A Comprehensive Guide to Scranton Baseball: History, Highlights, and Essential Tips

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Northeastern Pennsylvania, Scranton has a rich and vibrant baseball history. Home to the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, the city has witnessed countless unforgettable moments on the diamond. This comprehensive guide delves into the captivating world of Scranton baseball, providing an extensive overview of its history, highlights, and essential tips for fans and enthusiasts alike.

The History of Scranton Baseball

The Scranton Miners (1886-1960)

The roots of Scranton baseball can be traced back to 1886 with the formation of the Scranton Miners. Playing in the Eastern League, the Miners became a formidable force, capturing numerous league championships and producing several major league prospects.

The Scranton Red Sox (1961-1987)

In 1961, the Miners affiliated with the Boston Red Sox, becoming the Scranton Red Sox. The team continued to thrive, winning several Eastern League titles and nurturing future major league stars like Luis Tiant and Carl Yastrzemski.

The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (1989-Present)

In 1989, the Red Sox relocated to Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, but maintained a strong presence in Scranton. The team became known as the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Red Barons until 2013, when they rebranded to the RailRiders.

Highlights of Scranton Baseball

Notable Players

Scranton baseball has produced a long line of talented players who went on to achieve success in the major leagues. Some of the most notable include:

• Mike Piazza (12-time All-Star, 10-time Silver Slugger)
• Jason Giambi (5-time All-Star, 2-time Silver Slugger)
• Alfonso Soriano (7-time All-Star, 4-time Silver Slugger)
• Ben Zobrist (2-time World Series champion, 1-time All-Star)

Memorable Moments

Over the years, PNC Field has witnessed countless memorable moments, including:

• The 1995 Eastern League Championship Series: The Red Barons defeated the Harrisburg Senators in a thrilling seven-game series, capturing their first league title in over 30 years.
• The 2002 Triple-A All-Star Game: Scranton hosted the game, which featured future major league stars like Alex Rodriguez and Miguel Cabrera**.
• The 2015 RailRiders No-Hitter: Nick Goody and Eric Womack combined for a no-hitter against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs.

Essential Tips for Scranton Baseball Fans

Attending a RailRiders Game

• Plan Ahead: Purchase tickets in advance, especially for popular games.
• Arrive Early: Allow plenty of time to find your seats and explore the stadium.
• Dress for the Weather: PNC Field is an outdoor stadium, so be prepared for sun, rain, or cold.
• Bring a Glove: You never know when you'll get a chance to catch a foul ball.
• Enjoy the Atmosphere: PNC Field has a lively atmosphere, with live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.

Following the RailRiders

• Visit the Official Team Website: Stay up-to-date on the latest news, schedules, and promotions.
• Follow the Team on Social Media: Get real-time updates, behind-the-scenes content, and special offers.
• Listen to Radio Broadcasts: Tune in to local radio stations for live coverage of RailRiders games.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Buying a Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders Jersey: Show your support for the team by wearing their official merchandise.
• Bringing Outside Food or Drink: PNC Field has a variety of food and beverage options available.
• Leaving Early: Stay until the end of the game, even if the RailRiders are losing.
• Not Participating in the Seventh-Inning Stretch: Join in the fun and sing along to "Take Me Out to the Ball Game."

FAQs

1. Where is PNC Field located? PNC Field is located at 235 Montage Mountain Road in Moosic, Pennsylvania.
2. When was the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders franchise established? The franchise was established in 1989 as the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Red Barons.
3. Who is the general manager of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders? Josh Bonifay is the general manager.
4. What is the capacity of PNC Field? The stadium has a capacity of approximately 10,000.
5. What is the average attendance for a Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders game? The average attendance in 2022 was approximately 5,500 fans per game.
6. Does PNC Field have parking? Yes, PNC Field has ample parking available for a fee.

Humorous Stories

1. The Case of the Stray Baseball: During a game between the RailRiders and the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, a stray baseball found its way onto the field. A lively squirrel quickly took possession of the ball and ran across the infield, dodging players and fans alike.
2. The Umpire's Miscue: In a heated game, the home plate umpire accidentally called a strike on a ball that was clearly outside the strike zone. The RailRiders player, with a wry smile, turned to the umpire and said, "I'll take it, but I'm pretty sure that was a foot outside."
3. The Fan's Unexpected Catch: A young fan, eager to catch a foul ball, positioned himself directly behind the first base dugout. However, he was so focused on the game that he didn't notice a playful RailRiders coach sneak up behind him. When the coach tossed a ball over the dugout, the fan was caught off guard and the ball bounced off his head.

Lesson Learned: Pay attention to your surroundings, especially at baseball games!

Useful Tables

Table 1: Notable Scranton Baseball Players

Table 2: Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders League Championships

Table 3: Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders Attendance Figures

Call to Action

Whether you're a lifelong fan or a first-time visitor, Scranton baseball offers an unforgettable experience. From the thrilling action on the field to the lively atmosphere in the stands, PNC Field is the perfect place to create lasting memories. Don't miss your chance to cheer on the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders and become part of the team's rich history.