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Reading Fightin Phils
Team logo Cap insignia
Minor league affiliations
ClassDouble-A (1967–present)
LeagueEastern League (1967–present)
DivisionNortheast Division
Major league affiliations
TeamPhiladelphia Phillies (1967–present)
Minor league titles
League titles (4)
  • 1968
  • 1973
  • 1995
  • 2001[a]
Division titles (4)
  • 1995
  • 2000
  • 2015
  • 2016
Team data
NameReading Fightin Phils (2013–present)
Previous names
Reading Phillies (1967–2012)
ColorsRed, nighttime navy, cream, white
       
MascotScrewball (1988–present)
Change-Up the Turtle (2000–present)
Blooper the Hound Dog (2000–present)
Quack the Duck (2000–present)
Bucky the Beaver (2000–present)
The Sillie Phillie (1981–1987)
BallparkFirstEnergy Stadium
Owner/
Operator
Philadelphia Phillies
General managerScott Hunsicker
ManagerAl Pedrique
Websitemilb.com/reading

The Reading Fightin Phils (also called the Reading Fightins) are a Minor League Baseball team based in Reading, Pennsylvania, playing in the Northeast Division of the Eastern League. The team plays their home games at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Reading Fightin Phils were founded in 1967 as the Reading Phillies (commonly referred to as the R-Phils and sometimes Reading Phils) and they have been the Double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies since 1967. This affiliation is currently tied for the longest affiliation in Minor League Baseball. The Phillies bought the team outright in 2008. Many fans still refer to the team as the Reading Phillies or R-Phils.

The franchise has always been based in Reading and maintained its original name "Reading Phillies" from its establishment in 1967 through 2012. The Reading Fightin Phils are the oldest team in the Eastern League to play in their original and current city with the most seasons under their original name (Reading Phillies).

The Fightin Phils' stadium, FirstEnergy Stadium which was built in 1951 and was previously known as Reading Municipal Memorial Stadium, has been home to the Reading Fightin Phils since their establishment in 1967. The stadium seats 10,000 fans, and on July 3, 2007, the stadium celebrated their ten-millionth fan to attend a game.

The Fightin Phils won the Eastern League championship in 1968, 1973, and 1995, and were co-champions in 2001. The 1983 Phillies were recognized as one of the 100 greatest minor league teams of all time.[1]

History of baseball in Reading

[edit]

Early baseball in Reading (1858–1932)

[edit]

Reading's first official baseball team, the Reading Athletic Club, formed in November 1858 and, for the next 15 years, played other local teams for unofficial championships and bragging rights.

The Reading Actives date their existence to 1874.[2] After the National Agreement of 1883, which organized major and minor leagues, the Actives became a member of the Interstate Association, one of the two original minor leagues. The Actives went 33–35 in 1883 against teams from Brooklyn, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Trenton, New Jersey, Wilmington, Delaware, Pottsville, Pennsylvania, and Camden, New Jersey (which disbanded that July), finishing in third place before the league folded after the season.

In 1884 the Active Club became founding members of the Eastern League of Professional Base Ball Clubs.[3] The Actives played sporadically for the next 12 years.

The Reading Coal Heavers played in the Atlantic League from 1897 until the league disbanded in mid-June 1900. During this time, Lizzie Arlington became the first woman to play for a professional men's baseball team when she pitched the final inning of a game for the Coal Heavers.[4] Baseball returned to Reading in 1907 when the York White Roses of the Class-B Tri-State League relocated and became the Reading Pretzels. In 1911, the Pretzels finished with the best record in the league, but lost a best-of-seven postseason series to the team from Trenton. On June 14 of that season, George "Jake" Northrop pitched the only perfect nine-inning game in Reading baseball history. The Tri-State League folded after the 1914 season, but the Pretzels were resurrected when the Albany Senators of the New York State League relocated to Reading in August 1916. That league folded at the end of 1917 due to the first World War.

Beginning in 1919, Reading played in the Class-AAA International League with the Reading Coal Barons. Several future major leaguers played for the Reading team, owned by the Chicago Cubs from May 1927 until the end of 1930, including shortstop Bill Jurges and pitcher Lon Warneke. In August 1929, George Quellich set a professional baseball record that still stands today by collecting 15 hits in 15 consecutive at-bats.

Reading in the Eastern League (1933–1966)

[edit]

Reading became home to the Class-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox in the New York–Penn League (now the Eastern League) in 1933. The Reading Red Sox had a successful two-year run before the team moved to Allentown (this franchise is now defunct).

Five years later, Reading got another baseball franchise—this time, an unaffiliated team in the Class-B Interstate League called the Reading Chicks, which lost the league title series to the Lancaster Red Roses. In 1941, the Chicks affiliated with the Brooklyn Dodgers as the Reading Brooks, featuring future Dodger outfielder Carl Furillo. The franchise folded after the '41 season, and Reading was without a team for 10 years.

In 1952, the Wilkes-Barre Indians, an affiliate of the Cleveland Indians relocated to Reading to become the Reading Indians. The Reading Indians played at Municipal Memorial Stadium for the next decade, capturing the league title in 1957. Several Indians went on to successful major-league careers, including Rocky Colavito and Roger Maris. The Reading Indians franchise relocated to Charleston, West Virginia in 1961 to become the Charleston Indians, Reading was without professional baseball for that year.

For the 1962 season, the Williamsport Grays moved to Reading and became the second Reading Red Sox team, serving as a Boston Red Sox affiliate for two years, owned by Joe Buzas. The new Reading Red Sox relocated to Pittsfield, Massachusetts, and were renamed Pittsfield Red Sox (this Eastern League franchise was later the New Britain Rock Cats and is now the Hartford Yard Goats).

The Cleveland Indians relocated the Charleston Indians back to Reading after the Reading Red Sox relocated to Pittsfield, the Charleston Indians was once again known as the Reading Indians for one more year before relocating again. Reading was without a baseball team in 1966 before a new Eastern League expansion franchise was established in Reading in 1967 which became known as the Reading Phillies.

Reading Phillies/Reading Fightin Phils (1967–present)

[edit]

The Reading Phillies debuted at Municipal Stadium on April 22, 1967, against the York White Roses.[5]

The Fightin Phils' affiliation with the Big Phils has lasted unbroken since 1967. The Reading Fightin Phils' relationship with the Philadelphia Phillies was solidified even further when the Philadelphia Phillies purchased the then "Reading Phillies" in 2008. With the end of the 53-year relationship between the Baltimore Orioles and their rookie-league team in Bluefield, West Virginia, after the 2010 season, the Reading/Philadelphia partnership became the longest current affiliation in Minor League Baseball (tied with the Lakeland/Detroit affiliation).

On November 4, 2012, news broke that the Reading Phillies would be changing their name. On November 17, 2012, the team announced that its new name would be the Reading Fightin Phils.[6]

In conjunction with Major League Baseball's restructuring of Minor League Baseball in 2021, the team was organized into the Double-A Northeast.[7] In 2022, the Double-A Northeast became known as the Eastern League, the name historically used by the regional circuit prior to the 2021 reorganization.[8]

Logos and uniforms

[edit]

The team colors of the Reading Fightin Phils are Phillies red, nighttime navy, cream, and white. Their logo consists of a white and gray ostrich outlined in blue with flesh-colored beak and legs putting up his fists in a fighting stance, with the red block "READING" and blue script "Fightin Phils" wordmark right above it. There is also an alternate logo with said ostrich's upper body in a blue circle outlined in red, surrounded by a red burst and "READING" and "PENNSYLVANIA" tilted near the top and bottom, respectively.

The Fightin Phils' home uniforms resemble those of their Philadelphia parent. The caps are navy blue, and feature either a red feathered "R", or the aforementioned ostrich logo without the wordmarks. The home jerseys are cream and have traditional red pinstripes, but are given a faux-flannel look to the design. In the center is the red "Fightin Phils" wordmark with the player's number in red right below it. On the left sleeve is the aforementioned circular alternate logo, with the parent Phillies' red "P" logo on the right sleeve.

The Fightin Phils' road uniforms, on the other hand, carry an almost completely different visual identity. That identity's primary logo (officially an alternate for the team) consists of a hot dog named "Bunbino" inside a bun with muscular arms and wearing a blue baseball cap, a white jersey with pinstripes, yellow wristbands, and a mustard "B" on the chest. In his right arm, Bunbino squeezes a mustard bottle to form a mustard circle inside the surrounding sky blue circle. Inside the mustard circle but surrounding Bunbino, are the words "READING" and "PENNSYLVANIA" as in the ostrich alternate logo, but in a different yellow font, separated by a mustard stain. The caps are sky blue with Bunbino from the aforementioned logo. Like the home white jersey, the road gray jersey is given a faux-flannel effect; it carries blue piping on the chest and sleeves with a mustard script "Baseballtown" wordmark outlined in sky blue and black, with the player's number in sky blue right below it. On the left sleeve is the aforementioned Bunbino primary logo, with the Phillies' "P" on the right sleeve again.

The Fightin Phils have two alternate uniforms, one home and one away. The home alternate cap is navy blue with a white feathered "F" with an ostrich fist serving as the middle stem. The home alternate jersey is navy blue with white undersleeves, carrying the white "Fightins" feathered script and the player's number in white below it; the ostrich is on the left sleeve and the Phillies "P" on the right. The alternate jersey for road and select home games is black with sky blue undersleeves, with the aforementioned "Baseballtown" wordmark on the chest, Bunbino on the left sleeve, and the Phillies "P" on the right. When this jersey is worn on the road, the Fightin Phils will wear a black cap with Bunbino; when at home they will wear a sky blue cap with the mustard "B".

Season-by-season records

[edit]
  • Championship seasons in bold
  • 1967: 70–69, manager Frank Lucchesi, 6th in Eastern League, 3rd in West Division
  • 1968: 81–59, manager Frank Lucchesi, 2nd in EL
  • 1969: 81–59, manager Bob Wellman, 2nd in EL
  • 1970: 78–63, manager Andy Seminick, 2nd in EL
  • 1971: 72–67, manager Nolan Campbell, 2nd in EL, 2nd in National Division
  • 1972: 70–69, manager Jim Bunning, 5th in EL, 4th in South Division
  • 1973: 76–62, manager Cal Emery, 2nd in EL, 1st in National Division, Won League Championship
  • 1974: 69–66, manager Bob Wellman, 4th in EL, 3rd in National Division
  • 1975: 84–53, manager Bob Wellman, 1st in EL
  • 1976: 54–82, managers Bob Wellman and Granny Hamner (final 34 games), 7th in EL, 3rd in South Division
  • 1977: 63–57, manager Lee Elia, 7th in EL, 3rd in Canadian/American Division
  • 1978: 79–57, manager Lee Elia, 2nd in EL
  • 1979: 77–61, manager Jim Snyder, 2nd in EL
  • 1980: 78–61, manager Ron Clark, T-2nd in EL, 2nd in South Division
  • 1981: 76–63, manager Ron Clark, 3rd in EL, 2nd in South Division
  • 1982: 63–75, manager John Felske, 5th in EL, 3rd in South Division
  • 1983: 96–44, manager Bill Dancy, 1st in EL
  • 1984: 56–83, manager Bill Dancy, 8th in EL
  • 1985: 58–79, manager Tony Taylor, 8th in EL
  • 1986: 77–59, manager George Culver, 1st in EL
  • 1987: 76–63, manager George Culver, 3rd in EL
  • 1988: 67–69, manager Bill Dancy, 5th in EL
  • 1989: 68–71, manager Mike Hart, 4th in EL
  • 1990: 55–82, manager Don McCormack, 8th in EL
  • 1991: 72–68, manager Don McCormack, 5th in EL
  • 1992: 61–77, manager Don McCormack, 6th in EL
  • 1993: 62–78, manager Don McCormack, 7th in EL
  • 1994: 58–82, manager Bill Dancy, 9th in EL, 4th in South Division
  • 1995: 73–69, manager Bill Dancy, T-3rd in EL, T-1st in South; Playoffs: Defeated Trenton 3–0, Defeated New Haven 3–2, Won League Championship
  • 1996: 66–75, manager Bill Robinson, T-7th in EL, 4th in South
  • 1997: 74–68, manager Al LeBoeuf, 4th in EL, 3rd in South
  • 1998: 56–85, manager Al LeBoeuf, 10th in EL, 5th in South
  • 1999: 73–69, manager Gary Varsho, 3rd in EL, 5th in South
  • 2000: 85–57, manager Gary Varsho, 1st in EL, 1st in South; Playoffs: Defeated Harrisburg 3–0, lost to New Haven 3–1
  • 2001: 77–65, manager Gary Varsho, T-4th in EL, 2nd in South; Playoffs: Defeated Erie 3–1 in semifinals, Declared league co-champions with New Britain when championship series was canceled due to the September 11, 2001 attacks
  • 2002: 76–66, manager Greg Legg, 4th in EL, 3rd in South
  • 2003: 62–79, manager Greg Legg, 10th in EL, 5th in South
  • 2004: 64–77, manager Greg Legg, 9th in EL, 4th in South
  • 2005: 69–73, manager Steve Swisher, 8th in EL, 4th in South
  • 2006: 71–69, manager P. J. Forbes, 5th in EL, 3rd in South
  • 2007: 70–71, manager P. J. Forbes, 7th in EL, 5th in South
  • 2008: 53–89, manager P. J. Forbes, 12th in EL, 6th in South
  • 2009: 75–67, manager Steve Roadcap, 3rd in EL, 2nd in South; Playoffs: Lost to Akron 3–0 in semifinals
  • 2010: 69–72, manager Steve Roadcap, 8th in EL, 4th in East
  • 2011: 74–68, manager Mark Parent (baseball), 5th in EL, 2nd in East; Playoffs: Lost to New Hampshire Fisher Cats 3–1 in semifinals
  • 2012: 76–66, manager Dusty Wathan, 4th in EL, 2nd in East; Playoffs: Lost to Trenton Thunder 3–1 in semifinals
  • 2013: 62–80, manager Dusty Wathan, 12th in EL, 6th in East
  • 2014: 66–76, manager Dusty Wathan, 10th in EL, 6th in East
  • 2015: 80–61, manager Dusty Wathan, 1st in EL, 1st in East; Playoffs: Defeated Binghamton Mets 3–0 in semifinals, Lost to Bowie Baysox 3–2 in League Championship
  • 2016: 89–52, manager Dusty Wathan, 1st in EL, 1st in East; Playoffs: Lost to Trenton Thunder 3–1 in semifinals
  • 2017: 72–68, manager Greg Legg, T-4th in EL, 3rd in East
  • 2018: 64–73, manager Greg Legg, 8th in EL, 4th in East
  • 2019: 80–59, manager Shawn Williams, 1st in EL, 1st in East; Playoffs: Lost to Trenton Thunder 3–0 in semifinals.
  • 2020: MILB season was canceled as the MLB decided not to provide players for the minor leagues in light of COVID-19
  • 2021: 48–65, manager Shawn Williams, 10th in Double-A Northeast, 5th in Northeast
  • 2022: 61–77, manager Shawn Williams, 9th in EL, 4th in Northeast
  • 2023: 59–77, manager Al Pedrique, T-10th in EL, 5th in Northeast
  • 2024: 59–78, manager Al Pedrique, 11th in EL, 5th in Northeast
  • 2025: 55–81, manager Al Pedrique, 12th in EL, 5th in Northeast

Roster

[edit]
Reading Fightin Phils roster
Players Coaches/Other

Pitchers

  • 46 Andrew Baker
  • 11 Gabriel Barbosa
  • -- Kyle Brnovich
  • 57 Jack Dallas
  •  7 Jaydenn Estanista
  • -- Braeden Fausnaught
  • 28 Estibenzon Jimenez
  • 22 Charles King
  • -- Christian McGowan
  • 27 John McMillon
  • -- Wen-Hui Pan
  • 33 Luke Russo
  • -- Levi Stoudt
  • 41 Saul Teran
  • -- Lenny Torres Jr.
  • 33 Cristhian Tortosa
  • 25 Braydon Tucker

Catchers

  • 15 Lou Albrecht
  • 51 Kehden Hettiger
  • 19 Caleb Ricketts

Infielders

Outfielders

Manager

Coaches

  • 35 Brad Bergesen (pitching)
  • 39 Karl Ellison (development)
  • -- Travis Hergert (roving hitting instructor)
  •  4 Mycal Jones (bench)
  • 37 Riley McCauley (pitching)
  • 41 Tom Slater (hitting)

Notable alumni

[edit]
See also: Category:Reading Phillies players
Ryne Sandberg
Mike Lieberthal
  • Larry Bowa, SS, Philadelphia (1970–81), Chicago Cubs (1982–85), New York Mets (1985), played in 155 games for Reading in 1967–68
  • Greg Luzinski, OF, Philadelphia (1970–80), Chicago White Sox (1981–84), played in 141 games for Reading in 1970
  • Bob Boone, C, Philadelphia (1972–81), California (1982–88), Kansas City (1989–90), played in 112 games for Reading in 1970–71
  • Mike Schmidt, 3B, Philadelphia (1972–89), played in 74 games for Reading in 1971
  • Willie Hernández, P, Chicago Cubs (1977–83), Philadelphia (1983), Detroit (1984–89), played for Reading in 1975
  • George Bell, LF/OF, Toronto (1981; 1983–90), Chicago Cubs (1991), Chicago White Sox (1992–93), played in 22 games for Reading in 1980
  • Mark Davis, P, Philadelphia (1980–81; 1993), San Francisco (1983–87), San Diego (1987–89; 1993–94), Kansas City (1990–92), Atlanta (1992), Milwaukee (1997), played in 28 games for Reading in 1980
  • Ryne Sandberg, 2B, Philadelphia (1981), Chicago Cubs (1982–97), played in 129 games (as an SS) for Reading in 1980
  • Julio Franco, SS/2B, Philadelphia (1982), Cleveland (1983–88; 1996–97), Texas (1989–93), Chicago White Sox (1994), Milwaukee (1997), Tampa Bay (1999), Atlanta (2001–05; 2007), New York Mets (2006–07), played 139 games for Reading in 1981
  • Darren Daulton, C, for Philadelphia (1983; 1985–97), Florida (1997), played in 113 games for Reading in 1983 (and in one rehab game in 1991)
  • Juan Samuel, 2B, Philadelphia (1983–89), New York Mets (1989), Los Angeles Dodgers (1990–92), Kansas City (1992; 1995), Cincinnati (1993), Detroit (1994–95), Toronto (1996–98), played in 47 games for Reading in 1983
  • Mickey Morandini, 2B, Philadelphia (1990–97; 2000), Chicago Cubs (1998–99), Toronto (2000), played in 48 games for Reading in 1989
  • Mike Lieberthal, C, Philadelphia (1994–2006), Los Angeles Dodgers (2007), Gold Glove-winning All Star, played in 86 games for Reading in 1992 (and in 2 rehab games in 2006)
  • Scott Rolen, 3B, Philadelphia (1996–2002), St. Louis (2002–07), Toronto (2008–09), Cincinnati (2009–12) played in 81 games for Reading in 1995–96.
  • Randy Wolf, P, Philadelphia (1999–2006), Los Angeles Dodgers (2007; 2009), San Diego (2008), Milwaukee (2010–12), Baltimore (2012), Miami (2014), Detroit (2015), played in four games for Reading in 1998 (and in a total of five rehab games)
  • Pat Burrell, LF, Philadelphia (2000–08), Tampa Bay (2009–10), San Francisco (2010), played in 117 games for Reading in 1999 (and in 4 rehab games in 2004)
  • Jimmy Rollins, SS, Philadelphia (2000–14), Los Angeles Dodgers (2015), Chicago White Sox (2016), played in 133 games for Reading in 1999
  • Nick Punto, 2B/SS, Philadelphia (2001–03), Minnesota (2004–10), St. Louis Cardinals (2011), Boston (2012), Los Angeles Dodgers (2012–13), Oakland (2014), played in 121 games for Reading in 2000
  • Geoff Geary, P, Philadelphia (2003–07), Houston (2008–09), played in 51 games for Reading in 2000–01 (and in one rehab game in 2005)
  • Marlon Byrd, CF, Philadelphia (2000–05; 2014), Washington (2005–06), Texas (2007–09), Chicago Cubs (2010–12), Boston (2012), New York Mets (2013), Pittsburgh (2013), Cincinnati (2015), San Francisco (2015), Cleveland (2016), played in 137 games for Reading in 2001 (and in 3 rehab games in 2003)
  • Brett Myers, P, Philadelphia (2002–09), Houston (2010–12), Chicago White Sox (2012), Cleveland (2013), played in 26 games for Reading in 2001
  • Carlos Silva, P, Philadelphia (2002–03), Minnesota (2004–07), Seattle (2008–09), Chicago Cubs (2010), played in 28 games for Reading in 2001 (and 2 rehab games in 2002)
  • Carlos Ruiz, C, Philadelphia (2006–16), Los Angeles Dodgers (2016), Seattle (2017), played in 153 games for Reading in 2003–04 (and 2 rehab games in 2013).
  • Ryan Howard, 1B, Philadelphia (2004–16), played 102 games for Reading in 2004
  • Michael Bourn, OF, Philadelphia (2006–07), Houston (2008–11), Atlanta (2011–12; 2015), Cleveland (2013–15), Arizona (2016), Baltimore (2016), played in 215 games for Reading in 2005–06
  • Gio González, P, Oakland (2008–11), Washington (2012–18), Milwaukee (2018–19), Chicago White Sox (2020–present), played in 27 games for Reading in 2005.
  • Lou Marson, C, Philadelphia (2008–09), Cleveland (2009–13), played in 94 games for Reading in 2008
  • Carlos Carrasco, P, Cleveland (2009–2020), New York Mets (2021–present), played in 34 games for Reading in 2007–08.
  • Domonic Brown, OF, Philadelphia (2010–15), played in 102 games for Reading in 2009–10.
  • Kyle Drabek, P, Toronto (2010–14), Chicago White Sox (2015), Arizona (2016), played in 15 games for Reading in 2009.
  • Michael Schwimer, P, Philadelphia (2011–12), played in 37 games for Reading in 2009–10.
  • Aaron Nola, P, Philadelphia (2015–present), played in 17 games for Reading in 2014–2015.
  • Rhys Hoskins, OF/1B, Philadelphia (2017–present), played in 135 games for Reading in 2016.
  • Scott Kingery, 2B/CF, Philadelphia (2018–present), played in 106 games for Reading in 2016–2017 (and 3 rehab games in 2019).
  • Darin Ruf, DH, Philadelphia Phillies (2012-2016), played in 139 games for Reading in 2012.

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]

Sources

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

Reading Fightin Phils

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Reading Fightin Phils are a team based in , competing as the Double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies in the Eastern League of . Founded in 1967 as the Phillies' affiliate—the longest continuous MLB-minor league partnership in baseball history—the team adopted its current name in 2012 to evoke the spirited "Fightin' Phils" moniker of the parent club, complete with an ostrich mascot symbolizing resilience and speed. They play home games at FirstEnergy Stadium, a historic venue opened in 1951 that seats approximately 7,600 with a total capacity of 10,000 and serves as the oldest ballpark in the Eastern League. Since their affiliation began, the Fightin Phils have established themselves as a of player development, boasting a franchise record of 4,035 wins against 4,028 losses over 8,063 games as of the end of the 2025 season (55-81). The team has captured the Eastern League championship five times during their Phillies affiliation (1968, 1973, 1983, , and 2001 as co-champions), with notable playoff runs including a 3-0 sweep of Trenton in the semifinals and a 3-2 victory over New Haven in the finals. Beyond on-field success, the organization has earned widespread acclaim for its operations and , receiving the Bob Freitas Award for outstanding operations in 1991, 2000, and 2017; the Larry MacPhail Trophy for promotional excellence in 1994 and 1999; and the President's Trophy in 2003 as Baseball's highest honor. FirstEnergy Stadium itself has been recognized as one of the top ballparks, ranking No. 1 by digitalballparks.com in 2001 and No. 3 overall by in 2013. The Fightin Phils' legacy is further defined by their role in nurturing MLB talent, with alumni including Hall of Famers (three-time MVP) and , as well as stars like (2006 NL MVP), (2007 NL MVP), , and current Phillies standouts and . In recent years, the team has continued to develop top prospects, such as 2024 No. 1 Phillies draft pick Aidan Miller and outfielder Justin Crawford (son of former MLB All-Star ), under manager , who led the squad to 118 wins over 2023–2024. Off the field, the Fightin Phils emphasize family-friendly entertainment and community service, drawing consistent crowds—414,262 fans in 2024 alone—and hosting unique promotions like Fiesta Fridays with their alternate "Luchadores de Reading" identity. As they approach their 60th anniversary of affiliation with in 2026, the team remains a vital link in the Phillies' farm system and a beloved fixture in Reading's "Baseballtown" heritage.

Team Overview

Affiliation and League Status

The Reading Fightin Phils have served as the Double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies since their establishment in 1967, marking one of the longest continuous player development partnerships in history. This affiliation endured through the 2021 reorganization of , when the team temporarily competed in Double-A Northeast before the league rebranded back to the Eastern League in 2022. As part of this structure, the Fightin Phils contribute to the Phillies' farm system by developing prospects through a balanced schedule of games focused on skill-building and competition within the Double-A level. The team competes in the Eastern League, a 12-team circuit divided into the Northeast Division (including the Fightin Phils, alongside the , , , , and ) and the Southwest Division. The league operates a 138-game from early April to early September, with teams playing series within their division more frequently while facing Southwest Division opponents for balanced competition; no formal occurs against teams from the other Double-A leagues (Southern League or ). The Eastern League uses a split-season format, with the first-place team from each division in the first half and second half qualifying for the (four teams total). The postseason consists of best-of-three followed by a best-of-three championship series. Originally known as the Reading Phillies from 1967 to 2011, the team rebranded to the Reading Fightin Phils in 2012 to evoke the resilient "fighting" spirit of the Phillies' 1950 "Whiz Kids" era and the local Reading community's tenacity. The nickname change was accompanied by a new logo featuring an ostrich, symbolizing the quirky, feisty energy of the franchise's promotions like the "Crazy Hot Dog Vendor." Since June 2025, the Fightin Phils have been owned by , a portfolio company managing multiple teams, following the sale by longtime owner Craig Stein and Reading Baseball Club, Inc.; the front office, led by general manager Scott Hunsicker, was retained to maintain operational continuity.

Home Stadium and Facilities

Stadium, located at 1900 Centre Avenue in , serves as the home ballpark for the Reading Fightin Phils and opened on July 15, 1951, as Reading Municipal Memorial Stadium to honor local veterans who died in . Constructed at a cost of $656,674 on 27 acres of land acquired in 1945, the stadium features an original brick exterior, seating bowl, and dugouts that have been preserved through decades of updates, making it the oldest active ballpark in the Eastern League. The venue was renamed GPU Stadium in November 1999 following a deal and became Stadium prior to the 2002 season after a corporate merger. With a seating capacity of approximately 6,800, the stadium includes modern amenities such as luxury suites, including eight private boxes added in 1996 and 89 penthouse suites constructed between 1985 and 1987, along with expansive areas like the third-base '67 Club and right-field Deck , which offer all-you-can-eat buffets and accommodate groups of 10 or more. Additional features encompass a heated pavilion in right field installed in 2000, a climate-controlled team store, expanded clubhouses, and protected netting extending 23 feet high for fan safety, all enhanced by LED lighting upgrades for improved visibility during night games. Renovations have been ongoing to maintain the facility's functionality and appeal, beginning in the late 1980s with over $500,000 invested from 1987 to 1989 to replace wooden benches with individual seats, add a roof over 1,500 seats, and expand the press box for better ADA compliance. In the 1990s, key improvements included a third-base area in 1990, a right-field in 1991–1992, a new 1,600-seat left-field and exterior facelift in 1993, field irrigation and drainage systems in 1994, and a video in 1997, all funded through team and local partnerships. The 2010s saw a $10 million overhaul from 2010 to , introducing the Tompkins VIST Plaza, a larger , additional parking, and clubhouse expansions covering 45% more space for the home team and 80% for visitors, followed by a 1,800-square-foot HD video board in 2012–2013. More recently, a $45 million project completed in 2024 added the Redner's Event Center with banquet space and a field-side , new batting cages, weight rooms, and training facilities, supported by $7.5 million in state Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program funding and $3 million from the City of Reading to meet MLB standards and extend the stadium's viability. The stadium integrates with Reading's community landscape, offering views of the city's skyline including the iconic on Mount Penn, and hosts non-baseball events such as concerts, festivals like Berks Summer Fest, and private gatherings at the new Event Center to broaden its role beyond sports. These uses have contributed to economic revitalization, with the 2021–2024 renovations projected to generate ongoing local revenue through increased and events, as evidenced by state investments aimed at and retaining the team in Reading. Attendance at FirstEnergy Stadium has seen peaks following major renovations, with the 2011 upgrades correlating to a single-game record of 9,976 fans on July 4, 2016, and seasonal totals exceeding 300,000 in strong years like 2015, when the venue set its all-time attendance mark. The stadium reached a cumulative 10 million attendees in 2013, a milestone for any Double-A facility, underscoring its enduring draw and post-renovation resurgence in fan engagement.

History of Baseball in Reading

Early Baseball Development (1858–1932)

The origins of organized baseball in Reading, Pennsylvania, trace back to November 1858, when local enthusiasts formed the Reading Athletic Club explicitly "for the purpose of taking a game of ball once or twice a week." This marked the city's first official baseball organization, with early games adhering to the prevailing Knickerbocker Rules established in 1845, which standardized elements like the diamond-shaped field, nine players per side, and foul lines to promote fair play across amateur clubs in the northeastern United States. These matches were initially informal, pitting the club against neighboring towns in Berks County and beyond, fostering community interest amid the post-Civil War recreational boom. By the 1870s, baseball in Reading evolved toward semi-professional status, exemplified by the formation of the Reading Actives, whose name first appeared in local play during that decade. The Actives competed in regional tournaments and exhibition series against teams from Philadelphia, Allentown, and other Pennsylvania cities, often drawing crowds to improvised fields like those near the Schuylkill River. These contests highlighted growing competitiveness, with players receiving modest compensation through gate receipts or sponsorships, bridging amateur roots and emerging professional circuits. A notable local figure from this era was pitcher George Bradley, born in Reading in 1852, who honed his skills in hometown games before debuting professionally in 1874 with the Easton, Pennsylvania, club and later achieving fame in the National Association and National League, including a no-hitter in 1876. The amateur and semi-professional scene faced significant hurdles in the early 20th century, particularly from external economic and global pressures. disrupted regional leagues, such as the New York State League folding in 1917 due to player enlistments and resource shortages, which curtailed Reading's independent teams like the Keystones. exacerbated these issues starting in 1929, leading to plummeting attendance, financial strain on clubs, and the ultimate dissolution of Reading's leagues by August 1932, when the Keystones disbanded amid widespread contractions. This period of decline paved the way for Reading's entry into fully professional baseball with the New York-Pennsylvania League in 1933.

Eastern League Period (1933–1966)

Reading entered the professional ranks of minor league baseball in 1933 by joining the Class A New York–Pennsylvania League as the Reading Red Sox, serving as an affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. Under manager Nemo Leibold, the team posted an 80-56 record, finishing second in the eight-team league and drawing strong local support in their inaugural season. The franchise played at various local fields initially, but the arrival of professional ball prompted community investments in facilities to accommodate larger crowds, including improvements to lighting and seating at existing venues. Following the 1934 season, the Reading Red Sox left the league, which rebranded as the Eastern League in 1938. Reading competed in other minor leagues during the late 1930s and 1940s, including the Interstate League as the Reading Chicks (1940) and Reading Brooks (1941), before led to a suspension of in the city from 1942 to 1945 due to player shortages and resource rationing. Postwar, Reading fielded teams in lower-classification leagues with various affiliations, including brief ties to the and , amid robust local attendance averaging over 1,000 fans per game and reflecting the city's growing baseball culture. Reading returned to the Eastern League in 1952 when the Cleveland Indians relocated their affiliate from Wilkes-Barre, rebranding the team as the Reading Indians; this partnership lasted through 1961, yielding two pennant wins. In , the team moved into the newly constructed Municipal Memorial Stadium (later renamed FirstEnergy Stadium), a 5,000-seat facility built with federal and local funding to honor war veterans and support , featuring modern amenities like grandstands and floodlights to boost evening attendance. The following year, managed by Kerby Farrell, the Indians dominated with a 101-47 record in 1953, capturing the regular-season title and advancing in the playoffs before falling to Binghamton. The 1957 season brought further success under manager , as the 74-66 club clinched the league championship by sweeping Schenectady in the semifinals and defeating Albany in the finals. Following the Indians' departure after 1961, the Boston Red Sox returned as affiliates in 1963, reviving the Reading Red Sox name through 1966 amid a period of league realignment. The team struggled in these final years, posting a 53-86 record in 1966 and finishing sixth in the six-team league, hampered by roster instability and declining attendance. The franchise disbanded at the end of the 1966 season due to financial challenges and the Eastern League's contraction from eight to six teams earlier in the decade, leaving Reading without until the Philadelphia Phillies established a new affiliate there in 1967.

Phillies Affiliation Era (1967–Present)

The Philadelphia Phillies established a player development affiliation with Reading in , reviving in the city following a one-year absence of a team in 1966. The new club, named the Reading Phillies, played in the Eastern League at Municipal Memorial Stadium and marked the beginning of a continuous that endures as the longest active affiliation between a Major League Baseball team and a Minor League club. This era brought stability to Reading's baseball tradition, contrasting with the intermittent franchises of prior decades. Early success came swiftly, as the Reading Phillies captured their first Eastern League championship in 1968 under manager , finishing the at 81-59 before defeating Pittsfield and in the . The 1973 season brought another title, with the team posting an 85-54 record and sweeping Elmira in . The 1980s featured a dominant performance in 1983, when the Phillies compiled a franchise-record 96-44 mark under manager , leading the league by 18.5 games and earning recognition as one of Baseball's premier teams that year, despite falling in the postseason to . These achievements highlighted the Phillies' investment in player development, fostering talents who contributed to the parent club's victory. In , the franchise rebranded as the Reading Fightin Phils, adopting a name that evoked the Phillies' longstanding "Fightin Phils" moniker while emphasizing local heritage and the city's resilient spirit. The update included a new primary depicting a stylized in a fighting pose—symbolizing the team's feisty —and refreshed uniforms to align more closely with the Phillies' elements. This change occurred alongside the of the team's ensemble, which had expanded in 2000 with additions like Change-Up the Turtle, Blooper the Hound Dog, and Quack the Duck to enhance fan engagement at FirstEnergy Stadium. The modern era has navigated significant challenges and adaptations. The 2020 season was entirely cancelled due to the , marking the first full forfeiture in franchise history and disrupting development for prospects. In response to Baseball's 2021 reorganization, the Eastern League was temporarily reclassified as the Double-A Northeast, with Reading competing in the Northeast Division before the league reverted to its original name in 2022. Managerial stability has been a hallmark, with serving the longest tenure from 2012 to 2016 and amassing the most wins (373-335) in club history during that period. Post-2020, the team has seen transitions including Shawn Williams in 2021 and , who began in 2023, guiding the club to a 59-78 record in 2024 and 55-81 in 2025.

Achievements and Records

Championships and Playoff Appearances

The Reading Fightin Phils have secured the Eastern League championship on four occasions since becoming a Phillies affiliate in 1967, with victories in 1968, 1973, 1995, and 2001 (as co-champions due to the cancellation of the finals series following the ). In 1968, the team defeated the Pittsfield Senators 3-1 in the best-of-five series, marking their first title under the Phillies banner. The 1973 championship came via a 3-1 series win over Pittsfield in the semifinals, followed by a victory in the finals, while the 1995 triumph involved a 3-2 victory against the New Haven Ravens, clinched at home in the decisive game. The 2001 co-championship with the Rock Cats highlighted the team's strong regular-season performance amid the league's postseason disruption. Beyond these titles, the Fightin Phils have made numerous playoff appearances in the Eastern League, showcasing competitive depth in the circuit. Key postseason runs include the 1975 division title, semifinal losses in 1983 to New Britain and in 2009, 2011, and 2012 to Akron and Trenton, and championship series defeats in 1986 to (3-2), 2000 to New Haven, and 2015 to Bowie. Additional berths occurred in 1987, 2016 (first-round exit after a division win), and 2019 (first-round loss to Trenton after topping the division at 80-59). The team also reached the 2021 Double-A Northeast playoffs but did not advance to finals, with no postseason qualification from 2022 through 2025 amid sub-.500 records each year. A notable 2012 semifinal featured a sweep of the Rock Cats in the division series before the loss to Trenton.
YearPlayoff Result
1968Won EL Championship (def. Pittsfield 3-1)
1969Playoffs cancelled after one game (rain)
1970Lost one-game playoff (def. by Waterbury 3-2)
1973Won semifinals (3–1 vs. Pittsfield), won championship
1975Won division
1983Lost semifinals (def. by )
1986Lost EL Championship (def. by 3-2)
1987Playoff appearance
1995Won EL Championship (def. New Haven 3-2)
2000Lost EL Championship (def. by New Haven)
2001Co-champions (playoffs cancelled)
2009Lost semifinals (def. by Akron 3-0)
2011Lost semifinals (def. by Trenton 3-1)
2012Lost semifinals (def. by Trenton 3-1)
2015Lost EL Championship (def. by Bowie)
2016Lost first round
2019Lost first round (def. by Trenton 3-0)
Players from Reading have earned several Eastern League individual honors, underscoring the franchise's talent development. Most Valuable Player awards went to (1970), Mark Davis (1980), Jeff Stone (1983), (2001), (2004), (2012), Dylan Cozens (2016), and Felix Reyes (2025 after batting .335 with 15 home runs and 65 RBIs), with (1989) also receiving the honor—totaling nine MVPs as of 2025, the most in league history. For pitching accolades, was named Pitcher of the Year in 2002. These awards highlight standout performances that propelled both individual careers and team successes.

Season-by-Season Managerial Records

The Reading Fightin Phils have had 26 managers since becoming the Philadelphia Phillies' Double-A affiliate in 1967, with frequent changes reflecting the transient nature of leadership. holds the franchise record for most wins with 373 from 2012 to 2016, the longest consecutive tenure of five seasons, while Don McCormack managed four seasons from 1990 to 1993. Other multi-year managers include Bill Dancy (five seasons across 1983–1988 and 1994–1995), Greg Legg (four seasons in 2002–2004 and 2017–2018), and (three seasons from 2023 to 2025). The team has experienced 15 managerial transitions since 2000, often tied to promotions or performance. Performance under these managers has varied widely, with the best regular-season record of 96–44 (.686) in 1983 under Bill Dancy, culminating in a semifinal loss, and the worst at 53–89 (.373) in 2008 under P.J. Forbes. The 2020 season was cancelled due to , marking the only year without games since 1967, while the 2021 shortened schedule yielded a sub-.500 mark of 48–65. Post-2021 MiLB to regional leagues like Double-A Northeast (2021 only) and the restored Eastern League influenced divisional alignments but not overall play significantly. has grown steadily, peaking at 486,570 in 2002, reflecting community support despite on-field fluctuations.
YearManagerRegular Season (W-L)FinishPostseason ResultAttendance
1967Frank Lucchesi70–69 (.504)3rd, WestNone85,559
1968Frank Lucchesi81–59 (.579)2ndWon EL Championship (def. Pittsfield 3-1)107,168
1969Bob Wellman81–59 (.579)2ndLost semifinals (0–1 vs. Elmira)69,350
1970Andy Seminick78–69 (.553)2ndNone96,684
1971Nolan Campbell72–67 (.518)2nd, NationalNone78,737
1972Jim Bunning70–69 (.504)4th, NationalNone65,874
1973Cal Emery76–62 (.551)1st, NationalWon semifinals (3–1 vs. Pittsfield), won championship76,651
1974Bob Wellman69–66 (.511)3rd, NationalNone73,509
1975Bob Wellman84–53 (.613)2ndLost semifinals (0–3 vs. Bristol)85,257
1976Bob Wellman / Granville Hamner54–82 (.397)3rd, SouthernNone71,152
1977Lee Elia63–75 (.457)3rd, Can-AmNone57,540
1978Lee Elia79–57 (.581)2ndLost semifinals (0–2 vs. Bristol)66,969
1979Jim Snyder77–61 (.558)3rdNone84,200
1980Ron Clark78–61 (.561)2ndLost semifinals (0–2 vs. Waterbury)97,235
1981Ron Clark76–63 (.547)3rdLost semifinals (0–2 vs. Bristol)117,050
1982John Felske63–75 (.450)6thNone81,875
1983Bill Dancy96–44 (.686)1stLost semifinals (1–2 vs. New Britain)88,484
1984Bill Dancy56–83 (.403)8thNone67,333
1985Tony Taylor58–79 (.423)8thNone76,819
1986George Culver77–59 (.566)1stWon semifinals (3–1 vs. Glens Falls), lost finals (2–3 vs. Vermont)83,506
1987George Culver76–63 (.547)3rdLost semifinals (2–3 vs. Harrisburg)100,895
1988Bill Dancy67–69 (.493)5thNone144,107
1989Mike Hart68–71 (.489)4thLost semifinals (1–3 vs. Albany)178,734
1990Don McCormack55–82 (.401)8thNone204,240
1991Don McCormack72–68 (.514)5thNone250,610
1992Don McCormack61–77 (.442)6thNone287,078
1993Don McCormack62–78 (.443)7thNone313,083
1994Bill Dancy58–82 (.414)9th, SouthernNone338,249
1995Bill Dancy73–69 (.514)3rd, SouthernWon semifinals (3–0 vs. Trenton), won finals (3–2 vs. New Haven)383,984
1996Bill Robinson66–75 (.468)7th-TNone375,326
1997Al LeBoeuf74–68 (.521)4th, SouthernNone398,182
1998Al LeBoeuf56–85 (.397)10thNone414,658
1999Gary Varsho73–69 (.514)5thNone448,367
2000Gary Varsho85–57 (.599)1st, SouthernWon semifinals (3–0 vs. Harrisburg), lost finals (1–3 vs. New Haven)452,343
2001Gary Varsho77–65 (.542)4th, SouthernCo-champions (playoffs cancelled)458,585
2002Greg Legg76–66 (.535)4thNone486,570
2003Greg Legg62–79 (.440)10th-TNone465,717
2004Greg Legg64–77 (.454)9thNone478,257
2005Steve Swisher69–73 (.486)8thNone469,105
2006P.J. Forbes71–69 (.507)5thNone460,216
2007P.J. Forbes70–71 (.496)6th-TNone466,385
2008P.J. Forbes53–89 (.373)12thNone436,789
2009Steve Roadcap75–67 (.528)3rd, SouthernLost semifinals (0–3 vs. Akron)460,791
2010Steve Roadcap69–72 (.489)8th, EasternNone456,466
2011Mark Parent74–68 (.521)5th, EasternLost semifinals (1–3 vs. Trenton)456,957
2012Dusty Wathan76–66 (.535)4th, EasternLost semifinals (1–3 vs. Trenton)426,623
2013Dusty Wathan62–80 (.437)12th, EasternNone436,134
2014Dusty Wathan66–76 (.465)10th-T, EasternNone394,458
2015Dusty Wathan80–61 (.567)1st, EasternWon semifinals (3–0 vs. Binghamton), lost finals (2–3 vs. Bowie)417,010
2016Dusty Wathan89–52 (.631)1st, EasternLost semifinals (0–3 vs. Trenton)420,320
2017Greg Legg72–68 (.514)4th-T, EasternNone411,698
2018Greg Legg64–73 (.467)8th, EasternNone388,510
2019Shawn Williams80–59 (.576)1st, NortheastLost first round398,318
2020NoneSeason cancelledN/AN/AN/A
2021Shawn Williams48–65 (.425)10thNone226,667
2022Shawn Williams61–77 (.442)9thNone368,068
2023Al Pedrique59–77 (.434)10th-TNone384,563
2024Al Pedrique59–78 (.431)11thNone414,262
2025Al Pedrique55–81 (.404)6th, NortheastNone396,455

Branding and Identity

Logos and Mascots

The Reading Fightin Phils, originally established as the Reading Phillies in , initially utilized branding elements tied to their Phillies affiliation, including the iconic red "P" on uniforms and caps to reflect their direct partnership. This simple, script-style "P" served as the primary identifier during the team's early decades, emphasizing continuity with the parent club without unique local motifs. By 1999, the franchise introduced a more distinctive primary featuring a positioned over a , with the team's name arched across the diamond-shaped , nodding to Reading's as a railroading hub in Pennsylvania's industrial landscape. This design persisted until 2007, marking a shift toward incorporating regional heritage into the visual identity. In 2008, the primary logo simplified to a bold, stylized "R-Phils" on a white background, accented by a blue star replacing the dot on the "i" to evoke a sense of energy and local pride. The most transformative change occurred in 2012 as part of a comprehensive to the "Fightin Phils" name, unveiling a cartoon in a stance as the centerpiece —the first in —symbolizing the team's feisty spirit inspired by the long-standing "Crazy Vendor" promotions. This , rendered in white and gray with blue outlines and a backdrop, arched with feathered "Fightin Phils" lettering, became the enduring primary mark from 2013 to 2018. Since 2019, the has returned to a refined "R-Phils" script in on a cream field, blending the 2008 style with subtle underlines for a handwritten flair while retaining the as a secondary element. Complementing the primary logos, the Fightin Phils employ several secondary marks that reinforce their branding. The "F-fist" logo, introduced in , depicts a clenched forming the letter "F" in Phillies , capturing the combative "Fightin" ethos. A feathered "R" , also debuted that year, evokes a dynamic, plume-adorned initial tying into the theme and Reading's industrial past through stylized, energetic lines. Additional wordmarks include feathered renditions of "Fightins" and "Phils," used across caps and sleeves to maintain visual cohesion. These elements integrate briefly into uniforms, such as the "F-fist" on alternate jersey sleeves. The team's mascot program centers on , an anthropomorphic baseball character introduced in the late 1980s as the franchise's first official , known for high-energy antics during games at Stadium. In 2001, the Fightin Phils launched their innovative Band, a featuring on drums, Bucky the Beaver on bass, Change-Up the Turtle on percussion, Quack the Duck on lead vocals and guitar, and Blooper the Hound Dog on keyboard (later switching to lead guitar in 2007). This group performs postgame concerts and community events, having completed nearly 300 shows by 2021, and participates in promotions like fan meet-and-greets to boost engagement in Reading and surrounding areas. The Philadelphia Phillies' , the , makes periodic visits to Fightin Phils games, enhancing affiliation ties through joint appearances and special events. Branding elements, including the "Fightin Phils" name and associated logos, are protected as trademarks under Baseball's framework, with registrations managed through official partnerships to ensure exclusivity in merchandise and promotions. The 2012 rebranding significantly boosted trademarked merchandise sales, setting records at the team store shortly after launch, with the ostrich logo and new wordmarks driving demand for apparel and novelties.

Uniforms and Design Evolution

Upon becoming the Philadelphia Phillies' Double-A affiliate in 1967, the Reading Phillies adopted uniforms closely mirroring those of their parent club, featuring red pinstripes on white home jerseys accented with blue, along with gray road alternates. This design persisted through the late , emphasizing the team's alignment with the Phillies' iconic look, including script lettering and star elements on caps. The pinstriped style evoked the Phillies' heritage while maintaining a simple, professional aesthetic suited to play. The team's branding underwent a significant evolution in 2012 with the name change to Reading Fightin Phils, introducing a primary color scheme of Phillies red, nighttime navy, feather gray, and cream. Home uniforms shifted to cream-colored replicas of the 1950 "Whiz Kids" Phillies jerseys, complete with pinstripes and "Fightin Phils" script across the chest, paired with navy caps featuring a feathered "R" logo. Alternate home designs included navy jerseys with white inserts and "Fightins" script, while road uniforms featured gray faux-flannel fabric with "Baseballtown" lettering and an iris blue cap. In the 2010s, alternates incorporated Reading's railroad heritage through the black R-Train uniforms, worn on select Throwback Thursdays to honor the city's industrial history and the famous Reading Railroad. In 2017, the Fightin Phils transitioned to Nike as their uniform manufacturer, aligning with Baseball's broader partnership shift from Majestic, which introduced performance fabrics like Dri-FIT for improved moisture management. The saw an expansion of special edition uniforms, including pride night jerseys in rainbow accents to support LGBTQ+ initiatives, holiday-themed designs like the Stars and Stripes for Day, and various promotional alternates such as the 2024 Reading Keystones throwback evoking early 20th-century railroad influences. From 2022 to 2025, additional alternates included breakfast-themed Flapjacks jerseys for morning games, Oktoberfest-inspired designs, and 2025 uniforms homage to the 1980s Mike Schmidt-era Phillies with pinstripes, a retro "R" logo, and feathered script. Recent updates incorporated sustainability elements, such as Nike's eco-friendly fabrics in select jerseys, reflecting MiLB's push toward environmentally conscious apparel.

Players and Personnel

Current Roster and Coaching Staff

The 2025 Reading Fightin Phils roster featured a balanced mix of developing prospects and experienced minor leaguers, totaling 32 players across positions as of the end of the regular season on September 9. The team included 16 pitchers, 3 catchers, 9 s, and 4 s, with several players on the or development list. Notable mid-season transactions included the promotion of s Dante Nori and Aroon Escobar from High-A in late August, bolstering the lineup for the final series, and the acquisition of Dylan Campbell and Nick Dunn via from other organizations. Several players, such as shortstop Aidan Miller and Justin Crawford, earned promotions to Triple-A following strong performances, highlighting the Phillies' farm system's upward mobility pathways. Among the pitchers, the staff emphasized velocity and control, with standout arms like right-hander Griff McGarry (No. 48, R/R, drafted in the 5th round of 2021) who posted a 3.45 ERA over 28 appearances, and left-hander Braydon Tucker (No. 25, L/R), a free-agent signee known for his prowess. Recent draftees and international signings added depth, including right-hander Alex McFarlane (No. 16, 4th round, 2022) and Venezuelan free agent Estibenzon Jimenez (No. 28). The catching group was led by Caleb Ricketts (No. 19, L/R, 7th round, 2022), who handled a team-high 85 games behind the plate with a . Infielders showcased high-upside talents from the Phillies' system, including Aidan Miller (2023 first-round pick), who slashed .259/.382/.427 in 108 games before his September promotion to , emerging as the organization's No. 2 prospect. Other key contributors were switch-hitting second baseman Robert Moore (No. 58, acquired via trade in 2023) and third baseman Bryson Ware (No. 18, 8th round, 2023), both providing defensive stability. The outfield was anchored by speedster Dante Nori (No. 30, L/L, 2024 first-round pick, Phillies No. 4 prospect), who appeared in 12 games after his late-August promotion from , alongside other contributors like Leandro Pineda (No. 2, L/L, international signee). These prospects represented the Phillies' focus on athleticism and on-base skills in their Double-A pipeline. The 2025 coaching staff, led by manager in his third season with Reading (overall minor league managerial record: 1,105–1,034 as of the end of 2025), emphasized player development and fundamentals. Pedrique, a former MLB player and coach with the Houston Astros, guided the team to a 55-81 record amid injuries. Bench coach Mycal Jones returned for his second year, supporting strategic decisions. Hitting coach Tom Slater, a new addition with prior experience in the Phillies' system, focused on plate discipline, helping prospects like Miller improve their approach. The pitching staff was co-led by Brad Bergesen (returning pitching coach) and Riley McCauley (pitching coach and amateur scouting advisor), who worked on command for arms like McGarry; Bergesen's tenure dates to 2023. Karl Ellison handled infield and outfield drills. Support roles included Meag Flaherty (second season), assistant Sara Binkley, strength coach Ryan Maedel, and video associate Sam Schneider, ensuring comprehensive player health and analytics integration. No major staff changes occurred mid-season, though the group adapted to transactions like the Nori-Escobar promotions.

Notable Alumni

The Reading Fightin Phils have served as a crucial developmental hub for the Phillies organization since 1967, producing numerous players who went on to star in . Among the most prominent alumni are power hitters and pitchers who achieved status, MVP awards, and titles after honing their skills in Reading. played for the Fightin Phils from 2001 to 2004, with his standout 2004 season seeing him bat .297 with 37 s and 102 RBIs in 102 games, shattering the team's single-season home run record previously held by (33 in 1970). Howard's performance earned him Eastern League MVP honors that year, paving the way for his promotion to Triple-A and eventual MLB debut with the Phillies in 2004; he later won the National League Most Valuable Player Award in 2006 and helped lead to the championship. Pitcher made his only appearance with Reading in 2005, posting a 2-0 record with a 2.37 over 19.0 innings, striking out 19 batters while allowing 12 walks in 4 appearances. Drafted first-round by the Phillies in 2002, Hamels debuted in the majors the following year and became a cornerstone of the 2008 World Series-winning rotation, earning MVP honors in the Fall Classic after going 4-0 with a 1.80 in four starts. Shortstop Jimmy Rollins spent the 1999 season with the Reading Phillies, appearing in 133 games and hitting .273 with 11 home runs, 56 RBIs, and 24 stolen bases. As the youngest everyday player in the Eastern League at age 20, Rollins transitioned to the majors in 2000 and anchored the Phillies infield for 15 seasons, winning the 2007 NL MVP Award, a Gold Glove in 2008, and contributing to the title with a .312 postseason average. First baseman Rhys Hoskins joined the Fightin Phils in 2016 after a promotion from Clearwater, where he continued his rapid ascent through the Phillies system before his MLB debut in 2017. Hoskins belted 38 home runs across Double-A and Triple-A that year (17 with Reading and 21 with ), earning Phillies Player of the Year honors, and went on to hit 148 career MLB home runs with through 2023, including a 2018 selection. More recent alumni include infielder , who played 57 games with Reading in 2021, batting .321 with seven home runs and earning Phillies Minor League Hitter of the Month for June. Stott debuted with the Phillies in 2022 and has since become a regular, posting a .250 average with 34 home runs through the 2024 season while helping secure three consecutive NL East titles. Other post-2021 call-ups from Reading include reliever , who appeared in 22 games for the Fightin Phils in 2022 before his 2023 MLB debut, where he recorded a 2.22 in 55 appearances as a ; and closer Max Lazar, who pitched 28.1 for Reading in 2024 with a 1.59 prior to his late-season promotion and debut.

Rehab Assignments for Major Leaguers

As the Double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, the Reading Fightin Phils frequently host major league players on rehabilitation assignments, providing a competitive yet less intense environment compared to Triple-A baseball. This setup allows injured Phillies players to face live pitching and hitting at the Double-A level, helping them rebuild strength, timing, and game readiness under the guidance of the organization's medical staff. Typical rehab stints last 3 to 7 games, with players often participating in home games at FirstEnergy Stadium to facilitate monitoring and fan engagement, such as promotional events around their appearances. Notable examples include Chase Utley, who joined Reading for a single rehab game on June 19, 2013, while recovering from chronic knee issues; he went 0-for-4 at the plate but fielded cleanly and expressed confidence in his progress. Reliever had his assignment transferred to Reading in August 2021 as he worked back from elbow inflammation, pitching in relief outings to build arm strength. In June 2022, left-hander , recovering from Tommy John surgery, continued his rehab with Reading through early July, throwing multiple innings across appearances and reaching 47 pitches in one outing. More recent cases highlight the team's ongoing role in Phillies recoveries. Pitcher Taijuan Walker made two starts with Reading in late July 2024 while dealing with right index finger inflammation, allowing three runs over 7⅔ innings before rejoining the major league rotation. Outfielder Brandon Marsh began his rehab assignment with Reading on June 13, 2024, collecting three singles in his debut game while batting second and playing left field, which helped accelerate his return to the Phillies lineup. These assignments, coordinated amid post-2020 protocols emphasizing controlled workloads and testing, underscore Reading's value in bridging players back to MLB action without overexertion.

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  34. https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/league.cgi?id=1d1fb122
  35. https://www.baseball-reference.com/bullpen/Reading_Fightin_Phils
  36. https://www.baseball-reference.com/bullpen/Reading_Phillies
  37. https://www.thebaseballcube.com/content/stats_minor/1983~10360/
  38. https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/double-a-reading-changes-name-to-fightin-phils/
  39. https://www.readingeagle.com/2025/03/11/dusty-wathan-two-others-to-be-inducted-into-the-reading-fightin-phills-hall-of-fame/
  40. https://www.milb.com/news/al-pedrique-to-return-as-fightin-phils-manager-for-2025
  41. https://www.milb.com/news/felix-reyes-named-eastern-league-most-valuable-player
  42. https://www.readingeagle.com/2025/09/23/minor-league-baseball-readings-felix-reyes-named-eastern-league-mvp/
  43. https://www.thebaseballcube.com/content/minor_team/14085/
  44. https://img.mlbstatic.com/milb-images/image/upload/milb/k1pluxsp3dt1xursc6ky.pdf
  45. https://1000logos.net/reading-fightin-phils-logo/
  46. https://ballparkdigest.com/2015/12/18/fightin-phils-unveil-new-2016-uniforms/
  47. https://www.milb.com/reading/news/fightins-celebrate-the-20th-anniversary-of-their-mascot-band
  48. https://www.facebook.com/Fightins/posts/the-worlds-greatest-mascot-the-phillie-phanatic-returns-to-reading-on-sunday-jul/1042595728057973/
  49. https://fightinphils.milbstore.com/pages/terms-of-use
  50. https://ballparkdigest.com/201211195868/minor-league-baseball/news/fightin-phils-new-logo-success-in-team-store
  51. https://throughthefencebaseball.com/reading-phillies-a-history/
  52. https://www.sportslogos.net/logos/list_by_team/1041/Reading-Phillies-Logos/
  53. https://ballparkbiz.wordpress.com/2012/11/17/r-phils-become-reading-fightin-phils-unveil-branding-and-unis/
  54. https://www.milb.com/news/return-of-black-r-train-uniforms-for-2020-sounds-horn-for-black-friday-312014936
  55. https://www.oregonlive.com/business/2019/01/ubiquitous-swoosh-new-deal-makes-nike-official-uniform-supplier-for-nfl-nba-mlb.html
  56. https://milbstore.com/collections/milb-pride/reading-fightin-phils
  57. https://www.milb.com/reading/news/fightin-phils-to-wear-new-throwback-thursday-jerseys-in-2025
  58. https://cutterbuck.com/reading-fightin-phils-clique-lift-eco-performance-unisex-pullover-hoodie-sweatshirt/
  59. https://img.mlbstatic.com/milb-images/image/upload/milb/mp4u4tttye1loapmztwu.pdf
  60. https://www.milb.com/reading/news/phillies-prospects-dante-nori-and-aroon-escobar-promoted-to-double-a-reading
  61. https://philliesminorthoughts.com/2025-reading-fightin-phils-season-preview/
  62. https://www.mlb.com/news/phillies-top-30-prospects-list-2025-preseason
  63. https://www.prospects1500.com/top-50-lists/philadelphia-phillies-top-50-prospects-2025/
  64. https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=miller003aid
  65. https://www.milb.com/reading/roster
  66. https://www.mlb.com/news/phillies-alumni-reading-leads-the-way
  67. https://www.readingeagle.com/2016/07/25/50-greatest-reading-philliesfightin-phils-no-8-ryan-howard/
  68. https://www.mlb.com/player/ryan-howard-429667
  69. https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=howard001rya
  70. https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=hamels001col
  71. https://www.readingeagle.com/2023/12/04/former-pitcher-cole-hamels-remembers-time-in-reading-success-with-the-philadelphia-phillies/
  72. https://www.mlb.com/player/cole-hamels-430935
  73. https://www.milb.com/reading/news/jimmy-rollins-to-be-inducted-into-baseballtown-hall-of-fame-303392536
  74. https://www.readingeagle.com/2016/08/01/50-greatest-reading-philliesfightin-phils-no-5-jimmy-rollins/
  75. https://www.milb.com/player/rhys-hoskins-656555
  76. https://www.thebaseballcube.com/content/player/169539/
  77. https://www.milb.com/reading/news/stott-tops-phillies-milb-system-as-hitter-of-the-month
  78. https://www.milb.com/player/bryson-stott-681082
  79. https://www.milb.com/reading/news/phillies-jojo-romero-to-rehab-at-firstenergy-stadium-this-week
  80. https://www.mlb.com/news/chase-utley-plays-rehab-game-with-no-reservations/c-51106398
  81. https://sports.yahoo.com/phillies-reliever-seranthony-dominguez-rehab-091200174.html
  82. https://www.readingeagle.com/2022/06/28/left-hander-jojo-romero-continuing-rehab-assignment-with-reading-fightin-phils/
  83. https://www.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com/mlb/philadelphia-phillies/phillies-news/taijuan-walker-rejoin-phillies-rotation-marlins/607210/
  84. https://www.cbsnews.com/philadelphia/news/brandon-marsh-injury-rehab-assignment-phillies-reading/
  85. https://www.milb.com/news/phillies-pitcher-taijuan-walker-scheduled-to-rehab-with-fightin-phils
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