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Wathan Becomes Reading's All-Time Winningest Manager

Fightins skipper to be honored prior to Saturday's game against Hartford
July 23, 2016

Reading Fightin Phils manager Dusty Wathan became the franchise's all-time winningest manager on Friday night with his 351st victory as Fightins manager. With the win, he passes Bill Dancy (1983-84, 1988, 1994-95) to become Reading's all-time winningest manager. 

Wathan will be honored during a pre-game ceremony at 6:10 p.m. prior to Saturday's game against the Hartford Yard Goats. He will also be joined by Fightins first baseman Rhys Hoskins, who will be honored for Eastern League Player of the Month for June. 

In his unprecedented fifth season at the helm of the Fightins, Wathan has led the team to a 351-315 record. Last season, Wathan led the Fightins to its first Eastern Division title in 2001. Currently, he has guided the Fightins to a 67-32 record, the best in all of professional baseball. 

Since taking over in 2012, Wathan has seen over 30 players, including Tommy Joseph, Aaron Nola, and Maikel Franco, go on to make their major league debut after playing in Reading. He has also overseen the development of top Phillies prospects Jake Thompson, J.P. Crawford, and Andrew Knapp in recent seasons.

During his managerial career, Wathan has led Clearwater to a 140-135 record in 2010-11 and the Lakewood BlueClaws to a South Atlantic League championship in 2009. He began his career in 2008 with the short-season Williamsport Crosscutters. In nine seasons, Wathan holds a 609-545 record. 

Single game tickets and playoff strips for the Fightin Phils 50th season affiliated with the Philadelphia Phillies are available now by visiting Fightins.com, by calling 610-370-BALL, or by stopping by the Fightins Ticket Office located at FirstEnergy Stadium.