Dragons Digital PlayBall! Issue 4

DIGITAL

PRESENTED BY:

The modern classic, Moneyball, is based on Michael Lewis’s 2003 nonfiction book.

The best

BASEBALL MOVoFIES aLL tIME

There is something about the game of baseball that translates into a great story. The drama of the sport and those who play it has spawned great baseball books and movies for generations, popular with both casual fans and serious followers of the sport. Ask anyone to name their favorite baseball movie of all-time, and they will fire off a quick list.

Those lists have sparked enjoyable debate for years and will continue to do so forever.

Mountaintop moments, laugh-out-loud comedy, saddening scenes, and romantic subplots combine supreme storytelling with America’s most storied sport…that is quite the combination. Ranking these movies is very difficult, but narrowing the overall list down to five, while still subjective, is more manageable. Your opinion may differ, but these are five of the best baseball movies of all time.

The Sandlot

Just over 27 years ago, The Sandlot, hit theaters .

It embodies the raw joy within young baseball players that are willing to play wherever and whenever. The comedy has countless famous lines including, “You’re killin’ me Smalls!” and “Heroes get remembered, The Sandlot hit theaters on April 7th, 1993, exactly four years after the release of Major League (courtesy maxim.com). but legends never die.” The number of memorable scenes in this film is remarkably paired with an excellent soundtrack. Prime examples that come to mind are the kids stopping their night game on the Fourth of July to gaze at the dazzling fireworks, Squints flirting with the lifeguard, the trash talk battle with the other local team, and Benny “The Jet” Rodriguez being chased down by the determined “beast” as he holds a baseball signed by Babe Ruth. The movie ends with Benny stealing home as a Dodgers player, with Smalls announcing it as a sportscaster.

DAY TON

3

DRAGONS

*CONTINUED ON PAGE 17 *CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

There’s a little slice of life in every vehicle at Voss Auto Network.

Voss CheVRoleT 100 loop Road Centerville 937.433.9640

Voss VillAge CAdillAC 650 st. Rt. 725 Centerville 937.433.4811

Voss VillAge BMW 620 st. Rt. 725 Centerville 937.433.5111

Voss ToyoTA 2110 heller dr. st. Rt. 35 at orchard lane Beavercreek 937.427.3700

4

DRAGONS

Voss hyuNdAi 766 st. Rt. 725 Centerville 937.434.6014

oF aLL tIME

Joe MoRgAN hoNdA 176 garver Rd. Monroe 1.866.JoeMorgan

vossauto.com

DAY TON

Voss hoNdA 155 s. garber st.

Tipp City 937.667.4441

BASEBALL MOV IES

But how did they manage to book Dodger Stadium to capture this wonderful closing scene? Fortunately, cinematographer Anthony Richmond knew Dodgers Manager Tommy Lasorda who helped securea date in this baseball cathedral. Overall, for older viewers, there is a certain nostalgia associated with The Sandlot, while the younger audience will be inspired and enamored.

Major League

It is nearly impossible not to laugh at this 1989 comedy that preceded The Sandlot by exactly four years. Based on a fictionalized version of the Cleveland Indians, the misfit team comes together against all odds to win the pennant. The characters of the film give Major League its punch with the veteran catcher Jake Taylor and convicted felon fire-baller Ricky Vaughn (Charlie Sheen), also known as “Wild Thing,” leading the way.

Other supporting roles like voodoo-obsessed Pedro Cerrano, crafty pitcher Eddie Harris, and brash young speedster Willis Mays Hayes create a captivating dynamic. The most impressive part of Major League, however, is its believable portrayal of Major League Baseball.

Director David S. Ward was determined to find actors who had credible baseball skills and even set up a two-week training camp to get them into baseball shape. Ward turned to retired Dodgers player and 1981 World Series MVP Steve Yeager. He ran Major League features "Wild Thing" Ricky Vaughn, one of the best sports characters of all-time (courtesy espn.com). the training camp for actors to ensure they would not get injured and could realistically resemble a Major League player. This classic is a favorite for many and might be the number one choice for most baseball players.

Moneyball

The most modern baseball classic is Moneyball, based on Michael Lewis’s 2003 nonfiction book and the 2002 Oakland Athletics, led by then general manager Billy Beane (Brad Pitt). With a limited budget, Beane has to find a way to assemble a competitive team. He defies traditional strategy, and hires Yale economics grad Peter Brand (Jonah Hill) as his assistant, and embraces sabermetrics to find undervalued players that “get on base.” After a slow start, the system works as Oakland wins a franchise record 20 straight games.

The oddly perfect combination of Pitt and Hill paired with dry humor bring out a cheerful appreciation for baseball. A great look at Major League front office management shows difficult decisions and creative solutions for a general manager. One of the most realistic and memorable moments is Brand’s task to inform player Carlos Pena that he has been traded. He does it in a matter-of-fact way that is tense but also humorous. Jonah Hill says it is his favorite scene of the movie and also the hardest he has ever done. With such a great plot, it is hard to believe Moneyball is based on a true story. Former Dragons pitching coach Derrin Ebert has a part in the movie, playing an Oakland player who is told he is being released from the team. *CONTINUED ON PAGE 7 DAY TON

5

DRAGONS

FEATURED STORY

HIT YOUR NEXT CAMPAIGN UT OF THE PARK WITH PAPER.

PAPER IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF A WINNING ROTATION. In today’s increasingly

digital world, print is still the best medium for driving website traffic and sales.

Visit versoco.com to learn more about the sheer power of print as part of your media mix—Verso has specialty and graphic papers to fit any project, from direct mail and printed marketing communications to labels and packaging, plus all-star service—to help your team win. Go Dragons.

DAY TON

6

DRAGONS

Verso Corporation 8540 Gander Creek Drive Miamisburg, Ohio 45342 800-258-8852 versoco.com ©2019 Verso Corporation.

All rights reserved.

BASEBALL MOV IES

A League of Their Own

The 1980s and 90s were a hotbed for great baseball movies, and A League of Their Own rises to the top. Based on a true story, the sports comedy-drama fictionalizes the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) that was created in 1943.

With many men fighting in World War II, several MLB executives formed the AAGPBL to keep baseball in the public eye. The founder and owner of the league in the film is a candy-bar mogul, but in actuality, it was chewing gum manufacturer and Cubs president Phillip K. Wrigley who started the league. Tom Hanks plays the crusty manager who belts one of the most famous lines in sports movie history: “There’s no crying in baseball!”

Like Major League, rigorous training was required for these actors, who worked on their baseball skills for eight hours per day, six days per week, for seven and a half months.

Commitment to playing a part well is sometimes underappreciated, and in movies like A League of Their Own, the actors were truly all in.

Bull Durham

Bull Durham arguably captures the madness and romance of baseball better than any other movie. Certain aspects of the film like the pitcher-catcher relationship and the hardship of the minor leagues resonate strongly with current and former players. Whether it is the odd motivational tactics, hilarious conversations on the mound, tips to get out of a slump, or all-time great speeches, Bull Durham knocks it out of the park. Not to mention the cast is excellent, too. Kevin Costner, Tim Robbins, and Susan Sarandon are all perfect in their roles.

A fact unknown to many is the name of Costner’s character, Crash Davis, was based on a real baseball player from the 1940s. Director Ron Shelton noticed it in an old Carolina League record book and decided to use it. On the first day of filming, he got a call from the real Crash Davis, so Shelton invited him to the set.

Bull Durham entertains with wild in-game conversations and The only thing Davis asked was, scuffles (courtesy moviefanfare.com).

“Do I get the girl?” The answer was obviously “yes”, and the name Crash Davis officially became a sports comedy legend. If you are looking for baseball rants and romance, watch Bull Durham.

Honorable Mention

Other all-time greats you could easily slide into this list are The Natural, Field of Dreams, Eight Men Out, Bad News Bears, The Pride of the Yankees, The Rookie, Rookie of the Year, 42, Angels in the Outfield, and more. Whatever is on your list, baseball movies are the most cinematic of sports films and always a great watch. ### DAY TON

7

DRAGONS

STARTACAREERINCONSTRUCTION

The rules of America’s favorite pastime are simple—step up to the plate and swing for the fences. Just as baseball rewards hard work and talent, so does a career in construction. Take the steps today to work toward a high-wage career that will transform your interests into specialized skills.

BUILDYOUROWNPATH 8 70 chapters nationwide to educate the ABC offers more than 800 programs across DAY TON

DRAGONS

DRAGONS MILES

FROM DAY AIR BALLPARK TO AROUND THE MIDWEST LEAGUE

BELOIT SNAPPERS

KANE COUNTY COUGARS

BOWLING GREEN HOT RODS

LAKE COUNTY CAPTAINS

BURLINGTON BEES

LANSING LUGNUTS

CEDAR RAPIDS KERNELS

PEORIA CHIEFS

CLINTON LUMBERKINGS

QUAD CITIES RIVER BANDITS

Oakland Athletics

Tampa Bay Rays

wisconsin

michigan

Los Angeles Angels Milwaukee MADISON

iowa

Grand Rapids

Racine

Cedar Rapids

Rockford

Davenport

Chicago

illinois SPRINGFIELD

Toledo

Gary

Rock Island

Peoria

Minnesota Twins

Ann Arbor South Bend

Cleveland

Fort Wayne

indiana

Lima

ohio

Muncie Dayton INDIANAPOLIS

Louisville Evansville

Miami Marlins

Akron

DAYTON DRAGONS

COLUMBUS

Cincinnati Reds

Cincinnati

FORT WAYNE TINCAPS

FRANKFORT

San Diego Padres

Lexington

kentuckyD A Y T O N Hopkinsville

Cleveland Indians

Toronto Blue Jays

Flint

LANSING Detroit

Waterloo

Arizona Diamondbacks

9

DRAGONS

GREAT LAKES LOONS Los Angeles Dodgers

St. Louis Cardinals

Houston Astros

SOUTH BEND CUBS Chicago Cubs ON PAGE 11 *CONTINUED WEST MICHIGAN WHITECAPS Detroit Tigers

WISCONSIN TIMBER RATTLERS Milwaukee Brewers

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING HOME OF THE DEPENDABLES

Beat the heat!

Give us a call to book a free estimate.

Earn up to $1,950 in rebates through June 30.Take advantage of 0% financing with Butler.

www.butlerheating.com | 937-253-8871

REMEMBER THE DRAGON Chad Rogers Survived Shark Attack to Pitch for Dragons

It has been said that in every great story, the main character overcomes a struggle or obstacle. For one former Dragons player, his obstacle was so unique that it may never be repeated by another ballplayer.

Chad Rogers was a key member of the great Dragons pitching staff of 2011.

Under the tutelage of pitching coach Tony Fossas, the 2011 Dragons set a club record that still stands for best team earned run average in a season (3.39). More impressively, the Dragons pitching staff that year broke the all-time Midwest League record for most strikeouts as a team in one season. They broke the league record, not just the team record. The league has operated for more than 50 years.

The success of the Dragons pitching staff led to a huge year for the team as a whole. Their final record of 83-57 still ranks as the best ever posted by a Dragons team. Their second half record of 48-22 was simply phenomenal.

Rogers was one of the most consistent members of the Dragons bullpen in 2011, appearing in 37 games with a 2.99 ERA. But an event prior to his first pitch in Dayton made his success even more amazing.

The date was June 27, 2010. A few weeks earlier, Rogers had been drafted by the Cincinnati Reds after pitching that spring at Galveston College, a junior college in his hometown of Galveston, Texas. Rogers’ schedule for that night included a workout for a Reds scout, before receiving a formal offer for Rogers to join the Reds organization. The Reds wanted to see Rogers throw before committing to a specific signing bonus. As things turned out, the workout would have to wait.

DAY TON

11

DRAGONS

*CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

DAY TON

12

DRAGONS

Prior to his meeting with the Reds, Rogers decided to engage in one of his favorite activities, surfing off the coast of Galveston. The waves that day were inviting but, Rogers could never have imagined what was in store for him later that day. After 30 minutes of surfing, Rogers was bitten by what authorities determined later to be a bull shark. Bull sharks average about 8 feet in length and are listed as the shark with the third most attacks on humans. Rogers legs and feet were bitten by the shark but, he was able to escape and make it to shore, where he was taken to the emergency room. Over 60 stitches were required to close Rogers wounds but, luckily, no surgery was required. The odds of ever being bitten by a shark are one in 3.75 million.

The workout with the Reds was rescheduled for five weeks later and on August 11, Rogers threw a bullpen session for the Reds despite his foot still being so swollen that he could not tie the laces on his cleats. The Reds were impressed and signed Rogers to a professional contract.

In the spring of 2011, the Dragons broke camp in Arizona at the start of April.

Rogers spent the first few weeks of the season in extended spring training but, when a roster opening arose, the Reds promoted him to Dayton and he joined the Dragons. All of Rogers’ teammates were familiar with his story. If any of them had doubts about the accuracy of the reports, it did not take long to learn the truth. After each game when Rogers removed his uniform, the evidence of the shark bite, just 10 months earlier, was clear. His legs and feet showed long, deep scars and he was jokingly nicknamed him “Sharky.”

13 *CONTINUED ON PAGE 15 DAY TON

DRAGONS

THE NCAA D-III UNIVERSITY IN GREATER CINCINNATI

NCAA D-III SPORTS CINCINNATI, OH www.msj.edu/dragons Mount St. Joseph University is committed to providing an educational and employment environment free from discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other minority or protected status.

Visit msj.edu/non-discrimination for 10-WO-001433/20/Ad D Athe Y Tfull O Npolicy and D Rcontact A G O Ninformation.

S

14

On the field, Rogers quickly impressed Fossas by the way he went about his business. “You never had to tell him anything as far as the daily work plan,” remembers Fossas. “He was a pleasure to coach. He was an extremely competitive young man, determined to overcome everything that had happened.

We had a special group of guys that year, all wanting to prove something, and he fit that mold. He made himself a prospect.”

Rogers eventually gained the trust of Fossas and manager Delino DeShields, who did not hesitate to call him in from the bullpen in tough situations. Fossas remembers the process.

“The professional baseball program was good for him,” says Fossas. “His stuff got better and better as he continued to work. He started out as a guy throwing 89 MPH and became a guy who could throw a two-seam fastball at 94 MPH. It was as good a two-seamer as anyone had.”

Rogers eventually reached the Triple-A level before injuries side-tracked his career. “Given the right circumstances, he could have pitched in the big leagues,” says Fossas. “The injuries - it is hard to say why that happens. It was not because of overuse because he was on a strict pitch limit all the way. Some guys get hurt and there is no explanation.”

Rogers threw his last pitch as a professional in 2016. He spent all or parts of three years in Triple-A, on the doorstep of the Major Leagues, but he never got the call-up. Even while missing time with injuries, his performance at the Triple-A level was generally good enough that he likely was considered for a promotion to Cincinnati at some point but, the call never came.

“That’s why I said, ‘given the right circumstances’, because that is the case for so many players,” says Fossas. “The timing has to be right. There has to be a need at the big league level when you are throwing your best. And you have to be healthy. He gave it his best shot.”

With his playing days behind him, Rogers is living in Galveston, coaching youth baseball and about to open a new baseball training facility called “The Baseball Bunker.” He and his wife welcomed their first child, Pressley Rae Rogers.

Someday, many years from now, he will share an interesting story with her about a time he went surfing. ###

DAY TON

15

DRAGONS

DAY TON

16

DRAGONS

The Midwest League has had many great players over its proud history. Opinions will differ, but here is the best player for each of the 16 franchises, selected subjectively based on career stats.

Team (First year in Midwest League): Best Player

Beloit Snappers (1982): PRINCE FIELDER

The son of former Tigers slugger Cecil Fielder appeared in six MLB all-star games and hit 50 home runs in one season in 2007 with the Milwaukee Brewers. He hit at least 30 home runs in six consecutive years from 2007-12. He played for Beloit in 2002-03.

Bowling Green (2010): BLAKE SNELL

Snell won the American League Cy Young Award in 2018 when he went 21-5 with a 1.89 ERA with the Tampa Bay Rays. He played for Bowling Green in 2013-14.

Burlington (1962): PAUL MOLITOR

Molitor was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame after a 21-year MLB career that was spent mostly with the Milwaukee Brewers. He played in seven MLB all-star games and was the MVP of the 1993 World Series as a member of the Toronto Blue Jays.

He spent his only year in the Minor Leagues (1977) with Burlington. Hall of Famer Larry Walker also played for Burlington.

Cedar Rapids (1962): MIKE TROUT

Trout, still only 28 years old, has a lot of baseball ahead of him.

But he has already won the American League Most Valuable Player award three times and has played in seven MLB allstar games. He played for Cedar Rapids in 2009-10. Hall of Famers Trevor Hoffman and Ted Simmons as well as former Reds stars Eric Davis and Chris Sabo also played for Cedar Rapids.

DAY TON

17

DRAGONS

*CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

CRUSHING IT SINCE 1946

PROGRESSIVEPRINTERS.COM | 937.222.1267 DAY TON

18

DRAGONS

All- Time Best PLAYERS Clinton (1956): DENNY MCLAIN

Though McLain’s time as a star was shorter than most others on this list, his accomplishments with the Tigers in the late 1960’s put him at the top with Clinton. No MLB pitcher has matched McLain’s 1968 victory total over the last 52 years. He won 31 games for the Tigers that year to earn American League MVP honors. The next year, he won 24 games to earn his second straight Cy Young Award. He played for Clinton in 1962.

Dayton (2000): JOEY VOTTO

Votto won the 2010 National League Most Valuable Player award and is a six-time MLB all-star. He has led the N.L. in on-base percentage six times and also has a Gold Glove award to his credit. Votto played for the Dragons in 2003-04.

Fort Wayne (1993): TORII HUNTER

Hunter is one of the greatest defensive center fielders in baseball history and will get some consideration for the Hall of Fame. He spent 19 years in the Major Leagues and played in five all-star games. He won nine Gold Glove awards. As a hitter, he averaged about 25 home runs, 90 RBI, and 20 stolen bases in his prime years. He played for Fort Wayne in 1994.

Great Lakes (2007): CLAYTON KERSHAW

Kershaw was baseball’s best pitcher over the decade of 2010-19. He won three Cy Young Awards, an N.L. MVP, five ERA titles, and pitched in eight MLB all-star games. He played with Great Lakes in their inaugural season of 2007.

Kane County (1991): MIGUEL CABRERA

Cabrera is a certain Hall of Famer and one of the top 100 players ever to play the game. He is the only player in the last 50 years to win a Triple Crown (league leader in batting average, home runs, and runs batted in), posting a huge season with the Detroit Tigers in 2012. He has played in 11 MLB all-star games, won four A.L. batting titles, and hit at least 30 home runs 10 times. He played for Kane County in 2001.

Lake County (2010): FRANCISCO LINDOR

Lindor is still a young player at age 26, but he has already played in four MLB all-star games, won two Gold Glove awards, and hit 130 career home runs as a shortstop. He has hit at least 30 homers in each of the last three seasons. He played for Lake County in 2012.

Lansing (1996): CARLOS BELTRAN

Beltran has an excellent chance of entering the Hall of Fame following the mandatory fiveyear waiting period. He finished his career in 2017 and, among his credits, boasts nine MLB all-star game appearances, three Gold Glove awards, a Rookie of the Year award, and over 2,700 career hits. He played for Lansing in their first season in 1996.

DAY TON 19 D R A G O N S *CONTINUED ON PAGE 21

Dayton Daily News

Proud SuPPorter

of the Dayton Dragons DAY TON

20

DRAGONS

All- Time Best PLAYERS Peoria (1983): ALBERT PUJOLS

Pujols is the ultimate lock to be a first-ballot Hall of Famer and might be one of the top 10 hitters ever to play the game. He has won three N.L. Most Valuable Player awards and has played in 10 MLB all-star games. He has won a batting title, two Gold Gloves, and a Rookie of the Year award. He is fifth in MLB history in career total bases, trailing only Hank Aaron, Stan Musial, Willie Mays, and Barry Bonds. He is one of the two most accomplished players ever to come through the Midwest League (along with Alex Rodriguez). He played for Peoria in 2000.

Quad Cities (1960): JOE MAUER

Mauer spent his entire 15-year MLB career with the Minnesota Twins and will receive serious Hall of Fame consideration at the end of his five-year waiting period. He retired after the 2018 season. Mauer is considered by consensus to be one of the 10 greatest catchers in baseball history. He played in six MLB all-star games, won an A.L. MVP award, and captured three batting titles. He played for Quad Cities in 2002.

South Bend (1988): JUSTIN UPTON

Upton is a four-time MLB all-star who has hit at least 25 home runs in a season nine times, including as recently as 2018. He played for South Bend in 2006 after being the first overall selection in the draft the previous year.

West Michigan (1994): FRANCISCO CORDERO

Cordero was a three-time MLB all-star who had his best years with the Texas Rangers.

He spent four years as the Reds closer starting in 2008 and earned at least 34 saves each season. His career high in saves (49) came in 2004 with Texas. He played for West Michigan in 1997.

Wisconsin (1962): ALEX RODRIGUEZ

The Wisconsin franchise, known as the Appleton Foxes until 1995, has had a long list of stars including Hall of Famers Goose Gossage and Harold Baines and future Hall of Famer David Ortiz. But their most notable star was Rodriguez, who ranks statistically as one of the game’s all-time greats. Rodriguez, a 14-time all-star, ranks fourth in MLB histor in career home runs with 694, trailing only Barry Bonds, Hank Aaron, and Babe Ruth. He played with the Wisconsin franchise in 1994, the last year they were known as Appleton.

DAY TON

21

DRAGONS

DAY TON

22

DRAGONS

HONOR ING

DAYTON’S BEST Our community is a great place to live, work, and play. But what makes Dayton truly great are the people who do incredible things each and every day to make our community a special place to call home.

The Dragons Community All-Stars Program honors those citizens and organizations that have gone above and beyond to help others in need or improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley. The Dragons recognize these Community All-Stars for their good deeds and efforts at games all season long.

WHO ARE COMMUNITY ALL-STARS? Community All-Stars come from all walks of life and age ranges. They are firefighters and police officers, doctors and good Samaritans, first responders and volunteers. Whether they’re saving a life or lending a hand, Community All-Stars help make life better for others.

NOMINATE YOUR COMMUNITY ALL-STAR TODAY! Do you know a person or organization that’s making a positive impact on our community? If you do, we want to hear their story. Simply visit www.daytondragons.com/communityallstar, tell us about your nominee, and hit submit. Entries with more details are more likely to receive consideration.

The Dragons Community All-Star Program is made possible by:

HEATER

DAY TON

24

DRAGONS

GEM

THEIR DECKS? CLICHÉ.

OUR DECKS? TOUCHÉ.

Exceptional is the Rule. TimberTech® decks are a cut above the competition. We offer more colors, superior moisture resistance and exclusive Multi-Width Decking. The best warranties in the business. And, our AZEK decking is 30% cooler* than others in the industry. Maybe that makes us a few cuts above. Imagine the possibilities at TimberTech.com

*Although AZEK Deck products are cooler to the touch than many other deck board products, all decking products will get hot in the sun. Additionally, the darker the decking color, the hotter it will feel. For hotter climates, consider choosing a lighter color. ©2020 AZEK Building Products

OVER $100 VALUE FOR ONLY $19.99!

MEMBERS RECEIVE: DRAGONS JERSEY DRAGONS BACKPACK DRAGONS HAT

B:8.75"

FREE MINI MEAL AT PARTICIPATING FRISCH’S BIG BOY RESTAURANTS

T:8.5"

You will get the above items mailed to you shortly after you place your online order.

YOU WILL ALSO RECEIVE TWO (2) DRAGONS LAWN TICKETS AND TWO (2) DRAGONS ZONE PASSES.

Once we have more information regarding the 2020 Dragons season, we will reach out to you via email to get those dates selected and mail you the game tickets/ Dragons Zone passes.

JOIN TODAY AT

DAYTONDRAGONS.COM/KIDSCLUB

DRAGONS@DAYTONDRAGONS.COM • 937.228.2287 27 DAY TON

DRAGONS

Keep your team in the lineup!

Cover your bases with Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

Anthem medical, dental, vision, pharmacy, life and disability benefits can help keep you and your family on the field. You’re covered 100% for preventive care like shots and checkups, so you’ll be ready to bring your “A” game any time.

Make the winning play... choose Anthem. Call your broker or Anthem rep or go to anthem.com for a free quote.

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Community Insurance Company. Independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Assocation. ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

650890HMENABS 01/18 DAY TON

28

DRAGONS

The Dragons MVP Program uses the marketing power of Dayton Dragons Baseball as an educational tool for fourth and fifth grade teachers in the five county area.

Each teacher can select five students as a Dayton Dragons MVP in their classroom. Each MVP winner receives four tickets to a special MVP night at a Dragons game at Day Air Ballpark, MVP certificate, access to the “MVP Zone� with a player photobooth, face painting, and games, as well as a MVP hat.

During MVP nights at Dragons games, all MVPs in attendance are invited on the field for a pre-game parade. MVPs are randomly selected to throw a first pitch, deliver the official lineup card, deliver the game ball, or become a Jr. PA Announcer! Another part of the MVP Program are school visits where Dayton Dragons players, staff, and mascot bring the Dragons experience to local 4th and 5th graders.

CLASSROOM V ISITS

PRE-GAME PARADES

DRAGONS MVP NIGHTS

The Dayton Dragons MVP Program is made possible by the generous support of

*CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

DAY TON

29

DRAGONS

Monthly Unlimited Wash Club Starting at $14.95/mo.

Wash All you want at any Flying Ace Express!

DAY TON

30

DRAGONS

know a deserving local veteran?

THEY COULD BE HONORED DURING A DRAGONS GAME!

CareSource’s Veteran Salute program highlights five veterans’ stories during the course of each season. Veterans who are chosen are honored at a Dragons game with an on-field ceremony and given VIP treatment during their special game.

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR VETERAN’S STORY!

NOW WITH CONTACT-FREE SERVICES • • • • •

Online Photo and Curbside Estimating Free Pick-up & Delivery Certified Technicians Nationwide Warranty Rental & Towing Assistance

3 LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU SIDNEY BODY CARSTAR 175 Stolle Ave. Sidney, OH 45365 937-492-4783

PIQUA CARSTAR 700 S. Roosevelt Ave. Piqua, OH 45356 937-773-8671

CARSTAR.com DAY TON

32

DRAGONS

TROY CARSTAR 15 N. Kings Chapel Dr. Troy, OH 45373 937-339-3391

DRAGONS EVENTS & Promos

DRAGONS 5K

GREAT AMERICAN BEER TASTING

Presented by Orthopedic Associates Saturday, July 18 @ 8am

Presented by Heidelberg Distributing Saturday, August 8 @ 2pm

All participants receive four lawn tickets to a future Dragons game, custom Dragons 5K t-shirt, Dragons hat, NEW home plate finisher’s medal, and entry to the post-race party inside the stadium! $25 adults, $15 youth. www.daytondragons.com/dragons5k

Save the Date! Fans in attendance will receive 20, four-ounce samples, as well as, a pint glass, t-shirt, and four raffle tickets for great prizes from the Dragons and Heidelberg Distributing for only $30. www.daytondragons.com/beertasting

BOBBLEHEADS ON SALE

Dragons bobbleheads are now available for purchase in our online Dragons Den Team Store!

Grab some of your favorite bobbleheads – Hunter Greene, Jose Siri, Heater, and Gem. Proceeds from the sale of bobbleheads go to the Dragons Foundation. www.dragons.milbstore.com

®

RECYCLING BIN INITIATIVE

Presented by Montgomery County ES Recycling can be done at any time! Recycle right and win some cool Dragons prizes and experiences with the Recycling Bin Initiative. This is a free, educational tool families can use to learn which items can and can not be recycled. www.daytondragons.com/rbiat

ion.

CARESOURCE’S VETERAN SALUTE Presented by CareSource

Know a deserving veteran in the Miami Valley?

The Veteran Salute Program highlights veterans’ stories during the course of the season. Veterans who are chosen are honored at a Dragons game with an on-field ceremony and provided with VIP treatment during their special night. www.daytondragons.com/veteransalute DAY TON

33

DRAGONS

DO NOT

BAG Recyclables NO PLASTIC BAGS IN THE RECYCLING CART Collecting recyclables in a bag? Empty the contents in the cart.

Return plastic bags to retailers.

To learn more visit http://www.mcswd.org DAY TON

34

DRAGONS

PRESENTED BY:

The Dayton Dragons are proud to shine the spotlight on the military through our Hometown Heroes program.

SPOTLIGHTING MILITARY MEMBERS & THEIR FAMILIES

CELEBRATION NIGHT

SUPPORTING MILITARY & VETERAN ORGANIZATIONS

CELEBRATING MISSED MILESTONES OF DEPLOYED

• Recognizing military focused organizations

• Conducting swearing in ceremonies in front of sold out crowds

• Celebrating missed milestones of deployed

• Hosting families of deployed

PROUD PARTNER of the DAYTON DRAGONS IGS Energy is celebrating 30 years of energizing the Greater Dayton Area.

IGS.COM | 855.435.4637 | 36 DAY TON

DRAGONS

The Dragons First 9-Inning No-Hitter On May 13, 2006, Dayton Dragons pitcher Johnny Cueto worked the first five innings of a road game against the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers without allowing a base hit. Before Cueto could go to the mound for the sixth inning, the game was delayed due to rain, and it was never resumed. It went down as a Dragons victory, and Cueto was officially credited with a no-hitter.

It was an unusual celebration for Cueto, who would eventually become a 20-game winner for the Reds. After being told he would not go back into the game if it resumed, he showered and was sitting in the Dragons locker room in his street clothes when he was told that the game had been called.

Almost exactly 11 years later, the Dragons completed their first 9-inning no-hitter. This time, the game took on a more normal routine, and the celebration after the final out was appropriate for the moment. But the game itself had elements that were unexpected.

On May 20, 2017 at Day Air Ballpark, the Dragons hosted the Bowling Green Hot Rods. The Dragons starting pitcher that night was left-handed ace Scott Moss, who would be selected to pitch in the Midwest League All-Star Game one month later. Moss had been strong all season for the Dragons and entered the game on May 20th with a 2.20 earned run average. He was on a roll, having allowed one run or less in each of his last four starts.

Moss did not start the night in a manner that would have caused anyone to predict what would follow. He walked the first batter of the game, and hit another batter with a pitch in that same inning. Moss benefited when a Bowling Green runner was thrown out trying to steal third base. Three men reached base in a shaky first inning, but none of them collected a base hit, and *CONTINUED ON PAGE 39 the Hot Rods came away without a run.

“Moss was six-foot-six, and like many taller pitchers, he had some days when it took him a few innings to get his mechanics right, so sometimes he struggled to find his command in the early part of his outing,” recalls Dragons broadcaster Tom Nichols. “That night, he was not sharp in the first inning, but he got through it without giving up a hit, and as the game moved along, he started getting better.”

Moss hit the lead-off batter in the third inning, but then retired the next three hitters. By that time, the Dragons had taken a 1-0 lead when Hector Vargas drove in Cassidy Brown from second base with a single in the second. The Dragons scored again in the bottom of the third on an RBI double by Tyler Stephenson to lift their lead to 2-0. In the fourth inning, Moss issued another walk and then hit another batter, but escaped the jam without allowing a hit or a run.

At that point, those watching the game were thinking more about holding the two-run lead than a no-hitter. Moss then had an easy fifth inning, striking out two of the three batters he faced.

In the bottom of the fifth, Dragons pitching coach Derrin Ebert did his nightly television interview with Nichols and Jack Pohl on the broadcast on Dayton’s CW. They kidded him about the superstitions of talking about a no-hitter in progress. “We were starting to notice that Bowling Green did not have a hit, and we tried to ask Derrin about it without really saying it,” remembers Pohl. “Everyone in a baseball dugout is very superstitious. We were laughing about it, not really sure whether to talk about it. But it was starting to become a point of attention.”

After Moss retired the side in order again in the sixth, the focus on a possible no-hitter was front and center.

“I knew there was no chance that Moss was going to throw the full nine innings because his pitch count was already rather high,” says Nichols. “The question was, *CONTINUED ON PAGE 41 how long would he pitch, and who would replace him?

At the same time, Jack and I basically tossed the whole Scott Moss superstitious nature of not talking about a no-hitter out the window. Our responsibility was to our viewers, and it was our job to make sure everyone knew what was happening. I remember the next day, a couple guys in the locker room were kidding me about talking about a possible no-hitter on the TV broadcast, and my response was, ‘when the time comes when I can control what happens on the field by what I say on the broadcast, you let me know, and we will never lose another game from that point forward. Until then, I am going to talk about the things that the listener wants to know.’ So from that point, we were all over the whole no-hitter theme.”

Through six innings, Moss had not allowed a hit, but he had thrown 84 pitches, about the limit for a Dragons starter. The message was sent to the bullpen to get a new pitcher ready. The pitcher selected was a surprise, and part of the eventual drama of the night.

DAY TON

39

DRAGONS

*CONTINUED ON PAGE 41

JOIN OUR TEAM!

Silfex is hiring talented individuals at our Springfield and Eaton locations, including: Machinists • Maintenance Techs • Manufacturing Techs Engineers • and many more!

BENEFITS •

Competitive Pay and Bonus Program

•

Company-matching 401k program

• •

Paid time off and holidays Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance effective Day 1

• •

Company-Paid Life Insurance

• • •

Adoption Reimbursement

Fitness Reimbursement Program Employee Stock Purchase Plan And, more!

Learn more at silfexcareers.com

Right-handed reliever Carlos Machorro had been with the Dragons for several days after being brought in from extended spring training in Arizona, but he had not yet appeared in a game.

He probably would not have pitched in this game either if not for the fact that everyone else in the bullpen had seen heavy usage in recent days, and the coaches needed to get a look at Machorro.

“I remember looking on the roster and seeing Machorro, a guy we hadn’t even seen, and having no idea what to expect from him,” says Pohl. “He was basically a mystery man. But here he was, on the mound, trying to keep a no-hitter going.”

Nichols remembers the same thoughts as he identified Machorro throwing in the bullpen.

“Number one, Carlos went on to have a very good year that summer, but he did not have the kind of stuff at that time that would lead anyone to think that he was about to have a dominant outing,” says Nichols. “He was a guy that did not make our club out of spring training and was brought to Dayton because we needed another arm. He did not throw particularly hard at that time. The coaches didn’t even know what to expect of him…he had been with us for days and was never put into a game. So I thought, ‘well, maybe if he can give us one inning and keep the no-hitter going, great, then we can get someone else in there.’ But Carlos, I am sure, was really pumped up to go into his first game under those conditions, and he was unhittable when he came in the game.”

Machorro struck out the first two batters he faced in the top of the seventh, and then got a ground out to end the inning. He went back out for the eighth inning and struck out the first batter in that frame, then retired the next two to preserve the no-hitter through eight innings.

“That was one of the most amazing parts of the whole game,” says Pohl. “You had a player come in to pitch that no one knew anything about, his own coaches had not seen him pitch, and he was a big part of the outcome.”

In the bottom of the eighth inning, the Dragons got veteran Brian Hunter active in the bullpen.

Meanwhile, Machorro and Moss were standing sideby-side in the dugout.

“I said, Scott, do you realize we have a no-hitter going,” said Machorro as he recalled the game two years later.

“He told me to shut up, that you don’t talk about those things, and I said I was sorry.”

carlos machorro

Machorro had retired all six batters he faced, striking out three. Hunter entered the game to try to close out the first nine-inning no-hitter in Dragons history.

Hunter was one of the team’s leaders, a vocal, strong personality. He was also one of the oldest players on the team, a mature competitor who was the perfect player for the moment.

He retired the first batter on an easy fly out to center field, then recorded a strikeout for the second out. Twenty-six of the 27 outs were now in the books. The Dragons needed one more.

DAY TON

41

DRAGONS

*CONTINUED ON PAGE 43

LIC #27182

WWW.DETMERSONS.COM DAYTON: 937.879.2373 SPRINGFIELD:42937.325.7396 DAY TON

DRAGONS

Hunter faced the Hot Rods #5 hitter in their batting order, Rene Pinto, who was 0-2 with a walk in the game. Hunter made a good pitch and got Pinto to hit a bouncing ball to the left side of the infield. Dayton third baseman John Sansone moved to his left a few steps, fielded it cleanly, and fired across to first base to get Pinto and complete the no-hitter.

“It goes to show you something about sports, and especially baseball,” says Pohl. “Every game may not be a great game, but every game has the potential to be something you will remember for years to come. That game fit that description. Who would have expected when he came to the ballpark that night that we would watch something that had never been done in 18 years of Dragons baseball.”

The game was momentous for Nichols, who was in his 30th year as a Minor League broadcaster.

“Believe it or not, that was my first no-hitter call,” he said. “You would never have predicted that game to be the first. You had a pitcher over the first few innings that struggled to get the ball where he wanted it, but you might say Moss was effectively wild. He put five men on base in the first four innings with walks or hit batters. But he did not allow a hit. And then you had a mystery pitcher in Machorro come in the game who threw the ball like a big leaguer. And by the time we got to Hunter, it was the perfect storm. You just felt super confident that he could get those last three outs. I was just worried about a little dribbler up the third base line that we could not make a play on. But Hunter closed it out, and the players rushed the field. A no-hitter celebration is special because there is that sense of relief that has been building for innings, and the feeling of accomplishment. It was very memorable.”

Because of the fact that the TV broadcasts are played inside the Dragons locker room throughout the game, it is likely that many of the player participants knew as the contest progressed that the Dragons had never experienced a nine-inning no-hitter before that night. For every player who was a part of it, they could share Jack Pohl’s thoughts. You never know what you will see when you come to the ballpark each night. ###

DAYTON PITCHERS

IP

H

R

E

BB

SO

HR

ERA

MOSS (W, 6-1)

6.0

0

0

0

3

5

0

1.91

MACHORRO (H, 1)

2.0

0

0

0

0

3

0

0.00

HUNTER (S, 4)

1.0

0

0

0

0

1

0

3.00

DAY TON

43

DRAGONS

FEATURED STORY

DAY TON

44

DRAGONS

Season Preview

2020

Stellar

Shortstops

This is part four of a nine-part series previewing the 2020 Dragons. Players listed here are candidates for positions on the 25-man Dragons season-opening roster.

Minor League rosters have not yet been assigned.

While the timeline to the start of our season is unknown at this point, when play resumes, the players in these previews will compete for roster positions with the Dragons.

Ivan Johnson came out of Kennesaw Mountain High School in suburban Atlanta, where he was a sophomore teammate of former Dragon Tyler Stephenson during Stephenson’s senior year in 2015. While Stephenson entered professional baseball right out of high school, Johnson enrolled at the University of Georgia and then transferred after one season. Johnson spent the 2019 baseball campaign at Chipola College, a powerhouse junior college program in Florida that went all the way to the national Junior College World Series with Johnson as their best hitter. Johnson played in 57 games at Chipola last spring and batted .381 with nine home runs, a .587 slugging percentage, 14 stolen bases, nearly as many walks as strikeouts, and an OPS of 1.078.

The Reds drafted Johnson in the fourth round out of Chipola last June. He was assigned to Greeneville and played in 46 games. The switch-hitter batted .255 with six home runs, 11 stolen bases, and a .415 slugging percentage. He started 33 games at shortstop and another 11 at second base. *CONTINUED ON PAGE 43 Photo: Ivan Johnson with Greenville Reds in 2019 Credit: Doug Gray with RedsMinorLeagues.com

What does his future look like?

One never knows, but we all know excellent education and training will last a lifetime.

With our main campus in Piqua set on 130 acres of rolling green space, additional

campuses in Eaton, Greenville, and Troy, Edison State Community College continues to serve southwestern Ohio and eastern Indiana with a broad range of baccalaureate

transfer programs, advanced coursework, and continuing education offerings designed to result in university transfer, career advancement, and workforce development.

You’ll be amazed at what we’re doing.

Have you seen us lately? www.edisonohio.edu/tour

PROUD PARTNER OF THE DAYTON DRAGONS

Stellar

Shortstops

Season Preview

2020

Baseball America ranks Johnson as the #23 prospect in the Reds organization. The publication says that Johnson has the ability to become a Major League starting infielder. They credit his solid all-around skillset, his above average speed, and his ability to play both shortstop and second base.

Quincy McAfee was a starting middle infielder at Pepperdine University for three seasons, beginning with his freshman year in 2017. The Dragons all-star shortstop in 2013, Zach Vincej, played the same position at Pepperdine five years before McAfee arrived on campus. During his time at Pepperdine, McAfee’s conference rivals included 2019 Dragons catcher Jay Schuyler (University of San Diego) and possible Dragons 2020 catcher James Free (University of the Pacific). All three players were stars in the West Coast Conference. McAfee batted .310 in 2019 at Pepperdine, connecting on a pair of home runs with a .433 slugging percentage.

The Reds drafted McAfee in the 26th round last June and assigned him to Billings, where he was a key contributor during the Mustangs run to the Pioneer League playoffs. After a slow start, he caught fire in August and finished at .291 in 60 games, adding one home run. He was hitting just .214 after his first 37 games, but starting on August 9, he hit .405 over the rest of the season in 23 games. He started 29 games at shortstop, 20 at second base, and six more at third base.

McAfee had a huge prep career at Southlake High School in Houston, Texas. He hit .537 as a senior and was selected as the Texas 6A (largest schools) All-State shortstop and the Houston-area 6A Player of the Year.

Claudio Finol served as the Dragons utility infielder in 2019 for the month of April before heading back to extended spring training and then to Billings. He returned to the Dragons at the start of July and finished the year in Dayton.

He played in 53 games for the Dragons, batting .218 with one home run. He started 30 games at second base, and 10 games each at shortstop and third base. In eight games at Billings, he batted .226. In 2018, Finol hit .294 in 49 games with Greeneville.

Finol is a native of Venezuela who signed as a free agent with the Reds in 2016. His ability to play well at three different infield positions provides value as a utility man. ###

Photo: Claudio Finol with Dayton in 2019

DIGITAL PLAYBALL! ISSUE #4 Presented BY:

Click HERE for Dragons Poster - 1 of 4

Click HERE for Dragons Poster - 2 of 4

Click HERE for Dragons Poster - 3 of 4

Click HERE for Dragons Poster - 4 of 4

FAN GIVEAWAY CLICK HERE TO ENTER

Autographed Tom Browning Baseball & $50 for the Dragons Den Team Store!