BlueClaws Accepting Online Anthem Applications

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws will be hosting Virtual National Anthem Tryouts this year, with performers encouraged to submit an audition video online for consideration.

To submit, CLICK HERE and fill out the form completely.

Performers are asked to submit links (YouTube, Twitter, Vimeo) of their performances only of the National Anthem and/or God Bless America. Performances of any other song will not be considered.

Groups of up to three may apply. Groups of four or larger are asked to call a BlueClaws representative at 732-901-7000 option 3.

Applications will be reviewed on a first-come-first-served basis and performance times at games later in the summer will be determined at a later date.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment.

– BlueClaws –

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.

Scout Night Sleepover is back at FirstEnergy Stadium!

 

(Reading, PA) –The Reading Fightin Phils invite you and your troop for our annual Scout Sleepover at FirstEnergy Stadium. Join us on Friday, August 5th for our 7:00pm game against the Hartford Yard Goats (Rockies), then stick around to set up camp in the outfield and an overnight stay at the ballpark. Troops and their guardians can feel both adventurous and safe sleeping under the stars. The game will include a post-game fireworks show thanks to Erlich, “Your local pest control experts!”

In addition to seeing the exciting R-Phils action, all scouts are able to participate in a pre-game parade around the field. All scouting ranks are welcome to join us for the evening.

Scouts will have the opportunity to pitch a tent and sleep under the stars while enjoying a movie on the comfort of the FirstEnergy stadium grass. There is an additional $10.00 charge for every scout, parent or chaperone that plans to stay for the sleepover. This option also includes a hot dog and soda with this package. We ask for an adult to accompany any Scout who is under the age of 18. Please do not use stakes on the field of FirstEnergy Stadium.

The R-Phils have special packages for groups that book 20 or more tickets that include reduced prices and all-you-can-eat buffets. Reserved seat tickets start as low as $7 per person. Options are also available for a delicious 2 ½ hour all-you-can-eat buffet in various areas throughout the stadium. Buffet options range from $25-$30 and offer an affordable and unique way to entertain your group while enjoying exciting game action.

Space is limited, so don’t miss this great opportunity to join us for your special night at FirstEnergy Stadium!

Contact Jon Nally at [email protected] or click this reservation form to schedule your Scout Troop sleepover at the ballpark today!

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

Military Appreciation Night at FirstEnergy Stadium

 

(Reading, PA) – The Reading Fightin Phils will salute the men and women who have fought for our country and freedom. On Tuesday, June 14th the R-Phils will celebrate Military Appreciation Night at America’s Classic Ballpark when the team takes on the Portland Sea Dogs (Red Sox) at 7:00pm. Fans can have the opportunity to honor a special military member in their life by reserving a group outing to receive a personalized game-worn jersey. Plus, be one of the first to enter the gate to get a unique R-Phils giveaway celebrating Flag Day!

On Flag Day, each Fightins player will wear a custom jersey dedicated to one who has served or is currently serving in the nation’s armed forces during the game. Players will receive a photo & bio prior to the game of the military member they are representing. A special post-game jersey ceremony will take place with the 25 military honorees or their families thanks to Savage 61 Auto Group & 830 AM WEEU.

If you have a loved one that you would like honored during the game, please consider bringing out a group of family and friends. Groups that purchase 20 or more reserved seats or picnic area tickets to the June 14 game can have a personalized jersey worn by a member of the R-Phils recognizing a veteran or a member of the active military for no additional charge. This opportunity is limited to the first 25 groups. To honor a special military member in your life, click here.

The first 2,000 fans age 15 and over will receive a celebratory R-Phils Flag Day Patriotic T-Shirt. All fans will have the chance to show our local veterans and active military some love and support.

FirstEnergy Stadium, built as Reading Municipal Memorial Stadium in 1951, was named in honor of the service men and women who gave their lives for the country. 48 years later in 1999, a statue in the form of giant dog tags was placed in front of FirstEnergy Stadium in a special rededication ceremony to honor the area’s veterans.

To further pay tribute to the sacrifices made by our veterans, the Fightins fly a Ceremonial Flag to honor and tell the story of a specific veteran each home game. The ceremonial flag flies by those giant dog tags near the stadium’s main entrance, thanks to Savage 61. After the game, the flag is lowered and given to the family.

Before each game, the Fightin Phils raise a ceremonial flag to pay tribute to their memory and tell their story while welcoming their family to the game.

“FirstEnergy stadium was built to honor the service men and women from our community who gave their lives for our country,” said Fightin Phils General Manager Scott Hunsicker. “America’s Classic Ballpark is not just a stadium, it’s a memorial. It is only fitting that those who have protected America are remembered at every game here at America’s Classic Ballpark. We hope that everyone attends our games will be fully aware the stadium is a memorial to the veterans of our community.

Help us continue to show support and gratitude for all active and retired service personnel by joining us at our Military Appreciation Night on Tuesday, June 14th.

Please complete this form to reserve the opportunity for a jersey to be worn by a player during the June 14th game. A Reading Fightin Phils representative will contact you to confirm your submission and coordinate your group outing.

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

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

BlueClaws Open New Period of Virtual Job Fair Interviews

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – The BlueClaws, by popular demand, have opened a new period of virtual interviews for gameday positions at the ballpark this summer!

Positions are available in a wide variety of departments: Custodial Services (Post-Game Cleaning Crew, In-Game Cleaning Crew), Concourse Level Food & Beverage (Cashiers, Food Runners, Cooks, Picnic Area Attendants, and more), Suite Level Food & Beverage (Food Runners and Party Deck Attendants), Back-of-House Food & Beverage (Day and Night Warehouse), Retail Operations (Cashiers, Sales Floor, Hawkers), Grounds (Grounds Crew), Game Day Operations (Parking Attendants, Bat Boys, Kids Zone Attendants), Production (Camera Operators, Instant Replay), and Promotions (Claws Crew, On-Field Emcee).

“We’ve been excited over the last few weeks to add more and more energetic individuals to our team for the upcoming season,” said Kayla Reilly, BlueClaws Director of Events & Operations. “We look forward to interviewing even more applicants and to join our BlueClaws family heading into another great season.”

How To Apply:

Click here to apply for an open position in Custodial Services:

· Post-Game Cleaning Crew

· In-Game Cleaning Crew

Click here to apply for an open position in Food & Beverage:

· Concourse Level Food & Beverage

o Cashiers

o Food Runners

o Cooks (Portables, Back of House, Prep, etc.)

o Picnic Area Attendants

· Suite Level Food & Beverage

o Food Runners

o Party Deck Attendants

· Back-of-House Food & Beverage

o Day and Night Warehouse

Click here to apply for all other open Game Day positions:

· Retail Operations

o Cashiers

o Sales Floor

o Hawkers

· Grounds

o Day and Night Grounds Crew

· Operations

o Parking Attendants

o Bat Boys

o Kids Zone Attendants

· Production

o Camera Operators

o Instant Replay

· Promotions

o Claws Crew

o On-Field Emcee

A BlueClaws representative will be in touch schedule a virtual interview to take place between February 7th and 18th.

With any questions, please email **[email protected]**.

All positions are part-time and begin with on-boarding and training in March with Opening Night set for April 8th. Positions run through the team’s last home game in September, though there is opportunity for additional work at team and ballpark events as needed. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age by April 1st and pass a background check. Nights and weekends are required.

Each position starts at $13 per hour.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. Since their 2001 inception, the BlueClaws have drawn over 7.8 million fans to FirstEnergy Park.

The BlueClaws will enter 2022 in their second season as both the Jersey Shore BlueClaws and as the High-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. Opening Night at the Jersey Shore is Friday, April 8th against the Aberdeen IronBirds. 2022 ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

BlueClaws Recognize Staff on National Girls & Women In Sports Day

 

The BlueClaws would like to recognize the 11 amazing women on our staff as part of National Girls & Women In Sports Day on February 2nd.

In the above photo, from left to right:

Bottom Row: Kayla Reilly (Director of Events & Operations), Jamie Bertram (VP of Promotions & Entertainment), Gianna Fiocco (Promotions Manager), Susan Wallace (Hospitality Manager)

Top Row: Haley Kopf (BlueClaws Sales Academy), Tori Boughton (Account Executive), Kristina Poetsch (BlueClaws Sales Academy), Jane Rogers (Administrative Coordinator), Rachael Pabon (Food & Beverage Coordinator), Jamie Wagner (Merchandise & Ticket Sales Manager).

We asked these staff members about working in the sports industry, their experiences, and their stories.

Kayla Reilly: For me, the best thing about working in sports is the relationships I have made across the industry and having the chance to work with incredible people from diverse and varied backgrounds. Honestly, I never thought I would be working in the sports industry. (I thought I would be teaching in an elementary school!) So it is always a *pinch me* moment when I realize how far I have come in the last few years and the historic events I have seen and been a part of.

Jamie Bertram: I love being able to take my artistic side and bringing that out in our theme nights, gate giveaways, jersey designs and in game experience. It is really cool to see what you have been working on for months come to life and thousands of people enjoying what you created. Being able to inspire and help other women break into the Sports Management world truly brings me joy and seeing them grow professionally and be so successful makes me very proud.

Gianna Fiocco: My favorite part about working in sports is getting to meet people from all walks of life, from local fans who enjoy a summer game at the stadium to game-day staff from all over the country, to managers from across the globe. I consider myself very lucky to work in an industry where I can learn from the diverse backgrounds of those I encounter on a daily basis. I am most proud of being a woman in such a male dominated industry. I have learned so much from the women that I work with, and am more successful everyday because of them. I am proud to be part of such an amazing team.

Susan Wallace: There is nothing like the thrill of working in sports! Every day is a new adventure, every game is like opening night! The sight of a packed stadium, the sound of the screaming fans, the smell of fresh popcorn popping… there’s nothing else like it! The highs are high, the lows are low, but the thrill of the game makes it all worth it! As a woman working in a previously male-dominated industry, I am most proud of how I am accepted and respected in my role. As the great Venus Williams once said, ‘Sports are a great place to show that equality can happen.’ ”

Haley Kopf: My favorite part about working in sports is the excitement of knowing you are part of a team that leads to the ultimate success of a sports organization. I also love the idea of networking and meeting new people in this industry. You never know who you are going to meet and how that can lead to new opportunities. I am most proud of the tremendous opportunity of growth for women in the sports industry. Seeing how far we have already come and the major advances we’ve taken inspires me to achieve my goals while hopefully inspiring the next generation of women to start their career in sports as well.

Kristina Poetsch: The best part about working in sports for me are the fan interactions! You never know when it could be a child’s first baseball game and getting to be a part of something like that is really special. What we do everyday leading up to the season is all for the fans and without them, the energy and atmosphere of the ballpark wouldn’t be the same. Just to be a woman in sports in general is what I’m most proud of and I think all women in sports can agree. Given that this is a predominantly male profession, it’s important for us women to be shown the same respect as our male colleagues. I love that the number of women working in sports has increased year after year, and it just goes to show you that women can do anything just as well (if not better) than men.

Jane Rogers: I am thrilled to be working in sports. It is a fast-paced environment and every day brings new challenges. Find your challenge, work hard at it, and you will feel engaged and fulfilled. Being a woman in sports for nearly 25 years, I don’t realize how fortunate I am. I’ve been lucky enough to work with so many talented people, cultivated many relationships and contributed to the professional development of many employees. I’ve always been someone that people look up to for advice. It’s been a pleasure sharing my work knowledge with everyone. Climbing the racks from an Office Manager to President/GM of a minor league baseball team is something I will always be proud of.

Jess Szewczyk (not pictured): I’m not a sports fan, but the design aspect of the sports industry is so fun. You can’t even imagine how many different things need to be designed for the stadium. I get to design everything from concession stand stadium signage to Star Wars theme night advertisements. And seeing my designs being used while the game is happening and the stadium is filled. Being a woman in a male-dominated industry is hard, but it’s also totally cool. I feel like the women in the office consistently prove that we deserve to be here just as much as the men do. And by working closely with our interns and assistants, we set a precedent for the future of sports by showing them that women do an exceptional job in all aspects of the sports industry.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

Fightins to Host Breast Cancer Awareness Night

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

R-Phils Remember the Greats During Black History Month

 

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

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

Here is a look at five of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for the Reading Phillies and Fightin Phils. This is by no means a complete list of the best, just some great names to look back on.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BlueClaws a Part of MiLB’s “The Nine” Initiative to Debut This Year

 

NEW YORK, NY, Feb. 1, 2022 — 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 BlueClaws are proud to be one of a number of teams participating in the program in its first season in 2022.

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.

-Minor League Baseball / BlueClaws-

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

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

Virtual Job Fair for Phillies and Threshers Seasons

CLEARWATER, Fla. – The Phillies and Threshers are hiring now for BayCare Ballpark. Multiple positions in Food & Beverage, Security, and the Fun Team are available to apply now.

For the Food & Beverage open positions, applications are being accepted now at Indeed.com (link), and there will be virtual interviews held beginning the week of January 17. For more information contact Justin Stone at [email protected].

Applications and interviews for Security at BayCare Ballpark are being arranged with Tim Scott 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.

Food & Beverage Job Fair on Jan. 10

 

BayCare Ballpark is hosting a Job Fair to hire food and beverage staff for the 2022 Phillies Spring Training and Clearwater Threshers season on Monday, January 10, from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Open interviews will be conducted with job offers made on site.

Open positions include:

  • Cashiers
  • Food Runners
  • Food Preps
  • Cooks
  • Stand Leads
  • Warehouse Runners
  • Bartenders

For more information, or if you are unable to attend the job fair on January 10, please contact Assistant Food & Beverage Manager Justin Stone at 727-712-4401 or [email protected].

BayCare Ballpark – 601 N Old Coachman Rd, Clearwater, FL 33765

BlueClaws Charities Launches Annual Suite Raffle

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities, the official non-profit organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, has launched their annual Luxury Suite Raffle, through which seven winners will each earn a 10-game share of a 2022 BlueClaws Luxury Suite.

The one-of-a-kind, raffle benefits BlueClaws Charities, their Community Partners, and other organizations that receive grants from the team’s non-profit.

“This is a very popular fundraiser that we’ve done for the last few years and really appreciate the support we’ve received from the community,” said BlueClaws Charities President Kevin Fenstermacher. “We sell a limited number of tickets and offer a great prize – we can’t wait for the drawing this spring!”

BlueClaws Charities sells only 300 raffle tickets at $100 each. Seven winners will be selected and each winner gets a 10-game share of a 2022 Luxury Suite, a $4,950 value.

Ticket purchasers also receive a one-time use coupon for 25% in the team store, a voucher for four reserve seat tickets to Opening Night at the Jersey Shore (April 8th), and the ability to rent up to two Suites at a special rate for $600 (normally $850).

HOW TO ORDER: CLICK HERE to order online or call 732-901-7000 option 3.

“This raffle is one of BlueClaws Charities’ biggest fundraisers and supports our annual grant program,” said Fenstermacher. “This year, we were able to award grants to 31 different organizations throughout Ocean and Monmouth Counties that do amazing work here at the Jersey Shore. Support for initiatives like our Suite Raffle lets us help more of these worthwhile organizations each year.”

BlueClaws Luxury Suites are private boxes for 20 and include indoor/outdoor seating, climate control, TV, a private server, access to the suite-level bar, and a panoramic view of the game.

The drawing will take place on Friday, March 25th at 3:00 pm EST and streamed live on the BlueClaws Facebook page.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws.

-BlueClaws Charities-