Q&A with EL president Joseph McEacharn

By Andrew Tarica

March 21, 2006

Joseph McEacharn, the 11th president in the history of the Eastern League, is now entering his 11th season with the league. He became president in 2003, succeeding the retiring William B. Troubh. McEacharn joined the league back in 1996 as a member of Troubh's staff and spent three seasons as the vice president. He received his bachelor's degree from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and graduated from the University of Maine School of Law. He is a member of the Maine and Massachusetts Bar Associations and currently resides in Scarborough, Maine, with his wife Mary.

What makes the Eastern League special?

The innovative people. I think the success of our clubs and the roles we play in the communities is both measured and identified by the people who work in our league. What works in Reading won't necessarily work in Portland, but our people do a great job of understanding each community's niche.

Outside the EL, what's your favorite Minor League ballpark?

There are too many good ones, so you can't go wrong. But I'm going to go with Dell Diamond in Round Rock. It's very inviting.

Who is the best player you've seen come through the Eastern League?

Pat Burrell. He was just a natural.

What's the one initiative you'd like to see accomplished before your term ends at the end of the 2007 season?

The one thing I'd like to see accomplished is absolute stability as far as franchise locations go. We always say you're only as strong as your weakest link. I want to make sure we have no weak links.

What's your favorite offseason activity?

Travel. This offseason I went to Italy and Turks and Caicos.

Being the league president is...

An absolutely wonderful way to make a living.

What's the best thing about Minor League Baseball?

The multiple entertainment options at an affordable price. There really is something for everyone.

Andrew Tarica is an editor for MLB.com.