2022 PROGRAM

2022 PROGRAM

2022 WELCOME

WHAT’S INSIDE!

How to Purchase Tickets On the Web: barons.com Print your tickets from home at barons.com! By Phone: 205.988.3200 In Person: Joe Drake Ticket Office Email: [email protected] Online Tickets Powered by Tickets.com

WELCOME FROM THE LOGANS. . . . . 3 BIRMINGHAM MAYOR RANDALL WOODFIN LETTER TO THE FANS. . . . 5 WELCOME TO REGIONS FIELD. . . . . 7 REGIONS FIELD REGULATIONS. . . . . . . . . 9 2021 SCHEDULE . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 SOUTHERN LEAGUE. . . . . . . . . . 12 WEEKLY PROMOTIONS. . . . . . . . . 13 DAILY PROMOTIONS . . . . . . . . 15, 17 GUIDE TO STADIUM FOOD. . . . . . . 19 2021 BARONS RECAP. . . . . . 21, 23, 25 MANAGER JUSTIN JIRSCHELE . . . . . 27 COACHES AND TRAINERS. . . . . . . 28 PLAYER BIOS. . . . . . . . . . . 30 - 33 BLACK BARONS HISTORY. . . . . . . 34 TOP 8 REGIONS FIELD MOMENTS. . . 37

OWNERS: STAN LOGAN, JEFF LOGAN, AND DON LOGAN PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER: JONATHAN NELSON EDITOR: CINDY BONDS CONTRIBUTORS: DEANNA SCARPELLI, BRAD KLEIN, MAXWELL RUNDE, JOHN COOK, GUS STOUDEMIRE, RICH SMYTH DESIGNER: CINDY BONDS PRINTING: GLEN BEVIS, DIGITAL MARKETING SERVICES, INC

LOCATION: 1401 1ST AVE SOUTH, BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 BIRMINGHAM BARONS, LLC

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BIRMINGHAM BARONS

Dear Barons fans, Welcome to Regions Field and another exciting summer of Birmingham Barons baseball. Our family has always had a great love for the game of baseball, from the Little Leagues to the Big Leagues, and we are proud to be a part of the historic and illustrious tradition of the Birmingham Barons. More than 600 Major Leaguers have played for the Barons on their way to the Big Leagues while capturing 14 Southern League titles including an unforgettable championship season in 2013. We look forward to continuing that winning tradition here in Birmingham. Entering our 17th season with the Barons, our primary goal continues to be maintaining the same high-quality, affordable, and family-oriented entertainment that baseball fans in this area have come to expect for over a century. We continue to work closely with the city of Birmingham, our many friends and partners in the community, corporate sponsors, Major League Baseball, and the Chicago White Sox to ensure the best possible experience for our fans. We sincerely thank all of our partners for their continued support of the Barons. This year, we are excited to bring a number of unique and entertaining events, performances, and giveaways to Birmingham baseball fans. We will continue to celebrate the Negro Leagues with our Salute to the Negro Leagues from August 3-5, during which we will highlight legendary players and their historical contribution to the sport. The Barons, in conjunction with Major League Baseball, are excited to partner with Marvel for the Defenders of the Diamond series on June 25 and are looking forward to continuing our annual traditions of Pyro Palooza, our Independence Day Celebration, and Los Barons night. Please visit barons.com for our entire promotional schedule. As we enter our tenth season of baseball at Regions Field, we would like to thank the City of Birmingham and Mayor Woodfin for their continued partnership and diligence in bringing baseball to Downtown. We are thrilled and proud that Regions Field has been a part of the steady development of the Parkside District and have enjoyed watching the city continue to develop around it to create a thriving community in our corner of the city. Hundreds of thousands of fans have passed through the gates at Regions Field in our ten seasons here and we are excited to welcome more in 2022. In addition to our 14 Southern League Championships, Barons fans have been able to witness the on-field exploits of such notable names as Reggie Jackson, Rollie Fingers, Frank Thomas, Robin Ventura, Michael Jordan, Marcus Semien, Tim Anderson, and Luis Robert. Thank you for your support and loyalty over a century of Barons baseball. Having been a part of the Birmingham community for more than 40 years, we are aware of the Barons long and storied history and wish to sincerely thank our loyal and dedicated fans for their continued support of the Barons. Once again, welcome to the 2022 season of Birmingham Barons Baseball. Now let’s “Play Ball!” The Logan Family Welcome to the 2022 Barons Season!

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Welcome Barons Fans!

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BIRMINGHAM BARONS

Welcome to Regions Field

REGIONS FIELD QUICK FACTS • Opened: April 10, 2013 • Years used: 2013–Present • First Game: Birmingham 9, Mississippi 5 • Southern League Championships: 1 (2013) • Dimensions are 320 LF – 380 LC – 400 CF – 375 RC – 325 RF • Seats: 8,500 DESIGN • Facade is brick and steel, honoring Birmingham’s industrial past • Rickwood Field and Sloss Furnace architectural elements used in design • 360-degree concourse open to field • Arrangement features views of the downtown skyline, UAB, Children’s Hospital, Vulcan, and Red Mountain

• Outdoor areas Parkside Coca-Cola Picnic Area and Centerfield Picnic Terrace for groups up to 1,500 • Home Run Porch (under scoreboard), concourse suites, and party deck are available for nightly rentals • Center field entertainment area features the Coors Light Cold Zone Bar • Ascension Youth Sports Zone houses mini whiffle ball field • The Callahan Eye Hospital Family Fun Park (adjacent to left field) features playground equipment and inflatables • Regions Field Sports Depot, open year-round, is fully stocked with fan- favorite team gear • The SwitchYard on 14th, introduced in 2017, hosts an outdoor drink and entertainment area on the first-base side of the stadium. Features include an airstream trailer which inlcudes drink options, as well as a regulation size bocce ball court and ping pong tables

ATTRACTIONS/AMENITIES • Suite level features 23 fully furnished luxury suites • Club Seating section contains 400 seats with access to Pearl Club Lounge • Diamonds Direct Ballroom offers year-round access for groups of all sizes

TO BOOK AN EVENT, EMAIL [email protected]

Enjoy your visit to Regions Field Go Barons!

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Double A - Southern League

Birmingham Barons Manager: Justin Jirschele Pitching Coach: Richard Dotson Hitting Coach: Charlie Romero 2021 record: 62-56 Affiliate: Chicago White Sox Biloxi Shuckers Manager: Mike Guerrero Pitching Coach: Nick Childs Hitting Coach: Chuckie Caufield 2021 record: 45-69 Affiliate: Milwaukee Brewers Chattanooga Lookouts Manager: Jose Moreno Pitching Coach: Rob Wooten Hitting Coach: Eric Richardson 2021 record: 58-54 Affiliate: Cincinnati Reds Tennessee Smokies Manager: Michael Ryan Pitching Coach: Jamie Vermilyea Hitting Coach: Rick Strickland 2021 record: 46-63 Affiliate: Chicago Cubs

Mississippi Braves Manager: Bruce Crabbe Pitching Coach: Bo Henning Hitting Coach: Mike Bard 2021 record: 67-44 Affiliate: Atlanta Braves

Montgomery Biscuits

Manager: Morgan Ensberg Pitching Coach: Jim Paduch Hitting Coach: Wuanner Rincones 2021 record: 62-55 Affiliate: Tampa Bay Rays Pensacola Blue Wahoos Manager: Kevin Randel Pitching Coach: Dave Eiland Hitting Coach: Scott Seabol 2021 record: 57-54 Affiliate: Miami Marlins Rocket City Trash Pandas Manager: Andy Schatzley Pitching Coach: Michael Wurtz Hitting Coach: Kenny Hook 2021 record: 54-56 Affiliate: Los Angeles Angels

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2022 Weekly Promotions TUESDAYS T-SHIRT TUESDAYS* PRESENTED BY PAYCOR DOLLAR DOGS WEDNESDAYS WET NOSE WEDNESDAYS PRESENTED BY CAMP SCOTTY THURSDAYS THIRSTY THURSDAYS PRESENTED BY MILLER LITE, BUFFALO WILD WINGS, & THE FENNEC FRIDAYS FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS PRESENTED BY ALABAMA POWER, COCA-COLA, & COMFORT CARE HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE SATURDAYS SATURDAY ENTERTAINER SERIES* SUNDAY FAMILY SUNDAYS/SALUTE TO ESSENTIAL WORKERS PRESENTED BY ALABAMA POWER BIRMINGHAM WATER WORKS SUPER SATURDAY FIREWORKS* PRESENTED BY HYATT REGENCY & SERRA TOYOTA PRESENTED BY ASCENSION ST. VINCENT’S, SERRA HYUNDAI, TEXAS ROADHOUSE, &

* SELECT DATES

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2022 Promotions April 8  OPENING NIGHT/PAPA JOHN’S MAGNET SCHEDULE GIVEAWAY/FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS presented by ALABAMA POWER, COCA-COLA, & COMFORT CARE HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE April 9 SUPER SATURDAY FIREWORKS presented by HYATT REGENCY & SERRA TOYOTA April 10 FAMILY DAY/SALUTE TO ESSENTIAL WORKERS presented by ALABAMA POWER April 19 T-SHIRT TUESDAY presented by PAYCOR (First 1,000 fans, 13+) /DOLLAR DOGS April 20 WET NOSE WEDNESDAY presented by CAMP SCOTTY April 21 THIRSTY THURSDAY presented by MILLER LITE, BUFFALO WILD WINGS, & THE FENNEC April 22  NASCAR NIGHT WITH BARONS RACE CAP GIVEAWAY presented by U.S. AIR FORCE /FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS presented by ALABAMA POWER, COCA-COLA, & COMFORT CARE HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE April 23  SATURDAY ENTERTAINER SERIES FEAT. TYLER’S AMAZING BALANCING ACT presented by ASCENSION ST. VINCENT’S, SERRA HYUNDAI, TEXAS ROADHOUSE, & BIRMINGHAM WATER WORKS April 24  FAMILY DAY/SALUTE TO ESSENTIAL WORKERS presented by ALABAMA POWER /AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE NIGHT May 3 T-SHIRT TUESDAY presented by PAYCOR (First 1,000 fans, 13+) /DOLLAR DOGS May 4 SCHOOL DAY #1 May 5 THIRSTY THURSDAY/CINCO DE MAYO CELEBRATION presented by MILLER LITE, BUFFALO WILD WINGS, & THE FENNEC May 6 FIRST RESPONDERS & SEVERE WEATHER NIGHT presented by JASON GARDNER STATE FARM & JOBSQUEST /FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS presented by ALABAMA POWER, COCA- COLA, & COMFORT CARE HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE May 7  REGIONS NIGHT W/SOFT BASEBALL GIVEAWAY (First 500 KIDS, 12 & UNDER) /SATURDAY ENTERTAINER SERIES FEAT. THE FLYING HOUNDZ presented by ASCENSION ST. VINCENT’S, SERRA HYUNDAI, TEXAS ROADHOUSE, & BIRMINGHAM WATER WORKS May 8 FAMILY DAY/SALUTE TO ESSENTIAL WORKERS presented by ALABAMA POWER May 17 T-SHIRT TUESDAY presented by PAYCOR (First 1,000 fans, 13+) /DOLLAR DOGS May 18 SCHOOL DAY #2 May 19 THIRSTY THURSDAY presented by MILLER LITE, BUFFALO WILD WINGS, & THE FENNEC May 20 INTERNATIONAL NIGHT presented by GLOBAL TIES /FAITH & FAMILY NIGHT #1/SCOUT NIGHT/FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS presented by ALABAMA POWER, COCA-COLA, & COMFORT CARE HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE May 21  SALUTE TO ARMED FORCES NIGHT presented by NUCOR STEEL /YOUTH CAMO JERSEY GIVEAWAY presented by COCA-COLA (First 1,000 Kids, 12 & Under) /SUPER SATURDAY FIREWORKS presented by HYATT REGENCY & SERRA TOYOTA May 22  AUTISM FRIENDLY DAY/FAMILY DAY/SALUTE TO ESSENTIAL WORKERS presented by ALABAMA POWER June 7 DOLLAR DOGS June 8 WET NOSE WEDNESDAY presented by CAMP SCOTTY June 9 THIRSTY THURSDAY presented by MILLER LITE, BUFFALO WILD WINGS, & THE FENNEC June 10  PRIDE NIGHT presented by ALABAMA VACCINE RESEARCH CLINIC AT UAB /FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS presented by ALABAMA POWER, COCA-COLA, & COMFORT CARE HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE June 11 LOS BARONS NIGHT WITH JERSEY AUCTION presented by ¡HICA! June 12  MLB PLAY BALL WEEKEND/FAMILY DAY/SALUTE TO ESSENTIAL WORKERS presented by ALABAMA POWER June 21 T-SHIRT TUESDAY presented by PAYCOR (First 1,000 fans, 13+) /DOLLAR DOGS June 22 WET NOSE WEDNESDAY presented by CAMP SCOTTY June 23 THIRSTY THURSDAY presented by MILLER LITE, BUFFALO WILD WINGS, & THE FENNEC June 24 BLACK BARONS BOBBLEHEAD GIVEAWAY presented by AUTO-OWNERS INSURANCE (First 1,000 Adults, 18+) /FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS presented by ALABAMA POWER, COCA-COLA, & COMFORT CARE HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE June 25 MARVEL DEFENDERS OF THE DIAMOND (FEAT. BLACK PANTHER APPEARANCE) June 26 FAMILY DAY/SALUTE TO ESSENTIAL WORKERS presented by ALABAMA POWER 15 Promotional Schedule Subject to Change. Giveaways Limited to One Per Guest Under Described Ages.

2022 Promotions continued

July 4 July 6

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION presented by ENCOMPASS HEALTH WET NOSE WEDNESDAY presented by CAMP SCOTTY

July 7 THIRSTY THURSDAY presented by MILLER LITE, BUFFALO WILD WINGS, & THE FENNEC July 8 TIKI TIME TOUR/FAITH & FAMILY NIGHT #2/FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS presented by ALABAMA POWER, COCA-COLA, & COMFORT CARE HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE July 9 JR. FIRE MARSHAL NIGHT presented by THE HARTFORD W/ FIRE HELMET GIVEAWAY (First 1,000 Kids, 12 & Under) /SATURDAY ENTERTAINER SERIES FEAT. TIKI TIME TOUR presented by ASCENSION ST. VINCENT’S, SERRA HYUNDAI, TEXAS ROADHOUSE, & BIRMINGHAM WATER WORKS July 10 FAMILY DAY/SALUTE TO ESSENTIAL WORKERS presented by ALABAMA POWER July 12 T-SHIRT TUESDAY presented by PAYCOR (First 1,000 fans, 13+) /DOLLAR DOGS July 13 WET NOSE WEDNESDAY presented by CAMP SCOTTY July 14 THIRSTY THURSDAY presented by MILLER LITE, BUFFALO WILD WINGS, & THE FENNEC July 15 CHRISTMAS IN JULY WITH JERSEY GIVEAWAY presented by BIRMINGHAM ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS (First 1,000 Fans, 13+) /FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS presented by ALABAMA POWER, COCA-COLA, & COMFORT CARE HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE July 16  HOCKEY NIGHT IN BIRMINGHAM WITH HOCKEY JERSEY GIVEAWAY presented by COCA- COLA (First 1,000 Fans (Youth & Adult) /PUBLIX APRONS COOKING SCHOOL NIGHT July 17  DIAMOND DIG presented by DIAMONDS DIRECT /FAMILY DAY /SALUTE TO ESSENTIAL WORKERS presented by ALABAMA POWER Aug 2 PEANUT FREE NIGHT presented by ALLERVIE /DOLLAR DOGS Aug 3  SALUTE TO THE NEGRO LEAGUES presented by SHOWER OF LOVE PROJECT /WET NOSE WEDNESDAY presented by CAMP SCOTTY Aug 4  SALUTE TO THE NEGRO LEAGUES presented by SHOWER OF LOVE PROJECT /THIRSTY THURSDAY presented by MILLER LITE, BUFFALO WILD WINGS, & THE FENNEC Aug 5 SALUTE TO THE NEGRO LEAGUES presented by SHOWER OF LOVE PROJECT /REGIONS NIGHT presented by REGIONS BANK /FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS presented by ALABAMA POWER, COCA-COLA, & COMFORT CARE HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE Aug 6 MARGARITAVILLE NIGHT WITH JERSEY AUCTION Aug 7 FAMILY DAY/SALUTE TO ESSENTIAL WORKERS presented by ALABAMA POWER Aug 16 T-SHIRT TUESDAY presented by PAYCOR (First 1,000 fans, 13+) /DOLLAR DOGS Aug 17 WET NOSE WEDNESDAY presented by CAMP SCOTTY Aug 18 THIRSTY THURSDAY presented by MILLER LITE, BUFFALO WILD WINGS, & THE FENNEC Aug 19 BARONS ADULT CAP GIVEAWAY presented by COCA-COLA (First 1,000 Fans, 13+) Aug 20 PYRO PALOOZA presented by HYATT REGENCY & SERRA TOYOTA Aug 21 FAMILY DAY/SALUTE TO ESSENTIAL WORKERS presented by ALABAMA POWER Aug 23 DOLLAR DOGS Aug 24 WET NOSE WEDNESDAY presented by CAMP SCOTTY Aug 25 THIRSTY THURSDAY presented by MILLER LITE, BUFFALO WILD WINGS, & THE FENNEC Aug 26  FAITH & FAMILY NIGHT #3/COLLEGE FOOTBALL KICKOFF presented by MEZRANO LAW W/MINI BARONS FOOTBALL GIVEAWAY (First 1,000 Fans) /FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS presented by ALABAMA POWER, COCA-COLA, & COMFORT CARE HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE Aug 27  SUPERHERO NIGHT WITH T-SHIRT GIVEAWAY presented by MAGNA KAMTEK & WVTM-13 (FEAT. IRON MAN APPEARANCE) Aug 28 FAMILY DAY/SALUTE TO ESSENTIAL WORKERS presented by ALABAMA POWER Sept 6 T-SHIRT TUESDAY presented by PAYCOR (First 1,000 fans, 13+) /DOLLAR DOGS Sept 7 WET NOSE WEDNESDAY presented by CAMP SCOTTY Sept 8  THIRSTY THURSDAY presented by MILLER LITE, BUFFALO WILD WINGS, & THE FENNEC Sept 9  FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS presented by ALABAMA POWER, COCA-COLA, & COMFORT CARE HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE Sept 10  9/11 TRIBUTE NIGHT/SUPER SATURDAY FIREWORKS presented by HYATT REGENCY & SERRA TOYOTA Sept 11  FAN APPRECIATION DAY/FAMILY DAY/SALUTE TO ESSENTIAL WORKERS presented by ALABAMA POWER 17 Promotional Schedule Subject to Change. Giveaways Limited to One Per Guest Under Described Ages.

WANT REFRESHMENTS? BARONS GUIDE TO CONCOURSE FOOD

GRILL CART Hot Dogs Premium & Domestic Beer Wine Soft Drinks Beef & Chicken Phillys RETAIL CART Barons Merchandise Family Fun Park Admission OUTFIELD BAR Open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays

BEER CART Premium Draft & Bottled Beer plus DomesticWines BAR CART Mixed Drinks, Premium & Domestic Beer

DIPPIN’ DOTS

CUSTOMER SERVICE BOOTH

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TACO CART

SOFT PRETZELS FUNNEL CAKES LEMONADE

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REDEEM BIRTHDAY & TEAM PARTY FOOD VOUCHERS HERE

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*Hot dogs, snacks & sweets, popcorn, peanuts, nachos, soft drinks, beer, and water available at all concession areas

CONCESSION STANDS Popcorn, nachos, candy, french fries, peanuts, hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken fingers, soft drinks, water, beer

1 COORS LIGHT COLD ZONE BAR Large selection of premium & domestic beer, plus a full-service bar

3 THE SWEET SPOT Soft serve ice cream, hand dipped ice cream 4 THE SWITCHYARD ON 14TH Craft beer as well as outdoor games

2 MAGIC CITY FOOD COURT Dreamland BBQ, specialty burgers

BIRMINGHAM BARONS

The Barons enter the 2022 season having won the Double-A South North Division and were indisputably the most successful minor league affiliate in the White Sox system. Despite the disappointing end of the 2021 campaign in Montgomery, the Barons put together a solid season with new manager Justin Jirschele leading the team to its first winning season since 2013. Barons fans were treated to a bevy of talent that came through Birmingham and witnessed plenty of exciting moments as well as some of the best baseball at Regions Field in some time. 2021 Birmingham Barons Recap

Romy Romped Early and Often It wasn’t long after Romy González landed in Birmingham that the Barons had their star shortstop and a slugger in the middle of the order. González slashed .267/.355/.502, leading the league in OPS, but what really made González shine was his power at the plate; the 25-year-old hit a career best 20 home runs with the Barons, with nearly six percent of his plate appearances ending in a lap around the bases. The White Sox quickly took notice and called the Miami native up to

Romy Gonzalez

Photo Credit: Southern Intrigue Photography

the Triple-A Charlotte Knights on August 20. After only a handful of games in Charlotte, he got the call up to Chicago on September 1, and recorded his first major league hit against the Oakland Athletics a week later. His time on the South Side was cut short and he finished the remainder of the minor league season with the Knights; however, his talent at the plate and overall work ethic point to strong potential at the MLB level.

continued page 23

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BIRMINGHAM BARONS

Power Provider In addition to González’s hitting prowess, Barons outfielder Micker Adolfo had his own impressive season, being named Double-A South Player of the Week after recording four home runs, a .333 AVG, .462 OBP, and .952 SLG% in the week of June 21 to June 27. The 25 year old slugged .249/.318/.525 in 57 games with the Barons before getting called up to Charlotte in late July, where he continued his power streak, recording ten home runs in 44 games.

Micker Adolfo Photo Credit: Southern Intrigue Photography

Midseason Additions Yolbert Sanchez’s promotion to Birmingham in late July resulted in impressive numbers for the young infielder. After hitting .286 with the Dash, Sanchez played some of the best baseball of his career to date, hitting at a .343 clip with significant jumps in slugging

percentage (.469 from .387) and on base plus slugging (.838 from .727). It was a similar story for ​ Yoelqui Céspedes, brother of MLB outfielder Yoenis Céspedes. His

Yolbert Sanchez Photo Credit: Southern Intrigue Photography

batting average took a 20-point hike from his time in Winston-Salem, and just a few months after the White Sox signed him from Cuba, Cespedes was holding down the outfield and hitting reliably with the Barons. He earned the No. 2 spot on MLB.com’s White Sox prospect rankings and will certainly be a player to watch as he moves through the White Sox system.

Yoelqui Céspedes

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BIRMINGHAM BARONS

Pitching Prowess

The Barons might have been in the business of out-scoring teams last season with their league best run total, but there was plenty of talent on the mound too. Kade McClure earned a promotion to AAA Charlotte after 68.1 IP and a 3.82 ERA with a 27.4% K-rate and 7.1% BB-rate in 15 starts and emerged as one of the premier pitching prospects in the White Sox system. Other call-ups from the Birmingham pitching staff included LHP Bennett Sousa, LHP Anderson Severino, and RHP Johan

Kade McClure

Bennett Sousa

Domínguez, the latter of whom played only seven games for the Barons before joining the Knights for the Triple-A Final Stretch. Sousa was one of the first call ups to the Knights, where he continued to put up solid numbers and ended the season with 13 strikeouts in his last eight outings on the bump. Severino, a late August call up, collected 20 strikeouts in 14.0 IP while in Charlotte after showing similar skill in Birmingham. These solid numbers and reliability on the mound earned him not only his Triple-A promotion, but a spot on Chicago’s 40-man roster, in addition to Sousa and RHP Jason Bilous.

Anderson Severino Photo Credit: Jordan Allison

Jason Bilous Photo Credit: Southern Intrigue Photography

Johan Domínguez

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BIRMINGHAM BARONS

2022 Manager

JUSTIN JIRSCHELE

Born: April 15, 1990 | Clintonville, Wis. Resides: Clintonville, Wis. Managerial/Coaching Career:

• 2016 Kannapolis Cannon Ballers Hitting Coach, Class-A, White Sox • 2017-2018 Kannapolis Cannon Ballers Manager, Class-A, White Sox • 2019 Winston-Salem Dash Manager, Class-A Advanced, White Sox • 2021-22 Birmingham Barons Manager, Double-A, White Sox Playing Career: Appeared in 184 games in the White Sox system from 2012-15, batting .277 (172-622) with 70 RBI. Miscellaneous | Personal: Married to Liz, has two children, Blake and Mac. Attended the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, where he was a two-time First-Team All-WIAC selection and two-time Midwest Region Gold Glove winner. Brother, Jeremy, played in the Royals organization from 2005-07.

Managerial Records by Year: Year Club League

Class

W-L

PCT .496 .540 .541 .525

Place

2017 Kannapolis 2018 Kannapolis

South Atlantic South Atlantic

A A

68-69 74-63 72-61 62-56

8th 3rd 3rd 3rd

2019 Winston-Salem Carolina

A+

2021 Birmingham

Double-A South AA

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BIRMINGHAM BARONS

2022 Coaches & Trainers

RICHARD DOTSON – PITCHING COACH Born: Jan. 10, 1959 | Cincinnati, Ohio Resides: New Richmond, Ohio Years with White Sox: Begins his 21st season in the White Sox organization. Coaching Highlights: Returns to Class AA Birmingham for a fifth

straight season (also 2005-07) after serving as the organization’s pitching coordinator in 2017. Served as the pitching coach with Class AAA Charlotte from 2008-16. Knight’s pitchers finished second in the International League with 1,079 strikeouts in 2015, and tied for the IL lead with a 3.15 ERA in 2012. Served as pitching coach with Peoria in the Arizona Fall League in 2010. Playing Career: Played 12 seasons with the White Sox (1979-87, 89), Yankees (1988-89) and Kansas City (1990). Was 111-113 with a 4.23 ERA in 305 games (295 starts). Finished fourth in the 1983 Cy Young voting (22-7, 3.23 ERA). Was named to the AL All-Star Team in 1984. Was selected by California in the first round (No. 7 overall) of the 1977 draft. Miscellaneous | Personal: Married to Sally, has six children: Nicki, Rachel, Rachelle, Claire, Wade and Cody.

CHARLIE ROMERO – HITTING COACH Born: November 4, 1966 | La Romana, Dominican Republic Resides: Dominican Republic

Years with White Sox: Enters his first season with Class AA Birmingham after serving in the same capacity with Low A Kannapolis Cannon Ballers. Playing Career: Appeared in 409 minor league games in six seasons in the Toronto Blue Jays (1985-87) and California Angels (1988-90) organizations. 

HYEON KIM – TRAINER Born: August 20, 1985 | Tokyo, Japan Resides: Troy, N.Y.

Years with White Sox: Enters his fifth season in the Sox organization and third at Class AA Birmingham. He worked at Class A Winston-Salem in 2019 and Advanced Rookie Great Falls in 2018. Professional Career: Previously served as a graduate assistant at Auburn University Montgomery. He also worked as an outreach athletic trainer for

local colleges and high schools. Miscellaneous | Personal: Married to Hwaseon. Is a 2008 graduate of Troy (Ala.) University and received a B.S. in Athletic Training. GEORGE TIMKE – PERFORMANCE COACH Born: Sept. 16, 1981 | Suffern, N.Y. Resides: Astoria, N.Y. Years with White Sox: Begins his tenth season in the White Sox organization and second with Class AA Birmingham. Spent the previous five years (2016-20) at Class A Winston-Salem after working at Class A Kannapolis from 2014-15. Worked with Advanced Rookie Great Falls in 2013 in his first season with the club. Professional Career: Served as a strength and conditioning coach in the Kansas City organization from 2009-12. Miscellaneous | Personal: Is a certified strength and conditioning specialist and registered strength and conditioning coach through the NSCA. Timke graduated from California University of Pennsylvania with a B.S. in Sport Management: Wellness and Fitness.

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2022

Roster

Jason Bilous - Pitcher

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 6’2”

Born: 8/11/97 in Wilmington, DE

Weight: 185 Acquisition: Selected in the 13th round of the 2018 MLB June Amateur Draft

Davis Martin - Pitcher

Bats: Left

Height: 6’1”

Born: 1/04/97 in Abilene, TX

Throws: Right Weight: 200 Acquisition: Selected in the 14th round of the 2018 MLB June Amateur Draft

Johan Dominguez - Pitcher

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 6’4”

Born: 1/18/96 in Santo Domingo, D.R.

Weight: 190 Acquisition: Acquired from Milwaukee in exchange for LHP Xavier Cedeno, August 31, 2018

Steve Moyers - Pitcher

Bats: Right Throws: Left

Height: 6’0”

Born: 9/27/1993 in Sharon, CT

Weight: 190 Acquisition: Signed as a free agent

Félix Paulino - Pitcher

Bats: Right Throws: Right Weight: 185 Acquisition: Acquired from Philadelphia in exchange for LHP Luis Avilon, August 22, 2018 Born: 3/24/95 in Sabana Grande de Palenque, D.R. Height: 6’1”

Kyle Kubat - Pitcher

Bats: Left Throws: Left

Height: 6’1”

Born: 12/4/92 in Omaha, NE

Weight: 195 Acquisition: Obtained from Kansas City in exchange for cash con- siderations, March 29, 2017

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2022

Roster

Kaleb Roper - Pitcher

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 6’0”

Born: 11/22/1995 in Metairie, LA

Weight: 193 Acquisition: Selected in the 29th round of the 2019 MLB June Amateur Draft

Lincoln Henzman - Pitcher

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 6’2”

Born: 7/04/1995 in Lexington, KY

Weight: 205 Acquisition: Selected in the 4th round of the 2017 MLB June Amateur Draft

Yoelvin Silven - Pitcher

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 6’1”

Born: 6/26/1999 in Samana, D.R.

Weight: 176 Acquisition: Signed as a free agent, May 23, 2018

Wilber Pérez - Pitcher

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 6’2”

Born: 11/03/1997 in Santo Domingo, D.R.

Weight: 170 Acquisition: Obtained from Milwaukee in exchange for RHP Joakim Soria

McKinley Moore - Pitcher

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 6’6”

Born: 8/24/1998 in Houston, TX

Weight: 225 Acquisition: Selected in the 14th round of the 2019 MLB June Amateur Draft

Brian Glowicki - Pitcher

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 5’11”

Born: 10/19/1994 in Downers Grove, IL

Weight: 190 Acquisition: Signed as a free agent, May 30, 2021

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2022

Roster

Caleb Freeman - Pitcher

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 6’1”

Born: 2/23/1998 in Abilene, TX

Weight: 195 Acquisition: Selected in the 15th round of the 2019 MLB June Amateur Draft

Hansen Butler - Pitcher

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 5’11”

Born: 10/30/1995 in High Point, NC

Weight: 180 Acquisition: Selected in the 25th round of the 2019 MLB June Amateur Draft

J.B. Olson - Pitcher

Bats: Left

Height: 6’2”

Born: 2/15/1995 in Shady Shores, TX

Throws: Right Weight: 195 Acquisition: Selected in the 10th round of the 2017 MLB June Amateur Draft

Raudy Read - Catcher

Bats: Right Throws: Right Weight: 220 Acquisition: Signed as a free agent Height: 6’0”

Born: 10/29/1993 in San Jose de Ocoa, D.R.

Xavier Fernández - Catcher

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 5’11”

Born: 7/15/1995 in Guaynabo, P.R.

Weight: 245 Acquisition: Signed as a free agent, December 3, 2019

Luis Curbelo - Infielder

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 6’3”

Born: 11/10/1997 in Carolina, P.R.

Weight: 185 Acquisition: Selected in the 6th round of the 2016 MLB June Amateur Draft

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2022

Roster

Lenyn Sosa - Infielder

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 6’0”

Born: 1/25/2000 in Puerto Ordaz, Venezuela

Weight: 180 Acquisition: Signed as a free agent, July 2, 2016

Jose Rodriguez - Infielder

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 5’11”

Born: 5/13/2001 in Valverde, D.R.

Weight: 175 Acquisition: Signed as a free agent, February 13, 2018

Yolbert Sanchez - Infielder

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 5’11”

Born: 3/03/1997 in Havana, Cuba

Weight: 176 Acquisition: Signed as a free agent, July 2, 2019

D.J. Burt - Infielder

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 5’9”

Born: 10/13/1995 in Fuquay-Varina, NC

Weight: 160 Acquisition: Signed as a free agent, December 15, 2021

Jagger Rusconi - Infielder

Bats: Both Throws: Right

Height: 5’11”

Born: 7/18/1996 in Valencia, CA

Weight: 165 Acquisition: Signed as a free agent, May 10, 2021

JJ Muno - Infielder

Bats: Left

Height: 6’0”

Born: 12/21/1993 in Torrance, CA

Throws: Right Weight: 190 Acquisition: Selected in the 27th round of the 2017 MLB June Amateur Draft

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2022

Roster

Yoelqui Céspedes - Outfielder

Bats: Right Throws: Right

Height: 5’9”

Born: 9/24/1997 in Yara, Cuba

Weight: 205 Acquisition: Signed as a free agent, January 15, 2021

Cornelius Randolph - Outfielder

Bats: Left

Height: 5’11”

Born: 6/02/1997 in Brunswick, GA

Throws: Right Weight: 205 Acquisition: Signed as a free agent, March 7, 2022

.

Alex Destino - Outfielder

Bats: Left Throws: Left

Height: 6’2”

Born: 10/24/1995 in Weaverville, NC

Weight: 215 Acquisition: Selected in the 14th round of the 2017 MLB June Amateur Draft

Tyler Neslony - Outfielder

Bats: Left

Height: 6’1”

Born: 2/13/1994 in Corpus Christi, TX

Throws: Right Weight: 190 Acquisition: Acquired from Atlanta, July 11, 2021

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BIRMINGHAM BARONS

The History of the Black Bar ons

By Chris Fullerton

“Your uniform was about the best thing you had,” recalled former Birmingham Baron Nat Pollard. “And you thought you were something when you had it on. You looked good and the people were out there to see you, and that’s what made you want to play.” For over 40 years, the Black Barons were “the jewel of Southern black baseball” and an integral part of the African-American community that developed in Birmingham in the wake of segregation. Barred from organized baseball by an unwritten, but universal, policy of racial discrimination, the Black Barons and the other teams of the Negro Leagues gave an opportunity to play to those who were otherwise excluded from the game. Not only heroes on the diamond, these men were also an important part of the community that supported them, as they served as role models of success and professionalism. Today, the legacy of the Black Barons can be seen in every ballpark in America, where the game they devoted so much of their lives to is open to all and can truly be considered our “National Pastime.” The first Black Baron team emerged in the years following World War I, and may have been an ACIPCO team that defected to create the professional franchise. In 1920, the Black Barons became charter members of the Negro Southern League, an eight- member circuit that loosely mirrored the all-white Southern Association, sharing both their ballparks and minor-league status. Three

years later, Birmingham was given its first opportunity for a major-league franchise by the Negro National League, the highest level of black baseball in America and the home of the Barons for the remainder of the decade. It was during these years, the team saw some of its greatest players pass through on their way to stardom, the most notable being a tall, lanky pitcher from Mobile who called himself “Satchel.” Winning over 2,000 of the estimated 2,500 games he pitched in, Leroy “Satchel” Paige is arguably the greatest pitcher of all time. Joining the Black Barons in 1928, Paige quickly became a Birmingham favorite, although his now-legendary control was still far from perfect. Yet his speed, combined with his natural sense of showmanship, made Satchel the club’s top drawing card. He played for the Black Barons through the end of the 1930 season and then, like so many other promising players in the South, he left for the wealthier, more profitable franchises of the North. Like most Negro League teams, the Black

Piper Davis

Barons did not have a ballpark of their own, but instead rented Rickwood Field from the white Barons, using the park on Sundays or during the Barons’ road trips. Game days were an important event in the city’s black community, and according to both players and fans, the Black Barons regularly outdrew their white counterparts. In addition to

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the thrill of the game, jitterbug contests, beauty pageants and visiting celebrities like Lena Horne and Lionel Hampton added a degree of excitement to the program and brought hundreds more to the park. Built in 1910, Rickwood Field stands today as the nation’s oldest baseball park. Home games, however, only represented half of the Black Barons’ busy schedule. Frequent road trips took the team throughout the South, Midwest and North, playing from town to town all the way to their final destination. In the small towns of the South, the Black Barons were greeted with enthusiasm by the locals, many having never before seen a professional team. In 1939, the Black Barons were purchased by a Memphis undertaker named Tom Hayes, and over the next decade the greatest teams in the franchise’s history emerged. Winning three pennants in 1940, 1945 and 1948, and producing another future star, Willie

Willie Mays

Mays, the Black Barons enjoyed success in a time when other Negro League franchises were folding. At Chicago’s Comiskey Park, the annual Negro League East-West All-Star game saw 12 different Black Barons between 1940 and1950. Lorenzo “Piper” Davis played in the game four years straight while shortstop Artie Wilson played in four contests. Four of the Birmingham players from those years, Mays, Wilson, Jehosia Heard and Bill Greason, played in the majors following integration. When Jackie Robinson signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1946 breaking baseball’s color barrier, the hard-fought goal of the Negro Leagues was finally realized. In 1948, the Black Barons and the Homestead Grays met in the last Negro League World Series, playing in Rickwood and other Southern parks in hopes of drawing large crowds. Birmingham lost the series, 4-1, but more importantly, the diminished number of fans and small profits clearly spelled out that the end of the Leagues was near and simply a matter of time. The Black Barons played their last season in 1963, quickly fading away into obscurity against the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement. Only in the past several years have the careers of these athletes been salvaged from anonymity, their feats on the base paths finally being put down on paper for future generations. The Black Barons were heroes both to their fans and to their profession, and if they represent some of the worst aspects of baseball, they also represent some of the best. (Editor’s Note: Chris was a true friend of the Birmingham Barons. In addition to serving as the first Executive Director of the Friends of Rickwood Field, he was also the author of “Striking Out Jim Crow: The Birmingham Black Barons.” Chris passed away in the spring of 1997.)

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BIRMINGHAM BARONS

Top

Regions Field Moments

Regions Field Inaugural Game Photo Credit: James Nicholas

Regions Field Inaugural Game: On April 13th, 2013, the Birmingham Barons faced the Mississippi Braves in the inaugural game at Regions Field. A sell-out crowd of 8,505 saw the Barons take a 2-0 lead in the first inning, with Trace Thompson recording the first triple and RBIs in Regions Field history. In the bottom of the fifth, the Barons trailed 5-4 until current Texas Rangers infielder Marcus Semien stepped up to the plate and launched a two-run home run to left field. From that point on, the Barons never relinquished the lead again and ultimately defeated the Braves by a score of 9-5, putting an end to the historic night in Birmingham Barons history. 2013 First Half Title Clinched: On June 10th, 2013, the Barons clinched the first half Southern League North Division Title with a 7-2 victory over the Jacksonville Suns. Barons infielder Tyler Saladino put the Barons up 2-0 in the 2nd with a double into the left-field corner. Later in the inning, Cody Puckett drove in Saladino by hitting another double into the same corner. Puckett then got driven in from second by an RBI single from Keenyn Walker. Barons relief pitcher Daniel Webb recorded the final six outs of the game as the Barons clinched their 10th playoff appearance in team history. 2013 Southern League Championship: For the first time since 2002, the Barons ended

their season with a chaotic celebration of champagne showers after capturing the Southern League Championship in front of their home fans. Entering the bottom of the first, the Barons trailed by two, but Birmingham quickly responded thanks to infielder Micah Johnson’s impeccable postseason and his leadoff solo shot against

Photo Credit: John Shadrick

the Mobile BayBears starter Bradin Hagens. Just an inning later, the Barons delivered the inevitable decisive blow by scoring three runs to take a 4-2 lead. To shut the door, the Barons called on relief pitcher Cody Winiarski to record the game’s final four outs. The last out came in an ideal fashion as Winiarski struck out Keon Broxton, which

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BIRMINGHAM BARONS

immediately sent players, fans, and coaches alike into an intense frenzy as the Barons celebrated the city’s first championship in 11 seasons. 2018 Southern League All-Star Game: On April 6th, 2017, the Birmingham Barons and Regions Field received the honor of hosting the 2018 Southern League All-Star Game. It became the fourth time in history the All-Star Game traveled to Birmingham, but the first time it would be held at Regions Field. On June 19th, 2018, the Southern League’s most talented and promising prospects ascended on Birmingham, Alabama, with the Barons sending several representatives of their own; catcher/first baseman Zack Collins, outfielder Eloy Jiménez, infielder Danny Mendick, catcher Seby Zavala, and pitchers Dane Dunning and Ian Hamilton. The sold-out crowd of 8,500 fans witnessed an early 2-0 lead for the North Division, followed by five scoreless innings for both sides. However, the Southern Division’s future slugging superstars finally took control in the final three innings and broke the game wide open. In the end, the Southern Division won 9-5, with the Mobile BayBears outfielder, Zach Gibbons, being named the Most Valuable Player. 2018 Southern League Home Run Derby Winner: Included in the Southern League All-Star festivities, the Home Run Derby took place right before the start of the All-Star Game. The derby’s player pool included outfielder Jamie Westbrook and infielders Rudy Flores and Galli Cribbs Jr. (Jackson Generals), outfielder Aristides Aquino (then Pensacola Blue Wahoos, current Cincinnati Reds), first baseman Tyler Marlette (Mississippi Braves), as well as Birmingham catcher Zach Collins. In the final round, Mississippi’s Marlette faced the hometown favorite, Collins. Marlette struggled out of the gate but ended

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BIRMINGHAM BARONS

strong by posting a total of four home runs in the final round. However, Collins made quick work of the outsider, and after just seven swings, the Barons catcher hoisted the trophy as the 2018 Southern League Home Run Derby Champion. 2019 Blake Rutherford Walk-Off on July 4th: The Barons brought the fireworks in front of a sell-out crowd of 8,500 fans on the Fourth of July. Birmingham jumped out to an early 3-0 lead in the first inning after consecutive run-scoring hits from Barons infielders Gavin Sheets (double), Ti’Quan Forbes (double), and outfielder Luis González (single). The Pensacola Blue Wahoos responded with four unanswered runs across the subsequent three frames, giving them a 4-3 lead in the middle innings.

Zach Collins

In the fifth, the Barons evened up the game thanks to Sheets’ second double of the game and then stripped the Wahoos of their lead courtesy of Blake Rutherford’s sac-fly to left. However, Pensacola did not quit and tied the game again with a clutch two-out single in the ninth. In extras, the Barons successfully put their first two batters on base only for Rutherford to heroically bring them home on a three-run walk-off blast, thus sealing the 8-5 victory over Pensacola.

Tim Anderson

Past White Sox Prospects Excelling: Regions Field has been home to many highly touted prospects over the past eight seasons, including household names such as Chicago White Sox Tim Anderson, Eloy Jiménez, Luis Robert, Dylan Cease, Michael Kopech, and many more. White Sox All-Star and Tuscaloosa native, Tim Anderson played for the Barons during the 2015 season in which he would represent the Barons in the Southern League All-Star game, and later be named the game’s Most Valuable Player. Four years later, Anderson would be selected to multiple Major League All-Star games and win the American League Batting Title in 2019. Luis Robert, one of the most promising

Photo Credit: John Shadrick

prospects to ever come through Birmingham, played for the Barons during the 2019 season. Robert made his Major League debut for the White Sox during the 2020 season, in which he ranked rst among rookies in home runs (11), stolen bases (9), RBIs (31), and game-winning RBIs (5). At the end of the season, Robert was named the American League Rawlings Gold Glove Winner in Center Field. He became the fourth former Birmingham player to win a Gold Glove in Center Field following the likes of Willie Mays, Mike Cameron, and Aaron Rowand. In 2021, Dylan Cease, the 5th ranked right-handed pitching prospect according to the 2019 MLB Pipeline list, performed admirably on the mound for the White Sox. His persistence and endurance stood out as he led the entire American League in games started, with 32 starts. Furthermore, in his 165.2 innings pitched, Cease led the AL in

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BIRMINGHAM BARONS

strikeouts per nine innings, with an average of 12.3. Overall, Cease’s first full MLB was productive, going 13-7 with a 3.91 ERA and the 26-year-old continues to show great promise. The future is bright as the Birmingham Barons continue to receive highly talented prospects that have the opportunity to have successful careers at the major league level. Baseball is Back at Regions Field: After the cancellation of the 2020 season across all of Minor League Baseball due to COVID-19, the Barons returned to action at Regions Field on May 5th, 2021. Playing in front of a reduced capacity sell out crowd of 2,771, the Barons swept the double-header against the Biloxi Shuckers, opening the season on a high note in front of their faithful fans. The Barons took game 1 by a score of 6-1 with strong offense

from Jameson Fisher, Carlos Pérez, and Micker Adolfo. Game 2 was an offensive deadlock until Xavier Fernandez sent a solo shot over the right-centerfield fence to regain the lead. From there, LHP Andrew Pérez closed the door on the 2-1 victory and gave the fans a long-awaited Regions Field celebration. 2021 Barons Win the AA South-North Division: For the first time since 2013, newly appointed manager Justin Jirschele led the Birmingham Barons to a winning season. After three-seasons coaching Chicago’s lower affiliates, Jirschele took control of the Barons and led them to a 62-56 record. A former Baron himself, Jirschele signed with the White Sox organization as an undrafted free agent in 2012. From there, the Clintonville, Wisconsin native spent four seasons playing at all five levels of the Sox farm system. The now 32-year-old is poised for yet another successful season in his second year as the Barons manager.

Justin Jirschele

Last Time it Happened in Barons History: The 2021 Birmingham Barons season involved several milestone moments; however, four individuals in particular accomplished rare feats not seen in quite some time. Shortstop Romy Gonzalez became the first Baron since Aaron Rowand in 2000 to record 20+ home runs and 20+ stolen bases in a single season. On July 15th, 2021, Barons catcher Carlos Pérez went 5/5 at the dish, something no Birmingham player has done since Tim Anderson in 2015. In August, Barons pitcher Emilio Vargas

Jameson Fisher

Photo Credit: Southern Intrigue Photography

punched out 12 batters in a game, becoming the first Baron pitcher to surpass 10+ strikeouts since Dylan Cease in 2018. And last but not least, the longest-running streak to be broken in 2021 arrived at the hands of Jameson Fisher–on August 13th, the slugging first-baseman bashed three home runs in a single game, making him the first Baron to do so since Craig Grebeck on April 8th, 1988.

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