Reading Phillies
Encyclopedia
The Reading Phillies are a minor league baseball
team based in Reading, Pennsylvania
, playing in the Eastern Division of the Eastern League
. Since the 1967 season, they have been the AA affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies
.
The R-Phils affiliation with the Big Phils has lasted unbroken since 1967, and this relationship was solidified even further when the Philadelphia Phillies purchased a controlling interest in the Reading Phillies in 2008. The Reading Phillies play in FirstEnergy Stadium
, previously known as Reading Municipal Memorial Stadium. Built in 1951, the stadium seats 9,000 fans. On July 3, 2007, the stadium celebrated their ten-millionth fan to attend a game.
The R-Phils won the Eastern League championship in 1968, 1973, and 1995, and were co-champions in 2001.
, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
, Trenton, New Jersey
, Wilmington, Delaware
, Pottsville, Pennsylvania
, and Camden, New Jersey
(which disbanded that July), finishing in third place before the league folded after the season. The Actives played sporadically for the next 12 years.
The Reading Coal Heavers played in the Atlantic League from 1897 until the league disbanded in mid-June 1900. During this time, the world's first female professional baseball player, Lizzie Arlington
, pitched the final inning of a game for the Coal Heavers. Baseball returned to Reading in 1907 when the York White Roses
of the Class-B Tri-State League
relocated and became the Reading Pretzels. In 1911, the Pretzels finished with the best record in the league, but lost a best-of-seven postseason series to the team from Trenton. On June 14 of that season, George "Jake" Northrop pitched the only perfect nine-inning game in Reading baseball history. The Tri-State League folded after the 1914 season, but the Pretzels were resurrected when the Albany Senators
of the New York State League
relocated to Reading in August 1916. That league folded at the end of 1917 due to the first World War
.
Beginning in 1919, Reading played in the Class-AA International League
as the Coal Barons (1919), Marines (1920), Aces (1921–22), and Keystones (1923–32). Several future major leaguers played for the Keystones, owned by the Chicago Cubs
from May 1927 until the end of 1930, including shortstop Bill Jurges and pitcher Lon Warneke
. In August 1929, George Quellich set a professional baseball record that still stands today by collecting 15 hits in 15 consecutive at-bats.
in the New York-Penn League (now the Eastern League) in 1933. The Reading Red Sox
had a successful two-year run before the team moved to Allentown, Pennsylvania
(this franchise is now defunct).
Five years later, Reading got another baseball franchise—this time, an unaffiliated team in the Class-B Interstate League
called the Reading Chicks, which lost the league title series to the Lancaster
Red Roses. In 1941, the Chicks affiliated with the Brooklyn Dodgers as the Reading Brooks, featuring future Dodger outfielder Carl Furillo
. The franchise folded after the '41 season, and Reading was without at team for 10 years.
In 1952, the Wilkes Barre Indians, an affiliate of the Cleveland Indians
relocated to Reading to become the Reading Indians (this Eastern League franchise is now the New Britain Rock Cats
). The Reading Indians played at Municipal Memorial Stadium for the next decade, capturing the league title in 1957. Several Indians went on to successful major-league careers, including Rocky Colavito
and Roger Maris
. The franchise left town in 1961 and, after one year without a team, the Williamsport Grays moved to Reading to play for two years as a Boston Red Sox
affiliate and for one more year as a Cleveland Indians farm team before relocating again (this franchise is now the Binghamton Mets
). Reading was without a baseball team in 1966 before a new Eastern League franchise was established in Reading in 1967 as the Reading Phillies.
.
With the end of the 53-year relationship between the Baltimore Orioles
and their rookie-league team in Bluefield, WV after the 2010 season, the Reading/Philadelphia partnership becomes the longest current affiliation in Minor League Baseball.
The Reading Phillies home uniforms resemble those of their Philadelphia parent. The caps are red throughout with a stylized, cursive "R", colored red with bubble gum-colored highlights, with a navy blue and light blue star superimposed over the opening. The R-Phils have red caps for away games, with a train centered above the "R" instead of the blue star. The home jerseys are white with traditional red pinstripes. The "Reading" wordmark is prominently displayed on the front of the jersey in red with bubble gum-colored shadowing, with a blue star dotting the "i." The away jersey was powder blue in 2008 and 2009, a tribute to the away jersey of the Philadelphia Phillies from 1973–1989, with maroon stripes going down the sides. Currently, the away jersey is gray, almost identical to the current Philadelphia Phillies road jersey.
The Reading Phillies have two alternate jerseys, one red and one blue, both with the "R-Phils" wordmark prominently featured in red outlined in white.
Minor league baseball
Minor league baseball is a hierarchy of professional baseball leagues in the Americas that compete at levels below Major League Baseball and provide opportunities for player development. All of the minor leagues are operated as independent businesses...
team based in Reading, Pennsylvania
Reading, Pennsylvania
Reading is a city in southeastern Pennsylvania, USA, and seat of Berks County. Reading is the principal city of the Greater Reading Area and had a population of 88,082 as of the 2010 census, making it the fifth most populated city in the state after Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown and Erie,...
, playing in the Eastern Division of the Eastern League
Eastern League (U.S. baseball)
The Eastern League is a minor league baseball league which operates primarily in the northeastern United States, although it has had a team in Ohio since 1989. The Eastern League has played at the AA level since 1963. The league was founded in 1923 as the New York-Pennsylvania League...
. Since the 1967 season, they have been the AA affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies
Philadelphia Phillies
The Philadelphia Phillies are a Major League Baseball team. They are the oldest continuous, one-name, one-city franchise in all of professional American sports, dating to 1883. The Phillies are a member of the Eastern Division of Major League Baseball's National League...
.
The R-Phils affiliation with the Big Phils has lasted unbroken since 1967, and this relationship was solidified even further when the Philadelphia Phillies purchased a controlling interest in the Reading Phillies in 2008. The Reading Phillies play in FirstEnergy Stadium
FirstEnergy Stadium
FirstEnergy Stadium is a 9,000-seat baseball-only stadium in Reading, Pennsylvania that hosted its first regular season baseball game in 1951. The park is home to the Reading Phillies of the Eastern League. It was voted the second best place to see a baseball game by Minor League News in 2006...
, previously known as Reading Municipal Memorial Stadium. Built in 1951, the stadium seats 9,000 fans. On July 3, 2007, the stadium celebrated their ten-millionth fan to attend a game.
The R-Phils won the Eastern League championship in 1968, 1973, and 1995, and were co-champions in 2001.
Early baseball in Reading (1858–1932)
Reading's first official baseball team, the Reading Athletic Club, formed in November 1858 and, for the next 15 years, played other local teams for unofficial championships and bragging rights. After the National Agreement of 1883, which organized major and minor leagues, the Reading Actives became a member of the Interstate Association, one of the two original minor leagues. The Actives went 33–35 in 1883 against teams from BrooklynBrooklyn
Brooklyn is the most populous of New York City's five boroughs, with nearly 2.6 million residents, and the second-largest in area. Since 1896, Brooklyn has had the same boundaries as Kings County, which is now the most populous county in New York State and the second-most densely populated...
, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Harrisburg is the capital of Pennsylvania. As of the 2010 census, the city had a population of 49,528, making it the ninth largest city in Pennsylvania...
, Trenton, New Jersey
Trenton, New Jersey
Trenton is the capital of the U.S. state of New Jersey and the county seat of Mercer County. As of the 2010 United States Census, Trenton had a population of 84,913...
, Wilmington, Delaware
Wilmington, Delaware
Wilmington is the largest city in the state of Delaware, United States, and is located at the confluence of the Christina River and Brandywine Creek, near where the Christina flows into the Delaware River. It is the county seat of New Castle County and one of the major cities in the Delaware Valley...
, Pottsville, Pennsylvania
Pottsville, Pennsylvania
Pottsville is the only city in and the county seat of Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, United States. The population was 15,549 at the 2000 census. The city lies along the west bank of the Schuylkill River, north-west of Philadelphia...
, and Camden, New Jersey
Camden, New Jersey
The city of Camden is the county seat of Camden County, New Jersey. It is located across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As of the 2010 United States Census, the city had a total population of 77,344...
(which disbanded that July), finishing in third place before the league folded after the season. The Actives played sporadically for the next 12 years.
The Reading Coal Heavers played in the Atlantic League from 1897 until the league disbanded in mid-June 1900. During this time, the world's first female professional baseball player, Lizzie Arlington
Lizzie Arlington
Elizabeth Stroud was a woman who played Minor league baseball and Women's baseball. She played professionally under the name Lizzie Arlington....
, pitched the final inning of a game for the Coal Heavers. Baseball returned to Reading in 1907 when the York White Roses
York White Roses
The York White Roses was the name of a minor league baseball team in the city of York, Pennsylvania, USA, that existed from 1894–1969.-Early years:...
of the Class-B Tri-State League
Tri-State League
The Tri-State League was the name of five different circuits in American minor league baseball.-History:The first league of that name played for four years and consisted of teams in Ohio, Michigan and West Virginia....
relocated and became the Reading Pretzels. In 1911, the Pretzels finished with the best record in the league, but lost a best-of-seven postseason series to the team from Trenton. On June 14 of that season, George "Jake" Northrop pitched the only perfect nine-inning game in Reading baseball history. The Tri-State League folded after the 1914 season, but the Pretzels were resurrected when the Albany Senators
Albany Senators (minor league baseball)
The Albany Senators was the name of an American minor league baseball franchise representing Albany, New York, that existed between 1885 and 1959...
of the New York State League
New York State League (1885-1917)
The first New York State League in 1885, was actually the second of the many names the International League used before settling on its current moniker.The second New York State League was a six team league for one season in 1889...
relocated to Reading in August 1916. That league folded at the end of 1917 due to the first World War
World War I
World War I , which was predominantly called the World War or the Great War from its occurrence until 1939, and the First World War or World War I thereafter, was a major war centred in Europe that began on 28 July 1914 and lasted until 11 November 1918...
.
Beginning in 1919, Reading played in the Class-AA International League
International League
The International League is a minor league baseball league that operates in the eastern United States. Like the Pacific Coast League and the Mexican League, it plays at the Triple-A level, which is one step below Major League Baseball. It was so named because it had teams in both the United States...
as the Coal Barons (1919), Marines (1920), Aces (1921–22), and Keystones (1923–32). Several future major leaguers played for the Keystones, owned by the Chicago Cubs
Chicago Cubs
The Chicago Cubs are a professional baseball team located in Chicago, Illinois. They are members of the Central Division of Major League Baseball's National League. They are one of two Major League clubs based in Chicago . The Cubs are also one of the two remaining charter members of the National...
from May 1927 until the end of 1930, including shortstop Bill Jurges and pitcher Lon Warneke
Lon Warneke
Lonnie Warneke , nicknamed the "The Arkansas Hummingbird," was a Major League Baseball player, Major League umpire, county judge, U.S. Military serviceman, and businessman from Montgomery County, Arkansas whose career won-loss record as a pitcher for the Chicago Cubs and St...
. In August 1929, George Quellich set a professional baseball record that still stands today by collecting 15 hits in 15 consecutive at-bats.
Reading in the Eastern League (1933–1966)
Reading became home to the Class-A affiliate of the Boston Red SoxBoston Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox are a professional baseball team based in Boston, Massachusetts, and a member of Major League Baseball’s American League Eastern Division. Founded in as one of the American League's eight charter franchises, the Red Sox's home ballpark has been Fenway Park since . The "Red Sox"...
in the New York-Penn League (now the Eastern League) in 1933. The Reading Red Sox
Reading Red Sox
The Reading Red Sox are a defunct minor league baseball affiliate of the Boston Red Sox baseball franchise.The ball club was based in Reading, Pennsylvania, and played in the Class A New York-Pennsylvania League and its successor league, the Class AA Eastern League...
had a successful two-year run before the team moved to Allentown, Pennsylvania
Allentown, Pennsylvania
Allentown is a city located in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, in the United States. It is Pennsylvania's third most populous city, after Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, and the 215th largest city in the United States. As of the 2010 census, the city had a total population of 118,032 and is currently...
(this franchise is now defunct).
Five years later, Reading got another baseball franchise—this time, an unaffiliated team in the Class-B Interstate League
Interstate League
The Interstate League was the name of five different American minor baseball leagues that played intermittently from 1896 through 1952. The longest tenured of these was the last incarnation, which played in the Middle Atlantic States from 1939 through 1952, and was one of the few mid-level minor...
called the Reading Chicks, which lost the league title series to the Lancaster
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Lancaster is a city in the south-central part of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. It is the county seat of Lancaster County and one of the older inland cities in the United States, . With a population of 59,322, it ranks eighth in population among Pennsylvania's cities...
Red Roses. In 1941, the Chicks affiliated with the Brooklyn Dodgers as the Reading Brooks, featuring future Dodger outfielder Carl Furillo
Carl Furillo
Carl Anthony Furillo , nicknamed "The Reading Rifle" and "Skoonj," was a right fielder in Major League Baseball who played his entire career for the Brooklyn and Los Angeles Dodgers...
. The franchise folded after the '41 season, and Reading was without at team for 10 years.
In 1952, the Wilkes Barre Indians, an affiliate of the Cleveland Indians
Cleveland Indians
The Cleveland Indians are a professional baseball team based in Cleveland, Ohio. They are in the Central Division of Major League Baseball's American League. Since , they have played in Progressive Field. The team's spring training facility is in Goodyear, Arizona...
relocated to Reading to become the Reading Indians (this Eastern League franchise is now the New Britain Rock Cats
New Britain Rock Cats
The New Britain Rock Cats are the Double-A minor league baseball affiliate of the Minnesota Twins Major League Baseball club. They compete in the Eastern League and play their home games at New Britain Stadium in New Britain, Connecticut.-History:...
). The Reading Indians played at Municipal Memorial Stadium for the next decade, capturing the league title in 1957. Several Indians went on to successful major-league careers, including Rocky Colavito
Rocky Colavito
Rocco Domenico "Rocky" Colavito, Jr. is a former right fielder in Major League Baseball best known for his years with the Cleveland Indians. He wore a #6, #7 or #21 jersey during his MLB career...
and Roger Maris
Roger Maris
Roger Eugene Maris was an American Major League Baseball right fielder. During the 1961 season, he hit a record 61 home runs for the New York Yankees, breaking Babe Ruth's single-season record of 60 home runs...
. The franchise left town in 1961 and, after one year without a team, the Williamsport Grays moved to Reading to play for two years as a Boston Red Sox
Boston Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox are a professional baseball team based in Boston, Massachusetts, and a member of Major League Baseball’s American League Eastern Division. Founded in as one of the American League's eight charter franchises, the Red Sox's home ballpark has been Fenway Park since . The "Red Sox"...
affiliate and for one more year as a Cleveland Indians farm team before relocating again (this franchise is now the Binghamton Mets
Binghamton Mets
The Binghamton Mets are a U.S. minor league baseball team based in Binghamton, New York. The team, which plays in the Eastern League, is the Double-A affiliate of the New York Mets major-league club...
). Reading was without a baseball team in 1966 before a new Eastern League franchise was established in Reading in 1967 as the Reading Phillies.
Reading Phillies (1967–present)
The Reading Phillies debuted at Municipal Stadium on April 22, 1967 against the York White RosesYork White Roses
The York White Roses was the name of a minor league baseball team in the city of York, Pennsylvania, USA, that existed from 1894–1969.-Early years:...
.
With the end of the 53-year relationship between the Baltimore Orioles
Baltimore Orioles
The Baltimore Orioles are a professional baseball team based in Baltimore, Maryland in the United States. They are a member of the Eastern Division of Major League Baseball's American League. One of the American League's eight charter franchises in 1901, it spent its first year as a major league...
and their rookie-league team in Bluefield, WV after the 2010 season, the Reading/Philadelphia partnership becomes the longest current affiliation in Minor League Baseball.
Logos and uniforms
The team colors of the Reading Phillies are red, navy blue, light blue, and "bubble gum." The Phillies logo consists of the "R-Phils" wordmark in red with bubble gum-colored highlights, and a navy blue and light blue star dotting the "i." The Reading Phillies also have a secondary logo depicting the Reading Pagoda, a landmark in the city.The Reading Phillies home uniforms resemble those of their Philadelphia parent. The caps are red throughout with a stylized, cursive "R", colored red with bubble gum-colored highlights, with a navy blue and light blue star superimposed over the opening. The R-Phils have red caps for away games, with a train centered above the "R" instead of the blue star. The home jerseys are white with traditional red pinstripes. The "Reading" wordmark is prominently displayed on the front of the jersey in red with bubble gum-colored shadowing, with a blue star dotting the "i." The away jersey was powder blue in 2008 and 2009, a tribute to the away jersey of the Philadelphia Phillies from 1973–1989, with maroon stripes going down the sides. Currently, the away jersey is gray, almost identical to the current Philadelphia Phillies road jersey.
The Reading Phillies have two alternate jerseys, one red and one blue, both with the "R-Phils" wordmark prominently featured in red outlined in white.
Season-by-season records (Championship seasons in bold)
- 1967: 70–69, manager Frank LucchesiFrank LucchesiFrank Joseph Lucchesi is a former manager in Major League Baseball who ran the Philadelphia Phillies , Texas Rangers and Chicago Cubs...
, 6th in Eastern League, 3rd in West Division - 1968: 81–59, manager Frank Lucchesi, 2nd in EL
- 1969: 81–59, manager Bob WellmanBob WellmanRobert Joseph Wellman was an American professional baseball player, manager and scout. He managed for a quarter-century in minor league baseball, winning more than 1,600 games — with his 1966 Spartanburg Phillies setting a Western Carolinas League record by ripping off a 29-game winning streak...
, 2nd in EL - 1970: 78–63, manager Andy SeminickAndy SeminickAndrew Wasal Seminick was an American professional baseball player. He played in Major League Baseball as a catcher for the Philadelphia Phillies between 1943 and 1951, and the Cincinnati Reds/Redlegs from 1952 through part of 1955, when he rejoined the Phillies for the rest of his career until...
, 2nd in EL - 1971: 72–67, manager Nolan Campbell, 2nd in EL, 2nd in National Division
- 1972: 70–69, manager Jim BunningJim BunningJames Paul David "Jim" Bunning is an American former Major League Baseball pitcher and politician.During a 17-year baseball career, he pitched from 1955 to 1971, most notably with the Detroit Tigers and the Philadelphia Phillies. When he retired, he had the second-highest total of career...
, 5th in EL, 4th in South Division - 1973: 76–62, manager Cal EmeryCal EmeryCalvin Wayne Emery was a former Major League Baseball first baseman who played for the Philadelphia Phillies. He was 6'2", 205 pounds, and he threw and batted left-handed. Emery chose to attend Penn State University....
, 2nd in EL, 1st in National Division, Won League Championship - 1974: 69–66, manager Bob Wellman, 4th in EL, 3rd in National Division
- 1975: 84–53, manager Bob Wellman, 1st in EL
- 1976: 54–82, managers Bob Wellman and Granny HamnerGranny HamnerGranville Wilbur Hamner was an American shortstop and second baseman in Major League Baseball. Hamner was one of the key players on the "Whiz Kids", the National League champion Philadelphia Phillies...
(final 34 games), 7th in EL, 3rd in South Division - 1977: 63–57, manager Lee EliaLee EliaLee Constantine Elia is a former professional baseball player and manager in Major League Baseball. He was a manager of the Chicago Cubs and the Philadelphia Phillies . Additionally, he has served as a coach for the Phillies, New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Baltimore...
, 7th in EL, 3rd in Canadian/American Division - 1978: 79–57, manager Lee Elia, 2nd in EL
- 1979: 77–61, manager Jim Snyder, 2nd in EL
- 1980: 78–61, manager Ron Clark (baseball)Ron Clark (baseball)Ronald Bruce Clark is an American Major League Baseball third baseman, shortstop, and second baseman. He played for the Minnesota Twins , Seattle Pilots , Oakland Athletics , Milwaukee Brewers , and Philadelphia Phillies...
, T-2nd in EL, 2nd in South Division - 1981: 76–63, manager Ron Clark, 3rd in EL, 2nd in South Division
- 1982: 63–75, manager John FelskeJohn FelskeJohn Frederick Felske is a former catcher, coach and manager in American Major League Baseball. He was the manager of the Philadelphia Phillies from September 30, 1984, through June 18, 1987, posting a record of 190 victories and 194 defeats .After attending the University of Illinois, Felske...
, 5th in EL, 3rd in South Division - 1983: 96–44, manager Bill DancyBill DancyWilliam Woodruff Dancy is an American baseball manager and coach. He was third base coach for the Philadelphia Phillies during the 2005 and 2006 seasons. Currently, Dancy is the manager of the Iowa Cubs, a Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs.-Baseball career:Bill Dancy played for six years in...
, 1st in EL - 1984: 56–83, manager Bill Dancy, 8th in EL
- 1985: 58–79, manager Tony TaylorTony TaylorAntonio Nemesio Taylor is a former second baseman in Major League Baseball. From 1958 through , Taylor played for the Chicago Cubs , Philadelphia Phillies and Detroit Tigers...
, 8th in EL - 1986: 77–59, manager George CulverGeorge CulverGeorge Culver is a former professional baseball player who played pitcher in the major leagues from 1966-1974. Culver would play for the Cleveland Indians, Cincinnati Reds, St. Louis Cardinals, Houston Astros, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Philadelphia Phillies...
, 1st in EL - 1987: 76–63, manager George Culver, 3rd in EL
- 1988: 67–69, manager Bill Dancy, 5th in EL
- 1989: 68–71, manager Mike HartMike Hart (switch hitter)James Michael Hart is a former Major League Baseball outfielder. He played five games for the Texas Rangers in , getting one hit in four at bats. Following his major league career, Hart has had a long career as a minor league manager and coach. His most recent managerial stint was in with the...
, 4th in EL - 1990: 55–82, manager Don McCormackDon McCormackDonald Ross McCormack is a former professional baseball player, and current coach in the minor leagues. He was a fourth round draft pick in the 1974 Major League Baseball Draft, by the Philadelphia Phillies. On September 30, 1980, the 25-year-old McCormack made his major league debut with the...
, 8th in EL - 1991: 72–68, manager Don McCormack, 5th in EL
- 1992: 61–77, manager Don McCormack, 6th in EL
- 1993: 62–78, manager Don McCormack, 7th in EL
- 1994: 58–82, manager Bill Dancy, 9th in EL, 4th in South Division
- 1995: 73–69, manager Bill Dancy, T-3rd in EL, T-1st in South; Playoffs: Defeated TrentonTrenton ThunderThe Trenton Thunder are an American Minor League Baseball team and are the Double-A affiliate of the New York Yankees. The Thunder play in the Eastern Division of the Eastern League, and are the two-time defending league champions...
3–0, Defeated New HavenNew Hampshire Fisher CatsThe New Hampshire Fisher Cats are a minor league baseball team based in Manchester, New Hampshire. The team, which plays in the Eastern League, is the Double-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays major-league club....
3–2, Won League Championship - 1996: 66–75, manager Bill Robinson, T-7th in EL, 4th in South
- 1997: 74–68, manager Al LeBoeuf, 4th in EL, 3rd in South
- 1998: 56–85, manager Al LeBoeuf, 10th in EL, 5th in South
- 1999: 73–69, manager Gary VarshoGary VarshoGary Andrew Varsho is a former Major League Baseball player, formerly serving as a coach for the Pittsburgh Pirates...
, 3rd in EL, 5th in South - 2000: 85–57, manager Gary Varsho, 1st in EL, 1st in South; Playoffs: Defeated HarrisburgHarrisburg SenatorsThe Harrisburg Senators are a minor league baseball team based in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The team, which plays in the Eastern League, is the Double-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals....
3–0, lost to New HavenNew Hampshire Fisher CatsThe New Hampshire Fisher Cats are a minor league baseball team based in Manchester, New Hampshire. The team, which plays in the Eastern League, is the Double-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays major-league club....
3–1 - 2001: 77–65, manager Gary Varsho, T-4th in EL, 2nd in South; Playoffs: Defeated ErieErie SeaWolvesThe Erie SeaWolves are a minor league baseball team based in Erie, Pennsylvania. The team, which plays in the Eastern League, is the Double-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers Major League Baseball club....
3–1 in semifinals, Declared league co-champions with New BritainNew Britain Rock CatsThe New Britain Rock Cats are the Double-A minor league baseball affiliate of the Minnesota Twins Major League Baseball club. They compete in the Eastern League and play their home games at New Britain Stadium in New Britain, Connecticut.-History:...
when championship series was canceled due to the September 11, 2001 attacksSeptember 11, 2001 attacksThe September 11 attacks The September 11 attacks The September 11 attacks (also referred to as September 11, September 11th or 9/119/11 is pronounced "nine eleven". The slash is not part of the pronunciation... - 2002: 76–66, manager Greg LeggGreg LeggGregory Lynn "Greg" Legg is a former Major League Baseball player. In a 13-year professional playing career, he appeared in parts of two seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies, primarily as a second baseman and pinch hitter. He was officially listed as standing and weighing...
, 4th in EL, 3rd in South - 2003: 62–79, manager Greg Legg, 10th in EL, 5th in South
- 2004: 64–77, manager Greg Legg, 9th in EL, 4th in South
- 2005: 69–73, manager Steve SwisherSteve SwisherSteven Eugene Swisher is a former Major League Baseball catcher who played for the Chicago Cubs, St. Louis Cardinals, and San Diego Padres from 1974 to 1982. Swisher was elected to the 1976 National League All-Star team with the Cubs but did not play in the game...
, 8th in EL, 4th in South - 2006: 71–69, manager P.J. Forbes, 5th in EL, 3rd in South
- 2007: 70–71, manager P.J. Forbes, 7th in EL, 5th in South
- 2008: 53–89, manager P.J. Forbes, 12th in EL, 6th in South
- 2009: 75–67, manager Steve RoadcapSteve RoadcapSteven Craig Roadcap was the manager for two years of the Reading Phillies, the Double-A affiliate of the Major League Baseball team the Philadelphia Phillies and other minor league teams in the Phillies organization. He managed in the minor leagues from 1988–2010 and played in the minor leagues...
, 3rd in EL, 2nd in South; Playoffs: Lost to AkronAkron AerosThe Akron Aeros are a minor league baseball team based in Akron, Ohio, USA. The team, which plays in the Eastern League, is the Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians.The Aeros play in Canal Park, located in downtown Akron, which seats 9,097 fans...
3–0 in semifinals - 2010: 69–72, manager Steve RoadcapSteve RoadcapSteven Craig Roadcap was the manager for two years of the Reading Phillies, the Double-A affiliate of the Major League Baseball team the Philadelphia Phillies and other minor league teams in the Phillies organization. He managed in the minor leagues from 1988–2010 and played in the minor leagues...
, 8th in EL, 4th in East - 2011: 74–68, manager Mark ParentMark ParentMark Parent is an author and former Member of the Legislative Assembly of Nova Scotia, Canada for the constituency of Kings North...
, 5th in EL, 2nd in East; Playoffs: Lost to New Hampshire Fisher CatsNew Hampshire Fisher CatsThe New Hampshire Fisher Cats are a minor league baseball team based in Manchester, New Hampshire. The team, which plays in the Eastern League, is the Double-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays major-league club....
3–1 in semifinals
Notable alumni
- Larry BowaLarry BowaLawrence Robert Bowa is a former middle infielder, playing mainly as a shortstop, and manager in Major League Baseball.-Early life:...
, SSShortstopShortstop, abbreviated SS, is the baseball fielding position between second and third base. Shortstop is often regarded as the most dynamic defensive position in baseball, because there are more right-handed hitters in baseball than left-handed hitters, and most hitters have a tendency to pull the...
, PhiladelphiaPhiladelphia PhilliesThe Philadelphia Phillies are a Major League Baseball team. They are the oldest continuous, one-name, one-city franchise in all of professional American sports, dating to 1883. The Phillies are a member of the Eastern Division of Major League Baseball's National League...
(1970–81), Chicago CubsChicago CubsThe Chicago Cubs are a professional baseball team located in Chicago, Illinois. They are members of the Central Division of Major League Baseball's National League. They are one of two Major League clubs based in Chicago . The Cubs are also one of the two remaining charter members of the National...
(1982–85), New York MetsNew York MetsThe New York Mets are a professional baseball team based in the borough of Queens in New York City, New York. They belong to Major League Baseball's National League East Division. One of baseball's first expansion teams, the Mets were founded in 1962 to replace New York's departed National League...
(1985), played in 155 games for Reading in 1967–68 - Greg Luzinski, OFOutfielderOutfielder is a generic term applied to each of the people playing in the three defensive positions in baseball farthest from the batter. These defenders are the left fielder, the center fielder, and the right fielder...
, Philadelphia (1970–80), Chicago White SoxChicago White SoxThe Chicago White Sox are a Major League Baseball team located in Chicago, Illinois.The White Sox play in the American League's Central Division. Since , the White Sox have played in U.S. Cellular Field, which was originally called New Comiskey Park and nicknamed The Cell by local fans...
(1981–84), played in 141 games for Reading in 1970 - Bob BooneBob BooneRobert Raymond Boone is a former catcher and manager in Major League Baseball who was a four-time All-Star. Born in San Diego, California, Bob Boone is the son of a major league player, the late third baseman Ray Boone, and the father of two major leaguers: former second baseman Bret Boone and...
, CCatcherCatcher is a position for a baseball or softball player. When a batter takes his turn to hit, the catcher crouches behind home plate, in front of the umpire, and receives the ball from the pitcher. This is a catcher's primary duty, but he is also called upon to master many other skills in order to...
, Philadelphia (1972–81), CaliforniaLos Angeles Angels of AnaheimThe Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim are a professional baseball team based in Anaheim, California, United States. The Angels are a member of the Western Division of Major League Baseball's American League. The "Angels" name originates from the city in which the team started, Los Angeles...
(1982–88), Kansas CityKansas City RoyalsThe Kansas City Royals are a Major League Baseball team based in Kansas City, Missouri. The Royals are a member of the Central Division of Major League Baseball's American League. From 1973 to the present, the Royals have played in Kauffman Stadium...
(1989–90), played in 112 games for Reading in 1970–71 - Mike SchmidtMike SchmidtMichael Jack Schmidt is a Hall of Fame third baseman popularly considered among the greatest third basemen in the history of Major League Baseball. He played his entire career for the Philadelphia Phillies....
, 3BThird basemanA third baseman, abbreviated 3B, is the player in baseball whose responsibility is to defend the area nearest to third base — the third of four bases a baserunner must touch in succession to score a run...
, Philadelphia (1972–89), played in 74 games for Reading in 1971 - Willie HernandezWillie HernándezGuillermo "Willie" Hernández Villanueva is a former relief pitcher for the Chicago Cubs , Philadelphia Phillies , and the Detroit Tigers . He threw and batted left-handed.-Career:...
, P, Chicago Cubs (1977–83), Philadelphia (1983), DetroitDetroit TigersThe Detroit Tigers are a Major League Baseball team located in Detroit, Michigan. One of the American League's eight charter franchises, the club was founded in Detroit in as part of the Western League. The Tigers have won four World Series championships and have won the American League pennant...
(1984–89), played for Reading in 1975 - George Bell, LFLeft fielderIn baseball, a left fielder is an outfielder who plays defense in left field. Left field is the area of the outfield to the left of a person standing at home plate and facing towards the pitcher's mound...
/OF, TorontoToronto Blue JaysThe Toronto Blue Jays are a professional baseball team located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The Blue Jays are a member of the Eastern Division of Major League Baseball 's American League ....
(1981; 1983–90), Chicago Cubs (1991), Chicago White Sox (1992–93), played in 22 games for Reading in 1980 - Mark Davis, P, Philadelphia (1980–81; 1993), San FranciscoSan Francisco GiantsThe San Francisco Giants are a Major League Baseball team based in San Francisco, California, playing in the National League West Division....
(1983–87), San DiegoSan Diego PadresThe San Diego Padres are a Major League Baseball team based in San Diego, California. They play in the National League Western Division. Founded in 1969, the Padres have won the National League Pennant twice, in 1984 and 1998, losing in the World Series both times...
(1987–89; 1993–94), Kansas City (1990–92), AtlantaAtlanta BravesThe Atlanta Braves are a professional baseball club based in Atlanta, Georgia. The Braves are a member of the Eastern Division of Major League Baseball's National League. The Braves have played in Turner Field since 1997....
(1992), MilwaukeeMilwaukee BrewersThe Milwaukee Brewers are a professional baseball team based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, currently playing in the Central Division of Major League Baseball's National League...
(1997), played in 28 games for Reading in 1980 - Ryne SandbergRyne SandbergRyne Dee Sandberg , nicknamed "Ryno" is a former Major League Baseball second baseman. During a 16-year baseball career, he played from 1981–1994 and 1996–97, spending nearly his entire career with the Chicago Cubs. He was named after relief pitcher Ryne Duren, and is recognized as one of the best...
, 2BSecond basemanSecond base, or 2B, is the second of four stations on a baseball diamond which must be touched in succession by a base runner in order to score a run for that player's team. A second baseman is the baseball player guarding second base...
, Philadelphia (1981), Chicago Cubs (1982–97), played in 129 games (as an SS) for Reading in 1980 - Julio FrancoJulio FrancoJulio César Robles Franco is a former Major League Baseball infielder and designated hitter. In , Franco was the oldest active player in the major leagues at the age of 49....
, SS/2B, Philadelphia (1982), ClevelandCleveland IndiansThe Cleveland Indians are a professional baseball team based in Cleveland, Ohio. They are in the Central Division of Major League Baseball's American League. Since , they have played in Progressive Field. The team's spring training facility is in Goodyear, Arizona...
(1983–88; 1996–97), TexasTexas Rangers (baseball)The Texas Rangers are a professional baseball team in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, based in Arlington, Texas. The Rangers are a member of the Western Division of Major League Baseball's American League, and are the reigning A.L. Western Division and A.L. Champions. Since , the Rangers have...
(1989–93), Chicago White Sox (1994), Milwaukee (1997), Tampa BayTampa Bay RaysThe Tampa Bay Rays are a Major League Baseball team based in St. Petersburg, Florida. The Rays are a member of the Eastern Division of MLB's American League. Since their inception in , the club has played at Tropicana Field...
(1999), Atlanta (2001–05; 2007), New York Mets (2006–07), played 139 games for Reading in 1981 - Darren DaultonDarren DaultonDarren Arthur Daulton , nicknamed Dutch, is a former catcher in Major League Baseball best remembered for his years with the Philadelphia Phillies...
, C, for Philadelphia (1983; 1985–97), FloridaFlorida MarlinsThe Miami Marlins are a professional baseball team based in Miami, Florida, United States. Established in 1993 as an expansion franchise called the Florida Marlins, the Marlins are a member of the Eastern Division of Major League Baseball's National League. The Marlins played their home games at...
(1997), played in 113 games for Reading in 1983 (and in one rehab game in 1991) - Juan SamuelJuan SamuelJuan Milton Samuel is a retired second baseman who spent sixteen seasons in Major League Baseball with the Philadelphia Phillies , New York Mets , Los Angeles Dodgers , Kansas City Royals , Cincinnati Reds , Detroit Tigers and Toronto Blue Jays...
, 2B, Philadelphia (1983–89), New York Mets (1989), Los Angeles DodgersLos Angeles DodgersThe Los Angeles Dodgers are a professional baseball team based in Los Angeles, California. The Dodgers are members of Major League Baseball's National League West Division. Established in 1883, the team originated in Brooklyn, New York, where it was known by a number of nicknames before becoming...
(1990–92), Kansas City (1992; 1995), CincinnatiCincinnati RedsThe Cincinnati Reds are a Major League Baseball team based in Cincinnati, Ohio. They are members of the National League Central Division. The club was established in 1882 as a charter member of the American Association and joined the National League in 1890....
(1993), Detroit (1994–95), Toronto (1996–98), played in 47 games for Reading in 1983 - Mickey MorandiniMickey MorandiniMichael Robert "Mickey" Morandini is a former All-Star second baseman who played for the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs, and Toronto Blue Jays of Major League Baseball, and the current manager of the A-level Williamsport Crosscutters...
, 2B, Philadelphia (1990–97; 2000), Chicago Cubs (1998–99), Toronto (2000), played in 48 games for Reading in 1989 - Mike LieberthalMike LieberthalMichael Scott "Mike" Lieberthal , nicknamed Lieby, is a former Major League Baseball catcher. He batted and threw right-handed....
, C, Philadelphia (1994–2006), Los Angeles Dodgers (2007), Gold Glove-winning All Star, played in 86 games for Reading in 1992 (and in 2 rehab games in 2006) - Scott RolenScott RolenScott Bruce Rolen is a Major League Baseball third baseman for the Cincinnati Reds. He is an eight-time Gold Glove winner and seven-time All-Star.-Philadelphia Phillies:...
, 3B, Philadelphia (1996–2002), St. LouisSt. Louis CardinalsThe St. Louis Cardinals are a professional baseball team based in St. Louis, Missouri. They are members of the Central Division in the National League of Major League Baseball. The Cardinals have won eleven World Series championships, the most of any National League team, and second overall only to...
(2002–2007), TorontoToronto Blue JaysThe Toronto Blue Jays are a professional baseball team located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The Blue Jays are a member of the Eastern Division of Major League Baseball 's American League ....
(2008–09), CincinnatiCincinnati RedsThe Cincinnati Reds are a Major League Baseball team based in Cincinnati, Ohio. They are members of the National League Central Division. The club was established in 1882 as a charter member of the American Association and joined the National League in 1890....
(2009–present) played in 81 games for Reading in 1995–96. - Randy WolfRandy WolfRandall Christopher Wolf is a left-handed pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers of Major League Baseball. Randy's older brother Jim is a Major League umpire. Unlike his brother Jim and Houston Astros relief pitcher Ross Wolf, Randy is a boss...
, P, Philadelphia (1999–2006), Los Angeles Dodgers (2007; 2009–present), San Diego (2008), played in four games for Reading in 1998 (and in a total of five rehab games) - Pat BurrellPat BurrellPatrick Brian "Pat" Burrell , nicknamed "Pat the Bat," is a Major League Baseball outfielder who is currently a free agent. He stands tall and weighs . He bats and throws right-handed...
, LF, Philadelphia (2000–08), Tampa BayTampa Bay RaysThe Tampa Bay Rays are a Major League Baseball team based in St. Petersburg, Florida. The Rays are a member of the Eastern Division of MLB's American League. Since their inception in , the club has played at Tropicana Field...
(2009–10), San FranciscoSan Francisco GiantsThe San Francisco Giants are a Major League Baseball team based in San Francisco, California, playing in the National League West Division....
(2010), played in 117 games for Reading in 1999 (and in 4 rehab games in 2004) - Jimmy RollinsJimmy RollinsJames Calvin "Jimmy" Rollins , nicknamed "J-Roll", is an All-Star and former MVP shortstop, who most recently played for the Philadelphia Phillies of Major League Baseball's National League....
, SS, Philadelphia (2000–present), played in 133 games for Reading in 1999 - Nick PuntoNick PuntoNicholas Paul Punto is a Major League Baseball utility player. He has played second base, third base, shortstop, and center field. Punto is a switch hitter and throws right-handed....
, 2B/SS, Philadelphia (2001–03), MinnesotaMinnesota TwinsThe Minnesota Twins are a professional baseball team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. They play in the Central Division of Major League Baseball's American League. The team is named after the Twin Cities area of Minneapolis and St. Paul. They played in Metropolitan Stadium from 1961 to 1981 and the...
(2004–2010), St. Louis Cardinals (2011–current) played in 121 games for Reading in 2000 - Geoff GearyGeoff GearyGeoffrey Michael Geary is a right-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball. He is currently a reliever for the York Revolution of the Atlantic League.-Biography:...
, P, Philadelphia (2003–07), HoustonHouston AstrosThe Houston Astros are a Major League Baseball team located in Houston, Texas. They are a member of the National League Central division. The Astros are expected to join the American League West division in 2013. Since , they have played their home games at Minute Maid Park, known as Enron Field...
(2008), played in 51 games for Reading in 2000–01 (and in one rehab game in 2005) - Marlon ByrdMarlon ByrdMarlon Jerrard Byrd , popularly known as The Position or The Possish or Sish, is a Major League Baseball outfielder for the Chicago Cubs...
, CFCenter fielderA center fielder, abbreviated CF, is the outfielder in baseball who plays defense in center field – the baseball fielding position between left field and right field...
, Philadelphia (2000–05), WashingtonWashington NationalsThe Washington Nationals are a professional baseball team based in Washington, D.C. The Nationals are a member of the Eastern Division of the National League of Major League Baseball . The team moved into the newly built Nationals Park in 2008, after playing their first three seasons in RFK Stadium...
(2005–06), Texas (2007–present), played in 137 games for Reading in 2001 (and in 3 rehab games in 2003) - Brett MyersBrett MyersBrett Allen Myers is a right-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball who is currently playing for the Houston Astros.-High school career:...
, P, Philadelphia (2002–09),Houston (2010–present) played in 26 games for Reading in 2001 - Carlos Silva, P, Philadelphia (2002–03), Minnesota (2004–07), Seattle (2008–present), played in 28 games for Reading in 2001 (and 2 rehab games in 2002)
- Carlos Ruiz, C, Philadelphia (2006–present), played in 153 games for Reading in 2003–04
- Ryan HowardRyan HowardRyan James Howard is a Major League Baseball first baseman for the Philadelphia Phillies. Nicknamed "The Big Piece", Howard stands and weighs . He bats and throws left-handed....
, 1B, Philadelphia (2004–present), played 102 games for Reading in 2004 - Michael BournMichael BournMichael Ray Bourn is a professional baseball outfielder with the Atlanta Braves of Major League Baseball. He serves as the Atlanta Braves leadoff hitter. He has also been a member of the United States national baseball team....
, OF, Philadelphia (2006–07), Houston (2008–present), played in 215 games for Reading in 2005–06 - Lou MarsonLou MarsonLouis Glenn Marson is an American professional baseball catcher with the Cleveland Indians of Major League Baseball. Marson stands and weighs . He bats and throws right-handed...
, C, Philadelphia (2008–09), Cleveland (2009–present), played in 94 games for Reading in 2008 - Carlos CarrascoCarlos Carrasco (baseball)Carlos Luis Carrasco is a right-handed pitcher for the Cleveland Indians.-Career:Carrasco was signed as an undrafted free agent on November 25, by the Philadelphia Phillies. In , Carrasco spent the entire season at the Single-A level with the Lakewood BlueClaws, compiling a 2.26 ERA in 159.1...
, P, Cleveland (2009–present), played in 34 games for Reading in 2007–08 - Domonic Brown, OF, Philadelphia (2010), played in 102 games for Reading in 2009–10.
- Kyle DrabekKyle DrabekKyle Jordan Drabek is an American Major League Baseball pitcher with the Toronto Blue Jays. He made his first major league start on September 15, 2010 against the Baltimore Orioles....
, P, Toronto (2010), played in 15 games for Reading in 2009. - Michael SchwimerMichael SchwimerMichael Fredarick Schwimer is a Major League Baseball right-handed relief pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies.The 6' 8" closer was drafted by the Phillies in 2008, out of the University of Virginia...
, relief pitcher, Philadelphia (2011–present), played in 37 games for Reading in 2009–10