Some sad news: Chase That Golden Thunder, on-field bat dog for the Trenton Thunder (Class AA; Eastern League), has passed away at the age of 13.
Chase made his debut with the Thunder in 2002 and went on to entertain millions of fans at Arm & Hammer Park. He was also a fixture in the local community, visiting schools and special events throughout the region. Chase was seen worldwide on CNN and Japanese television, nationally on ESPN, FOX and the YES Network as well as numerous local television stations. He appeared in Sports Illustrated, newspapers all over the country, and is in the July 2013 issue of Yankees Magazine. Last month, Chase became the first dog to be honored on the field at Yankee Stadium, following a special invitation by General Manager Brian Cashman.
Chase’s death comes just three days after a celebration of his life at ARM & HAMMER Park in what was his Birthday and official Retirement Party.
“Chase was such a tremendous part of the Trenton Thunder identity for more than 10 years,” said Thunder General Manager Will Smith. “His presence at Arm & Hammer Park or in the community was the epitome of the wholesome family entertainment for which we strive. Our ballplayers, staff, season ticket holders and all the men, women and children who he entertained and interacted with over the past decade will miss him dearly.”
Chase leaves behind a legacy of bat-fetching golden retrievers as two of his sons, Derby with the Thunder and Ollie with the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Class AA; Eastern League), have followed in their father’s paw steps.
RELATED STORIES: End of an era in Trenton: Chase retires
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