OFFICIAL GAME DAY PUBLICATION OF THE RICHMOND FLYING SQUIRRELS EDITION NO. 6 OF 13 JUNE 13-15, 2017
RIGHT-HANDER’S OFFSEASON WORK PAYING DIVIDENDS
JORDAN JOHNSON
IN THIS ISSUE
HOT SHOT: Former University of Kansas men’s basketball standout and Petersburg High School alum Frank Mason III signs autographs for fans during an appearance at The Diamond on May 20.
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30 34 36 42 44 46 48
Homestand Lineup The Next Chapter Coaching Staff Bios Eastern League Teams Rosters Rock Solid Seating & Dining Guides
The Diamond A to Z A Place to Play By Design Boulevard to the Bay Prospect Rankings On the Air On-Deck Circle
ON THE COVER: Flying Squirrels right-hander Jordan Johnson ranked among the Eastern League leaders in ERA as of June 6. Photos by Edwin Rodriguez/Richmond Flying Squirrels
Tyson Foods and our Team Members from the Glen Allen Facility proudly support the Richmond Flying Squirrels! @GOSQUIRRELS
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Jay Burnham and Sam Ravech Host Flying Squirrels Insider Bi-Weekly on WCVE-TV, WHTJ-TV & WCVW-TV!
Next Episode Airs June 17 at 5 PM on WCVE-TV/WHTJ-TV!
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THE HOMESTAND LINEUP 6/13
NHM 6:35
TIP OF THE CAP TUESDAY
Bucket hat giveaway first 1,000 fans 15 & older presented by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries and CBS 6 | Silver Squirrels game | Live pregame entertainment by the Mike Souder Band
6/15
NHM
6/14
NHM 6:35
FLAG DAY SALUTE TO TAPS
Flag Day jersey auction with proceeds to benefit the Tragedy Assistance Program For Survivors | No Limits Skydivers | Wine Up Wednesday wine specials presented by Mix 98.1 | Live pregame entertainment by Ragged Edge
MUST-HAVE FOOD ITEM
6:35
JMU COACH MIKE HOUSTON & HUMAN CANNONBALL
Fireworks from up close and inside the fences presented by Steak ‘n Shake and Fox Sports 910 | JMU Night featuring head football coach Mike Houston | Postgame Human Cannonball launch | Live pregame entertainment by Uncle Drew and the Powhite Boys
FOOTLONG HOT DOG
A juicy quarter-pound, all-beef hot dog on a fresh footlong bun, this ballpark classic is more than a mouthful on any hot summer day. Available at The Dog House cart on the main concourse.
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How
do we plan for something as unpredictable as life? Most never assume that a breakthrough in research will be needed to save a child, or that a simple change in diet today will give us ten more years with those we care for most.
Most never think that, but we do. We teach. We prevent. We cure. We explore, investigate and pursue. So that each generation is healthier than the one that came before.
Making life better, by design.
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5/10/17 4:24 PM
HAIL TO THE FLYING SQUIRRELS
Lyrics by Justin Bailey One for all and all for one, We salute our champions. Hail to the Flying Squirrels, Who stand for you and me. Everybody throw your caps on tight, We’re gonna represent the River City. We’re keeping rhythm to the train track’s time, And feel the James flow strong through our veins. We’re going down to the Boulevard, To have FUNN ‘cause that’s the name of the game. Beneath the stars and the lights tonight, It’s our home team from Richmond, VA! Whoa! Boys and girls, Let’s all cheer our Flying Squirrels! Whoa! Make some noise! We are Richmond! Hear our voice! And Have FUNN, Go nuts! Everybody’s coming through the gates, We feel the energy starting to grow. Cause RVA is stepping up to the plate, To knock it all the way to San Francisco. We’re on the shoulders of Giants, And we can see clearly for miles and miles and miles.
Beneath the stars and the lights tonight, Our city’s gonna shout it aloud! Whoa! Boys and girls, Let’s all cheer our Flying Squirrels! Whoa! Make some noise! We are Richmond! Hear our voice! And Have FUNN, Go Nuts! One for all and all for one, We salute our champions. Hail to the flying squirrels, Who stand for you and me! All together we can be, Proud of our community! Hail to Richmond, VA, And bless this great city! Whoa! Boys and girls, Let’s all cheer our Flying Squirrels! Whoa! Make some noise! We are Richmond! Hear our voice! Whoa! Join the crowd! Shout it loud and shout it proud! There’s something we want to say, The Flying Squirrels ARE Richmond, VA! Have FUNN, Go Nuts! Have FUNN, Go Nuts!
@GOSQUIRRELS
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WELCOME TO THE DIAMOND Dear Flying Squirrels Family, Welcome back. It’s hard to believe that 2017 is the eighth season of Flying Squirrels Baseball. Time flies when you’re having FUNN here on the Boulevard. Over the course of the first seven seasons our ownership group, staff and management have been devoted to making your Squirrels experience both unique and memorable. I am proud of these award-winning efforts, and even prouder that we have become not only the hometown team, but an important part of the fabric of the RVA community 365 days a year. Nutzy, Nutasha, and our staff have worked tirelessly to deliver a 12 month a year impactful existence in the RVA. The connection we have all forged together is special and simply amazing. Thank you! We continue to be committed more than ever to being your team for generations to come. There has never been more of a coordinated, cooperated and collegial effort to create a new home for the Squirrels in a way that will serve not only our fans and organization, but the betterment of the entire Greater Richmond area. We are dedicated to the Greater Richmond community and to being a major part of its future. We love being one of the many great things the Richmond region has to offer to residents and visitors alike. We are also very appreciative of our long term relationship with our major league affiliate, the San Francisco Giants, who we mutually extended our partnership with through the 2020 season. Our first four-year agreement with the Giants last year speaks to their faith in the Flying Squirrels organization and their confidence that we will resolve the ballpark situation with our hometown. We hope you enjoy the new amenities at The Diamond such as the Bistro at the Bullpen, new food items like my personal favorite Fried Mac n’ Cheese with Beef Brisket, new creative promotions highlighted by Tip of the Cap Tuesday, our new electronic marquee on the Boulevard, and much more. HAVE FUNN, GO NUTS! All the Best,
Lou DiBella President & Managing General Partner Richmond Flying Squirrels Professional Baseball Club 6
SQUIRRELSBASEBALL.COM
WELCOME TO THE DIAMOND
Welcome RVA Baseball Fans! Our own Richmond Flying Squirrels are starting their 8th season here at the Diamond and we’re all rooting for the home team, their new Skipper and the pursuit of the 2017 Eastern League championship. We all know Minor League Baseball is family-friendly, affordable and fun, but a Squirrels game is something truly special. RVA fans enjoy the best contests, the best theme nights and the most awesome mascot duo in the league, Nutzy and Nutasha. Fans 14 and under can join the Squirrel Tails Kids Club for free and get on the field before and after every Sunday game to play catch and run the bases just like the pros. Squirrels players were all over the 2016 Major League Baseball postseason, and we know this year will be no exception. The Diamond is where you will see baseball’s top prospects and MLB stars of tomorrow. I thank the Squirrels organization for all their many contributions to our Capital City, from the tens of thousands of dollars in charitable contributions each year to the many community programs offered both in-season and off-season. Here’s to a great, winning season for the Richmond Flying Squirrels. Let’s go Nuts! Sincerely,
Levar M. Stoney @GOSQUIRRELS
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WELCOME TO THE DIAMOND
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@GOSQUIRRELS
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THE
NEXT
CHAPTER By Anthony Oppermann | Richmond Flying Squirrels
FEATURE STORY
K
yle Haines hadn’t spent any time Richmond, to be honest,” Haines said. in Richmond before traveling to “At first I was thankful and grateful, and Virginia’s capital city in February then as it kind of set in, it was a little to attend the annual Flying Squirrels Hot surprising.” Stove Banquet. At 34, Haines is the youngest manUpon arriving in town on Feb. 1, ager in Flying Squirrels franchise hisHaines went straight from the airport to tory, just four years removed from his the Siegel Center to take in an intracity own playing career. rivalry game between VCU and RichThe Eastern Illinois University prodmond alongside Flying Squirrels COO uct, who attended the school at the Todd “Parney” Parnell and San Francisco same time All-Pro quarterback Tony Giants manager Bruce Bochy. Romo was starring for the Panthers, was At halftime, Haines was welcomed selected by San Francisco in the 31st to center court of the sold round of the 2004 draft. out arena where Parnell A middle infielder by and VCU athletic director trade, Haines spent the It was great to Ed McLaughlin presented bulk of his playing career see firsthand how him with a Flying Squirat shortstop. He advanced excited the city is for as high as Double-A, rels No. 5 jersey – the number he will don this the Flying Squirrels, in earning mid-season Allgeneral. Obviously Star honors with the Flying summer at The Diamond as the manager of the GiSquirrels’ predecessor, there is a lot ants’ Double-A affiliate. the Connecticut Defendof support for the “It was great to see ers, in 2008. organization there.” firsthand how excited the That offseason, Haines Flying Squirrels city is for the Flying Squirbecame a free agent and rels, in general,” Haines began the 2009 campaign manager Kyle Haines said. “Obviously there is with the independent Cama lot of support for the orden Riversharks. He was ganization there. It was just nice to be- signed by the Cleveland Indians that June come a part of it.” and made a brief return to the Eastern Haines, who went 71-79 over the League with Akron, appearing in 19 games last two seasons managing the Class A before being sent down to Advanced-A Short-Season Salem-Keizer Volcanoes, Kinston where he ended his season. had a hunch he wouldn’t be returning Haines returned to Camden in 2010 to “The Crater” for a third season. But, and spent parts of the next four seahe wasn’t expecting to be assigned to sons bouncing around the independent Richmond. leagues. Following the 2013 season, “I kind of expected to go to a differ- Haines retired. ent place based on some previous conversations, but I didn’t really anticipate See HAINES on page 12
“
LEFT: Flying Squirrels COO Todd “Parney” Parnell, left, and VCU athletic director Ed McLaughlin, right, present Kyle Haines with a No. 5 jersey. VCU Athletics photo @GOSQUIRRELS
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FEATURE STORY HAINES continued from page 11 “I always thought I was probably going to be done at the start of the next year, but then I would talk myself into playing more because I knew that when I was done playing there was no going back; there is no second-guessing it,” Haines said. “…My very last year playing, I knew that was it. I knew there was no changing my mind on that one, and I knew that when the season was over, I would end up pursuing some opportunities, either in coaching or somewhere else.” Haines transitioned from player to manager the following season, taking over the independent Frontier Greys. A year later, the Giants offered him an opportunity to return to the organization that drafted him. Reserved away from the field, Haines said the competition of a game brings
12 SQUIRRELSBASEBALL.COM
out a “more intense side” of him. “I’m definitely more intense than most in the dugout,” Haines said. “I don’t ever feel like I’m going to go to sleep over there. I definitely need to calm down the amount of coffee I drink before the game so I don’t get too worked up.” Haines has sought advice from his older brother Andy, a former minor league manager now a minor league hitting coordinator with the Chicago Cubs, as well as Giants farm director Shane Turner, with whom he originally discussed coaching during his playing career. Above all, though, Haines’ focus is on his players. “It’s just about helping players,” Haines said. “It’s just about putting them in positions to succeed and helping them grow as people on and off the field.”
MEET NUTZY AND NUTASHA
NUTZY FUNN FACTS
NUTASHA FUNN FACTS
OPENING DAY AGE: 7 years BIRTHDATE: Feb. 11, 2010 INTRODUCED AT: The Byrd Theater FAVORITE SONG: “You’re the Best Around” — Joe Esposito 2016 APPEARANCES: 419
OPENING DAY AGE: 11 months BIRTHDATE: April 14, 2016 INTRODUCED AT: The Diamond FAVORITE SONG: “On My Mind” — Cody Simpson 2016 APPEARANCES: 89
@GOSQUIRRELS 13
FLYING SQUIRRELS COACHING STAFF
MANAGER: KYLE HAINES OPENING DAY AGE: 34 BATS-THROWS: Switch-Right BORN: July 28, 1982 RESIDES: Louisville, Ill.
Kyle Haines replaces Miguel Ojeda as the sixth manager in Flying Squirrels franchise history. At 34 years old, he is also the youngest skipper in team history. Haines spent the previous two seasons as the manager of the Class A Short-Season Salem-Keizer Volcanoes in the Northwest League. The Louisville, Ill., native piloted the Volcanoes to a 3937 record in his first season in 2015 and a 32-42 record last year. He became the first former Volcanoes player to manage the club, having started his playing career with Salem-Keizer in 2004. During his Giants minor league career, Haines played alongside the likes of Tim Lincecum, Sergio Romo, Pablo Sandoval, Jonathan Sanchez and Travis Ishikawa. The infielder was a member of four championship teams in the minor leagues: the 2004 Arizona
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Rookie League Giants, 2005 San Jose Giants, 2007 San Jose Giants and 2009 Akron Aeros. Haines notched a go-ahead RBI single for San Jose in Game 5 of the 2007 California League Championship series. In 2008, Haines enjoyed his best statistical season and made the All-Star Game in the Double-A Eastern League as a shortstop with the Connecticut Defenders. The Eastern Illinois University product began his managing career immediately after his playing career ended, guiding the Frontier League (IND) Greys in 2014. Haines is the youngest of three siblings. His older brother Andy has also managed in affiliated baseball with the Miami Marlins organization and currently works as a minor league hitting coordinator for the Chicago Cubs.
BY THE NUMBERS: KYLE HAINES Haines is the sixth manager in team history following Andy Skeels (2010), Dave Machemer (2011-13), Russ Morman (2014), Jose Alguacil (2015) and Miguel Ojeda (2016).
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At 34 years old, Haines is the youngest manager in franchise history.
In two seasons with the SalemKeizer Volcanoes, Haines guided the short-season club to 71 wins.
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FLYING SQUIRRELS COACHING STAFF
PITCHING COACH: STEVE KLINE OPENING DAY AGE: 44 BATS-THROWS: Switch-Left BORN: Aug. 22, 1972 RESIDES: Winfield, Pa.
Steve Kline returns for his third season as the Flying Squirrels pitching coach after guiding the club to top-two finishes in the Eastern League in team ERA in his first two seasons – including a franchise-best 3.12 ERA in 2015. An eighth-round selection by the Cleveland Indians in the 1993 draft, Kline finished off his long and established major league career in 2007 as a lefty reliever with the San Francisco Giants. He appeared in 796 big league games
during his 11-year career, which included stints with the Indians, Montreal Expos, St. Louis Cardinals, Baltimore Orioles and Giants. The University of West Virginia product set a single-season record for appearances (89) in 2001 while with the Cardinals and led the National League in appearances three consecutive seasons (1999-2001). He was a member of three playoff teams in St. Louis including the ‘04 NL champions.
HITTING COACH: LIPSO NAVA OPENING DAY AGE: 48 BATS-THROWS: Right-Right BORN: Nov. 28, 1968 RESIDES: Maracaibo, Venezuela
Entering his 10th season with the San Francisco Giants organization, Lipso Nava joins the Flying Squirrels and returns to the role of hitting coach after spending last season as the manager of the San Jose Giants. The Venezuelan led San Jose to a 6872 record and a wild-card berth in the California League playoffs last year. Nava played 16 seasons professional16 SQUIRRELSBASEBALL.COM
ly from 1990-2006, including stints in the Seattle Mariners (1990-94), Boston Red Sox (1995) and Chicago Cubs (1997) organizations. The former infielder advanced as high as Triple-A. Nava also played in the Mexican League and independent Texas-Louisiana and Atlantic Leagues before retiring at the end of the 2006 season.
HOW TO SCORE A GAME Keep score throughout the game on pages 18 and 19. Fans may already have their own way of scoring, but here is a basic outline: Starting Lineup & Position Numbers Fill in the starting lineup. Starting lineups can be found in the Elephant Insurance Fan Zone posted behind home plate. Each position is assigned a number. These numbers will be used when you record fielding plays • Pitcher - 1 • Second Base - 4 • Left Field - 7 • Catcher - 2 • Third Base - 5 • Center Field - 8 • First Base - 3 • Shortstop - 6 • Right Field - 9 • Designated hitter- DH Scoring Plays Once each batter is finished with his at-bat, fill in what happened in the appropriate inning column next to that player’s name. Shorthand for plays are listed to the right. Here are examples of how to score certain plays: • Ground Out: The third baseman fields the ball and throws to first base for the out. That would be scored as 5-3. • Fly Out: The batter hits a fly out to the left fielder. That would be scored as F-7. Shorthand • Strikeout: Simply write a K if the batter 1B Single strikes out. If the batter strikes out looking (not swinging), then a backward K 2B Double K is used to score. 3B Triple • Single: If the batter hits a single, act as if there is a diamond shape in the HR Home Run scoring box (example below) and draw a BB Walk line to first base. Simply write 1B in the corner. You will use this diamond pattern K Strikeout to chart each runner’s path around the Strikeout Looking bases. • Scoring: If any of the runners end up SB Stolen Base scoring, you will complete the diamond F Fly Out shape and shade it in. SF Sacrifice Fly Scoring Example SAC Sacrifice L Line Out SQUIRRELS 1 P U Unassisted LINEUP FC Fielder’s Choice 1 Steven Duggar 8 5-3 HBP Hit By Pitch HR WP Wild Pitch 2 Ryder Jones 5 PB Passed Ball DP Double Play 3 Chris Shaw 3 F-8 E Error IBB Intentional Walk 4 C.J Hinojosa 6 K BK Balk @GOSQUIRRELS
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VISITORS SCORECARD SQUIRRELS VS.: _____________________________
VISITING LINEUP
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DEC
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FLYING SQUIRRELS SCORECARD SQUIRRELS VS.: _____________________________
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RECORD: ___________
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dominionpayroll.com @GOSQUIRRELS 19
EASTERN LEAGUE TEAMS WESTERN DIVISION
EASTERN DIVISION
AKRON RUBBERDUCKS
BINGHAMTON RUMBLE PONIES
AFFILIATE: Cleveland Indians MANAGER: Mark Budzinski 2016 RECORD: 77-64 (1st) BALLPARK: Canal Park WEBSITE: akronrubberducks.com
AFFILIATE: New York Mets MANAGER: Luis Rojas 2016 RECORD: 63-77 (5th) BALLPARK: NYSEG Stadium WEBSITE: bingrp.com
ALTOONA CURVE
HARTFORD YARD GOATS
AFFILIATE: Pittsburgh Pirates MANAGER: Michael Ryan 2016 RECORD: 76-64 (2nd) BALLPARK: Peoples Natural Gas Field WEBSITE: altoonacurve.com
AFFILIATE: Colorado Rockies MANAGER: Jerry Weinstein 2016 RECORD: 74-67 (3rd) BALLPARK: Dunkin’ Donuts Park WEBSITE: yardgoatsbaseball.com
BOWIE BAYSOX
NEW HAMPSHIRE FISHER CATS
AFFILIATE: Baltimore Orioles MANAGER: Gary Kendall 2016 RECORD: 56-86 (6th) BALLPARK: Prince George Stadium WEBSITE: baysox.com
AFFILIATE: Toronto Blue Jays MANAGER: Gary Allenson 2016 RECORD: 69-73 (4th) BALLPARK: Northeast Delta Dental Stadium WEBSITE: nhfishercats.com
ERIE SEAWOLVES
PORTLAND SEA DOGS
AFFILIATE: Detroit Tigers MANAGER: Lance Parrish 2016 RECORD: 62-79 (4th) BALLPARK: UMPC Park WEBSITE: seawolves.com
AFFILIATE: Boston Red Sox MANAGER: Carlos Febles 2016 RECORD: 55-84 (6th) BALLPARK: Hadlock Field WEBSITE: seadogs.com
HARRISBURG SENATORS
READING FIGHTIN PHILS
AFFILIATE: Washington Nationals MANAGER: Matthew LeCroy 2016 RECORD: 76-66 (3rd) BALLPARK: FNB Field WEBSITE: senatorsbaseball.com
AFFILIATE: Philadelphia Phillies MANAGER: Greg Legg 2016 RECORD: 89-52 (1st) BALLPARK: FirstEnergy Stadium WEBSITE: readingfightins.com
RICHMOND FLYING SQUIRRELS
TRENTON THUNDER
AFFILIATE: San Francisco Giants MANAGER: Kyle Haines 2016 RECORD: 62-79 (5th) BALLPARK: The Diamond WEBSITE: squirrelsbaseball.com
AFFILIATE: New York Yankees MANAGER: Bobby Mitchell 2016 RECORD: 87-55 (2nd) BALLPARK: Arm & Hammer Park WEBSITE: trentonthunder.com
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The Bullpen Bar
open to fans 21 and older
@GOSQUIRRELS 21
NEW HAMPSHIRE FISHER CATS ROSTER As of 6.7.17
NO. PITCHERS
B-T HT. WT. BIRTHDATE
RESIDES
R-R R-L L-L R-R L-L R-R R-R R-R L-L R-R R-R R-R R-R
Saint John, NB Fort McMurray, AB Mao, DR Morris, IL Santa Monica, CA Santa Monica, CA St. Louis, MO Lebanon, OH Allentown, PA Jacksonville, FL Alpharetta, GA Lake Wales, FL Texarkana, TX
26 23 35 28 21 22 18 32 30 27 12 34 17
Andrew Case Shane Dawson Jose Fernandez Josh DeGraaf Alonzo Gonzalez Conner Greene Jon Harris Dusty Isaacs Tim Mayza Sean Reid-Foley Chris Rowley Justin Shafer Josh Stilson
NO. CATCHERS 7 3
6-2 6-1 6-3 6-4 6-5 6-3 6-4 6-1 6-3 6-3 6-2 6-2 6-3
230 200 170 195 212 210 175 190 220 220 195 195 205
1.6.93 9.9.93 2.13.93 1.28.93 1.15.92 4.4.95 10.16.93 9.7.91 1.15.92 8.30.95 8.14.90 9.18.92 7.28.90
B-T HT. WT. BIRTHDATE
Michael De La Cruz S-R 5-10 190 Danny Jansen R-R 6-2 225
5.15.93 4.15.95
RESIDES Tamboril, DR Elmhurst, IL
NO. INFIELDERS
B-T HT. WT. BIRTHDATE
RESIDES
R-R 6-3 R-R 5-8 R-R 6-0 R-R 5-11 R-L 6-3 S-R 6-0
Dallas, TX Moss Bluff, LA Murrells Inlet, SC Huntington Beach, CA Fredericksburg, VA San Francisco De Macoris, DR
10 24 6 5 20 4
Matt Dean Andrew Guillotte Gunnar Heidt Tim Lopes Ryan McBroom Richard Urena
220 170 200 180 230 185
12.22.92 3.30.93 9.12.92 6.24.94 4.9.92 2.26.96
NO. OUTFIELDERS
B-T HT. WT. BIRTHDATE
RESIDES
R-R 5-8 L-R 6-1 R-R 5-10 L-R 5-10
Camden, AR Solon, IA Cartegena, Colombia Merrick, NY
9 31 15 8
Jonathan Davis Derrick Loveless Harold Ramirez Jake Thomas
190 200 220 190
5.12.92 3.7.93 9.6.94 7.21.93
NO. COACHES
TITLE
14 25 11 2
Manager Pitching Coach Hitting Coach Position Player Coach Athletic Trainer Strength & Conditioning Coach
Gary Allenson Vince Horsman Ronnie Ortegon Andy Fermin Bob Tarpey Brian Pike
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FISHER CATS AT A GLANCE The New Hampshire Fisher Cats make their lone trip to The Diamond this season to take on the Flying Squirrels. The Fisher Cats boast nearly one third of the Toronto Blue Jays’ top 30 prospects, according to MLB.com. Right-hander Sean Reid-Foley, the organization’s No. 2 overall prospect and MLB.com’s No. 55 overall prospect, headlines the group. Shortstop Richard Urena, a member of the Blue Jays’ 40-man roster, is the team’s highest-ranked position player prospect (No. 4/No. 83 overall). Fredericksburg, Va., native Ryan McBroom leads the club in home runs and RBIs.
RHP Sean Reid-Foley
FLYING SQUIRRELS ROSTER As of 6.7.17
NO. PITCHERS
B-T HT. WT. BIRTHDATE
RESIDES
R-R R-R R-R R-R R-R R-R R-L L-R R-R L-L L-L L-L R-R
Central Tacarigua, VZ Huntington Beach, CA Lakeland, FL Carrollton, IL Fremont, CA Bolivar, VZ Johnstown, NY Rancho Cucamonga, CA Elk Grove, CA Danville, CA Bakersfield, CA Miami, FL Broken Arrow, OK
58 39 29 38 51 41 53 32 46 23 45 35 26
Carlos Alvarado Collin Balester Yordy Cabrera Sam Coonrod Tyler Cyr Jose Flores Matt Gage Ryan Halstead Jordan Johnson Christian Jones Jarret Martin Andrew Suarez Cory Taylor
6-4 6-4 6-2 6-2 6-3 6-3 6-4 6-5 6-3 6-3 6-3 6-2 6-2
175 190 220 190 200 250 240 230 200 210 230 210 252
10.22.89 6.6.86 9.3.90 9.22.92 5.5.93 6.4.89 2.11.93 5.13.92 9.15.93 1.27.91 8.14.89 11.11.92 12.14.93
NO. CATCHERS
B-T HT. WT. BIRTHDATE
RESIDES
15 2
R-R 6-2 205 S-R 5-11 193
Louisville, KY San Diego, VZ
Jeff Arnold Eliezer Zambrano
1.13.88 9.16.86
NO. INFIELDERS
B-T HT. WT. BIRTHDATE
RESIDES
R-R 6-4 S-R 5-10 R-R 5-10 S-R 5-11 S-R 5-11 R-R 6-4
Stuart, FL Santo Domingo, DR Spring, TX Los Guineos, DR Fallon, NE Wendell, NC
19 9 25 7 18 43
Brandon Bednar Miguel Gomez C.J. Hinojosa Rando Moreno Myles Schroder Jerry Sands
195 195 180 190 205 225
3.21.92 12.17.92 7.15.94 6.6.92 8.1.87 9.28.87
NO. OUTFIELDERS
B-T HT. WT. BIRTHDATE
RESIDES
R-R 6-0 S-R 5-10 L-L 6-1 L-L 6-1
Redmond, WA Municipio de Diaz, VZ Texarkana, TX Houston, TX
22 1 21 13
Dylan Davis Carlos Garica Slade Heathcott Ryan Lollis
216 172 205 190
7.20.93 3.18.92 9.28.90 12.16.86
NO. COACHES
TITLE
5 34 17
Manager Pitching Coach Hitting Coach Athletic Trainer Strength & Conditioning Coach
Kyle Haines Steve Kline Lipso Nava Garrett Havig Andy King
FLYING SQUIRRELS AT A GLANCE After a series win over the Eastern Division-leading Trenton Thunder June 2-4, the Flying Squirrels again look to defend their home turf. Second baseman Miguel Gomez ranked among the league leaders in batting average (6th) and hits (T-3rd), as of June 7. Newcomer Jerry Sands, who was signed by the San Francisco Giants as a free agent June 3, appeared in 24 games with the Chicago White Sox last season. In addition to Sands, righthander Collin Balester (Washington, Detroit, Cincinnati) and outfielders Slade Heathcott (New York Yankees) and Ryan Lollis (San Francisco) have also spent time in the major leagues.
INF Jerry Sands
@GOSQUIRRELS 23
ROCK SOLID
FEATURE STORY
F
By Anthony Oppermann | Richmond Flying Squirrels
lying Squirrels pitcher Jordan dogs assistant coach Matt Curtis. However, Johnson enjoys a good workout. when Curtis — now an assistant at Southern The right-hander got plenty of California — took a head coaching job at Cal them while spending his offseason in State Northridge, Johnson decommitted and Scottsdale, Ariz., where the San Fran- opted to follow the coach who recruited him. cisco Giants training complex is located. Tommy John surgery cost Johnson the Johnson and his roommate, Richmond bulk of his freshman and sophomore seasons reliever Tyler Cyr, often made the short trek with the Matadors. Originally signed as a posito Camelback Mountain, located less than tion player and hitter, Curtis told Johnson he a mile from the Giants comwould exclusively pitch and plex, and hiked the trails occasionally DH following the there. Johnson also spent injury — a decision Johnson I’ve always a significant amount of time known that I’ve wasn’t happy with at first. training at the complex. “Of course I wanted to hit,” had the inner drive Johnson said. “That’s the The 23-year-old’s offseaand mentality to son job gave him quite a most fun part of the game. be a prospect.” workout, too, although not But, I think it was the best for an enjoyable one. Johnson my career.” Flying Squirrels spent the other part of his The Giants selected pitcher Jordan Johnson offseason working for a local Johnson in the 23rd round landscaping company. And of the 2014 draft despite him given the dry, desert climate having only pitched one full in Arizona, much of the landscaping work he season at CSUN. did included shoveling rocks. Unfortunately, injuries plagued Johnson at “Everybody’s front lawns and backyards the start of his professional career, as well. He are all rocks,” Johnson said. “Spreading that suffered a UCL strain shortly after being draftout got old really quick.” ed and a lat tear during his first spring training. Johnson’s primary sport has always been Last season was Johnson’s first full year baseball. He played basketball and soccer to pitch professionally, and it was a struggle briefly in elementary school and wanted at times. He went 8-9 with a 5.33 ERA in to play football in high school, but the Elk 22 starts with Advanced-A San Jose in the Grove, Calif., native didn’t want to risk suf- hitter-friendly California League. In the profering an injury. cess, Johnson learned a valuable lesson. A super utility player for the Franklin High “I got hurt when I made mistakes,” he said. School baseball team, Johnson played ev- “It’s a hitter’s league, so a lot of times if you ery position, but he mainly pitched, caught make a mistake, you’re going to pay for it. I and played shortstop. paid for quite a few of my mistakes last year.” Johnson originally committed to Fresno State, where he was recruited by former BullSee JOHNSON on page 27
“
LEFT: Flying Squirrels starter Jordan Johnson delivers a pitch against the Altoona Curve on May 8 at The Diamond. The righty allowed one run in six innings. Edwin Rodriguez/Richmond Flying Squirrels @GOSQUIRRELS 25
26 SQUIRRELSBASEBALL.COM
FEATURE STORY JOHNSON continued from page 25 Still, that hasn’t stopped Johnson from rising up prospect lists. Despite last season’s struggles and his injury history, Johnson entered the 2017 season ranked as the No. 9 prospect in San Francisco’s farm system, according to MLB.com. It’s something Johnson has always felt about himself. “I’ve always considered myself a prospect,” Johnson said. “I’ve always had my ups and downs and have been injured, haven’t really gotten the results I’ve wanted at times, but I’ve always known that I’ve had the inner drive and mentality to be a prospect.” With a mid- to upper-90s fastball, Johnson ranked in the top 10 in the Eastern League with a 2.91 ERA through his first 10 outings. His primary focus has been commanding his
pitches, especially the fastball, and repeating his delivery. Flying Squirrels pitching coach Steve Kline said the biggest key for Johnson mechanically has been his timing, specifically the need for his pitching hand to be up when his lead left foot touches the ground during his delivery. A self-described “mellow” and “evenkeeled” person, Johnson likes to slow the game down on the mound — sometimes too much for Kline’s liking. “He kind of puts me to sleep sometimes,” Kline said. “But that’s him. That’s the way he walks around. … It doesn’t bother me. He’s come in here and he’s been professional, and that’s all I can ask.” After all, Johnson would rather spend more time on the pitcher’s mound than shoveling rocks.
SCOTT McCARRON 2016 CHAMPION
TICKETS ON SALE STARTING JUNE 19. SAVE THE DATE! FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT DECCGOLF.COM
OCTOBER 19-22 THE COUNTRY CLUB OF VIRGINIA, JAMES RIVER COURSE
FRED COUPLES
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@GOSQUIRRELS 27 5/12/17 5:16 PM
THE DIAMOND SEATING GUIDE
SEATING AREAS & PRICING
ADVANCE PRICING
DAY OF GAME
GROUPS 20-PLUS
$12
$14
$11
Terrace Level
$10
$12
$8
General Admission
$8
$9
$5.50
Chick-fil-A Richmond Field Level
28 SQUIRRELSBASEBALL.COM
PEANUT GALLERY SEATS Includes two tickets, two souvenir seat cushions and peanuts (upon request) all for only $30
THE DIAMOND DINING GUIDE THE MAIN STANDS
THE UPPER STANDS
THE DOG HOUSE
(SECTIONS 109 & 112)
(SECTIONS 206 & 212)
(MAIN CONCOURSE)
6 oz Hamburger 6 oz Cheeseburger Turkey Burger Grilled Chicken Sandwich BBQ Pork Sandwich Hot Dog Jumbo Dog Chicken Tenders Buffalo Chicken Tenders Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Corn Dogs Brisket Sandwich Fried PB&J Sandwich Personal Pepperoni Flatbread Personal Cheese Flatbread Mac Brisket Ball Meal Buffalo Drum Sticks Cheese Nachos Supreme Nachos Pulled Pork Nachos Traveling Nachos Squirrelly Fries (regular or jumbo) Chili Cheese Fries Pulled Pork Cheese Fries Fried Pickle Spears Popcorn (regular or family size) Soft Pretzel Peanuts Cracker Jacks Chips Cookies Funnel Cake Red Velvet Funnel Cake Ice Cream Cup Rootbeer Float
6 oz Hamburger 6 oz Cheeseburger Turkey Burger Grilled Chicken Sandwich BBQ Pork Sandwich Hot Dog Jumbo Dog Chicken Tenders Buffalo Chicken Tenders Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Corn Dogs Cheese Nachos Supreme Nachos Pulled Pork Nachos Traveling Nachos Squirrelly Fries (regular or jumbo) Chili Cheese Fries Pulled Pork Cheese Fries Fried Pickle Spears Soft Pretzel Peanuts Cracker Jacks Chips Cookies
The Classic Dog West Coast Dog Diamond Dog Bacon Me Crazy The Boulevard Weiner Schnitzel Footlong Hot Dog
KIDS MENU (SECTIONS 109, 112, 206 & 212) Mini Corn Dog Meal Kids Meal Uncrustable (PB&J)
KONA ICE • COTTON CANDY (MAIN CONCOURSE)
BUD & BURGERS (MAIN CONCOURSE) Mild Sausage Hot Sausage Brats Footlong Hot Dog The Regular Burger The High Cheese Pimento Cheeseburger Quesadilla Burger PB&J Bacon Burger Cowboy Rodeo Burger Brunch Burger
DIPPIN DOTS (MAIN CONCOURSE & 204) New! Brownie Batter Rockin’ Cherry Ice Rainbow Ice Cookies ‘n Cream Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Chocolate Vanilla
@GOSQUIRRELS 29
THE DIAMOND A TO Z GUIDE A Acorn Dollars – An alternative to cash, Acorn Dollars can be used to purchase tickets, parking, merchandise at the Squirrels Nest presented by Nike items at the concession stands and even games at Nutzyville presented by Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU. Acorn Dollars can be purchased in $1 increments through the group sales department by calling 804-359-FUNN (3866) ext. 2. Alcohol Policy – A valid photo ID will be required for the purchase of all alcoholic beverages. Outside alcoholic beverages will not be allowed in The Diamond. No alcoholic beverages will be allowed outside the gates of The Diamond. Alcohol sales end immediately after the last out of the seventh inning. Animals – With the exception of service animals and dogs on Bark in the Park Nights, which will take place every Monday home game, animals are not allowed inside The Diamond. ATM – A SunTrust ATM is located on the main concourse behind home plate. Autographs – Flying Squirrels players will sign autographs at their discretion before and after the game. Fans are allowed to line up along the first- and third-base lines in the first row of the Chick-fil-A Richmond Field Level seating sections up until 30 minutes before first pitch.
B Birthday Bash – Plan your birthday party with the Flying Squirrels in the Little Caesars Party Pavilion. The Birthday Bash package includes Chick-fil-A Field Level seating for the entire party, a visit from the mascots, pizza, a first pitch opportunity for the birthday boy or girl and a special gift. For more information, contact the group sales department by calling 804-359-FUNN (3866) ext. 2. Bistro at the Bullpen – New for 2017, the Bistro at the Bullpen is the ultimate hospitality experience at The 30 SQUIRRELSBASEBALL.COM
Diamond. The Bistro features a three course all-you-can-eat buffet, personal bartender, and exclusive seating down the first-base line that puts you right in the action. For more information or to make a reservation, contact the group sales department by calling 804-359-FUNN (3866) ext. 2. Budweiser Thirsty Acorn – The Budweiser Thirsty Acorn is located on the main concourse behind home plate and serves beer, chips, CocaCola products and water.
C, D Cameras & Camcorders – Cameras and camcorders are allowed inside The Diamond for personal use only. No professional zoom lenses or tripods will be allowed without prior approval by management. Children’s Ticket Prices – Children ages 3 and younger are admitted free as long as they sit on an adult’s lap. If you would like a child 3 and younger to sit in a seat, they will need a ticket. Ticket prices are the same for all ages. Credit Cards – Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover are accepted at the ticket office, the Squirrels Nest presented by Nike Team and at all permanent concessions stands.
E Elephant Insurance Fan Zone – Located in the main plaza on the main concourse, the Elephant Insurance Fan Zone houses the entertainment stage, Buds & Burgers Cart, Budweiser Thirsty Acorn and more. Nightly live music, entertainment and excitement all start here! Exchanges – The Flying Squirrels do not offer ticket exchanges for single-game tickets, with the exception of tickets purchased with the insurance option. For rain out information, please see rain policy.
F Fan Assistance – The Amtrak Fan Depot is located on the main con-
course behind home plate and offers answers for all your ballpark-related questions. Field Dimensions – Right field: 330 feet; center field: 402 feet; left field: 330 feet Field Level Seating (Chick-fil-A Richmond) – Located closest to the field behind home plate and down both the first- and third-base lines, Chick-fil-A Richmond Field Level seats are available for $12 per ticket in advance and $14 day of game. Chick-fil-A Richmond Field Level seats are labeled as green on the seating chart on page 28. Tickets can be purchased by calling the ticket office at 804-359-FUNN (3866) ext. 1 or online at SquirrelsBaseball.com. First Aid – A first aid booth is located on the main concourse directly behind the Budweiser Thirsty Acorn. A nightly nurse provided by Patient First is available to assist fans in need of medical attention.
G Gate Times – Gates will open one hour before the scheduled game time, unless otherwise noted for special events. General Admission Seating – General admission seating is located in the upper deck of The Diamond behind home plate and along both the first- and third-base lines. General admission seats are labeled as yellow on the seating chart on page 28. Tickets are available for $8 in advance and $9 day of game. Tickets can be purchased by calling the ticket office at 804-359FUNN (3866) ext. 1 or online at SquirrelsBaseball.com.
H, I, J Handicap Seating – Handicapped seating is offered behind home plate at the top of sections 110 and 111 as well as along the third-base line at the top of section 120. To access the elevator, please ask an usher for assistance in finding the nearest elevator entrance.
THE DIAMOND A TO Z GUIDE K Kid’s Zone (Nutzyville) – Nutzyville presented by Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU is located along the first-base line of the main concourse beside the Squirrels Nest presented by Nike Team Store. The Kid’s Zone entertains kids with Speed Pitch, PLINKO, Wheel of Fun and Have Funn Go Putt holes. Each game costs $1 to play.
League and rain checks may be distributed at the discretion of management. Outside Food & Beverage – Per Eastern League rules, outside food and beverage are NOT allowed inside The Diamond. If you have a special request, please contact a member of our front office by calling 804-359-FUNN (3866).
L
P
Lost and Found – If you have lost an item at The Diamond, you can stop by the Amtrak Fan Services Center during the game or call 804-359FUNN (3866) during business hours (8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.) to see if it has been turned in to the lost and found.
Parking – Parking at The Diamond is $5 per car and $15 per bus (cash or Acorn Dollars only upon arrival). Please follow the directions of the parking staff to ensure the safety of all our fans.
M Merchandise – Merchandise is available at the Squirrels Nest presented by Nike Team Store, which is located along the first-base line on the main concourse.
N Nutzyville – (see Kid’s Zone)
O Official Game – Baseball games are official after five full innings or 4 1/2 innings if the home team is ahead. If a game is called after that point in time, no makeup or continuation will be scheduled unless the game is tied. Rain checks are not issued once a game becomes official. If a game is called before it becomes official, a makeup or continuation will be scheduled by the Eastern
Party Decks – Groups of up to 24 people can rent one of the Virginia Credit Union Party Decks – located behind home plate in the Terrace Level seating section – for a night and add food items from our list of catering options. Each Virginia Credit Union Party Deck rental comes with padded seating for 12 and another 12 seats along the bar top rails. Interested groups can contact the group sales department at 804-359-FUNN (3866) ext. 2 to make reservations. Party Pavilion – The Little Caesars Party Pavilion is a party area outside right field of the ballpark. The Little Caesars Party Pavilion is where you can book pregame functions, such as a birthday bash or tailgate party. Party Porch – The Virginia Credit Union Party Porch is a party area at the end of the upper deck down the left-field line in the Terrace Level
seating section. Similar to the Party Decks, this area seats 38 guests and features your own Party Porch attendant and Party Porch menu. Interested groups can contact the group sales department at 804-359-FUNN (3866) ext. 2 to make reservations. Peanut Gallery (Elephant Auto Insurance) – The Elephant Auto Insurance Peanut Gallery is an intimate seating area that includes a wicker “love seat” located in an exclusive area right outside of the store along the first-base line. Reservations are $30 and are available by calling the ticket office at 804-359-FUNN (3866) ext. 1. PFG Picnic Zone – Located on the main concourse along the third-base side, the PFG Picnic Zone, available for rental, features an all-you-caneat buffet for up to 500 fans. Groups of eight or more can reserve a spot, which includes a reserved seat in the Chick-fil-A Richmond Field Level. Interested groups can contact the group sales department at 804-359-FUNN (3866) ext. 2 to make reservations. Pregame Tailgate Party – Groups of 20 or more can book a 1 1/2-hour all-you-can-eat pregame buffet in our Little Caesars Party Pavilion located outside the ballpark near right field. Package also includes Terrace Level tickets for all guests (upgrades available), a public address announcement recognizing your group and exclusive kids games provided. Public Address Announcements – PA Announcements for birthdays, groups, etc. are $15 and must be turned in at the Amtrak Fan Services Center before the conclusion of the second inning of that night’s game.
@GOSQUIRRELS 31
THE DIAMOND A TO Z GUIDE Q, R Rain Policy – If a Flying Squirrels game is postponed due to inclement weather with less than 4 1/2 innings completed, tickets can be used as rain checks for another 2017 regular season Flying Squirrels home game based on availability. Refunds – No refunds will be given for tickets purchased at The Diamond. See above for rain policy. Restrooms – Men’s and women’s restrooms are located down the first- and third-base lines on both the main concourse and the upper deck (second level).
S Smoking Area – The Diamond is a smoke-free facility. There is a designated smoking area located on the first-base side of the ballpark that can be accessed through the gates beyond the Squirrels Nest presented by Nike Team Store. Sponsorships – If your business is interested in becoming a sponsorship partner of the Flying Squirrels, contact a member of the front office staff by calling 804-359-FUNN (3866). Suites – Nightly suite rentals are available for groups interested in watching a Flying Squirrels game in the comfort and privacy of a luxury suite. Packages include 12 tickets, personal wait service, climate control, cable TV and a special visit from
Nutzy. Monday-Wednesday suite pricing is $675, and a suite for ThursdaySunday games and fireworks nights is $775. Call 804-482-6815 for suite availability and booking.
tives is strictly prohibited within the confines of The Diamond, its parking lots, or any other Richmond Flying Squirrels properties. POSITIVELY NO REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES.
T
U, V
Terrace Level Seating – Terrace Level seating is located in the front rows of the upper deck behind home plate and along both the first- and third-base lines. Terrace Level seats are labeled grey on the seating chart on page 28. Tickets are available for $10 per ticket in advance and $12 day of game. Tickets can be purchased by calling the ticket office at 804-359-FUNN (3866) ext. 1 or online at SquirrelsBaseball.com.
Umbrellas – Umbrellas are allowed at The Diamond, but please be respectful to the sight lines of those around you.
Ticket Disclaimer – EASTERN LEAGUE RULES PROHIBIT FOOD OR BEVERAGE BEING BROUGHT INTO THE BALLPARK. WARNING: The holder of this ticket assumes all liability and danger incidental to the game of baseball whether occurring prior to, during, or subsequent to the actual playing of the game. Any and all Promotions and Giveaways are subject to change at the sole discretion of management. The Richmond Flying Squirrels reserve the right to change the date, starting time, and the location of the professional baseball game on the front of this ticket and no such change shall entitle the holder a refund of the purchase price for this or any other Flying Squirrels ticket. Ticket sales, of any value (including complimentary distribution), by nonofficial Flying Squirrels representa-
Ushers – Ushers are available to show you to your seat and answer any questions you may have.
W, X, Y, Z Weapons – For the safety of all guests, pocket knives and weapons of any kind are not permitted at The Diamond. The only exception to this is law enforcement personnel in the performance of their official duties. In this case, it is the responsibility of the officer to disclose they are carrying a weapon for official duties to security personnel upon entry. Guests wishing to enter the stadium for a game or event consent to a reasonable search for weapons before entering. Guests who fail to comply with the above conditions will be denied admittance or may be ejected. No refunds or exchanges will be allowed in such an event. Will Call – Tickets purchased in advance may be picked up at the will call window located at the main ticket office in front of The Diamond.
Sponsored by
RVA’s Trusted Family-Lifestyle Magazine RFMonline.com 32 SQUIRRELSBASEBALL.COM
FREE at the Squirrels Nest or any area Kroger, Martin’s, Publix, Food Lion, or Wawa.
THE DIAMOND HOSPITALITY AREAS
NEW! BISTRO AT THE BULLPEN
PICNIC ZONE
The Bistro at the Bullpen is the ultimate hospitality experience at The Diamond. The Bistro features a three-course, all-you-caneat buffet, personal bartender and exclusive seating down the first-base line that puts you right in the action.
The PFG Picnic Zone is the perfect place for hosting anything from small social gatherings to large corporate events. This exclusive area down the third-base line can accommodate up to 500 guests and features a delicious two-hour, all-you-can-eat buffet.
PARTY PAVILION
PARTY DECKS
The Pregame Tailgate Party in the Little Caesars Party Pavilion gives fans the opportunity to enjoy a premium party area without the premium price. The Tailgate includes a 90-minute, all-you-can-eat buffet and a game ticket. Brunch is available on Sundays.
Located in sections 207 and 211, the Virginia Credit Union Party Decks feature some of the best views at The Diamond. Each Party Deck comes with exclusive seating for 24 people, including 12 padded seats with cup holders and 12 seats along bar top rails.
LUXURY SUITES
PARTY PORCH
Luxury suites provide fans with the most comfortable and private experience at The Diamond. Each suite includes 12 tickets, four parking passes, padded outdoor seating, air-conditioning and a private server. Suite holders can also purchase full catering.
The Virginia Credit Union Party Porch offers a unique group experience from a reserved area in section 217 down the third-base line. A Party Porch rental includes seating for 38 guests along bar top rails, ideal for entertaining clients or employees.
@GOSQUIRRELS 33
A PLACE TO PLAY
FLYING SQUIRRELS CHARITIES
E
stablished in 2013, the mission of Flying Squirrels Charities is to partner and connect the Flying Squirrels brand with the greater Richmond community through fun and versatile fundraising campaigns that benefit youth in the city of Richmond. The initial focus of the franchise’s charitable arm has been deemed “Renovating Richmond’s Recreation” — an impactful community campaign designed to provide recreational opportunities for youth in the city of Richmond. Sixteen youth baseball facilities in Richmond were identified to be in the greatest need of renovation. Work began in April 2015 on two fields at both Hotchkiss and Westover parks. Four new dugouts were installed including benches and concrete flooring. In June 2015, Flying Squirrels Charities partnered with Barton Malow, a construction company, to oversee project management of field renovations. Additionally,
Richmond International Raceway, through a partnership with the Henrico Career & Technical Education, donated bleacher seats which students retrofitted to use for the field projects. Work on the fields at Hotchkiss and Westover parks was completed in September 2015, and a more extensive renovation project at Blackwell Field began the following summer. The first phase of the Blackwell Field (pictured left) project involved replacing the dugouts and was followed by a complete resurfacing of the infield. A similar renovation project at Bellemeade Field began in September 2016, making it the sixth facility to receive support from Flying Squirrels Charities. All proceeds from the Flying Squirrels’ annual Hot Stove Banquet benefit Flying Squirrels Charities, as do funds raised through the Flying Squirrels’ annual Turn Left Golf Classic held each fall, and Nutzy’s Rotary FUNN Run, which takes place in December.
RENOVATING RICHMOND’S RECREATION March 2014
Renovating Richmond’s Recreation project created
April 2015
Work on Hotchkiss Park and Westover Park fields begins
September 2016
Dugouts completed at Blackwell Field, infield work begins Work at Bellemeade Field begins
July 2015
Work on Westover Park fields completed
June 2016
September 2015
Work on Blackwell Field (pictured left) begins
Work on Hotchkiss Park fields completed
Above:
New dugouts with benches installed at Blackwell Field @GOSQUIRRELS 35
BY DESIGN
FREE SHIRT FRIDAYS
R
obert Ullman has always had an affinity for going to a baseball game and coming home with a souvenir. “I love going to the ballpark and getting something for free,” Ullman said. “It has always been one of my favorite things ever since I was a little kid.” When the Flying Squirrels introduced their “Free Shirt Friday” promotion in 2015, the concept caught Ullman’s attention; however, it wasn’t just because of the free T-shirts. The local graphic artist, who has worked as a freelance illustrator for numerous local and national publications and clients such as Richmond Magazine, Virginia Living, DKPittsburghSports.com, HarperCollins, Boing Boing, the U.S. Army and the American Red Cross, wanted to be part of the team’s T-shirt design process, too. “I decided I was going to bug them and bug them and bug them until they let me do something,” Ullman said. Ullman’s persistence was rewarded this offseason when the Double-A franchise tabbed him to create all 11 of its Free Shirt Friday designs for the 2017 season. “I wasn’t expecting all 11, but it’s awesome and I’m happy to do it,” Ullman said. The team provided Ullman with nine themes – among them “Cinco de Mayo,” “Nutzy and Nutasha,” “Irish Heritage,” “Yacht Rock,” “Augtoberfest” and the popular “Boulevard to the Bay” series – and a few basic ideas. The rest was up to Ullman. The mostly self-taught artist dove into the creative process, which initially started as red-lined pencil sketches in his notebook. While the first conversations between Ullman and the Flying Squirrels took place
in October, the majority of the design work occurred during a six-week span from early January to mid-February. The aggressive timeline culminated in an unveiling event Feb. 24 in the Marble Hall at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Ullman and his daughter Evie removed the red cloth covering the final design unveiled during the event. As a beer enthusiast, the Augtoberfest design, which was patterned after a beer label, was one of Ullman’s favorites, as was the Yacht Rock tank top design. “How can you not love the tank top for Yacht Rock night,” Ullman said. “That’s going to be a lot of fun.” However, it was the Boulevard to the Bay series of which Ullman said he was particularly fond. “It’s more of a blank slate, especially having three of them” Ullman said. “You can do something really fun.” FREE SHIRT FRIDAYS • • • • • • • • • • •
“Richmond is for Baseball Lovers” – April 7 presented by Capital One “Salute to Flying Squirrels Charities” – April 21 “Cinco de Mayo” – May 5 “Nutzy and Nutasha Share a Coke” – May 19 presented by Coca-Cola “Boulevard to the Bay Series No. 1” – June 2 presented by Mason-McDuffie Mortgage “Irish Heritage: Good Health” – June 23 “Yacht Rock Tank Top” – July 14 presented by Bud Light “Boulevard to the Bay Series No. 2” – July 28 presented by Richmond Times-Dispatch “Augtoberfest Brew Label” – Aug. 11 “Grateful Dead-Themed Tie-Dye” – Aug. 18 “Boulevard to the Bay Series No. 3” – Sept. 1 presented by Captial One
LEFT: Graphic artist Robert Ullman, left, and his daughter Evie unveil a T-shirt design at an event Feb. 24 at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Richmond Flying Squirrels photo @GOSQUIRRELS 37
NEW FOR
2017
NINE ORIGINAL HAT GIVEAWAYS AT TUESDAY HOME GAMES! 4/11
ALT 6:35
OUTDOORSMAN HAT First 1,000 fans 15 & older presented by Coca-Cola
5/23
BNG 6:35
NEWSBOY HAT
First 1,000 fans 15 & older presented by CBS 6
7/25
HBG 6:35
FEDORA
First 1,000 fans 15 & older 38 SQUIRRELSBASEBALL.COM
4/25
BOW 6:35
DIGITAL CAMO CAP
First 1,000 fans 15 & older presented by Virginia Putative Father Registry
6/13
NHM 6:35
BUCKET HAT
First 1,000 fans 15 & older presented by Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries
8/8
POR 6:35
5/9
ALT 6:35
SQUIRREL HEAD CAP First 1,000 fans 18 & younger presented by Coca-Cola
6/20
HFD 6:35
VISOR
First 1,000 fans 15 & older presented by Dominion Charity Classic
8/29
ALT 6:35
GIANTS-THEMED CAP STRAW TRUCKER CAP First 1,000 fans 15 & older
First 1,000 fans 21 & older presented by Budweiser
PLAYER SLIDE SPONSORS
@GOSQUIRRELS 39
SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS ORGANIZATION SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS LEAGUE: National League (MLB) MANAGER: Bruce Bochy 2016 RECORD: 87-75 (2nd) BALLPARK: AT&T Park WEBSITE: sfgiants.com
SACRAMENTO RIVER CATS LEAGUE: Pacific Coast League (Triple-A) MANAGER: Dave Brundage 2016 RECORD: 69-75 (4th) BALLPARK: Raley Field WEBSITE: rivercats.com
SAN JOSE GIANTS LEAGUE: California League (Advanced-A) MANAGER: Nestor Rojas 2016 RECORD: 39-31 (2nd) | 29-41 (5th) BALLPARK: San Jose Municipal Stadium WEBSITE: sjgiants.com
AUGUSTA GREENJACKETS LEAGUE: South Atlantic League (Low-A) MANAGER: Carlos Valderrama 2016 RECORD: 36-34 (T-3rd) | 40-29 (2nd) BALLPARK: Lake Olmstead Stadium WEBSITE: greenjacketsbaseball.com
SALEM-KEIZER VOLCANOES LEAGUE: Northwest League (Short-Season A) MANAGER: Jolbert Cabrera 2016 RECORD: 17-21 (3rd) | 15-21 (4th) BALLPARK: Volcanoes Stadium “The Crater” WEBSITE: volcanoesbaseball.com
ARIZONA LEAGUE GIANTS LEAGUE: Arizona League (Rookie) MANAGER: Hector Borg 2016 RECORD: 12-16 (1st) | 16-11 (2nd) BALLPARK: Giants Baseball Complex WEBSITE: milb.com 40 SQUIRRELSBASEBALL.COM
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www.holidayinn.com/ric-westend WELCOME SQUIRRELS FANS!
Hit a home run by booking your next event at the Holiday Inn I-64 Westend! Home to super service, great value, easy access to I-64 and close to the new Willow Lawn Shopping Experience. With our full service catering and banquet department, we can help you personally create any event from weddings, reunions or executive meetings. Visit the Crossroads Bar and Grill located within the hotel, we feature a wide variety of local and national craft brews, a full bar, nightly specials and 3 large flat screen TV’s to keep up to date on all sporting events. Stop in and see us! The Holiday Inn I-64 Westend Team! @GOSQUIRRELS
41
ROAD TO THE SHOW
Boulevard to the Bay No. 3 T-shirt design by Robert Ullman
MAJOR LEAGUE ALL-STARS Brandon Crawford and Joe Panik (pictured below) became the first former Flying Squirrels to earn All-Star selections when both were named to the 2015 National League All-Star team by San Francisco Giants manager Bruce Bochy. It was the first All- Star appearance for both players, who also both won Gold Gloves last season. Adam Duvall, who was traded by the Giants to the Cincinnati Reds in 2015, made his first career All-Star team last season. In his first full season in the major leagues, Duvall smashed 33 home runs and drove in 103 runs. Joining Duvall on the 2016 NL All-Star squad was the Giants’ Brandon Belt, who tallied a careerbest 82 RBIs last season.
2010 FLYING SQUIRRELS PLAYER
Darren Ford Brandon Belt Brandon Crawford Thomas Neal Tyler Graham Nick Noonan Roger Kieschnick Jackson Williams
POS. ML DEBUT OF INF INF OF OF INF OF C
Sept. 1, 2010 March 31, 2011 May 27, 2011 Sept. 2, 2012 Sept. 7, 2012 April 3, 2013 July 31, 2013 Aug. 27, 2014
TEAM
San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants Cleveland Indians Arizona Diamondbacks San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants Colorado Rockies
2011 FLYING SQUIRRELS PLAYER
Henry Sosa Eric Surkamp Dan Otero Charlie Culberson Ryan Verdugo Francisco Peguero Juan Perez Heath Hembree Johnny Monell Chris Dominguez Ryan Lollis
POS. ML DEBUT RHP LHP RHP INF LHP OF OF RHP C INF OF
Aug. 10, 2011 Aug. 27, 2011 April 7, 2012 May 13, 2012 July 17, 2012 Aug. 25, 2012 June 9, 2013 Sept. 3, 2013 Sept. 5, 2013 Sept. 3, 2014 July 4, 2015
TEAM
Houston Astros San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants Kansas City Royals San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants
2012 FLYING SQUIRRELS PLAYER
Mike Kickham Jake Dunning Ehire Adrianza Gary Brown Chris Heston Brett Bochy Tommy Joseph 42 SQUIRRELSBASEBALL.COM
POS. ML DEBUT LHP RHP INF OF RHP RHP C
May 28, 2013 June 16, 2013 Sept. 8, 2013 Sept. 3, 2014 Sept. 13, 2014 Sept. 13, 2014 May 13, 2016
TEAM
San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants Philadelphia Phillies
ROAD TO THE SHOW
Boulevard to the Bay No. 1 T-shirt design by Robert Ullman
2013 FLYING SQUIRRELS PLAYER
Joe Panik Adam Duvall Andrew Susac Edwin Escobar Jarrett Parker Josh Osich Kelby Tomlinson Cody Hall
POS. ML DEBUT INF INF C LHP OF LHP INF RHP
June 21, 2014 June 26, 2014 July 26, 2014 Aug. 27, 2014 June 13, 2015 July 3, 2015 Aug. 3, 2015 Sept. 3, 2015
TEAM
San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants Boston Red Sox San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants
2014 FLYING SQUIRRELS PLAYER
Matt Duffy Hunter Strickland Derek Law Steven Okert Chris Stratton Adalberto Mejia Ty Blach Kelvin Marte
POS. ML DEBUT INF RHP RHP LHP RHP LHP LHP LHP
Aug. 1, 2014 Sept. 1, 2014 April 15, 2016 April 19, 2016 May 30, 2016 Aug. 20, 2016 Sept. 5, 2016 Sept. 3, 2016
TEAM
San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants Minnesota Twins San Francisco Giants Pittsburgh Pirates
2015 FLYING SQUIRRELS PLAYER
Mac Williamson Joe Biagini
POS. ML DEBUT OF RHP
Sept. 23, 2015 April 8, 2016
MAJOR LEAGUE REHABS On July 30, 2013, right-handed pitcher Ryan Vogelsong became the first member of the San Francisco Giants to appear in a game for the Flying Squirrels on a major league rehab assignment. Vogelsong, recovering from a broken hand, scattered five hits over five scoreless innings to earn the victory over the Portland Sea Dogs. Former National League All-Star Matt Cain (pictured below), returning from an elbow injury, made a rehab appearance at The Diamond on June 9, 2015, allowing two runs in 3 2/3 innings. Last season, right-hander Josh Osich became the first former Flying Squirrel to return to the team on major league rehab, making two relief appearances.
TEAM
San Francisco Giants Toronto Blue Jays
2016 FLYING SQUIRRELS PLAYER
Jake Smith
POS. ML DEBUT RHP
Sept. 7, 2016
TEAM
San Diego Padres
@GOSQUIRRELS 43
MLB.COM PROSPECT RANKINGS As of 3.15.17
1) TYLER BEEDE - RHP
10) ANDREW SUAREZ - LHP
BATS-THROWS: Right-Right HEIGHT: 6-3 WEIGHT: 210 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 23 2016 TEAM: Richmond Flying Squirrels OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 55/80
BATS-THROWS: Left-Left HEIGHT: 6-2 WEIGHT: 205 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 24 2016 TEAM: Richmond Flying Squirrels OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 45/80
2) CHRISTIAN ARROYO - INF
11) TY BLACH - LHP
BATS-THROWS: Right-Right HEIGHT: 6-1 WEIGHT: 180 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 21 2016 TEAM: Richmond Flying Squirrels OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 55/80
BATS-THROWS: Right-Left HEIGHT: 6-2 WEIGHT: 200 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 26 2016 TEAM: Sacramento River Cats OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 45/80
3) BRYAN REYNOLDS - OF
12) STEVEN OKERT - LHP
BATS-THROWS: Switch-Right HEIGHT: 6-3 WEIGHT: 200 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 22 2016 TEAM: San Jose Giants OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 50/80
BATS-THROWS: Left-Left HEIGHT: 6-3 WEIGHT: 210 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 25 2016 TEAM: San Francisco Giants OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 45/80
4) STEVEN DUGGAR - OF
13) SAM COONROD - RHP
BATS-THROWS: Left-Right HEIGHT: 6-2 WEIGHT: 195 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 23 2016 TEAM: Richmond Flying Squirrels OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 50/80
BATS-THROWS: Right-Right HEIGHT: 6-2 WEIGHT: 225 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 24 2016 TEAM: Richmond Flying Squirrels OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 45/80
5) CHRIS SHAW - 1B
14) MATT KROOK - LHP
BATS-THROWS: Left-Right HEIGHT: 6-4 WEIGHT: 235 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 23 2016 TEAM: Richmond Flying Squirrels OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 50/80
BATS-THROWS: Left-Left HEIGHT: 6-4 WEIGHT: 195 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 22 2016 TEAM: Salem-Keizer Volcanoes OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 45/80
6) SANDRO FABIAN - OF
15) ARAMIS GARCIA - C
BATS-THROWS: Right-Right HEIGHT: 6-1 WEIGHT: 180 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 19 2016 TEAM: AZL Giants OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 50/80
BATS-THROWS: Right-Right HEIGHT: 6-2 WEIGHT: 220 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 24 2016 TEAM: San Jose Giants OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 45/80
7) HEATH QUINN - OF
16) C.J. HINOJOSA - SS
BATS-THROWS: Right-Right HEIGHT: 6-2 WEIGHT: 190 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 21 2016 TEAM: San Jose Giants OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 50/80
BATS-THROWS: Right-Right HEIGHT: 5-10 WEIGHT: 175 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 22 2016 TEAM: Richmond Flying Squirrels OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 45/80
8) JOAN GREGORIO - RHP
17) REYES MORONTA - RHP
BATS-THROWS: Right-Right HEIGHT: 6-7 WEIGHT: 180 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 25 2016 TEAM: Sacramento River Cats OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 45/80
BATS-THROWS: Right-Right HEIGHT: 6-0 WEIGHT: 175 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 24 2016 TEAM: San Jose Giants OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 45/80
9) JORDAN JOHNSON - RHP
18) RODOLFO MARTINEZ - RHP
BATS-THROWS: Right-Right HEIGHT: 6-3 WEIGHT: 200 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 23 2016 TEAM: San Jose Giants OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 45/80
BATS-THROWS: Right-Right HEIGHT: 6-2 WEIGHT: 180 lbs. OPENING DAY AGE: 23 2016 TEAM: Richmond Flying Squirrels OVERALL SCOUTING GRADE: 45/80
44 SQUIRRELSBASEBALL.COM
@GOSQUIRRELS 45
FLYING SQUIRRELS ON THE AIR JAY BURNHAM - DIRECTOR OF BROADCASTING Jay Burnham enters his fifth season in the Flying Squirrels broadcast booth and his 15th in MiLB. He also broadcasts William & Mary football as well as VCU and Longwood basketball. A native of Shelburne Falls, Mass., Burnham was the recipient of the prestigious 2011 Minor League Broadcaster of the Year award issued by Ballpark Digest, a renowned industry publication. This past season he was also recognized by Baseball America as the “Minor’s Best Broadcasting Prospect.”
SAM RAVECH - RADIO/TV BROADCASTER Sam Ravech enters his first year with the Flying Squirrels and his first as a professional broadcaster. The Connecticut native graduated from Pepperdine University with a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism and media production. Ravech was the lead play-by-play broadcaster for Pepperdine basketball and baseball all four years of college. He also joined his father Karl Ravech and John Kruk in the broadcast booth for parts of the Little League World Series coverage on ESPN.
46 SQUIRRELSBASEBALL.COM
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THE ON-DECK CIRCLE 6/21
6/20
HFD
HFD
6:35
6:35
TIP OF THE CAP TUESDAY
Appearance by PGA Tour Champions pro golfer Bobby Wadkins | Golf visor giveaway first 1,000 fans 15 & older presented by the Dominion Charity Classic and CBS 6 | Silver Squirrels game | Live pregame entertainment by the Jangling Reinharts
6/22
HFD 6:35
WINE UP WEDNESDAY
Wine Up Wednesday wine specials featuring $5 glasses of wine and $6 wine slushies from 5:307:30 p.m. presented by Mix 98.1 | Live pregame entertainment by the Bop Cats
IN-YOUR-FACE FIREWORKS
National Onion Rings Day Celebration | Fireworks from up close and inside the fences presented by Steak ‘n Shake and Q94 | Live pregame entertainment by Whiskey Bizness
www.We L ove RVA . c om 48 SQUIRRELSBASEBALL.COM
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