Reading Fightin Phils

The Reading Fightin Phils are the Double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, playing in the Eastern League at FirstEnergy Stadium in Reading, Pennsylvania. The franchise has been continuously affiliated with the Phillies since 1967, making it tied for the longest active affiliation in Minor League Baseball. Originally known as the Reading Phillies, the team rebranded as the Fightin Phils in 2013, embracing a scrappier identity that has resonated with fans in the city locals call "Baseballtown."

FirstEnergy Stadium, which opened in 1951 as Municipal Memorial Stadium and has been renovated multiple times, seats approximately 9,000 fans and has hosted Double-A baseball in Reading for decades. The venue blends old-school charm with modern amenities and has been the proving ground for some of the most decorated players in Philadelphia Phillies history.

The franchise's alumni list is staggering: Hall of Famers Mike Schmidt and Ryne Sandberg, World Series heroes like Ryan Howard, Jimmy Rollins, and Scott Rolen, and modern stars including Aaron Nola, Bryson Stott, and Ranger Suarez all wore a Reading uniform on their way to Philadelphia. The team was sold by longtime owner Craig Stein to Diamond Baseball Holdings in 2025, with the new ownership committed to maintaining the franchise's deep Phillies ties. Al Pedrique returns as manager for his fourth season in 2026, guiding the next wave of Phillies prospects through Baseballtown.