Welcome Back Senators Night

This annual event hasn't taken a break since the inception of the modern Harrisburg Senators in 1987. Organized by what is now officially the Harrisburg Senators Fan Club non-profit corporation, Welcome Back Senators Night literally introduces the newly formed team fresh from Viera, Florida.

This is where the team is formally introduced for the very first time -- the precursor to a brand new season of Eastern League baseball on City Island.

This is where local baseball fans enjoy dining with a professional baseball player or coach.

This is where (in recent years), Anthony Rendon laughed and answered questions from members of a local Little League team.

This is where Stephen Strasburg's entrance forced an orderly strategy for attendees to meet the young San Diego State star pitcher up close.

This is where autographs, photos, handshakes and hugs are graciously given and accepted. 

This is where 28 years of memories are made, whether with returning Senators coaches and players or newly assigned talent visiting their new home for the first time.

Ah, "home". As former Harrisburg mayor Stephen R. Reed aptly reminds the team each year, this is where those new to this assignment learn that they are not only welcome here now, but whenever they may return to the Harrisburg area.

And he means it. And the hospitable attendees and Senators front office staff mean it.

If you enjoy following young folks as they refine their craft toward a lofty goal such as a career as Major League Baseball players, this is where you can become involved in that process and even become a part of their support system.

This is where you'll want to be Tuesday, April 7th: Welcome Back Senators Night. Meet-and-greet with hors d'oeuvres begins at 6 PM at the West Shore Elks Lodge #2257 at 108 North Saint Johns Church Road, Camp Hill. Dinner at 7 with a player or coach at every table. The program follows, including Manager Brian Daubach introducing the 2015 Harrisburg Senators.

Reservations for this special evening are just $29.50 each; children 12-and-under, only $12.50. Please contact Fan Club VP, Jeanne Jacobs to learn more: 717-774-2730 or email senatorsfanclub@comcast.net.


Brian Williams, President
 

Parallel Thirdbasemen

I'm thrilled for Anthony Rendon and his first taste of the bigs. What little time I've spent around the young man results in a very high opinion - and I'm not just talking baseball skills.

At our annual Senators Welcome Back dinner, Anthony and Sean Nicol were seated with one of our Little League teams. Both took the experience in stride and even enjoyed conversing with the young ballplayers, who were thrilled to interact with professionals. A fun, memorable time was had by all.

Although I'm not quite finished enjoying his on-field skills at Metro Bank Park, I wish Anthony the very best. Of course, I wasn't ready to let go of Ryan Zimmerman when he left City Island after a few short weeks either, but that's the way of it. That's also why we need to truly appreciate the time we have while these players demonstrate why the club thinks so highly of them.

In fact, both thirdbasemen have followed a similar path when it comes to the DL. Both have the skills to project high ceilings at the top level. (Ryan has already proven he's worthy; Anthony showed his mettle during spring training.)

Both are also outstanding young men. Here's to their health, so we can continue to enjoy both players' talents at any level.


"From Deep Short"

Easy as 1, 2, 3

Three short months from this very night, we'll settle into our seats at Metro Bank Park. Another memorable Welcome Back dinner will have commenced 24 hours earlier, signaling that the team, the coaching staff and the Senators front office are all excited to begin a new season.

We'll glance up at the giant video board to see Brian Goodwin at the top of the Senators' lineup. Anthony Rendon will settle into the three hole and man the hot corner as the Nats' #1 prospect. (Goodwin's #2 on that list.)

We look forward to cheering for a healthy Destin Hood. Could Michael Taylor, fresh off celebrating his 22nd birthday near the end of Spring Training, be promoted to the Senators outfield, too?

I believe we'll enjoy watching the talents of a younger team full of potential major leaguers this season. That may be why the Nationals didn't hesitate to part with some prospects to shore up the roster in DC.

We need only get through three cold months. 1, 2, 3. But the days are getting longer. And soon, the migration to Florida and all points of the World Baseball Classic will begin.

Can't get here soon enough for me.


Brian