Despite the ownership change, the Fightin Phils will remain the Double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies and continue to call FirstEnergy Stadium home. The team’s front office staff, led by longtime General Manager Scott Hunsicker, will also remain in place to ensure a seamless transition.
“I’d like to extend my thanks to the City of Reading and Fightin Phils fans for their unwavering support over the years,” said Stein, who has overseen the franchise since 1987. “It’s been a dream come true. I am confident DBH will continue to touch lives—not only at America’s Classic Ballpark, but throughout the Reading community.” Stein will remain involved with the organization in an advisory role.
The Fightin Phils, who have served as the Phillies’ Double-A affiliate since 1967, share the record for the longest continuous affiliation in Minor League Baseball. With the acquisition, they become the first Phillies affiliate to join DBH’s growing portfolio of MiLB clubs.
Luke Murton, the Phillies’ Director of Player Development, expressed gratitude for the decades-long partnership. “We are incredibly grateful to Craig, Scott, and the entire Fightin Phils organization for their dedication to our player development system and the Reading community,” Murton said. “We look forward to beginning our relationship with DBH.”
DBH leaders Pat Battle and Peter Freund praised the team’s deep-rooted community presence and the iconic nature of FirstEnergy Stadium. “The Fightin Phils offer one of the best experiences in all of Minor League Baseball,” they said in a joint statement. “It is truly a community cornerstone which blends endless historic charm with thoughtful, modern upgrades.”
Built in 1950, FirstEnergy Stadium has hosted generations of baseball fans. From early legends like Roger Maris and Mike Schmidt to current Phillies stars like Aaron Nola and Bryson Stott, the stadium has provided a launchpad for baseball greatness while maintaining its nostalgic charm. The ballpark was recently named one of the top 10 in Minor League Baseball by USA Today and ranked second in average Double-A attendance in 2024.
Under Stein’s leadership, the team has drawn over 14 million fans, thanks in part to a loyal front office composed largely of former interns—about 90% of staff began their careers with the R-Phils. Hunsicker, now in his 34th season, emphasized the team’s commitment to continuity and excellence.
“This is a bright new chapter for the R-Phils,” Hunsicker said. “DBH has a strong track record of enhancing the fan experience while honoring each club’s identity and community roots. We’re confident this partnership will further strengthen our bond with the fans and secure a vibrant future for baseball in Reading.”
Diamond Baseball Holdings, known for its focus on merging local tradition with national resources, plans to bring digital innovation and community-centered enhancements while maintaining the unique atmosphere that makes the Fightin Phils a beloved institution.
The sale is pending approval from Major League Baseball and the completion of standard closing conditions.