PHILADELPHIA — The innovative baseball competition known as Sluggball, co-created by former Philadelphia Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr., is gearing up for its inaugural season starting this May. This event is set to travel to various minor league stadiums throughout the season.
Sluggball is distinct in that it concentrates solely on situational hitting, removing the need for fielding or running altogether. The format allows players to focus on their hitting skills in a competitive environment without the traditional aspects of baseball gameplay.
Ruben Amaro, who played a crucial role in leading the Phillies, especially during their consecutive NL East titles, has teamed up with his brother David Amaro to launch this new venture. The initiative also boasts notable advisers, including six-time MLB All-Star Kenny Lofton and Evan Kaplan, who serves as the managing director of MLB Players Inc.
In Sluggball, teams consisting of six to eight players must bring their designated pitcher to engage in head-to-head 4-on-4 contests that revolve around different hitting scenarios. Players will utilize wood bats, and every participating team is guaranteed at least two four-round games. The tournament structure includes championships where winning teams can earn cash prizes.
The competition features four distinct hitting rounds that involve pulling the ball, hitting up the middle, going to the opposite field, and a creative around-the-horn challenge.
The first event kicks off on May 10 at Trenton Thunder Ballpark located in Trenton, New Jersey. Following this, the competition will make its way to various stadiums in Ohio and New York.
According to Lofton, “Sluggball provides players with a unique chance to step back onto the field and engage with the most exciting elements of the game.” This sentiment reflects the fun and competitive spirit that Sluggball aims to bring to players of all backgrounds.
Notably, the concept has already tested its format with a pilot program in New Jersey this past September, featuring former Phillies manager Larry Bowa and Phillies announcer Tom McCarthy.
Amaro’s journey with the Phillies began as a batboy from 1980 to 1983 and continued as a player in the franchise for five seasons during the 1990s. After taking on the role of assistant general manager for a decade, Amaro ascended to general manager after Pat Gillick retired, post-Phillies’ victory in the 2008 World Series. Under his leadership, the team also garnered the 2009 NL pennant, multiple division titles, and recorded the all-time franchise high for wins in a single season with 102 in 2011.
