Saints Announce Winners Of Inaugural Jimmy Lee Umpire Awards, Headlined By Larry Gallagher, As Part of Minor League Baseball's “The Nine” Initiative

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ST. PAUL, MN — (August 5, 2022) – Umpires are rarely honored for their hard, often underappreciated work, let alone with an award named for a man as well-respected as the late, great Jimmy Lee. To provide the recognition they so richly deserve, the Saints have introduced an initiative to promote the importance of, and the need for, great umpires and have selected seven winners in the inaugural Jimmy Lee Umpire Awards class.

The following exemplary umpires will be honored during a pregame ceremony celebrating Jimmy Lee and his impact on the Saint Paul community, prior to the Saints August 9 home game:

Lifetime Achievement in Umpiring – Larry Gallagher and Bryan DeVos

Most Dedicated Umpire – Duane Reed & Peyton Yurek

Rookie Umpire of the Year – Nathan O’Brien

Young Umpire of the Year – Ethan Agre

Most Improved Umpire – Chase Hebel

Both baseball and softball umpires were nominated by their league’s assignors in five different categories and a panel including Saints leadership and leaders in the officiating community selected the final award winners. This class of winners is headlined by one of the most respected umpires in Minnesota, Larry Gallagher.

The 82-year-old Gallagher retired in 2020 after 59-years as an umpire and is the Dean of the Northwest Umpires Association. During his final year playing catcher at Augsburg in 1961, an umpire working one of the games thought Gallagher would be a good ump, based on the fact he had been a catcher his entire life. Gallagher, who had a passion for the game and a teaching degree, agreed with the sentiment and thus a long and storied career began.

By his estimation, Gallagher believes he umpired well over 5,000 games and acquired the nickname “Dr. Balk.” A typical season saw Gallagher umpire between 100-150 games, and he was known for studying the rule book intently.

Gallagher got his opportunity to umpire in the Major Leagues in 1979 when the umpires went on strike at the start of the season. In his first Major League game on May 3, he was the first base umpire as the Minnesota Twins hosted the Detroit Tigers at Metropolitan Stadium. All told, Gallagher umpired seven games in the Major Leagues, two behind the plate.

He continued umpiring at various levels of amateur baseball as well as officiating high-school football, basketball, and wrestling. He was a high-school physical-education teacher and coach until he retired in 1999. In addition to umpiring, which he still does, Gallagher is a baseball rules interpreter and coordinator for the Minnesota State High School League.

The Jimmy Lee Umpire Award will be an annual honor given out by the Saints to the most deserving umpires in the area. The award is named after one of the most well-respected officials in Minnesota history. Jim “Jimmy” Lee was born in Vicksburg, Mississippi, moved to St. Paul when he was 23, and got a job with a downtown bank. He was involved in sports and played on the Uptown Sanitary Shop and the Twin Cities Colored Gophers, two of the most renowned Black baseball teams at the time. He became a local referee in both football and basketball and an umpire in baseball, considered by many the greatest official in the area at all three sports. He was the first black baseball umpire in the Big 10. He wrote columns for the _Minneapolis Spokesman _for over a decade. Lee was inducted into the Minnesota High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame (1972), the Minnesota Softball Hall of Fame (1982) and posthumously into the Minnesota State High School League Hall of Fame in 2013.

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

The award ceremony will take place prior to the Tuesday, August 9 game between the Saints and the Columbus Clippers.

Saints tickets continue to be a tremendous value. Tickets begin at $5 for the Treasure Island berm seating, $6 bleacher seats, $15 for outfield reserved, $18 for drink rail, infield reserved, and home plate reserved. Friday home games with Post-Game Fireworks are an additional $2 per ticket. Post-Game Fireworks Supershows (September 4) are an additional $3 per ticket. Tickets purchased on the day of the game are an additional $2 per ticket. Children under the age of 12 and seniors 65 and older receive $1 off the admission price. Children under 2 that don’t require a seat are free.

Saints To Honor Jimmy Lee, Local Umpires As Part of Major League Baseball's “The Nine” Initiative On August 9

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ST. PAUL, MN (July 21, 2022) – Umpires hear the boos and jeers from the crowd. They are yelled at from both dugouts. You know an umpire has done a great job if nobody notices them. The St. Paul Saints believe umpires should be lauded and respected for all their hard work just like one of the most well-known umpires in Minnesota was often observed for the amazing job he did. As part of Major League Baseball’s “The Nine” initiative, the Saints will honor Jimmy Lee, presented by St. Paul College, and create an annual program in his name honoring local umpires.

On Tuesday, August 9 the Saints will honor the hard-working men and women in blue kicking off an annual tradition that will be known as The Jimmy Lee Umpire Awards. Both baseball and softball umpires will be nominated by their league’s assignors in five different categories: Top Rookie Umpire (first year ump), Top Young Umpire (ages 12-18), Most Dedicated Umpire, Most Improved Umpire, and Lifetime Achieve Award. The winners will be chosen by a panel of Saints staff and will be honored at CHS Field prior to the August 9 game against the Columbus Clippers.

Jim “Jimmy” Lee was born in Vicksburg, Mississippi, moved to St. Paul when he was 23, and got a job with a downtown bank. He was involved in sports and played on the Uptown Sanitary Shop and the Twin Cities Colored Gophers, two of the most renowned Black baseball teams at the time. He became a local referee in both football and basketball and an umpire in baseball, considered by many the greatest official in the area at all three sports. He was the first black baseball umpire in the Big 10. He wrote columns for the Minneapolis Spokesman for over a decade. Lee was inducted into the Minnesota High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame (1972), the Minnesota Softball Hall of Fame (1982) and posthumously into the Minnesota State High School League Hall of Fame in 2013.

This is the second of two nights promoting “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.

Saints tickets continue to be a tremendous value. Tickets begin at $5 for the Treasure Island berm seating, $6 bleacher seats, $15 for outfield reserved, $18 for drink rail, infield reserved, and home plate reserved. Friday home games with Post-Game Fireworks are an additional $2 per ticket. Post-Game Fireworks Supershows (September 4) are an additional $3 per ticket. Tickets purchased on the day of the game are an additional $2 per ticket. Children under the age of 12 and seniors 65 and older receive $1 off the admission price. Children under 2 that don’t require a seat are free.

Riverfront Stadium to Host High School Football Rivalry

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The Surge announces Bishop Carroll and Kapaun Mt. Carmel at Riverfront Stadium

The Wichita Wind Surge announced today they will host their first high school football game, the 60th anniversary of the “Holy War” featuring rivals Bishop Carroll and Kapaun Mt. Carmel at Riverfront Stadium. The game will be played on Friday, October 7 at 7 pm.

“Hosting football games at Riverfront Stadium was always part of the plan when we designed the facility,” said Wind Surge Partner/CEO Jordan Kobritz. “We proved last year it could be done seamlessly when we hosted the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference championship game. The Bishop Carroll/Kapaun Mt. Carmel matchup, the premier high school game in Wichita, will allow both players and fans to enjoy a Wichita tradition in a first-class venue.

“I want to thank the leadership at Bishop Carroll and Kapaun Mt Carmel for their cooperation in making the game at Riverfront Stadium a reality.”

“At Bishop Carroll, we strive to create lasting memories for our students,” said Bishop Carroll Athletic Director, Tyler Fraizer. “Playing in Riverfront Stadium is guaranteed to be an experience they will not forget. A Bishop Carroll/Kapaun Mt. Carmel game will showcase the finest this area has to offer: community…high school athletics… and our host facility, Riverfront Stadium. We are excited to host this event for our players, students, staff, and our strong fan base. I want to thank the incredible staff with the Wind Surge for making this game possible.”

“Kapaun Mt. Carmel Catholic High School is honored to participate in the first high school football game at Riverfront Stadium,” said Rob Knapp, President of Kapaun Mt Carmel Catholic High School. “We want to thank the entire Wind Surge organization for making this two-year home and home series with Bishop Carroll a reality. Riverfront Stadium is an outstanding facility and the natural excitement over the traditional Kapaun versus Carroll football game will be accentuated in this great venue.”

Additional details and ticket information will be posted on www.WindSurge.com as they become available.

The Wichita Wind Surge Continues Tornado Relief Support with Monthly Auctions

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The Wichita Wind Surge Continues Tornado Relief Support

The Surge announces monthly auctions through the end of the season

Continuing the season-long support for those impacted by the Andover Tornado, the Wichita Wind Surge will host a monthly auction featuring autographed and game-used memorabilia. All proceeds will be earmarked for the students of Andover’s Prairie Creek Elementary School.

The Wind Surge monthly auction begins at 12:00 pm on June 13, featuring an autographed baseball from the Royals third baseman and shortstop, Bobby Witt Jr. The former first round draft pick made multiple appearances in Wichita with the Northwest Arkansas Naturals during the 2021 season.

Each month an item – donated by the Wichita Wind Surge, Minnesota Twins or Kansas City Royals – will be live on the Wind Surge auction site. Each auction will begin on the second Monday of the month and run for seven days.

Additional details on the auctions will be posted on www.WindSurge.com as they become available.

Wind Surge to Participate in MLB PLAY BALL Initiative

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Wind Surge to Participate in MLB PLAY BALL Initiative

The Surge hosts PLAY BALL Initiative in conjunction with League 42

The Wichita Wind Surge announced today they will participate in MLB’s PLAY BALL initiative in conjunction with Wichita’s League 42. The PLAY BALL initiative is baseball’s collective effort to encourage young people and communities to engage in baseball or softball-related activities, including formal leagues, special events and casual forms of play.

The League 42 game, hosted by the Wind Surge, is free and open to the public and will feature in-game promotions, live music, giveaway items, and more. Meals will be provided for over 600 youth athletes in attendance. The event will take place on Saturday, June 11 at 4:00pm at McAdams Park, located at 17th and Wabash.

“League 42 is a strong supporter of youth baseball, especially for kids who otherwise might not have an opportunity to participate,” said Bob Lutz, Executive Director of League 42. “The PLAY BALL Initiative is a great way to make the game of baseball more accessible to kids. We appreciate the Wind Surge’s strong and continued support of League 42.”

For questions and additional information contact:

Kylee Sorrells
Marketing Manager
[email protected]

Spotlight Games, Renovation of Rec Field Highlight Saints Participation In PLAY BALL Weekend June 10-12

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ST. PAUL, MN (June 3, 2022) – The St. Paul Saints have always immersed themselves in the local community. They take pride in giving back to an area that has helped make them one of the most successful Minor League teams in the country. For the first time as the Minnesota Twins Triple-A affiliate, the Saints will take part in PLAY BALL Weekend, a baseball-wide initiative designed to give back to each local community, from June 10-12.

The Saints won’t wait for Friday to roll around to get started with the PLAY BALL Weekend. Beginning on Monday, June 6 the Saints will renovate North Dale Recreation Center Field. The Saints, who are no strangers to helping local Little League and Rec Centers, will utilize the help of their head groundskeeper, Marcus Campbell, to make the field more playable and pristine. With the help of The Toro Company and MTI Distributing the Saints will spend the week making field improvements that will include new sod installation, edging of the infield, adding in infield material, grading the field, and rebuilding the mound.

For nearly two decades the Saints have brought their entertainment show on the road to local Little Leagues across the state. On Saturday June 11, the Saints will host two simultaneous spotlight games at the North Dale complex. The Saints turn a Little League game into a Saints experience with ushertainers, public address announcers, Mudonna, on field promotions, laughter, and fun. Along with the spotlight games, the Saints will unveil their field renovations to the public.

The PLAY BALL Weekend closes out with a Jr. Home Run Derby at CHS Field, following their 2:07 p.m. game against the Rochester Red Wings, for both softball and baseball. 14U and 16U softball players can register here and 12U and 14U baseball can register here. The winner of each age division advances to the regional final in Kansas City on July 3.

The Wichita Wind Surge Continues Tornado Relief Support

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May 31, 2022

The Wichita Wind Surge Continues Tornado Relief Support

The Surge announces school supply drive through the end of August

Continuing the season long support for those impacted by the Andover Tornado, the Wichita Wind Surge will host a school-supply drive with donations earmarked for the students of Andover’s Prairie Creek Elementary School.

During home games between May 31 and the end of August, fans can bring donations to Guest Services, located behind Section 10. Those unable to attend a Wind Surge game may drop off donations at the Box Office, located on McLean Blvd. Those donating will receive a free berm ticket for a future 2022 regular season Wind Surge game.

“We want to give everyone an opportunity to help the students and teachers at Andover’s Prairie Creek Elementary School in any way they can,” said Bob Moullette, Director of Fan Experience. “Donations of pens, paper, folders, and other supplies will go a long way in replacing the items that were lost in the tornado and they will help send the message that we are all one community that supports each another.”

Accepted school supplies include: notebook paper, pencils, colored pencils, crayons, markers, rulers, backpacks, Clorox wipes, baby wipes, dry erase markers, folders, and scissors.

Donations must be new in their original unopened packaging; backpacks can be new or gently used.

­For questions and additional information contact:

Kylee Sorrells
Marketing Manager
[email protected]

Wichita Wind Surge donate $5,000 to Tornado Relief

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*Wichita Wind Surge donate $5,000 to Tornado Relief
*Schwechheimer Family Foundation donates $5,000 to United Way of the Plains

The Wichita Wind Surge announced a $5,000 donation from the Schwechheimer Family Foundation to the United Way of the Plains as the beginning of the team’s season-long efforts to support Andover Tornado Relief.

The Schwechheimer Family Foundation is a 501c3 entity established by the Wind Surge to operate the Wichita Baseball Museum and to support non-profits and underserved youth throughout the Wichita community. “No one is more in need than those members of our community who have been adversely impacted by the recent tornado,” said Foundation President Jane Schwechheimer.

The $5,000 donation is the first of several programs the Wind Surge plan to execute throughout the 2022 season. “We know it will be a long road to recovery for the many families and community members who have been affected by this devasting disaster,” said Schwechheimer. “We want them to know the team supports them, not just in the moment but long term.”

In the coming weeks, the Wind Surge will donate proceeds from jersey auctions held in conjunction with the Major League Baseball/Minor League Baseball memorabilia auction site, in addition to coordinating a school-supply drive with donations earmarked for Prairie Creek Elementary School, a Wind Surge Reading Program School, and the Andover YMCA. A back- to-school night is also being planned for this fall.

Additional details on these programs will be posted on www.WindSurge.com as they become available.

Wind Surge Fundraising Program

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If you are a non-profit, sports team, or charity looking to raise money for your organization, the Wind Surge Fundraising Program is for you! The Fundraising program requires just three simple steps. The first one is picking a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Sunday game you would like to attend. Next, you purchase a certain number of tickets based on your organization’s needs and sell them for $15 each. Lastly, your organization can receive up to $6 for each ticket sold. This is a great opportunity for your organization to raise money while having fun and earning up to 40% on every ticket you sell!

There are three different ticket options and different benefits that come with each option. Ticket Option one consists of selling 50-90 tickets and earning $4 for every ticket sold. Ticket Option two includes selling 100-199 tickets and earning $5 back for every ticket sold. The third Ticket Option will consist of selling 200+ tickets and earning $6 for every ticket sold.

To learn more and the benefits of each ticket options visit here or contact [email protected]

Wind Surge Re-launches Reading Program in Partnership with Credit Union of America

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The Wind Surge are excited to finally relaunch the Wichita Wind Surge Reading Program, in partnership with Credit Union of America.

The mission of the four-week reading program is to improve literacy while rewarding students for making time outside of the classroom to read. Sports promote health through physical activities, the brain is a muscle that needs exercise. Reading stimulates language skills and helps them to engage better with peers and educators.

We love to see children who participate gaining rewards while goals are met. After a student meets a goal, they get a “HIT.” Each “HIT” collects new prizes from sponsors – Whole Foods, Red Robin and Chick-Fil-A. Children must complete each base goal before moving forward.

Participating schools will have the option to host a kick-off assembly. A member from the office and Windy the mascot will come and explain the program’s process while getting children excited about receiving a free ticket.

All classrooms will be given a poster to track each student’s progress throughout the program and teachers will determine each week’s reading goal to fit their own lesson plans.

There are no additional requirements, only prizes for students. Prizes will be delivered to the school by Wind Surge staff members.

“We’re just really excited to help the teachers,” Director of Fan Experience Bob Moullette said. “It’s been a long two-and-a-half years for educators. Anyway, we can incentivize the reading goals already set in the classrooms to help them out and reward all the kids to come out to the ballpark, is a win win for everyone. We’re excited to get those schools out here representing.”

Visit windsurge.com to learn more! If you have any questions or are interested in signing your school or class up. Please contact Neleigh Higgins at [email protected] or 316-221-800.

Kernels to Hold Job Fair February 24th and 26th

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Kernels to hold Job Fair

For Immediate Release:

Contact: Jessica Fergesen (319) 896-7608

Cedar Rapids, IA – The Cedar Rapids Kernels are hosting a two-day job fair to hire part-time employees for the 2022 season. Mark your calendars for Thursday, February 24th from 3-7pm and Saturday, February 26th from 8-11am at Veterans Memorial Stadium.

Candidates will complete the application and interview at the job fair in the Kernels conference room and suites. The Kernels are looking for people who are reliable, hard-working, and passionate about pleasing our fans. All employees must be at least 16 years of age or older to work at the Kernels. The Kernels are an equal opportunity employer.

Applications will be available at the job fair or apply online! Visit www.kernels.com to learn more about the positions we are hiring.

The Kernels Opening Night for 2022 is Friday, April 8th at 6:35 PM vs. Beloit. Single-game tickets will go on sale Monday, March 14th. Our full promotional schedule with theme nights and daily specials will be released on March 1st.

To keep up to date on information regarding the Kernels 2022 season please visit www.kernels.com or follow our Facebook and Twitter feeds and subscribe to our Kernels email newsletter.

Wind Surge to Hold Job Fair on Wednesday 5-7 PM, Club Seeks Candidates for Seasonal Food and Beverage Positions

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Wind Surge to Hold Job Fair on Wednesday 5-7 PM

Club seeks candidates for seasonal food and beverage positions

WICHITA, Kansas –The Wichita Wind Surge 2022 baseball season is on the horizon and the team is looking for additional team members!

A job fair to recruit seasonal food and beverage personnel will be held on Wednesday from 5 to 7 PM at Riverfront Stadium.

The Wind Surge are seeking candidates for the following positions:

  • Concessions Lead
  • Concessions Floor Supervisor
  • Warehouse Coordinator
  • Suite Attendant
  • Concessions Attendant
  • Cook
  • Bartender
  • Warehouse Worker
  • Vending Hawker
  • Kitchen Utility
  • Kitchen Lead

Interested applicants can find full position descriptions and an application form at www.windsurge.com. The direct link for application: https://form.jotform.com/SyndeoHRO/Windsurgeapplication2022

Anyone wishing to interview for the above positions should bring a completed application along with a resume to the job fair. Please dress appropriately. Potential employees are subject to a background check and a drug test.

Applicants may enter through the Food and Beverage Department entrance at 300 S Sycamore.

Open positions are for seasonal employment only, who are interested in working Wind Surge home games and any additional stadium events. Training will be provided.

The Wichita Wind Surge are an equal opportunity employer.

The Wind Surge kick off the 2022 season on Friday, April 8th at 7:05 p.m. against the Tulsa Drillers at Riverfront Stadium. Group, season and mini-plan tickets are available now at windsurge.com, with single game tickets going on sale in early March.

Saints, American Red Cross, And Regions Hospital Team Up For Blood Drive On February 18

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ST. PAUL, MN (February 11, 2022) – Community involvement is a staple for the St. Paul Saints beginning before they played their first game in 1993. Whether it’s off-season or in season, the Saints team up with their partners for the greater good. The American Red Cross Blood Drive, hosted by the Saints in partnership with Regions Hospital on Friday, February 18, brings three of the more recognizable names in the Twin Cities together for one worthy cause.

The American Red Cross is facing its worst blood shortage in over a decade, posing concerning risk to patient care. With less than a one-day supply of critical blood types in recent weeks, doctors have been forced to make difficult decisions about who receives blood transfusions and who will need to wait until more products become available.

This is the time to take care of one another, and blood donation is essential to ensuring the health of the community. Blood donations can help the type of patients seen at Regions Hospital including trauma and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and those battling cancer.

Mayor Melvin Carter, CEO of HealthPartners, Andrea Walsh, and Regions Hospital Surgeon and MN Red Cross Board Chair, Dr. Hamlar, will join in on celebrating the outpouring support for the Twin Cities.

For more information contact the Saints at 651-644-6659 or visit saintsbaseball.com.

Blood drive safety precautions

To protect the health and safety of Red Cross staff and donors, individuals who do not feel well or who believe they may be ill with COVID-19 should postpone their donation.

Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and additional precautions – including social distancing and face coverings for donors and staff – have been implemented to help protect the health of all those in attendance. Currently all available spots are filled and walk-up appointments aren’t available. Those donating and are required to wear a face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention public guidance.

About blood donation

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Donors may still donate after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. Knowing the name of the manufacturer is critical in determining blood donation eligibility.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

Top Black Players in Cedar Rapids Kernels History

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In celebration of Black History Month, throughout February, teams across Minor League Baseball are taking a look back at six 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 six of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for the Cedar Rapids Ball Club.

Eric Davis:

Drafted in the 8th round of the 1980 MLB draft by the Cincinnati Reds. Eric Davis played in 111 games for the Cedar Rapids Reds in 1982. Eric hit .277 with 15 home runs, 56 RBIs, and stealing 53 bases.

Eric debuted with the Cincinnati Reds in 1984. Eric became a member of the 30/30 club in 1987, hitting 37 home runs and stealing 50 bases. Eric was a key member of the Reds 1990 World Series Championship team. Over his 17-year career Eric was a .269 hitter with 282 home runs and 349 stolen bases. The two-time All-Star also won three Gold Gloves.

Reggie Sanders:

The Cincinnati Reds used their 7th round pick in the 1987 draft on Outfielder, Reggie Sanders. Reggie played for Cedar Rapids in 1990, playing in 127 games. Reggie hit .285 with 17 home runs, 63 RBIs and 40 stolen bases.

Reggie debuted with the Reds in the 1991 season playing in just 9 games. In the 1992 season Reggie finished 4th in the Rookie of the Year voting. Reggie was part of the 2001 Arizona Diamondbacks team that would win the World Series. In total Reggie played for 8 big league teams over 17 seasons. A career .267 hitter with 305 home runs and 983 RBI’s. Reggie has 1666 career hits and 304 Stolen Bases.

Howie Kendrick:

The Anaheim Angels drafted Howie Kendrick in the 10th round in 2002. Howie played 75 games for the Cedar Rapids Kernels in 2004 and he did not disappoint. Howie hit an incredible .367 over those 75 games.

Howie would make his MLB debut in 2006 and would enjoy a 15-year career. His only All-Star appearance came in 2011, but his best season was in 2019 when he helped lead the Nationals to the Franchises first World Series title. The NLCS MVP hit a career high .344 in 121 games with 17 home runs during the regular season. Howie recently retired after the 2020 season, as a career .294 hitter with 1747 career hits to his name.

Reggie Jefferson:

Reggie Jefferson was a first baseman out of Lincoln High School in Tallahassee, Florida. The Reds would draft him in the 3rd round in 1986, he would play 15 games in Cedar Rapids in 1987 and would return for a full season in 1988. Reggie blasted 18 home runs and drove in 90 runs during the ’88 season.

Reggie Debuted with the Reds in 1991 but would only play in five games before being traded to Cleveland. Over his 9-year big league career Reggie would average 17 home runs 71 RBIs. He finished his career with a batting average of exactly .300. Reggie would also spend some time playing in Japan, as well as coaching in the Minor Leagues and College level.

Chili Davis:

Born in Jamacia, Chili Davis was drafted in the 11th round by the Giants out of High School in 1977. He would play in 124 games for the Cedar Rapids Giants in 1978. That year Chili hit .281 with 16 home runs, 73 RBIs and 15 stolen bases. He was a Midwest League All-star and named the team MVP.

In 1981 Chili made history, being the first Jamaican born player to reach the big leagues. He would finish 4th in the Rookie of the Year votes in 1982 and would spend 19 years as a player in the big leagues playing for 5 teams. Chili would be on three World Series Championship teams (Minnesota 1991, New York Yankees 1998-99). A .274 career hitter with 2380 hits and 350 home runs. After retiring as a player Chili would go on to be a coach making stops in Oakland, Boston, Chicago (Cubs), and New York (Mets).

John Roseboro:

John played for the Cedar Rapids Raiders (Brooklyn Dodgers) in 1955 where he played in 55 games. John hit .235 that year but was better known for his defense.

He would make his MLB debut in 1957, playing in 35 games. The next season he would take over full time catching duties for the Dodgers after Roy Campanella was seriously injured in a car accident. John made his first of six All-Star teams that year. John was known as one of the best defensive catchers in baseball during his 14-year career. He would win two Gold Gloves and win 3 World Series titles. Following his retirement John would coach for the Senators, Angels, and Dodgers in both the Major and Minor Leagues. John passed away in 2002 at the age of 69.

Top Five Black Players In St. Paul Saints History

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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 careers for the Saints 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 St. Paul Saints.

ROY CAMPANELLA

April 15, 1947 is an historic day in baseball history. Jackie Robinson became the first African American in Major League Baseball. Just three months later, on July 5, 1947, Larry Doby became the first African American in the American League. Those two men set the stage for other leagues to follow suit. On May 18, 1948, Roy Campanella broke the color barrier in the American Association with the St. Paul Saints. The Saints were the Triple-A affiliate of the Brooklyn Dodgers. After being buried on the Dodgers bench for the first month of the season, the Dodgers sent Campanella to St. Paul.

While there is debate on why Campanella was sent to the American Association, in his autobiography, “It’s Good To Be Alive,” Campanella said that Dodgers owner Branch Rickey, who integrated the Major Leagues with Robinson, wanted to also be responsible for integrating the American Association. His arrival was a cultural phenomenon in the primarily black Rondo neighborhood in Saint Paul. Four days after he was sent to Saint Paul, future Hall of Fame Dodger manager Walter Alston, wrote Campanella into the lineup on May 22, 1948. It was a short stay for Campanella as he destroyed American Association pitching. Despite getting off to a slow start over his first few games, Campanella went on a tear for a month hitting ,325 with 13 home runs and 39 RBI in 35 games. By early July, Campanella was in Brooklyn where he would stay until his career ended in 1957.

DARRYL STRAWBERRY

His home runs have become legendary. Some grow 10 feet in length as each year goes by, none more so than the one he hit in Duluth. He put one organization on his back and they finished off what he started by winning a championship. He was the shot in the arm another organization needed and helped them win a World Series. What Darryl Strawberry did in 1996 is the perfect Hollywood script.

Following the 1994 season, Strawberry was sentenced to 60-days home confinement after being indicted on federal tax evasion plus a 60-day suspension by Major League Baseball for a positive cocaine test. When the Yankees signed him in June of 1995, he hit just three home runs in 32 games with the big club. After not being offered a contract in 1996, Strawberry signed with the St. Paul Saints. It was, and still is, the biggest signing in franchise history. Fans came from all over, both at home and on the road, to watch this “man among boys.” In 29 games for the Saints, Strawberry hit .435 with 18 home runs and 39 RBI, a .538 on base percentage, and a 1.000 slugging percentage.

That would be more than enough for the New York Yankees who elected to re-sign Strawberry on the 4th of July. The Saints would go on to win a championship that season, giving Strawberry his first ring of 1996. While with the Yankees, he hit .262 with 11 home runs and 36 RBI in 63 games while winning his second championship of the season, a World Series title with the Yankees. But it’s what he did over that memorable month of baseball with the Saints that helped him resurrect his career. As Strawberry said on more than one occasion, “St. Paul reminded me how much fun baseball was.”

LEON DURHAM

Don’t mess with the bull or you’ll get the horns. In the case of Leon “Bull” Durham, if you’re a pitcher you could expect a big, powerful swing that more than likely did extreme damage. Durham was out of baseball in 1992, but then something happened in 1993. A brand new Independent Professional Baseball League was formed known as the Northern League. This six-team league in the Midwest and Canada was a first chance, second chance league. First chance for guys who were never drafted out of college and second chance for guys who were released from Major League organizations.

The St. Paul Saints began their first year of existence in 1993 and were managed by former 10-year Major Leaguer, Tim Blackwell. Blackwell had been teammates with Durham with the Chicago Cubs and placed a call to his former teammate inquiring if he was interested in getting back into the game. Durham was interested and the league had its first marquee signing, helping put the Northern League, and the Saints, on the map.

Durham didn’t disappoint, hitting .292 with 11 homers and 59 RBI in 65 games. He led the Saints to a 42-29 record, best in the Northern League, and they would go on to win the first Northern League Championship. Durham would come back in 1994 hitting .241 with eight homers and 26 RBI in 52 games. He turned his time with the Saints into a contract in Mexico later that year and would finish his career in 1996 with the California Angels Triple-A affiliate in Vancouver. But it was his time in St. Paul that perhaps put more eyes on Independent Professional Baseball helping it stay successful nearly 30 years later.

DAMON POLLARD

No one knew what to expect when the St. Paul Saints played their first season in 1993. How good would the baseball be? Would the team last past the Fourth of July? Would anyone show up? It didn’t take long to find out the baseball was high quality, the Saints would not only finish the season, but win a championship, and the fans came out in droves. That first team set the tone for the next 28 seasons as 11 players had their contract purchased by Major League organizations, a franchise record that stood each season the organization was an independent franchise. It included the first African American in Saints history to have his contract purchased, pitcher Damon Pollard.

The 5’8, 165 right-hander wasn’t big in stature, but he was a giant at the end of games. The former 14th round pick by the Kansas City Royals in 1990 out of the University of Southern Mississippi, reached High-A in 1992 before being released. He signed with the Saints in 1993 and was instrumental in the back end of the bullpen. He went 2-2 with a 2.27 ERA and 14 saves in 29 games (25 games finished). Across 31.2 innings he struck out 35. Not only that, but he fanned the final batter in the Championship Series as the Saints went on to defeat the Rochester Aces three-games-to-one and claim the first ever Northern League title.

Following the season, Pollard had his contract purchased by the Montreal Expos and spent the 1994 season with the Expos and Milwaukee Brewers Minor League affiliates before going back to the Expos organization in 1995.

While he will always be remembered as the pitcher that finished off that 1993 championship season, Pollard will also be remembered as the first African American to have his contract purchased by a Major League organization from the Saints.

CHARLIE NEAL

One season is all it took for Charlie Neal to make his mark. He showcased the talents that would lead him to the Major Leagues and an eventual World Series ring just two years after playing in the American Association in 1954. As a 23-year-old, Neal played for the Triple-A Saints and had an incredible season hitting .272 with 18 home runs and 66 RBI across 146 games. He led the team in hits, with 159, doubles (25), triples (13), and extra-base hits with 56. On top of that he swiped a team-leading 20 bases.

Following the 1954 season the Boston Red Sox reportedly inquired about purchasing Neal from the Dodgers for $100,000. The Dodgers turned it down, but had the deal gone through there was a legitimate chance that Neal would have become the first African American player in Red Sox history.

Neal made the Major Leagues in 1956 with the Brooklyn Dodgers, making the move to Los Angeles with the franchise in 1958. Just one year later Neal helped the Dodgers win their second title, and first in Los Angeles. He was a Gold Glove second baseman in 1959 and helped tie the Milwaukee Braves by the close of the 154-game season. He played a key role in helping the Dodgers sweep the Braves in the tie-breaker series with five hits in 12 at bats. He hit .370 in a six-game series victory over the Chicago White Sox in the World Series. Overall, Neal played eight seasons in the Major Leagues for the Dodgers, New York Mets, and Cincinnati Reds.