 75 Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp home baseball games, additional stadium events and training.

The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are an equal opportunity employer.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at 121 Financial Ballpark. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by general Lead Harold Craw. The club added its second Promotional Trophy in three years following the 2019 season. The 2021 season marked the return of Triple-A baseball in Jacksonville. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

Phillies & Threshers Job Fair on Feb. 11th

 

The Phillies and Threshers are hiring now for BayCare Ballpark seasonal positions. A job fair will be held in-person at BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater on Friday, Feb. 11, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Multiple positions in Food & Beverage are available. Interviews will be conducted on-site. Positions available include: stand lead, cook, cashier, bartender, food prep, food runner, and warehouse.

On Friday, please park in the south lot of BayCare Ballpark and enter through the suites lobby, entrance and lot located at US19 & Drew St.

For more information for Food & Beverage positions, please contact Justin Stone at [email protected].

For information about the Threshers Fun Team, our in-game and community event promo team, please email [email protected].

The first home game of Phillies Spring Training is scheduled for February 27, Threshers Opening Night is April 8.

Phillies Spring Training schedule

Threshers summer schedule

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

 

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

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

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

DIDI GREGORIUS

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

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

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

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

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

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

BILLY HAMILTON

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHILIP ERVIN

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

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

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

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

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

AMIR GARRETT

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

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

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

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

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

SHED LONG

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

Tommy Pham

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

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

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

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

Xavier Scruggs

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

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

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

Adron Chambers

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

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

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

Sam Freeman

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

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

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

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

Maikel Cleto

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

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

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

“The Nine” – The best Black players in Jacksonville history

 

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

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

Here is a look at five of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for Jacksonville, plus a legendary Negro leagues star with ties to the city.

HENRY AARON

At just 15 years old in 1949, Aaron earned a tryout with the Brooklyn Dodgers, but his unorthodox batting grip likely contributed to the team deciding not to offer him a contract (incidentally, the first time Aaron hit conventionally with his right hand on top of his left, which he was instructed to do in 1952, he homered). He signed instead with a semi-pro team called the Mobile Black Bears, collecting $3 per game. Aaron’s mother, Estella, only granted Henry permission to play with the Black Bears on the condition that he did not travel with the team, thus limiting him to games in their hometown of Mobile.

Two years later, Henry inked a deal for $200 per month as a shortstop with the Negro American League champion Indianapolis Clowns. Immediately, Aaron excelled, batting .366 with five home runs and nine stolen bases in 26 games to help Indianapolis win the 1952 Negro Leagues World Series. He was just 18 years old.

Aaron’s instantaneous stardom quickly caught the eye of several major league organizations. He signed with the Braves, who assigned him to Class A Jacksonville for the 1953 season. Along with Black teammates Horace Garner and Felix Mantilla, Aaron integrated the South Atlantic League. Despite the pressure of breaking the color line in places like Montgomery, Ala., Augusta, Columbus, Macon and Savannah, Ga., and Charleston and Columbia, S.C., Aaron led the league in batting average (.362), runs scored (115), hits (208), doubles (36), total bases (338) and RBIs (135). He spurred Jacksonville to the league championship and was named MVP. As one scribe wrote in regards to Aaron’s performance while navigating the Jim Crow laws that still governed the South at the time, “Henry Aaron led the league in everything except hotel accommodations.”

The next season, Aaron made his major league debut for the Milwaukee Braves, sparking a career that can be argued as the greatest in baseball history. He wound up launching 755 home runs in an extraordinary 23-year career, but even if he didn’t hit a single long ball in his career, Aaron still would have totaled more than 3,000 hits. He accumulated an MLB record 6,856 total bases; second-place Stan Musial is closer to 10th-place Carl Yastrzemski than he is to Aaron in first. Aaron knocked in 2,297 runs, the most in major league history. When he finally retired, he had scored 2,174 runs, the most of any National League player (he has since been passed by Barry Bonds).

Add it all up, and Aaron was a 25-time All-Star (some seasons during his playing days had more than one All-Star Game). That number is so staggering it blows the mind. It’s more All-Star Games than Tom Seaver and Frank Robinson combined. It’s as many All-Star Games that Ken Griffey Jr. and Mike Schmidt can tally up. Even fellow Jacksonville Hall of Fame alums Randy Johnson, Nolan Ryan and Phil Niekro combined for 23 All-Star Games between the three of them.

Aaron’s greatness is synonymous with more than just baseball because of how much he had to endure outside of the ballpark. Sadly, the blatant racism he began encountering with Jacksonville in 1953 was a harbinger of things to come. Aaron still rose above it in every single step of the journey anyway.

WILLIE WILSON

The Kansas City Royals’ first-round pick in 1974, Willie Wilson batted .253/.309/.325 with Double-A Jacksonville in 1976. Though he was still growing his game as a 20-year-old talent, he made his major league debut the same season for Kansas City and go on to play 19 seasons for the Royals.

Wilson did virtually everything during his big league career; he was a two-time All-Star, earned two Silver Slugger Awards and one Gold Glove Award, won the 1982 American League batting title (.332), set a league and club record in 1979 with 83 stolen bases and set all-time Royals records with 612 steals and a preposterous 13 inside-the-park home runs. Simply put, he was a dazzling player, finishing with 46.1 career bWAR and earning induction into the Royals Hall of Fame.

After playing 15 seasons with the Royals, including the 1985 campaign that saw the franchise win its first World Series title, Wilson played two years with Oakland before a pair of seasons with the Cubs to finish his career.

GIANCARLO STANTON

The 2009 season for Giancarlo Stanton, then known as Mike, was a remarkable campaign on his rise towards stardom in the major leagues. At just 19 years old, Stanton wound up leading both High-A Jupiter and Double-A Jacksonville in home runs despite playing in just 50 and 79 games, respectively, with the clubs.

Stanton returned to Jacksonville to start the 2010 campaign and mashed 15 home runs in his first 28 games, tallying 28 walks, 28 runs and 33 RBIs with a batting line of .340/.481/.854 during that stretch. After 52 games, he was hitting .313/.442/.729 with 21 home runs and 52 RBIs before the Marlins called him up to the major leagues.

In 12 MLB seasons since with the Marlins and New York Yankees, Stanton has walloped 347 long balls while batting .268/.358/.543 (143 OPS+). A four-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger Award winner, Stanton was named the 2017 NL MVP after leading MLB in both home runs (59) and RBIs (132). His slugging percentage (.631) and OPS+ (169) topped the National League during that campaign.

Stanton also finished second in the MVP balloting in 2014 after besting the NL in homers (37) and slugging percentage (.555).

FRANK WHITE

Frank White is perhaps the most successful graduate of the Kansas City Royals Baseball Academy – established by team owner Ewing Kauffman and run by Syd Thrift – a flagship program that sought to refine the skills of athletically-gifted prospects who had been neglected by other major league teams because they had not played much baseball in high school or college. Like many of the Academy’s projects, Frank White had not been drafted. The Royals developed him into one of the leading second basemen of his generation.

One of the greatest defensive second basemen in major league history, White reached Double-A Jacksonville at just 21 years old in 1971. He slashed .252/.316/.318 with 13 stolen bases in 16 attempts over 91 games. Sadly, he was the only African-American player with Jacksonville at the time, so at various stops, his teammates would bring him food and drinks while he remained on the bus. White moved up to Triple-A Omaha to start the 1972 season before making his big league debut for the Royals later in that 1972 campaign.

Along with Wilson and other Royals legends like George Brett, White helped form the nucleus of Kansas City teams that won six division titles, two AL pennants and the 1985 World Series from 1976-85. Over a remarkable 18-year career, White earned eight Gold Glove Awards, five All-Star appearances and a Silver Slugger Award.

White’s No. 20 was retired by the Royals in 1995, the same year he was inducted into the club’s Hall of Fame.

JOHN JORDAN “BUCK” O’NEIL

One of six members of the incoming Hall of Fame baseball class in 2022, John Jordan “Buck” O’Neil lived perhaps the most impactful life in baseball history.

Raised in Sarasota, Fla., O’Neil made his way to Jacksonville after receiving a scholarship to Edward Waters College, where he played both baseball and football. In 1937, he began his 11-season playing career in the Negro leagues, 10 of which would come with the legendary Kansas City Monarchs. O’Neil won a pair of batting titles, hitting .345 in 1940 and .350 in 1946 and developed a reputation as a smooth-fielding first baseman. He also managed the Monarchs from 1948-1955, leading the team to four Negro American League titles.

Though he never reached the major leagues as a player, O’Neil is credited with becoming both MLB’s first Black scout and coach. O’Neil is credited with scouting Hall of Famers Ernie Banks, Billy Williams, Lou Brock and Lee Smith, as well as other prominent major leaguers like Joe Carter and Oscar Gamble.

In addition to his work as a player, manager, scout and coach, O’Neil spent much of the later decades of his life as an advocate for the Negro leagues. He served as founder and board chairman of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum before dying in 2006 at the age of 94.

The Baseball Hall of Fame honors O’Neil’s legacy with the Buck O’Neil Lifetime Achievement Award, which is given to individuals whose extraordinary efforts enhanced baseball’s positive impact on society, broadened the game’s appeal and whose character, integrity and dignity are comparable to the qualities exhibited by O’Neil.

BONUS: JOHN HENRY “POP” LLOYD

Though it is not certain where exactly Lloyd was born in Florida, he was raised by his grandmother in and around Jacksonville during his childhood. Often regarded as the greatest shortstop in the history of the Negro leagues thanks to his batting, fielding and base-stealing prowess, Lloyd enjoyed a 25-year career in which he regularly batted over .300.

As a player, Lloyd spent time with the Cuban X-Giants, Philadelphia Giants, Chicago Leland Giants, New York Lincoln Giants, Chicago American Giants, New York Lincoln Stars, Brooklyn Royal Giants, New York Bacharach Giants, Columbus Buckeyes, Atlantic City Bacharach Giants, Hilldale Daisies and the Harlem Stars. Lloyd also managed four of those teams over a span of six years while playing.

During his playing career, Lloyd was often compared with Hall of Fame shortstop Honus Wagner. While playing in Cuba, Lloyd earned the nickname “El Cuchara” (translated to English meaning “The Tablespoon” or “The Shovel”), for how he characteristically scooped up a glove-full of dirt from the ground every time he fielded a ball, similar to the style of Wagner.

Unfortunately, like many Negro leagues players, Lloyd passed away before he was elected into the Hall of Fame. His election came in 1977, 13 years after his death.

BEST OF THE REST

MARQUIS GRISSOM

Grissom batted .299/.365/.414 with Jacksonville in 1989 before embarking on a 17-year major league career. He helped the Atlanta Braves win the 1995 World Series and also spent time with the Montreal Expos, San Francisco Giants, Milwaukee Brewers, Los Angeles Dodgers and Cleveland Indians. Grissom was a four-time Gold Glove Award winner and two-time All-Star.

DELINO DeSHIELDS

Like Grissom, DeShields was a member of the 1989 Jacksonville Expos, slashing a robust .270/.413/.371. He went on to play 13 seasons in the major leagues for the Montreal Expos, Los Angeles Dodgers, Baltimore Orioles, Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals, tallying eight seasons with at least 35 stolen bases.

MATT KEMP

Kemp hit .327/.402/.528 in 48 games with Jacksonville in 2006, a season that saw him later make his MLB debut. A three-time All-Star, two-time Gold Glover and two-time Silver Slugger over a 15-year career mainly with the Dodgers, Kemp finished playing with 1,808 hits and 287 home runs. He finished second in the NL MVP balloting in 2011 after batting .324/.399/.586 while leading the league in both home runs (39) and RBIs (126).

DAVE ROBERTS

Roberts put up stellar numbers with Jacksonville in both 1997 and 1998 as a Detroit Tigers farmhand. He is perhaps most well-known in his playing career for stealing second base in the ninth inning of Game 4 of the 2004 ALCS, helping to ignite the Boston Red Sox to a historic 3-0 series comeback over the New York Yankees and eventually leading the club to its first World Series title since 1918. Roberts has served as the manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers since 2016, winning five NL West division titles, three NL pennants and the 2020 World Series.

JAMES LONEY

Loney slashed .264/.339/.378 as a member of both the 2004 and 2005 Jacksonville Suns. He made his debut for the Dodgers in 2006 and wound up playing 11 seasons in the major leagues with Los Angeles, the Tampa Bay Rays, New York Mets and Boston Red Sox. He owns a career MLB batting line of .284/.336/.410.

EDWIN JACKSON

A member of the Jacksonville Suns in both 2003 and 2005, Jackson played for 14 different MLB teams in his 17-year career. He was an All-Star with Detroit in 2009, when he went 13-9 with a 3.62 ERA in 33 starts covering 214.0 innings. Jackson also helped the 2011 St. Louis Cardinals capture the franchise’s 11th World Series championship.

Blue Wahoos Join “The Nine”, A New Initiative To Celebrate, Engage, And Welcome Black Fans

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Nine: Jupiter Hammerheads

 

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

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

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

Here is a look at five of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for the Jupiter Hammerheads.

Dontrelle Willis

Dontrelle Willis—known for his iconic leg kick and commonly known as “D-Train”—continues to be one of the best-known players to ever sport the Marlins teal. One of his first stops along the way to World Series glory in South Florida was at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium.

Picked up by the Chicago Cubs in the 8th round of the 2000 draft, the Alameda, Cal. native would be traded to the Marlins ahead of the 2002 season. The lefty’s first Marlins affiliate was Jupiter, where he started five games and compiled a 1.80 ERA. During his stint with the Hammerheads, Willis was lethal to opposing batters, striking out 27 and walking just three while allowing a WHIP of 0.90. After impressing in Jupiter, he would be in the big leagues just one year later. In 2003, D-Train was named National League Rookie of the Year and an All-Star while guiding the Marlins to a World Series title over the heavily favored New York Yankees.

Willis was selected to the All-Star Game once again in 2005 while leading the NL in wins that year. The southpaw’s MLB career lasted through 2011, with time spent on the Detroit Tigers, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Cincinnati Reds.

Dontrelle Willis, and that iconic high leg-kick, donned a Hammerheads uniform in 2002 before leading the Marlins to a World Series the following season.

Brandon Phillips

Before Brandon Phillips was a mainstay for the Cincinnati Reds, he stood out for the Jupiter Hammerheads in 2001. Phillips was taken in the 2nd round of the 1999 Major League Baseball Draft by the Montreal Expos out of Redan High School in Stone Mountain, Ga. In his lone season with the Hammerheads, who were affiliated with the Expos at the time, the righty slashed .284/.414/.428.

In 239 plate appearances across 55 games, Phillips also complied 23 RBIs and 17 stolen bases before being promoted to the then Double-A affiliate Harrisburg Senators.

In 2002, the middle infielder was traded to the Cleveland Indians alongside Grady Sizemore and Cliff Lee, which also sent Bartolo Colon to the Expos. The then 25-year-old was traded again in 2006, this time to the Cincinnati Reds, where he’d spend the majority of his big league career. Phillips went on to become a three-time MLB All-Star, a four-time Gold Glove award winner, and a Silver Slugger recipient.

After his time in the majors, Phillips underwent stints in Independent and Mexican League baseball before becoming a joint player-owner of the Atlantic League’s Lexington Legends.

Alejandro De Aza

Alejandro De Aza may have made an impact at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium but will be remembered for his impact on baseball’s most global stage.

Like Mota, De Aza hails from the Dominican Republic. The two also share the distinction of being selected in the Rule 5 Draft, with De Aza joining the Marlins organization in 2004 after spending three years with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The outfielder’s first stop in the Marlins’ farm system was with Jupiter, where he spent the entirety of 2005. The then Class-A Advanced club enjoyed all 123 of De Aza’s appearances, with the future big leaguer slashing a robust .286/.370./.394. De Aza was called up to majors in 2007 and would go bat .260 with 51 home runs across his 10-year career.

In addition to his lengthy MLB tenure, De Aza notably helped lead the Dominican Republic to international glory as World Baseball Classic Champions in 2013, with the lefty going 1-3 in the championship game against Puerto Rico.

Arquimedes Caminero pitched in 21 games for the Jupiter Hammerheads.

Guillermo Mota

At the tender age of 17, Guillermo Mota was signed by the New York Mets out of high school in 1990. The San Pedro de Macoris, Dominican Republic native would then be picked up by the Montreal Expos in the 1997 Rule 5 Draft. The Expos gave the young prospect a new career beginning and a new position, being converted from an infielder to a pitcher.

Thankfully for Mota, a dominant stint with the Hammerheads was right around the corner. Starting the 1998 campaign at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium as a reliever, he posted a 0.66 ERA and an eye-popping 0.585 WHIP over 20 games.

Unsurprisingly, Mota was swiftly promoted in-season to the former Double-A affiliates Harrisburg Senators. By 1999, he was in the majors, having hit a home run in his first at-bat with the Expos. The righty went on to enjoy a lengthy career and earned a World Series ring after pitching a scoreless frame in Game 2 of the 2010 World Series for the San Francisco Giants, who beat the Texas Rangers in five games.

Mota’s career came full circle after the 2013-14 Caribbean Series after representing the Dominican Republic as a member of the national team. 23 years after signing his initial contract, he hung up the cleats for good.

Arquimedes Caminero

Very few numbers could stand out more than a 0.44 ERA, but that is what right-handed reliever Arquimedes Caminero posted for the Hammerheads in 2012.

The Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic native struck out 27 and walked just nine in his 19 relief outings that season. With a 1.016 WHIP, it came as no surprise that Caminero was promoted to Double-A Jacksonville that season and earned a big-league call-up to the Marlins one year later.

From 2013-16, Caminero accumulated a 3.83 ERA for the Marlins and Pittsburgh Pirates before stints in Japan and Mexico.

Alejandro De Aza tracks down a fly ball for the Marlins during Spring Training. De Aza played over 125 games with the Hammerheads.

The Jupiter Hammerheads have had many other influential Black players since their inaugural 1998 season, and are excited for the many more to come.

The Hammerheads will be kicking off their 25th Season at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium on April 8th when they host the Palm Beach Cardinals. Tickets for the 2022 season are available here, and upcoming promotions will be announced at a later date. If you’re itching to come see baseball at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium, secure your Marlins Spring Training dates here.

Job Fair Feb. 3 – Phillies Spring Training and Threshers Summer

 

The Phillies and Threshers are hiring now for BayCare Ballpark seasonal positions. A job fair will be held in-person at BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater on Thursday, Feb. 3, from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m.
Multiple positions in Food & Beverage are available. Interviews will be conducted on-site. Positions available include:

The Phillies and Threshers are hiring now for BayCare Ballpark seasonal positions. A job fair will be held in-person at BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater on Thursday, Feb. 3, from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m.

Multiple positions in Food & Beverage are available. Interviews will be conducted on-site. Positions available include: stand lead, cook, cashier, bartender, food prep, food runner, and warehouse.

On Thursday, please park in the south lot of BayCare Ballpark and enter through the suites lobby, entrance and lot located at US19 & Drew St.

For more information for Food & Beverage positions, please contact Justin Stone at [email protected].

For information about the Threshers Fun Team, our in-game and community event promo team, please email [email protected].

The first home game of Phillies Spring Training is scheduled for February 27, Threshers Opening Night is April 8.

Phillies Spring Training schedule

Threshers summer schedule

Jumbo Shrimp open registration for Feb. 15 National Anthem auditions

 

NATIONAL ANTHEM AUDITION REGISTRATION FORM

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp prepare to open their 2022 schedule of 72 home games on April 5, the club is inviting the talent of Northeast Florida to audition to perform the National Anthem before a Jumbo Shrimp home game during the upcoming season. Individuals and groups can now register for the club’s National Anthem auditions, to be held from 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday, February 15 at 121 Financial Ballpark.

The auditions will be held rain or shine. Interested individuals and groups may schedule an audition time by completing a registration form emailing it to director of promotions & special events David Ratz at [email protected].

Individuals or groups who performed during the 2021 Jumbo Shrimp season are not required to audition if they are interested in performing again in 2022. Such individuals or groups should still complete and email the registration form, indicating a past performance at a Jumbo Shrimp game.

“We always love listening to local individuals and groups perform to have an opportunity to open each Jumbo Shrimp game in the 2022 season,” said Jumbo Shrimp executive vice president/general manager Harold Craw. “Jumbo Shrimp games at 121 Financial Ballpark are community events, and we are looking forward to building another outstanding lineup of talent from the Northeast Florida community that will be among the highlights of each night of Affordable Family Fun.”

The Jumbo Shrimp’s full promotional schedule will be announced at a later date. Fans can secure tickets to these great dates by booking a season ticket package, mini plan or group outing – beginning at 24 people – by calling the Jumbo Shrimp’s front office at 904-358-2846.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at 121 Financial Ballpark. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by general manager Harold Craw. The club added its second Promotional Trophy in three years following the 2019 season. The 2021 season marked the return of Triple-A baseball in Jacksonville. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

Jumbo Shrimp invite non-profit organizations to fundraise at 121 Financial Ballpark

 

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are hosting an informational event for non-profit organizations seeking to find fun and creative ways to raise money during the 2022 season presented by FIS from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 9 at 121 Financial Ballpark.

The Jumbo Shrimp offer a wide variety of fundraising opportunities to help various entities such as youth sports teams, food banks, booster clubs, private schools, churches and military and civic groups to earn both money for their fundraising goals and gain added exposure for their cause at 121 Financial Ballpark. Programs include the operation of the ballpark’s concession stands and other portable ballpark food areas, as well as fundraising tickets, Launch-A-Ball and the Vystar Charity Begins at Home Program.

“This is an excellent opportunity to meet face-to-face and answer any questions about fundraising at 121 Financial Ballpark,” said Jumbo Shrimp executive vice president/general manager Harold Craw. “It has been so rewarding over the years to help a wide variety of non-profit organizations through our various programs, and we look forward to expanding our efforts for the 2022 season.”

Non-profits interested in joining the Jumbo Shrimp’s concession fundraising program should contact community relations manager Miranda Rossum at [email protected].

More information about fundraising opportunities can be found via this link.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at 121 Financial Ballpark. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by general manager Harold Craw. The club added its second Promotional Trophy in three years following the 2019 season. The 2021 season marked the return of Triple-A baseball in Jacksonville. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

Jumbo Shrimp to hold food & beverage job fairs Feb. 2 & 12

 

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – With the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp’s 2022 season of Affordable Family Fun on the horizon, the club has set two job fairs in February for 2022 seasonal food and beverage positions at 121 Financial Ballpark.

The Jumbo Shrimp will host job fairs from 4-7 p.m. on Wednesday, February 2 and 9 a.m.-noon on Saturday, February 12 at 121 Financial Ballpark.

The Jumbo Shrimp are seeking candidates for:

· Concessions Lead

· Concessions Floor Supervisor

· Warehouse Coordinator

· Suite Attendant

· Concessions Attendant

· Cook

· Bartender

· Warehouse Worker

· Party Deck Attendant

· Vending Hawker

· Kitchen Utility

· Kitchen Lead

· Office Coordinator

· Clean Team

Interested applicants may find full position descriptions and an application form at www.jaxshrimp.com. Applicants may bring a completed application to the job fair. All applicants should be prepared to interview at the job fairs and are encouraged to bring a resume and dress appropriately. Potential employees are subject to a background check and drug test.

Parking for the events will be in Lot P and applicants may enter through the Home Plate Gate at the corner of A Philip Randolph Blvd. and E. Adams St.

Open positions are for seasonal employment, including but not limited to 72 Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp home baseball games, additional stadium events and training.

The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are an equal opportunity employer.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at 121 Financial Ballpark. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by general Lead Harold Craw. The club added its second Promotional Trophy in three years following the 2019 season. The 2021 season marked the return of Triple-A baseball in Jacksonville. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

Phillies and Threshers Hosting Job Fair on January 26.

 

CLEARWATER, Fla. – The Phillies and Threshers are hiring now for BayCare Ballpark seasonal positions. A job fair will be held in person at BayCare Ballpark on Wednesday, January 26 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Multiple positions in Food & Beverage are available. Interviews will be conducted on-site. Positions available include: stand lead, cook, cashier, bartender, food prep, food runner, and warehouse.

For more information for Food & Beverage positions, please contact Justin Stone at [email protected].

Please email [email protected] for information about the Threshers Fun Team, our in-game and community event promo team.

The first home game of Phillies Spring Training is scheduled for February 27, Threshers Opening Night is April 8.

BayCare Ballpark

601 Old Coachman Road

Clearwater, FL