Trenton Thunder Bat Dog, Chase, Passes Away Days After Retirement Ceremony

The Trenton Thunder announced today that the team’s bat dog, Chase, has passed away at the age of 13. He had been diagnosed with cancer in February, according to the Times of Trenton.

Chase made his debut with the Thunder in 2002, entertaining fans at the ballpark for more than a decade and visiting schools and special events throughout the Trenton area. Last week, the team held a special birthday and retirement ceremony for him prior to a game. They played this video tribute on the scoreboard.

“Chase was such a tremendous part of the Trenton Thunder identity for more than 10 years,” Thunder General Manager Will Smith said in a press release. “His presence at ARM & HAMMER Park or in the community was the epitome of the wholesome family entertainment for which we strive. Our ball players, staff, season ticket holders and all the men, women and children who he entertained and interacted with over the past decade will miss him dearly.”

Chase’s legacy as a bat-fetching golden retriever survives with his two offspring, Derby, who handles duties with the Thunder, and Ollie, who works for the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.

Fans who wish to share their condolences are asked not to send flowers or other objects to the ballpark, but instead make a donation to a local animal shelter or the Trenton Thunder Charities, Chase That Golden Thunder, One Thunder Road, Trenton, NJ 08611, 609-394-3300