Double-A · Eastern League · Richmond, Virginia, US · CarMax Park
Richmond Flying Squirrels
The Richmond Flying Squirrels have been the San Francisco Giants' Double-A affiliate since arriving in Virginia's capital in 2010, developing key contributors to the Giants' dynasty while building one of the Eastern League's most vibrant fan experiences—now anchored by the brand-new CarMax Park opening in 2026.
2010–2015
The Arrival
From Connecticut to Richmond
The Flying Squirrels franchise originated as the Connecticut Defenders (previously the Norwich Navigators), an Eastern League team that had struggled with declining attendance at aging Dodd Stadium in Norwich. In September 2009, new owner Lou DiBella received Eastern League approval to relocate the team to Richmond, Virginia, for the 2010 season.
The team's name—chosen through a Richmond Times-Dispatch fan contest—was an immediate hit. The quirky "Flying Squirrels" moniker, submitted by Brad Mead of Prince George, Virginia, gave the franchise a distinctive personality and strong merchandising appeal. The team took up residence at The Diamond, a 12,134-seat multipurpose stadium that had previously hosted various Richmond baseball teams since 1985.
The Giants affiliation proved fruitful from the start. Brandon Crawford, who would become one of the most accomplished shortstops in Giants history, was among the first notable prospects to come through Richmond. Brandon Belt, Joe Panik, and Gary Brown also made significant stops with the Flying Squirrels during this early period, with many contributing to the Giants' remarkable run of World Series titles in 2010, 2012, and 2014.
Key Facts
- Relocated from Norwich, Connecticut, for the 2010 season
- Team name chosen through a fan contest
- Brandon Crawford and Brandon Belt among early notable alumni
- Giants' dynasty years featured multiple Richmond alumni
2016–2025
The Diamond Years
Building a beloved brand in an aging ballpark
Through the latter half of the 2010s, the Flying Squirrels continued to develop top Giants prospects while building one of the Eastern League's most creative promotional operations. The franchise became known for inventive theme nights, community engagement, and a fan experience that transcended the limitations of their aging ballpark.
On the field, the Giants pipeline continued to produce. Matt Duffy set a franchise record with a .332 batting average in 2014. Chris Shaw, Heliot Ramos, and Logan Webb—who would become the ace of the Giants' pitching staff—all made meaningful stops in Richmond.
The push for a new stadium became the dominant off-field storyline. After years of negotiations, the city of Richmond approved a plan to build a state-of-the-art ballpark as the centerpiece of the Diamond District, a mixed-use development on Arthur Ashe Boulevard. The Flying Squirrels played their final game at The Diamond on September 14, 2025, a sellout farewell that closed a 15-year chapter in franchise history.
Key Facts
- Logan Webb and Heliot Ramos developed in Richmond
- Creative promotional operations earned national recognition
- Final game at The Diamond played on September 14, 2025
- New stadium plan approved as part of Diamond District development
2026–Present
A New Home
CarMax Park and the Diamond District
The 2026 season marks a transformative moment in franchise history with the opening of CarMax Park, a $110 million state-of-the-art ballpark on the west bank of Arthur Ashe Boulevard. Named through a partnership with Richmond-based CarMax, the new venue features a 360-degree wraparound concourse, field-level dugout suites, and year-round entertainment capabilities for concerts, festivals, and community events.
CarMax Park represents the culmination of more than a decade of planning and advocacy by Lou DiBella and the franchise's ownership group. The ballpark is the anchor of the Diamond District, a planned mixed-use development that will include dining, shopping, and residential spaces surrounding the venue.
Dennis Pelfrey enters his fifth season as manager—the longest managerial tenure in franchise history—bringing stability and experience as the team settles into its new home. The Giants continue to route top prospects through Richmond, and the combination of elite player development and a world-class venue positions the Flying Squirrels for their most exciting era yet.
Key Facts
- CarMax Park opens in 2026 as a $110 million state-of-the-art venue
- Centerpiece of the Diamond District mixed-use development
- Dennis Pelfrey returns for record fifth season as manager
- Features 360-degree concourse and year-round event capabilities