Hubbry Logo
Evansville TripletsEvansville TripletsMain
Open search
Evansville Triplets
Community hub
Evansville Triplets
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Evansville Triplets
Evansville Triplets
Evansville Triplets
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Evansville Triplets
Team logo Cap insignia
Minor league affiliations
ClassTriple-A (1970–1984)
LeagueAmerican Association (1970–1984)
Major league affiliations
Team
Minor league titles
Class titles (1)1975
League titles (3)
  • 1972
  • 1975
  • 1979
Division titles (4)
  • 1972
  • 1975
  • 1979
  • 1981
Team data
NameEvansville Triplets (1970–1984)
BallparkBosse Field (1970–1984)

The Evansville Triplets were a Minor League Baseball team of the Triple-A American Association (AA) from 1970 to 1984. They were located in Evansville, Indiana, and played their home games at Bosse Field. The Triplets served as a farm club for three major league franchises: the Minnesota Twins (1970), Milwaukee Brewers (1971–1973), and Detroit Tigers (1974–1984).

The Triplets were established in 1970 as an expansion team in conjunction with the 1969 Major League Baseball expansion. In 1984, the team was sold to Larry Schmittou and other owners of the Nashville Sounds of the Double-A Southern League, who relocated the team to Nashville, Tennessee, in 1985.

Over 15 seasons of play, Evansville played in 2,061 regular season games and compiled a win–loss record of 1,032–1,026–3 (.501). They reached the postseason on four occasions. They won the American Association championship in 1972 as the Triple-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. They later won two additional American Association titles with the Detroit Tigers (1975 and 1979). The 1975 club also won the Junior World Series. The Triplets had an overall postseason record of 16–8 (.667).

History

[edit]

Due to the 1969 Major League Baseball expansion, there was a need for two additional Triple-A teams in the American Association for the 1970 season.[1] One went to Wichita, Kansas, the other to Evansville, Indiana, which had previously hosted Minor League Baseball teams but never above the Double-A classification. A contest was held to select a name for the new franchise. "Evansville Triplets" was selected from over 3,000 entries. The fitting name refers to the team playing at the Triple-A level and that the team would represent not just Indiana, but the entire tri-state area, including Kentucky and Illinois. It was also a word play on the Minnesota Twins, Evansville's first major league affiliate. The new team would play at Bosse Field, which opened in 1915.

After spending their inaugural 1970 season affiliated with the Minnesota Twins, Evansville then spent the next three seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers. In 1972, the Triplets won their first American Association championship against their expansion partner, the Wichita Aeros, 3–0.[2] Lloyd Gladden won the 1972 American Association Most Valuable Pitcher Award having pitched to a 15–9 record with a 2.71 earned run average and 141 strikeouts.[3][4]

The Triplets enjoyed their greatest success as the top minor league affiliate of the Detroit Tigers from 1974 to 1984. The team won their second AA title in 1975 by defeating the Denver Bears, 4–2.[2] They went on to win the Junior World Series, 4–1, against the Tidewater Tides.[5] Manager Fred Hatfield won the 1975 American Association Manager of the Year Award.[3] Les Moss won the same award in 1978).[3] Under Manager of the Year Jim Leyland,[3] the 1979 club won a third AA championship, 4–2, over the Oklahoma City 89ers.[2] Billy Gardner was selected as the AA's 1980 Manager of the Year.[3]

In July 1984, the team's owners arrived at terms to sell the Triplets for a reported sum of US$780,000 to the owners of the Nashville Sounds, a Double-A club of the Southern League, who intended to move the franchise to Nashville, Tennessee, for the 1985 season.[6] The Southern League wanted team president Larry Schmittou to surrender his franchise to the league, but he wanted to send Nashville's existing Southern League franchise to Evansville to continue as the Triplets at Double-A. However, a combination of the league's disapproval of the move and the City of Evansville being unwilling to upgrade Bosse Field meant the end of affiliated baseball in Evansville. The Triplets' legacy was retired, and the Triple-A Sounds carried on the history of the preceding Double-A team, which relocated to Alabama and became the Huntsville Stars.[7]

Season-by-season results

[edit]
Season Regular season Postseason MLB affiliate Ref.
Record Win % League Division GB Record Win % Result
1970 67–71 .486 7th 4th 6 — — — Minnesota Twins [8]
1971 60–78–2 .435 8th 4th 23+1⁄2 — — — Milwaukee Brewers [9]
1972 83–57 .593 2nd 1st — 3–0 1.000 Won AA championship vs Wichita Aeros, 3–0[2] Milwaukee Brewers [10]
1973 66–70 .485 5th 3rd 17 — — — Milwaukee Brewers [11]
1974 68–67 .504 4th 3rd 10 — — — Detroit Tigers [12]
1975 77–59–1 .566 2nd 1st — 8–3 .727 Won AA championship vs Denver Bears, 4–2[2]
Won Junior World Series vs Tidewater Tides, 4–1[5]		 Detroit Tigers [13]
1976 55–81 .404 8th 4th 23 — — — Detroit Tigers [14]
1977 65–68 .489 6th 3rd 10 — — — Detroit Tigers [15]
1978 78–58 .574 2nd 2nd 1⁄2 — — — Detroit Tigers [16]
1979 78–58 .574 1st 1st — 4–2 .667 Won AA championship vs Oklahoma City 89ers, 4–2[2] Detroit Tigers [17]
1980 61–74 .452 5th (tie) 2nd 13+1⁄2 — — — Detroit Tigers [18]
1981 73–63 .537 3rd 1st — 1–3 .250 Lost semi-finals vs Denver Bears, 3–1[19] Detroit Tigers [20]
1982 68–65 .511 5th (tie) 4th 5+1⁄2 — — — Detroit Tigers [21]
1983 61–75 .449 8th 4th 17+1⁄2 — — — Detroit Tigers [22]
1984 72–82 .468 6th 6th 19 — — — Detroit Tigers [23]
Totals 1,032–1,026–3 .501 — — — 16–8 .667 1 Class title, 3 League titles — —

Notable alumni

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Evansville Triplets

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The were a based in Evansville, Indiana, that competed in the American Association from 1970 to 1984, serving as an affiliate for the in 1970, the from 1971 to 1973, and the from 1974 to 1984, while playing all home games at and achieving notable success with American Association championships in 1972, 1975, and 1979, including a 1975 Junior World Series title, before the franchise relocated to Nashville in 1985 to become the . The team's name originated from a fan contest in 1970, selected from over 3,000 entries to symbolize the three states surrounding Evansville—, , and Illinois—and it marked the first time was played in the city. Over their 15 seasons, the Triplets compiled a cumulative record of 1,032–1,026–3 (.501 winning percentage), finishing first in the division four times (1972, 1975, 1979, and 1981), securing four division titles and three league pennants. Their postseason success included an overall record of 16–8 (.667), highlighted by the 1975 Junior World Series victory over the Tidewater Tides, which was the final edition of that historic minor league tournament. Notable managers during the Triplets' tenure included (1971–1972), Fred Hatfield (1974–1976), Les Moss (1977–1978), and (1979–1981), under whom the team won three of its four division titles. The franchise developed several future stars, such as pitchers , , and , as well as position players like , , , and Howard Johnson. Despite their achievements, declining attendance and competition from larger markets led to the team's sale and relocation after the 1984 season.

Team Overview

Formation and League Participation

The Triplets were established in 1970 as an in the American Association, marking the first time the city hosted baseball at that level and replacing the previous Evansville White Sox, which had departed after the 1968 season. The team's name was selected through a public contest that received over 3,000 entries, with "Triplets" chosen to reflect its representation of the encompassing , Kentucky, and Illinois. The American Association in the operated as a with eight teams divided into two divisions following its expansion to include Evansville and , featuring a typical schedule of approximately 140 games per season played from spring through early fall. The Triplets' initial roster in 1970 was composed primarily of players assigned from their major league affiliate, including promising talents like pitcher , who appeared in eight games that year. Over their 15 seasons from 1970 to 1984, the Triplets experienced fluctuating fan attendance, starting strong with 130,809 in their inaugural year before dipping to a low of 100,696 in 1976, and peaking at 147,807 in 1972 amid competitive play. Attendance generally hovered around 100,000 to 120,000 annually in later years, with a notable high of 120,703 in 1983, reflecting steady but modest community support in a smaller market city. These figures underscored the challenges of sustaining in Evansville, where the team played home games at .

Home Stadium and Facilities

, located in Evansville, Indiana, opened on June 17, 1915, as the first municipally owned professional baseball stadium in the United States, constructed at a total cost of $65,000, including $10,000 for the land acquisition and $50,000 for materials, labor, and improvements. The ballpark was named after Mayor Benjamin Bosse, who facilitated its development by purchasing 80 acres of land in 1914 and selling a portion to the Evansville School Board for the project, which he helped design to serve both educational and professional baseball purposes. As one of the oldest continuously operating professional ballparks, it predates only (1912), Wrigley Field (1914), and in terms of active use for baseball. During the Evansville Triplets' tenure from 1970 to 1984, Bosse Field had a seating capacity of approximately 5,110, providing an intimate setting for American Association games that emphasized fan proximity to the action. The stadium's layout, with home plate positioned closer to the grandstand following a 1938 relocation, extended the distance to dead center field, resulting in no recorded ever leaving the park in straight-away center and contributing to a unique gameplay dynamic that favored defensive plays and tested hitters' power. This configuration enhanced the fan experience by offering clear sightlines and a sense of closeness, allowing spectators to feel immersed in the Triplets' matches without the vast expanses of larger venues. Renovations during the Triplets' era were limited but included the installation of an electric scoreboard in 1978, replacing a manual one to modernize game presentations and improve operational efficiency. However, in 1984, the city of Evansville declined to renovate the 70-year-old ballpark, which contributed to the team's relocation to Nashville. Beyond regular season games, hosted a variety of community and special events that reflected its role as a municipal asset during the Triplets' period, including the introduction of beer sales in 1971, which broadened its appeal for social gatherings and family outings. The stadium's history also included exhibition games, such as a 1966 matchup between the and Cincinnati Reds that drew over 5,700 fans, as well as earlier hosting of NFL contests for the Evansville Crimson Giants in 1921 and 1922 and Detroit Tigers from 1942 to 1945, highlighting its versatility for community functions and non-baseball events under local management.

Affiliations

Minnesota Twins Affiliation (1970)

The Evansville Triplets entered into their inaugural affiliation agreement with the in 1970, serving as the Twins' in the American Association and marking the team's debut at that level of . This partnership focused on player development, with the Twins sending prospects and veterans to Evansville for seasoning before potential major league call-ups. Key players assigned from the included promising pitcher , a 19-year-old prospect who posted a 4-2 record in his brief stint with the Triplets before his major league debut later that season. Other notable contributors were outfielder , who led the team with 33 home runs and 83 , third baseman Eric Soderholm with at least 15 home runs, and outfielder Jim Nettles, who topped the batting average chart at .317 among qualified hitters. On the mound, Hal Haydel recorded 12 wins, while reliever Garland Shifflett achieved the lowest among regular pitchers at 2.23. The team, managed primarily by Ralph Rowe, finished the season with a 67-71 record, placing fourth in the East Division, while allowing the fewest runs in the league (537) but scoring the lowest (521), highlighting a strong pitching staff offset by offensive struggles. Attendance at for the 1970 season totaled 130,809 fans, averaging 1,896 per game, which reflected modest community support during the team's first year of operations. This affiliation laid the groundwork for Evansville's presence by establishing routines for player integration, facility use at , and fan engagement that would influence subsequent seasons and partnerships.

Milwaukee Brewers Affiliation (1971–1973)

The Evansville Triplets established a three-year affiliation with the starting in 1971, serving as the team's farm club in the American Association and focusing on player development to feed talent to the . This partnership marked a shift from the Triplets' inaugural season under the , emphasizing the Brewers' scouting and developmental pipeline in the . During this period, the team adjusted to the Brewers' organizational needs, with several prospects gaining valuable experience at before promotions or trades that impacted the Brewers' lineup. In 1971, the Triplets finished with a 60-78 record, placing fourth in the American Association's East Division under manager . Notable players on the roster included pitcher , who later became a key starter for with over 100 wins, and outfielder Wilbur Howard, who debuted with in 1973 after his time in Evansville. These players exemplified 's role in grooming talent, with Slaton receiving significant innings to refine his skills before his major league call-up. The season highlighted early challenges in team cohesion but laid groundwork for future promotions. The 1972 season represented a high point, as the Triplets compiled an 83-57 record, winning the East Division and capturing the American Association championship under managers (early portion), Al Widmar, and Mike Roarke. Standout performers included catcher , who honed his defensive skills in Evansville before a successful career spanning multiple teams, and infielder Pepe Frías, who transitioned to the ' utility role. continued his development here, contributing to the team's success and earning promotion, while the championship underscored the effectiveness of the Brewers' player pipeline during this affiliation. By 1973, the Triplets posted a 66-70 record, finishing third in the East Division with Roarke returning as manager. This year featured promising outfielders like , who played 131 games for Evansville before becoming a cornerstone of the Brewers' lineup in the late 1970s and early 1980s, and catcher Charlie Moore, who debuted with later that year after his stint. Additional talents such as and Bill Travers also passed through, with several receiving mid-season promotions or post-season trades that bolstered the depth. Overall, the affiliation facilitated the advancement of at least a dozen players to the , enhancing the Brewers' competitive edge through targeted minor league development.

Detroit Tigers Affiliation (1974–1984)

The Evansville Triplets established a long-term affiliation with the Detroit Tigers in 1974, serving as their primary Triple-A farm club through the 1984 season and providing a key developmental hub for the Tigers' prospects in the American Association. This partnership marked a stable era for the Triplets, with the Tigers committing to roster development and player progression, which helped integrate the minor league team deeply into the organization's farm system. A notable aspect of this affiliation was the development of star prospects who transitioned successfully to , exemplified by outfielder Kirk Gibson, who played for the Triplets in 1979 before his debut with the later that year. Gibson's performance in Evansville, including a strong finish that contributed to the team's playoff run, showcased the Triplets' role in honing skills for the Tigers' roster, as he batted .245 with 9 home runs in 89 games that propelled his rapid ascent to . Other prospects, such as those under manager —who joined the Tigers' system and managed the Triplets starting in 1979—benefited from this structured pathway, with Leyland's oversight facilitating direct evaluations and promotions to higher levels. Annual player exchanges between the Triplets and were a cornerstone of the , involving regular promotions, , and trades to optimize roster stability and address immediate needs in 's lineup. during this period emphasized rehabilitation assignments to Evansville, where players could regain form in a competitive environment while maintaining ties to the Tigers' medical and coaching staff, which helped sustain the Triplets' competitiveness despite turnover. The integration of the Triplets into the Tigers' broader enhanced roster stability by prioritizing over short-term wins, allowing for consistent talent inflow from lower affiliates like . During this affiliation, the Triplets achieved American Association titles in 1975 and 1979, underscoring the effectiveness of the partnership.

History and Seasons

Early Seasons and Development (1970–1973)

The began their inaugural season in 1970 as the American Association's newest expansion franchise, affiliated with the , marking the first time professional baseball at that level had come to Evansville, . The team name was chosen through a local contest that received over 3,000 entries, with "Triplets" symbolizing the team's ties to Indiana, , and Illinois, and the winner receiving a $500 savings certificate. Under manager Ralph Rowe, who posted a 60-64 record before stepping away for 14 games due to his mother's illness, the Triplets finished with an overall 67-71 mark, placing fourth in the East Division. During Rowe's absence, a player committee led by , Jim Glover, and Hoss Bowlin managed seven games with a 3-4 record, followed by handling the next seven with a 4-3 tally; Wynn's interim stint highlighted early developmental efforts in leadership transitions. Roster construction emphasized a blend of young prospects and veterans, including promising pitcher , who appeared in eight games and struck out 17 batters in one outing, signaling potential for player growth within the . Community engagement started strong with the name contest, which boosted local involvement, while initial attendance figures reflected modest fan interest as the city adjusted to Triple-A baseball at historic . In 1971, the Triplets transitioned to an affiliation with the , aiming to build on their rookie-year experience with a more stable roster and coaching staff. took over as manager, guiding the team to a 60-78 record and a fourth-place finish in the East Division, though the squad struggled offensively, scoring the league's fewest runs at 559. The roster featured several players with pedigrees, such as Joe Nossek and Jim Slaton, alongside prospects like John Felske, who led with 14 home runs and a .294 batting average, fostering incremental improvements in talent development despite the sub-.500 finish. Attendance reached 107,818, averaging 1,563 per game, indicating growing financial viability as local promotions, including radio broadcasts by announcer Larry Calton on station WROZ, helped engage the community and insert the team into Evansville's cultural fabric. These efforts, such as providing Major League scores during Triplets games, cultivated a budding fan base by connecting minor league play to broader baseball enthusiasm, though challenges in consistency persisted. The 1972 season represented a breakthrough in the Triplets' early development, as they surged to an 83-57 record, capturing first place in the East Division and sweeping the 3-0 in the playoffs to win the American Association championship under a trio of managers. started with a 20-17 mark before Al Widmar (5-2) and Mike Roarke (58-38) took over, with the coaching changes contributing to a more dynamic approach that improved roster cohesion and performance. Key contributors included outfielder , who hit 25 home runs and drove in 77 runs, and pitcher Lloyd Gladden, who earned 15 wins with a league-best 2.71 , highlighting successful prospect integration from the . Attendance jumped to 147,807, averaging 2,112 fans per game, underscoring enhanced financial stability and a strengthening fan base fueled by the championship excitement and local promotions that celebrated the title as a point of community pride. This success marked an early developmental milestone, with players like advancing toward careers, and the season's energy—described by fans as "fun"—solidified the Triplets' role in Evansville's recreational landscape. Following their championship, the 1973 Triplets aimed to sustain momentum but finished 66-70, placing third in the East Division under sole manager Mike Roarke, whose steady leadership focused on refining the roster for sustained competitiveness. The team built on prior gains with a balanced lineup, led by Tommie Reynolds' .307 average, 16 home runs, and 80 , while pitcher Ken Reynolds secured 15 wins, demonstrating continued progress in player evaluation and development within the ' affiliation. Attendance held at 114,113, averaging 1,678 per game, reflecting a stable fan base despite the non-winning season, supported by ongoing community ties like media collaborations that kept the team relevant locally. Financially, this period established viability through consistent draw, with no major deficits reported, as the early championships and promotions helped embed the Triplets in 's identity, paving the way for future growth without over-reliance on star power.

Championship Era (1974–1979)

The Evansville Triplets entered their affiliation with the in 1974, marking the beginning of a more stable era under manager Fred Hatfield, who guided the team to a 68-67 record and a third-place finish in the American Association's East Division. The roster evolved with the addition of promising Tigers prospects like outfielder Reggie Sanders, who led the team with 14 home runs and 88 RBIs, and infielder Dan Meyer, who topped the at .302, contributing to a balanced offense that scored 666 runs while the pitching staff, anchored by Vern Ruhle's 13 wins and Fred Holdsworth's 3.24 , allowed just 599 runs. This season laid foundational roster changes, integrating speed and power hitters such as , setting the stage for future successes through targeted scouting of athletic talents from the Tigers' system. In 1975, Hatfield's managerial tactics emphasized resilience and late-season surges, as the Triplets rebounded from a dismal May-June stretch of 19 losses in 23 games to post a 49-23 record from June 22 onward, clinching the East Division with a 77-59 mark, 5½ games ahead of the . Key roster evolutions included the mid-season call-up of pitcher from Montgomery, who went 4-1 with a 1.58 ERA in six starts, including the division-clinching victory over Omaha on August 27. Offensively, outfielder Bob Molinaro paced the team with 13 home runs, 75 RBIs, and 26 stolen bases, while the pitching staff excelled in saves, led by Steve Grilli's 12. Internal team culture flourished with boosted morale from these comebacks, as Hatfield noted post-championship: "I never saw a more deserving team. I’m very proud of these guys, the way they came off the floor and fought back," reflecting a determined group that included future managers like , Bruce Kimm, and . The 1976 season under returning manager Hatfield saw a dip to 55-81 and fourth place in the East Division, but roster evolutions continued with the development of young talents like Steve Kemp and Jason Thompson, amid a pitching staff led by Ed Glynn's 9 wins and 3.59 . Batting highlights included Bob Molinaro's team-leading .289 average and 67 RBIs, alongside Marv Lane's 13 home runs, though the team's overall output of 533 runs scored highlighted challenges in maintaining offensive momentum from the prior year. Despite the record, scouting innovations from the affiliation brought in versatile players like Phil Mankowski, fostering a culture of perseverance as the team integrated -caliber prospects despite subpar results. Under new manager Les Moss in , the Triplets improved to 65-68 and third in the East Division, with a team batting average of .273 and 130 home runs, driven by catcher 's 25 homers and 90 , and Norberto Molina's .303 average with 91 RBIs. Pitching stats showed 's standout 9-4 record and 2.44 over 107 innings, complemented by 's 6-7 mark and 3.60 ERA, indicating tactical shifts toward a strong rotation that struck out 823 batters while posting a 4.32 team ERA. Roster evolutions featured the promotion of power hitters like Tim Corcoran (.346 average in limited action), enhancing team dynamics and morale through competitive internal battles for positions among Tigers prospects. Moss's leadership in 1978 propelled the team to a 78-58 record and second place in the East Division, with defensive prowess allowing only 571 runs while scoring 675, led offensively by Dave Stegman's 14 and 67 , and Rick Peters's .276 . Pitcher Kip Young anchored the staff with a 3.02 , and Sheldon Burnside's 14 wins highlighted a rotation that emphasized and endurance, drawing an average of 1,604 fans per game at . Team culture benefited from this success, with roster evolutions incorporating veterans like Boots Day alongside prospects such as Dan Petry, promoting a cohesive environment focused on preparation and execution. The 1979 championship run under manager culminated in an 78-58 record and first place in the East Division, followed by a 4-2 playoff victory over the Oklahoma City 89ers, powered by 's 16 home runs and 80 RBIs, and Rick Peters's .320 batting average. Pitching excellence was evident in 's 3.00 and Fred Holdsworth's 10 wins, as the team scored 724 runs while allowing 617, reflecting scouting innovations that integrated stars like , , and into a high-morale unit that averaged 1,769 fans per game. Leyland's tactical acumen in blending veteran leadership with young talent fostered a winning culture, evident in their dominant regular season and postseason performance.

Final Years and Challenges (1980–1984)

The Evansville Triplets entered the following a period of notable success, including American Association titles in 1972, 1975, and 1979, but the team faced increasing difficulties that marked a decline in performance and viability. In the 1980 season, the Triplets finished with a 61-74 record, placing them below and out of playoff contention in the American Association. Attendance figures for that year reflected early signs of waning fan interest, contributing to operational strains amid broader economic pressures in . The 1981 campaign offered a brief resurgence, with the team compiling a 73-63 record and capturing first place in the East Division, though they fell short in the playoffs. Total attendance reached 113,167, averaging approximately 1,664 fans per home game at , but this uptick did not sustain long-term stability. By , performance regressed to a 68-65 mark, leaving the Triplets in fourth place in their division and highlighting ongoing challenges in maintaining competitive rosters. The following year, 1983, saw further decline with a 61-75 record, as the team struggled in the standings. The 1984 season encapsulated the era's troubles, ending with a franchise-worst 72-82 record and 6th place in the league. Attendance plummeted to 100,326 for the year, averaging just 1,303 per game, exacerbated by low turnout at key home contests. Efforts to bolster the roster through changes in personnel failed to reverse the slide, as injuries and inconsistent play hampered results. External factors compounded these on-field issues, including an economic downturn in Evansville during the that reduced for entertainment and intensified competition from other local sports options. Marketing initiatives and promotional events, such as special appearances at games, were attempted to boost engagement but could not offset the persistent drop in fan support and financial viability.

Achievements

League Titles

The Evansville Triplets captured their first American Association championship in 1972, sweeping the Wichita Aeros 3-0 in a best-of-five series that highlighted their offensive and pitching dominance amid a competitive league landscape featuring strong affiliates like the Chicago Cubs' Wichita team. The series began on September 5 with a 6-3 home victory for Evansville, setting an early tone of resilience against a West Division leader that had posted an 87-53 regular-season record. On September 6, the Triplets secured a 1-0 shutout win, showcasing airtight defense and pitching that limited Wichita to no runs, a decisive moment that underscored their ability to control tight contests. The sweep was completed on September 8 with an 11-5 road rout, where Evansville's bats erupted for a significant offensive outburst, clinching the title and boosting team morale as their inaugural championship in just the franchise's third season. Star performances from regular-season leaders like Bob Coluccio (79 runs scored, All-Star outfielder), Wilbur Howard (155 hits), Bob Hansen (25 home runs, All-Star first baseman), and Lloyd Gladden (15 wins, All-Star pitcher) were instrumental in the playoff success, providing the depth needed to overcome a formidable opponent. This victory, in a year marked by a shortened playoff due to the upcoming World Baseball Championship, elevated the Triplets' standing in the American Association and fostered a sense of momentum for future contention. In 1975, the claimed their second American Association title by defeating the Denver Bears 4-2 in a best-of-seven series, a hard-fought battle that reflected the league's growing parity between East and West divisions and significantly enhanced team confidence heading into postseason play. The series opened on September 2 with a 7-2 loss for Evansville, putting them in an early 1-0 hole against a Bears squad that had dominated the West with an 81-55 record. They rebounded on September 3 with a 6-4 win to tie the series, followed by a decisive 7-1 rout on September 4 that shifted momentum through strong collective hitting and pitching. After a 4-3 victory on September 6 to lead 3-1, Denver clawed back with a 4-3 win on September 7, but Evansville sealed the championship on September 8 with another nail-biting 4-3 triumph, where clutch plays in the late innings proved pivotal. Key contributors included pitcher Steve Grilli, who tied for the league lead in (.733) and anchored the rotation, while the team's resilience in winning two one-run games demonstrated improved morale and adaptability under manager Fred Hatfield. This title, coming four years after their first, positioned the Triplets as a powerhouse affiliate of the Detroit Tigers and directly led to their participation in the Junior World Series. secured their third and final American Association championship in 1979, edging the Oklahoma City 89ers 4-2 in a best-of-seven series that exemplified their perseverance in a league known for its talent pipeline to the , ultimately galvanizing the roster under new manager . took a 1-0 lead on September 1 with an 8-4 win, only for Oklahoma City to respond with a 10-2 blowout on September 2 and a 7-1 victory on September 3, putting the Triplets down 2-1. A dramatic comeback ensued on September 4, as Evansville won 9-8 in , tying the series at 2-2 in a game defined by that reignited team spirit. They followed with a commanding 9-3 triumph on September 5 to lead 3-2, then clinched the title on September 6 with a 7-3 decision, where steady execution in the final game highlighted their ability to close out under pressure. Standout catcher Bruce Kimm earned All-Star honors for his defensive contributions, while Leyland's managerial acumen, also recognized with an All-Star nod, was crucial in navigating the series' swings and fostering a unified squad morale boost after a four-year title drought. This victory, atop the East Division with a 78-58 record as the ' affiliate, reinforced the Triplets' competitive edge in the American Association's 72nd season.

Junior World Series Victory

The Evansville Triplets qualified for the 1975 Junior World Series after capturing the American Association title. The series, a best-of-seven matchup against the champion Tidewater Tides, began on September 11, 1975, at Tidewater Stadium in Portsmouth, Virginia, and marked the final edition of the historic minor league postseason tournament. Game 1 resulted in a 4-0 shutout victory for , with pitcher Mark Lemongello delivering a four-hit complete game that set an early tone of dominance. Game 2 was rained out, leading to a doubleheader schedule adjustment, but the series proceeded with Evansville securing a 6-1 win in Game 3 behind strong offensive support. Tidewater responded in Game 4 with a narrow 1-0 triumph, as Bill Laxton tossed a two-hitter against Evansville's , who allowed just six hits in a tight pitchers' duel. The series shifted to in Evansville for Game 5, where the Triplets prevailed 2-1 thanks to effective pitching from Frank McCormack. The decisive Game 6 on September 16 ended with an 8-5 Evansville victory before a crowd of 2,621 fans, clinching the series 4-1 overall (with one rainout tie). In that finale, Tidewater jumped to a 5-0 lead through early errors and timely hits, but Evansville mounted a comeback in the fifth inning highlighted by Marvin Lane's three-run homer (scoring Art James, Bob Molinaro, and himself) to make it 5-3 and Ed Kurpiel's two-run homer (scoring Bruce Kimm and himself) to tie the game at 5-5; the Triplets then surged ahead in the seventh with John Gamble's RBI single and Boots Day's sacrifice bunt, adding an insurance run in the eighth on errors by Tidewater's defense. Key contributions came from across the Evansville roster, blending pitching prowess and clutch hitting. , who had gone 4-1 with a 1.58 during the regular season, started Game 4 despite the loss and exemplified the team's resilience. Tom Makowski earned the Game 6 win in relief after Mark Lemongello started, with Makowski retiring the final 13 Tidewater batters with five strikeouts to seal the championship. Offensively, Bob Molinaro (team leader with 13 home runs and 75 RBIs in the regular season) singled to ignite the fifth-inning rally, while Art James went 4-for-5 and Bruce Kimm added a key single. Future big-league managers like , , and Bruce Kimm, along with reliever Steve Grilli (11 wins and 12 saves in ), provided depth and leadership. For Tidewater, standouts like Mike Vail (.342 average, 79 RBIs) and Bill Laxton (11-4, 2.49 ERA) mounted challenges but couldn't overcome Evansville's momentum. This victory represented the Triplets' sole postseason championship and cemented their place in history as the final winners of the Junior World Series, a tradition dating back to 1904 that pitted American Association and International League champions against each other until its discontinuation in December 1975 due to financial and scheduling issues. The triumph underscored Evansville's role in nurturing talent during a transitional era for , highlighting the city's supportive fanbase at . Post-series celebrations in were marked by manager Fred Hatfield's praise for his team's comeback spirit, declaring, “I never saw a more deserving team. I’m very proud of these guys, the way they came off the floor and fought back.” The victory prompted immediate promotions for five Triplets players—, Bob Molinaro, Steve Grilli, Chuck Scrivener, and Ed Glynn—to the Detroit Tigers for the major league season's remainder, accelerating their paths to the big leagues. Long-term effects included standout careers for several participants, notably , who joined the Tigers and won 19 games in en route to American League Rookie of the Year honors, while others like Bruce Kimm and Jerry Manuel later managed in .

Notable Figures

Players

The Evansville Triplets roster featured several players who went on to successful careers, particularly during their affiliations with the , , and Detroit Tigers, which provided a pipeline for talent development. Notable among them was , who pitched for the Triplets in their inaugural 1970 season as the , appearing in 8 games and recording a standout performance with 17 strikeouts in one outing before advancing to the majors where he became a Hall of Famer with over 3,700 career strikeouts. Similarly, played as a catcher for the Triplets in 1972 during the , honing his skills in Evansville before establishing himself in MLB as a three-time All-Star and World Series champion with the St. Louis Cardinals. During the Detroit Tigers era starting in 1974, the Triplets developed several future stars, including outfielder Kirk Gibson, who spent time with the team in 1979 before his debut. Catcher also progressed through Evansville in 1977, where he led the team with 25 home runs in 116 games, paving the way for a 19-year MLB career that included nine All-Star selections and a 1984 World Series win with the Tigers. Pitcher , known as "The Bird," pitched for the Triplets in 1974 and 1975, posting a 1.58 in 1975 over 6 starts, which propelled him to honors and a 19-win season in his 1976 MLB debut with Detroit. Infielder Howard Johnson played in Evansville during 1982, hitting .317 with power potential that translated to a solid MLB career, including a 30-30 season in 1987 with the New York Mets. Pitcher appeared for the Triplets in 1977, refining his craft before becoming a four-time 20-game winner in MLB and a 1984 World Series hero en route to induction. Ron LeFlore, an with a remarkable story of rising from prison to the pros, had a brief but impactful stint with the Triplets in 1975, playing nine games after batting .331 with 45 stolen bases in earlier that year, which accelerated his path to where he led the in stolen bases in 1980 with 97 for the Detroit Tigers. The Triplets' rosters also included players like Larry Pashnick, who pitched for Evansville from 1981 to 1983 and threw a in 1981 before brief MLB appearances with the Tigers and . In terms of team records, the Triplets' home run leaders included with 25 in 1977. Batting standouts specific to the team's history included players like Bob Molinaro, who posted a .287 average in 1975 while contributing 13 home runs during their Junior World Series-winning campaign. Regarding diversity and recruitment, the Triplets' rosters reflected the ' scouting trends, drawing talent from various regions including and those from urban areas, as seen in the inclusion of prospects like LeFlore from Detroit's system, though specific trends evolved with each parent's emphasis on .

Managers and Staff

The Evansville Triplets employed a series of managers over their 15-year existence in the American Association, with leadership changes often reflecting shifts in affiliate partnerships and team performance. Early managers focused on establishing the franchise, while later ones contributed to championship successes. Key figures included interim arrangements in the inaugural season and long-tenured leaders during the Detroit Tigers affiliation. Ralph Rowe served as the Triplets' first manager in 1970, posting a 60-64 record amid challenges, including a 14-game absence due to family illness that required interim management. During his absence, a player committee of , Jim Glover, and Hoss Bowlin handled seven games with a 3-4 mark, followed by scout for the remaining seven games at 4-3; this unusual setup highlighted early organizational improvisation but did not derail the season's overall effort. Del Crandall managed from 1971 to mid-1972, achieving a 60-78 record in 1971 and 20-17 in his partial 1972 stint, followed by interim manager Al Widmar (5-2), before the team transitioned to other leaders en route to that year's league title. Mike Roarke took over for most of 1972 and all of 1973, recording 58-38 in 1972—contributing to the American Association championship—and 66-70 in 1973, emphasizing consistent play during the affiliation. Fred Hatfield led from 1974 to 1976 under the , with records of 68-67 in 1974, a championship-winning 77-59 in 1975, and 55-81 in 1976; his tenure marked the start of sustained success, including the 1975 Junior World Series victory. Les Moss managed in 1977 and 1978, posting 65-68 in 1977 and a strong 78-58 in 1978 that earned him American Association Manager of the Year honors from both the league and , crediting his development of catchers like through rigorous defensive training. 's –1981 stint was pivotal, with 78-58 and a league title in 1979, 61-74 in , and 73-63 in ; his strategic acumen fostered a winning culture, including division titles in 1979 and 1981, though playoff appearances were limited. Roy Majtyka handled at 68-65, while Gordon Mackenzie closed out the franchise in 1983–1984 with 61-75 and 72-82 records, respectively, amid declining attendance and performance. Les Moss exemplified a philosophy centered on player fundamentals and preparation, which boosted defensive skills and contributed to the 1978 runner-up finish, though broader coaching philosophies for other managers are less documented. Behind-the-scenes staff played crucial roles in player development, particularly scouts like , whose 1970 interim stint demonstrated scouting acumen in temporary leadership. Trainers and other support personnel are sparsely recorded, but the 1970 player committee's involvement underscored informal staff contributions to team stability during transitions. Turnover was frequent, with nine primary managers over 15 seasons averaging about 1.7 years per tenure; changes often correlated with performance upticks, such as post-1970 adjustments leading to the 1972 title and Hatfield's arrival aligning with the 1975 championship, while later shifts like 's exit preceded declining results in 1982–1984.
ManagerTenureWin-Loss RecordNotable Achievement
Ralph Rowe197060-64Inaugural season manager
1971–1972 (partial)60-78 (1971); 20-17 (1972)Transition to championship year
Al Widmar1972 (interim)5-2 (1972)Brief interim stint
1972 (partial)–197358-38 (1972); 66-70 (1973)1972 league title contributor
Fred Hatfield1974–197668-67 (1974); 77-59 (1975); 55-81 (1976)1975 league and Junior World Series champion
Les Moss1977–197865-68 (1977); 78-58 (1978)1978 Manager of the Year
1979–198178-58 (1979); 61-74 (1980); 73-63 (1981)1979 league title; 1979 & 1981 division winners
Roy Majtyka198268-65Steady mid-table finish
Gordon Mackenzie1983–198461-75 (1983); 72-82 (1984)Final franchise managers

Legacy and Relocation

Move to Nashville

In mid-1984, during the team's final season, the Evansville Triplets were sold to Larry Schmittou, the owner of the , for approximately $780,000, marking a significant ownership change that set the stage for relocation. Originally, Schmittou negotiated a potential swap of franchises with Evansville interests, aiming to move the Triplets to Nashville while bringing the Double-A Sounds to , but these talks collapsed when the city refused to renovate the aging 70-year-old ballpark. Schmittou, along with other Nashville owners, finalized the purchase terms by mid-1984 and proceeded with plans to relocate the entire Triple-A franchise to Nashville for the 1985 season, where it would become the Nashville Sounds and play at an existing ballpark. The economic rationale for the move stemmed primarily from declining attendance and financial struggles in , where the Triplets averaged fewer than 1,300 fans per game in , making it unsustainable without infrastructure improvements that local officials declined to fund. Schmittou's efforts included securing additional funding and even mortgaging his own home to facilitate the acquisition and transition, highlighting the financial risks involved in upgrading to . Logistically, the relocation involved transferring the franchise to , while equipment and operations were shifted to the new city's facilities over the offseason. The Triplets played their final home game at on August 30, 1984, before concluding the season with a road victory on September 3, 1984, against the , after which the team officially ceased operations in Evansville.

Impact on Evansville Baseball

The Evansville Triplets significantly shaped the local baseball culture in Evansville, Indiana, by establishing a tradition of high-level minor league play at that inspired subsequent teams and preserved the venue's status as a community landmark. During their 1970–1984 tenure, the team drew consistent crowds to the historic ballpark, fostering a sense of pride and continuity in professional baseball that carried over after their departure. Bosse Field, which hosted the Triplets, has remained in continuous use for professional games, now home to the independent since 1995, directly filling the void left by the franchise and ensuring the stadium's viability as a hub for baseball events. The Triplets' presence contributed to Evansville's economy through seasonal employment for stadium staff, vendors, and support roles, as well as boosting tourism via out-of-town fans attending games and related activities at . Their success, including multiple league titles, enhanced the city's appeal as a baseball destination, generating revenue from ticket sales and concessions over 15 seasons. Following the 1984 relocation to , an 11-year absence of created an economic and cultural void, with diminished local spending on sports entertainment until the Otters' arrival revitalized attendance and job opportunities in the sector. In terms of lasting legacy, the Triplets are remembered for developing talent that reached the , including future , who played for the team in 1977 as a Detroit Tigers affiliate, and manager , who led the Triplets from 1979 to 1981 before his 2024 induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. These connections have led to local recognition, such as Leyland's ties to Evansville being highlighted in community events and discussions of the team's role in nurturing elite baseball figures. While specific fan narratives from the era remain underrepresented in broader accounts, the Triplets' era is often recalled fondly in local histories for igniting generational interest in the sport, contributing to 's enduring status as a site where over 100 Hall of Famers have played.

References

  1. https://www.baseball-reference.com/bullpen/Evansville_Triplets
  2. https://sabr.org/gamesproj/game/september-16-1975-evansville-becomes-final-junior-world-series-winner/
  3. https://www.milb.com/nashville/team/history
  4. https://www.baseball-reference.com/bullpen/1975_Junior_World_Series
  5. https://www.courierpress.com/story/sports/baseball/2019/07/06/history-professional-baseball-evansville-otters-triplets/1656977001/
  6. https://www.baseball-reference.com/bullpen/1970_American_Association_season
  7. https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/league.cgi?id=11d3a394
  8. https://www.statscrew.com/minorbaseball/roster/t-et11473/y-1970
  9. https://www.statscrew.com/minorbaseball/t-et11473
  10. https://www.baseball-reference.com/bullpen/Bosse_Field
  11. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1992-05-09-sp-1478-story.html
  12. https://www.statscrew.com/minorbaseball/stats/t-et11473/y-1970
  13. https://www.statscrew.com/minorbaseball/roster/t-et11473/y-1971
  14. https://www.statscrew.com/minorbaseball/roster/t-et11473/y-1972
  15. https://www.statscrew.com/minorbaseball/roster/t-et11473/y-1973
  16. https://sabr.org/bioproj/person/kirk-gibson/
  17. https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=gibson001kir
  18. https://www.pdclarion.com/sports/local_sports/column-jim-leyland-s-evansville-days-bring-back-great-memories/article_213af8d1-d62c-5e74-bda8-29f80b2248a0.html
  19. https://www.thebaseballcube.com/content/player/11862/
  20. https://www.evansvilleliving.com/our-70s-story/
  21. https://www.statscrew.com/minorbaseball/roster/t-et11473/y-1974
  22. https://www.statscrew.com/minorbaseball/roster/t-et11473/y-1976
  23. https://www.thebaseballcube.com/content/stats_minor/1977~10517/
  24. https://www.statscrew.com/minorbaseball/roster/t-et11473/y-1978
  25. https://www.statscrew.com/minorbaseball/roster/t-et11473/y-1979
  26. https://www.statscrew.com/minorbaseball/roster/t-et11473/y-1980
  27. https://www.courierpress.com/story/sports/2018/07/19/geography-size-leave-evansville-sports-stuck-middle/789292002/
  28. https://www.statscrew.com/minorbaseball/stats/t-et11473/y-1981
  29. https://www.thebaseballcube.com/content/minor_summary/1981~Amer/
  30. https://www.thebaseballcube.com/content/stats_minor/1982~10517/
  31. https://www.thebaseballcube.com/content/stats_minor/1983~10517/
  32. https://www.baseball-reference.com/bullpen/1984_American_Association_season
  33. https://www.statscrew.com/minorbaseball/roster/t-et11473/y-1984
  34. https://www.thebaseballcube.com/content/stats_minor/1984~10517/
  35. https://www.pbs.org/video/wnin-documentaries-bosse-field-evansvilles-historic-ballpark-turns-100/
  36. https://www.baseball-reference.com/bullpen/1972_American_Association_season
  37. https://www.baseball-reference.com/bullpen/1975_American_Association_season
  38. https://www.baseball-reference.com/bullpen/1979_American_Association_season
  39. https://www.thebaseballcube.com/content/player/16354/
  40. https://sabr.org/bioproj/person/ron-leflore
  41. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddelpQkAYQU
  42. https://www.statscrew.com/minorbaseball/leaders/t-et11473
  43. https://sabr.org/bioproj/person/les-moss/
  44. https://www.thebaseballcube.com/content/minor_team/10517/
  45. https://funwhileitlasted.net/2015/10/03/1970-1984-evansville-triplets/
  46. https://funwhileitlasted.net/valuations/franchise-sale-prices-baseball/
  47. https://www.courierpress.com/story/sports/2018/12/13/5-evansville-sports-teams-have-come-and-gone/2227406002/
  48. https://www.al.com/sports/2014/01/a_timeline_of_huntsville_stars.html
  49. https://www.evansvilleliving.com/a-swing-and-a-hit/
  50. https://ballparkdigest.com/2015/06/17/bosse-field-a-century-of-baseball-history/
  51. https://www.tristatehomepage.com/sports/jim-leyland-elected-to-baseballs-hall-of-fame-becomes-23rd-manager-in-cooperstown/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.