The new Trenton Thunder batdog puppy needs a name!
The Trenton Thunder have the most storied legacy in minor league baseball when it comes to batdogs and team dogs in general, and the newest Trenton Thunder batdog puppy will continue that tradition.
But first, he needs a name.
The puppy, who was introduced to the world on Thursday, February 13, has five choices for a name that fans can vote on at the Thunder’s website.
These choices are Dug (short for Dugout and also a reference to the scene-stealer from the Pixar movie Up), Dash (Dash to Home Plate), Scout, Bronx (Bronx Bomber) or Ace (Ace of the Staff).
“He is a very sweet, good little boy,” Eric Lipsman, Thunder senior vice president of corporate partnerships, said in the YouTube video.
Tim Ireland, veterinarian at the Newtown Vet Hospital of Pennsylvania, proclaimed the puppy to be in excellent health: “He’s a real sturdy little puppy.”
Trenton is the reigning Eastern League champion, and the Double-A affiliate of the New York Yankees.
The Thunder’s first batdog was a Golden Retriever named Chase, who was followed by his son Derby, who was followed by his son Rookie the Batdog, the current batdog. This newest puppy, who will begin his duties in the 2021 season, is Rookie’s cousin.
Several other members of Rookie’s family serve as batdogs for other minor league teams as well; and being a very good boy, he had to get some toys and treats for the little guy.
I went to @Dogs_Cats_Rule today to buy some toys and treats for the puppy. He really liked the gray teddy I bought for him. Be sure to vote for his name at https://t.co/Y9OtWOsBlP pic.twitter.com/mYjKHDE6ES
— Rookie (@BatdogRookie) February 15, 2020
Rookie, who has been in the role since 2014, got his own bobblehead last season, and even got to fulfill his lifelong dream of visiting Yankee Stadium.
The team is putting together a special Puppy Pack ticket package for the upcoming 2020 season, which includes four tickets to dog-friendly games, a meet and greet session with the new Trenton Thunder batdog puppy, and a donation to the Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue, all for $45.
The Thunder get the season started at 7 p.m. ET at Arm and Hammer Park on Thursday, April 9, against the Harrisburg Senators.