Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders

Santa Claus is Coming…Back to PNC Field

December 1, 2014

Breakfast with St. Nick & Friends on Dec. 13

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) fans that is. On Saturday, Dec. 13 from 9 a.m.-11 a.m., the big man himself, Santa Claus, and several of his friends will be on hand in the Mohegan Sun Club at PNC Field for breakfast and more.

The full breakfast features scrambled eggs, mini-pancakes, home fries, ham, sausage, juice and coffee. The accent sure to excite – a hot chocolate bar with all the fixins kids can add including sprinkles, marshmallows, candy canes, whipped cream and chocolate syrup.

There will be activities for the little ones as well with craft tables sporting: reindeer puppets, candy cane reindeer ornaments, Christmas cookie decoration and Christmas cards for veterans. Every guest will also be eligible for three different baseball-related prize giveaways on a raffle basis during the breakfast. One lucky guest will receive a grand prize giveaway of four tickets to Opening Day 2015.

Santa and the RailRiders’ mascots will be available for pictures along with the chance for a Christmas family photo in the RailRiders clubhouse. The Marines will be on hand as well to accept new, unwrapped Toys for Tots donations. The first 100 people to donate toys will receive a RailRiders baseball. The team store, SWB Station, will have gear available for your holiday needs.

Tickets for the event are on sale now in advance at the PNC Field box office (open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.), or the day of the event. All payments will be run through the box office and guests shall receive tickets that must be presented at the door to gain entrance to the breakfast. The ticket prices are $12.00 for adults and $6.00 for kids 3-12. Children that are 2 and under will be allowed in at no charge.

The RailRiders open their 2015 season at home on April 9 against the Syracuse Chiefs (Washington Nationals). For more information please call (570) 969-BALL (2255) or visit swbrailriders.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Click here to view the original story.

RailRiders 2014 Community Report

September 24, 2014

Over $360,000 Given Back to NEPA, 66% Jump from Award-Winning 2013

Coming together for the greater good. All baseball teams try to accomplish it on the field. In the case of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) – the off-the-field efforts in that same vein added up to a whole lot of good to date in 2014.

Among the highlights:

– Five jersey auctions raised over $20,000 to benefit: Hunt of a Lifetime, IamMore Foundation, Allied Health Services, Fisher House and the Dave Miley HOF Scholarship Fund.

– The debut of the team’s Fit Track program, presented by Odak.

– Another successful HOPE Week in concert with the rest of the New York Yankees organization.

– An increase in charitable giving from $217,000 to over $360,000 including cash and in-kind gifts.

– Over 550 hours volunteered in the community by full-time staff, players and coaches.

– Over 200 mascot appearances.

– Support of our military with the Metlife Military Appreciation program, Honor Guard program, veterans parade appearances in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre, and a players/field staff visit to the Gino Merli Veterans Center.

– The RailRiders and Kost Tire and Auto raised $14,000 for the Boys and Girls Clubs of NEPA with the Hurl the Pearl promotion (up $2,000 from 2013).

-The addition of several other new initiatives including: Breast Cancer Awareness Night which raised $2,000 for the Susan G. Komen Foundation and the Girl Scouts of NEPA; an Easter Egg Hunt for children with special needs; and special school day themes for including an anti-bullying day and an anti-drug and alcohol day.

The RailRiders franchise prides itself on engaging with the community. The signature addition in that regard for 2014 – the Fit Track program. Fit Track’s inaugural year sported over 30 schools in NEPA and over 12,000 children. It encourages children to develop healthy habits during their youth that will transition into adulthood. The Fit Track focuses on three main healthy behaviors: being active for 60 minutes each day; making healthy food choices; and getting at least eight hours of sleep a night. Each enrolled child received a free RailRiders jump rope to aid in their physical activity. Each child that completed the program received a free ticket to one of four RailRiders home games with Fit Trackers honored on the field during the pre-game festivities.

The Community Organization of the Game program, presented by DePietro’s Pharmacy, came back for its second season. Each of the team’s 72 home games spotlighted a local non-profit/civic organization. That COG had the opportunity to spread its message to every guest through a pre-game on-field interview, a ceremonial first pitch, an on-air radio interview and a concourse table display.

A standard from previous years, the Adopt-A-Field program, renovated four local fields (one high school field; one softball field; two youth fields). Front office staff and grounds crew members spent the entire day at each park cutting the infield, rebuilding pitching mounds, fertilizing/mowing grass, cleaning dugouts and more. The fields were chosen through a contest on the team’s website with fan votes deciding the lucky winners.

As the top affiliate of the New York Yankees, the RailRiders proudly played their part in the organization’s annual HOPE (Helping Others Persevere and Excel) Week effort. The week-long community outreach program’s purpose is to touch as many lives as possible in your area. Members of the RailRiders’ coaching staff, players and front office folks made their way throughout NEPA.

HOPE Week 2014 in SWB included partnerships with the Children’s Miracle Network and Make-A-Wish Foundation to welcome children in for an unforgettable day; shaved heads and over $13,000 raised for childhood cancer research; a visit to the Gino Merli Veterans Center; and laser tag with the NEPA Boys and Girls Club.

The RailRiders’ Military Appreciation program was brought back to show the team’s support of our nation’s active and retired military. The serviceperson and his/her family were honored. Activities included complimentary game tickets, a pre-game on-field interview and a ceremonial first pitch.

SWB’s patriotic pride continued by Setting A Seat Aside. To honor men and women affiliated with our nation’s military whom could not be at PNC Field, one significant seat (section 13, row 15, seat one) remains forever empty and unsold.

“2014 was a great year,” said community relations manager Rachel Mark. “Seeing the impact our community outreach makes in NEPA is priceless. We are excited to continue these efforts and watch them grow in 2015.”

Invested in the community, the RailRiders franchise has more than 30 full-time employees. Combined with concessionaire Legends, PNC Field boasts over 500 seasonal employees. The franchise prides itself on customer service and affordability as the bar-setting destination for affordable, family entertainment destination in NEPA.

The RailRiders open their 2015 season at home on April 9 against the Syracuse Chiefs (Washington Nationals). For more information please call (570) 969-BALL (2255) or visit swbrailriders.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Click here to view the original story.

RailRiders Announce HOPE Week Activities

July 2, 2014

Week-Long Festivities Commence Sunday, July 6

What began as an ode to the parent club and the community has turned into an annual tradition in NEPA. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) are proud to announce that beginning on Sunday, July 6 the RailRiders will join the New York Yankees in support of HOPE (Helping Others Persevere and Excel) Week 2014, a unique week-long communal program that brings to light extraordinary stories intended to inspire individuals into action in their own communities.

Initiated in 2009 and now in its fifth campaign in NEPA, HOPE Week is rooted in the fundamental belief that acts of goodwill provide hope and encouragement to more than just the recipient of the gesture. Each day from Sunday, July 6 through Friday, July 11 members of the RailRiders front office staff or club will reach out personally to connect with an organization, cause or individual. 2014 marks the third straight year that each of the Yankees’ six U.S.-based affiliates will participate in the program, making the initiative one that the entire organization proudly stands behind.

HOPE Week begins with the RailRiders’ annual food drive on Sunday, July 6. Patrons are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to the 7:05 p.m. contest against the Charlotte Knights (Chicago White Sox) in exchange for one lawn seat in the NEPA Honda Homer Zone. SWB has partnered with the Voluntary Action Center which will distribute the collected items to agencies and food pantries around the region. The RailRiders will respond by honoring Voluntary Action Center’s ‘Volunteers of the Year’ with a pre-game ceremony on the field.

Scranton/Wilkes-Barre coaches, players and front office staff will trek to the Gino Merli Veterans Center in Scranton on Monday, July 7 to participate in a full day of inspiring visits. The RailRiders will visit residents in their rooms and see who has the best stuff in some games of Wii baseball. The visit includes a social filled with baseball-themed snacks.

Fortune favors the bald? We will find out on Tuesday, July 8 when the RailRiders join the Vs. Cancer Foundation with a night at PNC Field committed to raising money for childhood cancer research. Half of the funds raised will be donated to the National Childhood Cancer Research Foundation and the other half will be donated locally. RailRiders players and front office staff will shave their heads during and after the game to help raise awareness. A number of names are scheduled to participate including RHP Danny Burawa, SHP Pat Venditte, C Francisco Arcia and team president/GM Rob Crain. The RailRiders have set a team goal of $10,000 for the event.

On Wednesday, July 9, Children’s Miracle Network kids and their families will journey into the RailRiders’ home clubhouse for a personal meet-and-greet with players before the game.

The RailRiders head to the NEPA Boys and Girls Club on Thursday, July 10. SWB has partnered with Combined Forces Mobile Laser Tag for the fun and excitement of laser tag. The event includes inflatable barricades, walls and laser guns. RailRiders’ players and staff will participate in the team sport with club members from 10 a.m.-11 a.m.

The big league baseball dream propels the RailRiders each day. On Friday, July 11, the RailRiders will seek to help dreams of a different variety. HOPE Week concludes with Princess and Pirate Night at PNC Field as the RailRiders partner with the Make-A-Wish foundation to honor two deserving kids. Limos, along with staff dressed in their best princess and pirate attire, will escort the two honorees to PNC Field for special on-field recognition and ceremonial first pitches. Each child will receive a complimentary princess and pirate costume and promotional package.

HOPE Week is just a part of the RailRiders’ community outreach this season, and the RailRiders look forward to continuing their involvement both during and after HOPE Week. Any inquiries regarding the week-long festivities should be directed to RailRiders community relations manager Rachel Mark by calling 570-969-2255 (ext. 3140) or by e-mailing rmark@swbrailriders.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton Wilkes-Barre Yankees. Click here to view the original story.

Adopt-a-Field Program Back in 2014

March 24, 2014

Nominations Accepted Through April 4, Voting Begins April 6

Moosic, Pa. – There’s something special about a baseball diamond. Add kids to the scene and you have the storybook home run. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) hope to help area youth enjoy America’s pastime all the more with the 2014 edition of the team’s Adopt-a-Field Program.

What began a few years ago with two teams getting the annual makeover, one each from Lackawanna County and Luzerne County, has blossomed into a four-field program. In 2014, that will consist of one high school field, one softball field, and two youth fields. Field nominations should be sent to the RailRiders’ community relations manager Rachel Mark (rmark@swbrailriders.com). Entries from both Lackawanna and Luzerne counties will be accepted and they should include both photos of the fields in need of renovation and related contact information.

The RailRiders will select the top five fields in each category. From there, online voting will determine the winners. The voting will run from April 6-13 with the victors announced on April 14.

“We want every kid in our community to play at their own version of PNC Field,” said RailRiders team president/GM Rob Crain. “That means a high-quality field that can be properly maintained for years to come. I love this program. We as a franchise are committed to doing what we can for our neighbors and this is one of the most fun and directly impactful efforts we can provide. We owe a lot of thanks to Bob Seltzer at Fisher & Son, Company and Pro’s Choice for their generous donations of materials to make this all possible.”

The program affords an individualized evaluation and athletic field maintenance clinic to the chosen sites. More than the initial facelift care of the RailRiders’ raw manpower and expertise, the teams will be taught how to keep up that same professional-level look for years to come.

“This is a great opportunity to provide those maintaining local fields with the knowledge needed to maintain a safe and beautiful playing surface,” said the team’s director of field operations, Steve Horne. “Many leagues don’t have the tools, manpower or guidance needed to keep their fields in good shape. Hopefully, after our crew comes in to help get them started, we can develop a plan that will benefit the leagues and their players for years to come.”

Media members and fans will be invited to document and watch the progress throughout the day at each site. The first makeover will take place on April 29. Other dates and all sites will be announced at a later date once voting concludes.

The RailRiders’ 2014 season begins on Thursday, April 3 when the club kicks off a seven-game road trip at Syracuse against the Chiefs (Washington Nationals).The home slate commences a week later on Thursday, April 10 when the Chiefs visit PNC Field for a four-game series and homestand. For season ticket information or to book a ballpark group outing, call (570) 969-BALL (2255) or visit swbrailriders.com.

– SWB RailRiders – All Aboard! –

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton Wilkes-Barre Yankees. Click here to view the original story.

Community Organization of the Game Program Returns

February 24, 2014

Now Presented by DePietro Pharmacy

Moosic, Pa. – One of the signature pieces of community outreach for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) a season ago is back and better than ever. The Community Organization of the Game program, presented by DePietro Pharmacy, is looking for NEPA community groups that wish to spread their word to the masses during the 2014 season.

“DePietro’s Pharmacy is locally owned and invested in the health of our community,” said owner Thomas DiPietro. “We are proud to stay involved in our community. Last year, we donated over $8,000 to local fundraisers and organizations. This year we are proud to be able to sponsor the Community Organization of the Game. Our commitment to our community clearly aligns with the RailRiders’ vision. There are many people who need assistance in our community. Community organizations are often underfunded, so they generally have a small budget for promotions and advertising. The RailRiders’ commitment gives organizations a unique opportunity to educate the public on their services. It also benefits the community, as many people don’t know what kind of help is out there.”

A total of 72 non-profit groups, one for each home game, will receive a tip of the cap and more throughout the 2014 campaign. The groups chosen will own a prime spot on the front porch of NEPA. In addition to receiving four free field reserve seats, the group will also have a concourse table allowing them to pass out information on their organization and cause. Beyond that personal face-to-face time, each group will be have a live pre-game interview on the field that will be shown to all in attendance on PNC Field’s state-of-the-art video board. The message will be further disseminated with a live in-game interview on the RailRiders’ radio broadcast.

The Community Organization of the Game receives other perks like a ceremonial first pitch, their logo getting some time to shine on the video board and most of all, the chance to interact with the very folks they touch with their efforts.

“We are honored to highlight the great organizations that benefit our community,” said team president/GM Rob Crain. “These people and their organizations do so much. If we can help get their message out in any way, we are humbly glad to do so.”

Community organizations that are interested in participating are invited to contact the team’s community relations manager Rachel Mark through e-mail at rmark@swbrailriders.com or by phone at 570-969-2255, ext. 3140.

– SWB RailRiders – All Aboard! –

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Click here to view the original story.

All Aboard the Fit Track Program

December 17, 2013

RailRiders’ Community Program Encourages Healthy Lifestyle

Moosic, Pa. – “All aboard” has taken on a whole new meaning. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) are coming down the stretch run for registration in their new Fit Track Program for the 2014 season. Fit Track is designed to enhance schools’ physical education programs and educate children, grades K-5, on the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle. Area schools are encouraged to register for the free program. Registration concludes Friday, Dec. 20 and is limited to the first 15,000 students.

“We are delighted to do whatever we can to promote a healthy lifestyle among our children,” said RailRiders president/GM Rob Crain. “The habits for making healthy decisions begun at a young age can last a lifetime. We hope this program will trigger more and more smart choices.”

Fit Track focuses on three main healthy behaviors: being active at least 60 minutes per day; making healthy food choices; and getting at least eight hours of sleep a night. The RailRiders encourage kids to follow Fit Track by rewarding them with free admission to select SWB RailRiders home games and the chance for pre-game recognition at PNC Field.

For participating in the Fit Track program, each child will receive a RailRiders jump rope, meant to serve as a tool to get kids active outside of school. Jump ropes will be distributed to schools immediately following the return of the school’s registration form to the RailRiders front office, or during the kick-off assembly if applicable. The flexible program allows each school to create a four, eight or 12-week program.

CLICK HERE for registration forms and more information. All contact information is listed on the registration form. For any additional information or questions, please contact community relations manager Rachel Mark at 570-969-2255 ext. 3140 or rmark@swbrailriders.com.

– SWB RailRiders – All Aboard! –

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton Wilkes-Barre Yankees. Click here to view the original story.

Military Recognition Program Returns

November 11, 2013

RailRiders Searching for Military Members & Families to Honor

Moosic, Pa. – Veterans Day is a time of reflection, thanks and love for the brave men and women that defend our nation. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) are no exception on this special day. Today, the team announced the formal return of its Military Recognition Program for the 2014 season that will pay tribute to those that serve in our nation’s armed forces and their loved ones in NEPA. The search is on for the special folks that will receive these recognitions.

Each 2014 home game will spotlight these local heroes with recognition on the video board at PNC Field, the opportunity to throw out a ceremonial first pitch, and four field reserved seats to enjoy the game. The team is actively searching for a title sponsor of the program that will all the more solidify PNC Field as NEPA’s community ballpark.

“On behalf of our entire organization, a huge thank you to all of our veterans,” said RailRiders president/GM Rob Crain. “We try to do what we can for our own here in NEPA, but this program truly stands out since it helps those that help us all on the ultimate level.”

Area veterans, active military and families thereof are encouraged to contact the team’s community relations department with their armed forces tale as the nightly honors are expected to go quickly. Please submit the military member’s name, military branch, preferred month to attend, telephone number, e-mail address and street address. E-mails can be sent to SWB’s community relations manager, Rachel Mark, at rmark@swbrailriders.com. Or fans may mail their tales to the address below:

SWB RailRiders

ATTN: Community Relations

235 Montage Mountain Rd.

Moosic, PA 18507

The RailRiders’ 2014 season begins on Thursday, April 3 when the club kicks off a seven-game road trip at Syracuse against the Chiefs (Washington Nationals). The home slate commences a week later on Thursday, April 10 when the Chiefs visit PNC Field for a four-game series and homestand. For season ticket information, call (570) 969-BALL (2255) or visit swbrailriders.com.

– SWB RailRiders – All Aboard! –

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton Wilkes-Barre Yankees. Click here to view the original story.

Community Love: 2013 Thus Far

October 17, 2013

It’s more than numbers. It’s more than hours or dollars. It’s human. It’s real. It’s one of life’s most paradoxical, yet overwhelming true truths. An intangible concept, an experience really, that resounds with a firmness greater than Montage Mountain herself. It is better to give than to receive. Year one of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) and the new PNC Field afforded the new-look franchise and the good folks of NEPA to get to know each other once more through more than just baseball. And the giving? Well, it sure felt good.

Below is a quick checklist of the highlight totals in 2013:

Front office staff hours volunteered: 890.5
Player hours volunteered: 202.5
Mascot appearances: 130
Donations: $24,044 (tickets/merchandise/autographed memorabilia)
Hurl the Pearl donation (Boys & Girls Club): $12,092
Allied Health Services donation: $16,000

Total donation including monetary value of volunteered hours from team/staff, all monetary donations and in-kind donations: $217,737

“The sum totals sound good, but what sticks with me are the individual moments,” said RailRiders president/GM Rob Crain. “I got more goosebumps from seeing the impact of the efforts spearheaded by our staff and community relations manager Rachel Mark than I’ve had at any other point in my life. It was a very good year.”

The Community Organization of the Night program made its debut this season. Each of the team’s 72 home games spotlighted a local non-profit/civic organization. That CON had the opportunity to spread its message to every guest through a pre-game on-field interview, a ceremonial first pitch, an on-air radio interview and a concourse table display.

The RailRiders’ Military Appreciation Program was implemented this season to show the team’s support of our nation’s active and retired military. The service person and his/her family were honored. Activities included complimentary game tickets, a pre-game on-field interview and a ceremonial first pitch.

SWB’s patriotic pride continued with another new tip of the cap, Setting A Seat Aside. To honor men and women affiliated with our nation’s military whom could not be at PNC Field, one significant seat (section 13, row 15, seat one) will forever remain empty and unsold.

A standard from previous years got a big boost as the Adopt-A-Field Program upped the number of local fields renovated to four. Front office staff and grounds crew members combined to give the area little league/softball fields a big league facelift. Staffers spent the entire day at each park cutting the infield, rebuilding pitching mounds, fertilizing/mowing grass, cleaning dugouts and more. The fields were chosen through a contest on the team’s Facebook page with representatives of local leagues posting pictures of their field and describing its renovation needs. The four photos that received the most “likes” on Facebook were the lucky winners (Avoca/Dupont Little League; South Scranton Little League; Staback Park; Marvine Dutch Gap).

The week included a Children’s Miracle Network Day at the Ballpark on July 7. Twin boys who have overcome the worst of health adversities spent time on the field with players during batting practice, stopped by the pre-game clubhouse, threw out ceremonial first pitches and spent the game in the owner’s suite with friends and family. One day later, the RailRiders hosted a baseball game for the Lackawanna County Challenger Little League. LCCLL gives children with special needs the chance to participate in athletics. RailRiders coaches and players spent the entire game on the field, coaching and encouraging the boys and girls while helping them to bat, run and slide. A ballpark lunch followed. July 9 meant two surprise hospital visits to Moses Taylor and Geisinger in downtown Scranton. Patients interacted with the players while receiving giveaways, autographs and an overall fun time. The week concluded with players and front office staffers visiting the Boys & Girls Club of NEPA. The morning was spent playing baseball, billiards and computer games. The epic conclusion sported a dodgeball match between the RailRiders and the Boys & Girls club.

On Aug. 21, a tag-team food drive by the RailRiders and the Voluntary Action Center of NEPA sought out to stock as many food pantries in NEPA as possible. Fans received free game tickets in exchange for non-perishable food items. In addition to the food from fans, the RailRiders also presented the Voluntary Action Center with a check for $1,300 to assist with the fight against hunger in NEPA.

– SWB RailRiders – All Aboard! –

Community Love: 2013 Thus Far

September 12, 2013

Thousands of Hours, Over $200,000 Given Back to NEPA

Moosic, Pa. – It’s more than numbers. It’s more than hours or dollars. It’s human. It’s real. It’s one of life’s most paradoxical, yet overwhelming true truths. An intangible concept, an experience really, that resounds with a firmness greater than Montage Mountain herself. It is better to give than to receive. Year one of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) and the new PNC Field afforded the new-look franchise and the good folks of NEPA to get to know each other once more through more than just baseball. And the giving? Well, it sure felt good.

Below is a quick checklist of the highlight totals in 2013:

Front office staff hours volunteered: 890.5

Player hours volunteered: 202.5

Mascot appearances: 130

Donations: $24,044 (tickets/merchandise/autographed memorabilia)

Hurl the Pearl donation (Boys & Girls Club): $12,092

Allied Health Services donation: $16,000

Total donation including monetary value of volunteered hours from team/staff, all monetary donations and in-kind donations: $217,737

“The sum totals sound good, but what sticks with me are the individual moments,” said RailRiders president/GM Rob Crain. “I got more goosebumps from seeing the impact of the efforts spearheaded by our staff and community relations manager Rachel Mark than I’ve had at any other point in my life. It was a very good year.”

The RailRiders’ Military Appreciation Program was implemented this season to show the team’s support of our nation’s active and retired military. The serviceperson and his/her family were honored. Activities included complimentary game tickets, a pre-game on-field interview and a ceremonial first pitch.

The RailRiders’ 2014 season begins on Thursday, April 3 when the club kicks off a seven-game road trip at Syracuse against the Chiefs (Washington Nationals). The home slate commences a week later on Thursday, April 10 when the Chiefs visit PNC Field for a four-game series and homestand. For season ticket information, call (570) 969-BALL (2255) or visit swbrailriders.com.

– SWB RailRiders – All Aboard! –

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Click here to view the original story.

Hurl the Pearl a Big Hit for Boys & Girls Club

August 28, 2013

RailRiders & Kost Tire to Present Check on Wednesday after Season-Long Fundraiser

Moosic, Pa. – The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) have found a number of ways to further their community impact. A creative fan-favorite this season has been the “Hurl the Pearl” contest, presented by Kost Tire. For the contest, fans purchase “pearls”, soft baseballs, to hurl at the team’s pinstriped truck for prizes as it circles the warning track. Proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Club of NEPA. This unique fundraiser has raised $11,877 so far, with Wednesday’s game still left to add to that total.

“Kost Tire and Auto Service has been a long-time supporter of the Boys and Girls Club for over 10 years now because they do such a great job of keeping the kids in our community safe,” said Erwin Kost, Jr., Kost Tire vice president and club secretary.

The RailRiders and Kost Tire will present a check to the Boys & Girls Club of NEPA at the end of the sixth inning during Wednesday night’s game at PNC Field. This will come on the heels of the final “Hurl the Pearl” half-inning of the season, as fans will help add to the $11,877 total being donated.

“We’ve stepped up our community involvement in a number of ways, but ‘Hurl the Pearl’ is one of my favorites,” said RailRiders president/GM Rob Crain. “This unique event is not only fun for fans to purchase a pearl and try to toss it into a moving truck, but it also provides an avenue to make an impact with a very important organization in NEPA, the Boys & Girls Club.”

Nightly “Hurl the Pearl” winners receive a $25 gift certificate to Kost Tire and Auto. The grand prize winner receives four tickets to a Yankees game; a $50 gas card; the chance to throw out a first pitch at PNC Field on Opening Night 2014; and a suite at PNC during the 2014 season. There will be a grand prize drawing on Thursday and participants must be in attendance to win.

The RailRiders will return home for their final two home games of the season on Wednesday night, and will host the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Philadelphia Phillies) as the two teams continue the inaugural IronRail series. SWB trails in the rivalry series, 7-5. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

Wednesday is both Public Service Appreciation Night and a Kid’s Eat Free Wednesday thanks to Minooka Subaru. Every child 12 & under will receive a voucher for a free hot dog, bag of chips, and soda. Gates will open at PNC Field at 6 p.m. and the game will air live locally on My Network TV with the Voice of the RailRiders, John Sadak, on the call alongside FOX56 sports director Bob Ide. The RailRiders will play the final regular-season game of their inaugural season on Thursday. It will be Fan Appreciation Night at the ballpark, and a Thirsty Thursday presented by Budweiser. Thursday’s game is also a 7:05 p.m. first pitch and will include post-game fireworks.

– SWB RailRiders – All Aboard! –

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Click here to view the original story.

RailRiders to Hold Baseball Equipment Drive Saturday

June 18, 2013

Adult Equipment to be Sent to Troops Overseas, Youth Donations to Local Little Leagues

Moosic, Pa. – The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) will hold a baseball equipment drive to benefit both soldiers in Afghanistan and local little leagues. The drive will take place on Saturday, June 22, when the RailRiders host the Norfolk Tides (Baltimore Orioles) in a split doubleheader. Equipment will be accepted at both games with the first contest starting at 12:05 p.m. and game two getting underway at 7:05 p.m.

“We wanted to bring a little piece of home to our troops overseas,” said RailRiders community relations manager Rachel Mark. “Giving them the ability to participate in America’s favorite pastime is the least we can do for the men and women who have given so much.”

Donation bins will be set up at the front gates at PNC Field and will be manned by volunteers from The American Legion Post 665 in Dickson City until the third inning of each game. This will allow fans to drop off their gently-used equipment as they enter the ballpark. The drive is designed to bring a piece of home to our soldiers, and also make a direct impact in the NEPA community.

Following the game, all of the equipment that was donated will be sorted by the volunteers. The adult equipment will be shipped to soldiers stationed in Afghanistan, while the youth equipment will be donated throughout the NEPA area. The RailRiders will be accepting all baseball equipment that is in usable condition.

Gates will open up at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 22. The first 2,500 fans in game one will receive a free bat courtesy of Kost Tire & Auto. The gates for game two will open at 6 p.m. and the Cowboy Monkey Rodeo will perform after the nightcap. With no upper deck at PNC Field anymore, every seat in the ballpark provides the supreme views and intimacy that make minor league baseball so special at incredibly affordable prices. For more information, please visit the team’s official website, www.swbrailriders.com, or call 570-969-BALL (2255).

– SWB RailRiders – All Aboard! –

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton Wilkes-Barre Yankees. Click here to view the original story.

Adopt-a-Field Program Returns

April 29, 2013

Four Area Little League Fields to Receive Much-Needed Help

Moosic, Pa. – When the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre baseball franchise spent 2012 on the road, it still had its home at heart. The team christened a program that focused on rejuvenating area Little League fields. Even though the now-RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) have a home of their own in the beautifully reconstructed PNC Field, the Adopt-a-Field Program is back and better than ever.

What began with two teams getting the annual makeover, one each from Lackawanna County and Luzerne County, has blossomed into a four-team program in 2013. A Facebook contest chose the four lucky recipients. It gets underway Wednesday, May 1 when Scranton’s Marvine Dutch Gap Little League gets some love for its field. On June 3, the attention shifts to the Avoca/Dupont Little League. Come June 14, the RailRiders will adopt the South Scranton Little League field before closing things out on June 27 at Staback Park in Archbald.

“Let’s spread the wealth a bit and bring the beauty of the new PNC Field to the Little League fields right here in our communities,” said RailRiders team president/GM Rob Crain. “I love this program. We as a franchise are committed to doing what we can for our neighbors and this is one of the most fun and directly impactful efforts we can provide.”

The program provides an individualized evaluation and athletic field maintenance clinic to the chosen leagues. More than the initial facelift the RailRiders’ raw manpower provides, the teams will be taught how to keep up that same professional-level look for years to come. Last season, Moosic Little League and Kingston/Forty Fort Little League were the benefactors of the program’s launch.

“This is a great opportunity to provide those maintaining local Little League fields with the knowledge needed to maintain a safe and beautiful playing surface,” said the team’s director of field operations, Steve Horne. “Many leagues don’t have the tools, manpower or guidance needed to keep their fields in good shape. Hopefully, after our crew comes in to help get them started, we can develop a plan that will benefit the leagues and their players for years to come.”

The makeover will get underway at 8 a.m. on each date listed above and will run until around 5 p.m. Media members and fans are invited to document and watch the progress throughout the day. Below are the addresses of the four sites:

Marvine Dutch Gap, 170 Wells, Scranton 18508

Avoca/Dupont, Mill & Commerce Streets, Avoca 18641

South Scranton, 430 Meadow Ave., Scranton 18505

Staback Park, Eynon Jermyn Rd., Archbald 18403

The RailRiders are in the midst of a nine-day, eight-game road trip before returning home for an eight-game homestand on Monday, May 6. It starts with the first of four against the Indianapolis Indians (Pittsburgh Pirates) at 6:35 p.m. Fans will be able to dine on just a few dimes with dollar hot dogs all night long at PNC Field. Great ticket packages, group deals and single-game tickets are available. With no upper deck at PNC Field anymore, every seat in the ballpark provides the supreme views and intimacy that make minor league baseball so special at incredibly affordable prices. For more information, please visit the team’s official website, www.swbrailriders.com, or call 570-969-BALL (2255).

– SWB RailRiders – All Aboard! –

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton Wilkes-Barre Yankees. Click here to view the original story.

Community Organization of the Night Program Filled for 2013

January 25, 2013

All 72 Slots for 2013 Season Booked in 6 ½ Business Days

MOOSIC, Pa. – The public said it wanted to be involved with the new PNC Field. The depths of that yearning are still being realized. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders’ Community Organization of the Night Program was announced just last week. In 6 ½ business days, all 72 available nights were claimed by non-profit groups that benefit NEPA.

The 72 non-profit groups, one for each home game, will receive a tip of the cap and more throughout the 2013 season. The groups chosen will own the night on the front porch of NEPA. In addition to receiving four free field reserve seats, each group will also have a concourse table allowing it to pass out information on its organization and cause. Beyond that personal face-to-face time, each group will be have a live pre-game interview on the field that will be shown to all in attendance on PNC Field’s state-of-the-art video board. The message will be further spread with a live in-game interview on the RailRiders’ radio broadcast.

“From the minute we officially released the program, my phone has been ringing off the hook with the wonderful non-profit organizations of Northeast Pennsylvania,” said the team’s community relations manager Ryan Beardsley. “I’m so proud we can provide a service such as this to our local non-profit agencies that work tirelessly and selflessly to improve the lives of others.”

The Community Organization of the Night receives other perks like a ceremonial first pitch, its logo getting some time to shine on the video board and most of all, the chance to interact with the very folks touched by its efforts.

The RailRiders’ 2013 season gets underway with the grand opening of a reconstructed PNC Field on April 4 when the defending IL champion Pawtucket Red Sox come to town for a rematch of their 2012 playoff clash with SWB. It will mark the first “Thirsty Thursday” promotion of the year with $1 beer specials and $1 Pepsi products along with a pre-game live band performance and post-game fireworks. Club seating, partial and full-season ticket plans are now available.

– SWB RailRiders – All Aboard! –

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton Wilkes-Barre Yankees. Click here to view the original story.

RailRiders Plan Salute to Military

November 11, 2012

Searching for Area Foursomes to Honor Each Game

The team has honored our nation's armed forces in the past, but it will become a nightly event at the reconstructed PNC Field in 2013. — The team has honored our nation’s armed forces in the past, but it will become a nightly event at the reconstructed PNC Field in 2013.

MOOSIC, Pa. – The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders’ community outreach continues. Today, the team announced a new initiative for the 2013 season that will pay tribute to those that serve in our nation’s armed forces and their loved ones in NEPA.

Each 2013 home game will spotlight these local heroes with recognition on the video board at PNC Field, the opportunity to throw out a ceremonial first pitch, and four field reserved seats to enjoy the game. The team is actively searching for a title sponsor of the program that will all the more solidify PNC Field as NEPA’s community ballpark.

“I could not be more thrilled to create a program like this that in some small way helps say thank you to those in uniform and their loved ones,” said Rob Crain, president and general manager of the club. “Many kids look up to our ballplayers, and we certainly appreciate that, but these are the true heroes living right next door to us.”

Area veterans, active military and families thereof are encouraged to submit their military story to the team’s community relations department. E-mails can be sent to SWB’s community relations manager, Rachel Mark, at rmark@swbyankees.com. Or fans may mail their tales to the address below:

SWB RailRiders
ATTN: Community Relations
50 Glenmaura National Blvd., Suite 101
Moosic, PA 18507

-All Aboard-

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Click here to view the original story.

SWB’s “Big Reveal” & Red Cross Partner for Sandy Relief

November 10, 2012

A New Jersey for New Jersey Coincides With “Big Reveal”

The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees have announced a partnership with the local Red Cross offices to collect money and non-perishable food for New Jersey victims of Hurricane Sandy. As part of the “New Jersey for New Jersey” collaboration, the two entities will accept donations at Genetti Manor on Wednesday, Nov. 14. The effort coincides with the club’s “Big Reveal” of a new team name, logo, colors, etc. To incentivize participation, the very first official team jersey for the club’s soon-to-be-revealed rebranding will go to one of the generous donors.”It feels good to do good,” said Rob Crain, president and general manager of the SWB Yankees. “We have donated to those in our backyard of NEPA. It just seems right to also use this tremendous opportunity of a once-in-a-lifetime fan experience to carry goodwill to our neighbors heavily affected by this tragic storm.”

Each dollar or non-perishable canned good donated that night will result in one entry for a raffle that will reward one lucky fan with the hottest piece of sportswear in NEPA.

“In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, many lives have been irrevocably changed,” said Carmon Flynn, executive director of the Red Cross of Lackawanna, Bradford-Sullivan, Susquehanna and Wyoming. “Fundraising efforts such as this one help our neighbors in New Jersey weather the effects of Superstorm Sandy and empower the American Red Cross to provide a quick and compassionate response. Whether it is a meal, a warm blanket or a place to sleep, our community’s support of the Red Cross makes this possible. We are grateful to our partners with the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees for holding this benefit.”

Remember, the team’s “Big Reveal” party will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14, at Genetti Manor, 1505 Main Street, Dickson City. The free event is open to the public.

At the event, the long-awaited new team name will be announced, along with the unveiling of new logos and player uniforms. The family-friendly party will also feature free food and beverages (alcohol excluded), inflatable games, jugglers, caricature artists, face painters, balloon artists and much more.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Wilkes-Barre Yankees. Click here to view the original story.