Dash (2020-present)
Dash is the latest to join the the Thunder Bat Dog Tradition! Dash is currently training at Shelly’s School for Dogs at the Green Leaf Pet Resort in the offseason after making his debut during the 2022 season.
Our World Famous Bat Dogs
Since 2002, when Chase That Golden Thunder became the first full-time Bat Dog in Minor League Baseball, we have set the standard for our canine loving fans.
The Thunder’s “World Famous” Batdogs have appeared on MLB Network, the Today Show, Good Morning America, Japanese Television, at the AKC Museum of the Dog in New York City, Yankee Stadium, Citizens Bank Park and many other Minor League Baseball stadiums. Derby and Rookie starred in an ESPN E:60 special titled “The Family Business.”
Rookie (2013-present)
The legacy that Chase began in 2002 continued to a third generation when Derby's son, Rookie, was born on December 15, 2013. Rookie made his debut at Trenton Thunder Ballpark on Opening Day 2014 when then Thunder Manager Tony Franklin brought him out to home plate before the game for the lineup exchange. In seasons after, Rookie joined Derby as they entertained fans of all ages at the ballpark and throughout the community. He has now assumed bat dog duties and can be seen perfecting his craft in the first inning of most Thunder home games and helping Dash!
"Home Run" Derby (2008-2018)
Chase's son, "Home Run" Derby, was introduced to Thunder fans as a puppy in 2008. Starting in 2010, Derby shared the bat dog duties with his dad. In 2013, he took over as the lone bat dog and brought water out to the umpires during the game. Derby continued to work out with the players in the bullpen and the outfield during pre-game warm-up and pose for pictures with the fans during & after games. In January of 2018, Derby passed away, and much like his father the baseball world paid their respects to the legendary bat dog.
Chase "That Golden Thunder" (2000-2013)
Chase entertained fans at Trenton Thunder games from 2002 until his retirement in July 2013. Chase, the original team bat dog, was a favorite with the fans, players, umpires, and various celebrities who visited Trenton Thunder Ballpark during the 10 years that Chase was part of the Thunder experience. During his time with the Thunder, Chase was featured worldwide on CNN and Japanese Television, nationally on ESPN, FOX, and the YES Network, and regionally on FOX-29, KYW-3, UPN-9, News 12 NJ, and Today in New York on WNBC-4… plus, Chase has had his picture in Sports Illustrated and newspapers all over the country. When Chase passed away in 2013, news of his death spread around the world via social media and local, national, and global news media.
