A Decade of Fetch: ESPN’s ‘The Family Business’ Celebrates Baseball’s Beloved Bat Dogs

Trenton, NJ – August 11, 2024 – Ten years ago today, a heartwarming story of canine dedication and family tradition captivated the nation. ESPN’s E:60 feature, “The Family Business,” which chronicled three generations of Bat Dogs for the Trenton Thunder (now the Somerset Patriots, a Double-A affiliate of the New York Yankees), premiered and quickly became a fan favorite. The film,available on YouTube,continues to resonate wiht baseball fans and animal lovers alike.

Rookie and Derby, the Thunder Bat Dogs (2015)”>

From Field to Fame: The Legacy of the Thunder Bat Dogs

The story began in 2015 when ESPN Producer Matt Rissmiller approached the Thunder with the idea for an E:60 segment. The focus: the unique bond between the team, the players, and the dogs responsible for swiftly retrieving bats during games. The film followed Rookie, Derby, and Chase – the three canine stars – showcasing their training at Greenleaf Pet Resort in Hainesport, New Jersey, and their interactions with Thunder players at Arm & Hammer Park in Trenton.

what set this story apart was not just the novelty of Bat Dogs, but the intergenerational aspect. The film highlighted the passing of the torch, the mentorship, and the familial connection between the dogs, mirroring themes of fathers and sons. Adding a touch of Hollywood magic, Pixar veteran bob Peterson, known for his work on “Up” (voicing dug and directing/writing), provided the narration for Derby.

Rookie’s Continued Reign and a Lasting Impact

A notably memorable moment captured in the film was Rookie’s debut on the field, a slightly chaotic but endearing run into the outfield. “The Family Business” garnered national acclaim, earning a spot as one of ESPN’s top three E:60 stories of 2015 and has been re-aired numerous times over the past decade.

While Derby and chase have since passed away, Rookie continues to be a beloved figure in the minor league baseball world. The veteran Bat Dog has performed at numerous stadiums, including Buffalo’s Sahlen Field, Lehigh Valley’s Coca-Cola Park, Scranton/Wilkes-barre’s PNC Field, Bowie’s Prince George’s Stadium, and Staten Island’s Richmond County Bank ballpark. He even made a special appearance at Yankee Stadium in July 2019, showcasing the widespread appeal of these remarkable animals.

The story of the Thunder Bat dogs is a testament to the joy and connection animals bring to the game of baseball. “The family Business” isn’t just a sports feature; it’s a party of dedication, tradition, and the unique bond between humans and their canine companions.

Watch “The Family Business” on YouTube:

ESPN E:60 – THE FAMILY BUSINESS

Learn More: Visit the Somerset Patriots website for data on the team and current Bat Dog activities.