It seems the Barnstormers are trying to win over central Pennsylvania fans by beating the drum for the Philadelphia Phillies.
Last month, Lancaster named former Phillie Von Hayes its new manager. Now its inviting one of Philly's biggest fan favorites to speak at an event in January.
Former Philadelphia Phillies All-Star John Kruk will appear as the featured speaker at the Barnstormers first Hot Stove Reception Jan. 9 at the Lancaster Host and Resort Conference Center. The reception begins at 6 p.m. with a cocktail hour. Dinner will be served at 7 p.m.
That's one way to appease a fan base that struggled through a terrible 2007 season, watching the Barnstormers linger near or in the Atlantic League South basement one year after winning the league title.
A major league character during his playing days, Kruk was known for his no-nonsense responses and grungy appearance. He didn't clean or shine his batting helmet and allowed pine tar and dirt to accumulate all season long. Late in his career, he overcame cancer and finished his career with the Chicago White Sox.
Even though he earned notoriety for being a funny guy, the big fella could also play ball. He was named to three All-Star Games and batted .348 during the 1993 World Series.
Kruk has worked as a baseball analyst for ESPN since 2004.
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