Sunday, November 1, 2015

The Camden Riversharks Golden Years

Autographed 2003 Camden Riversharks Choice Team Set
With the announcement that the Camden Riversharks have ceased operations, I would like to reflect back to a time when they were one of the class teams of the Atlantic League. From 2002 to 2004 the Riversharks had close to a .600 winning percentage; reaching the post season three times consecutively.  Their roster was a Who’s Who of Atlantic League greats including:

Lincoln Mikkelsen: Arguable the greatest pitcher in Atlantic League History. Twice named the Atlantic League Pitcher of the Year (2002, 2006), once the Atlantic League Player of the Year (2006) and a deliver a no hitter on June 16th, 2006. Third place on Atlantic League career list in Innings Pitched (866.1), Wins (62) and Strikeouts (577).

Ben Simon: The Atlantic League Pitcher of the Year in 2003. Pitched three complete-game shutouts that year a season record that still stands.

Ryan Schurman: One of the best pitchers in Atlantic League history. In the 5th position all time in career Innings Pitched (710.0), Wins (45) and Strikeouts (473).

Francisco Morales: Arguably the greatest catcher in Atlantic League history. 73 home runs and 312 RBI’s in four Atlantic League seasons.

Brad Strauss: On many top-ten career offensive lists for the Atlantic League.

Dwight Maness: Arguably the best combination of power and speed the Atlantic League has even seen. In the Atlantic League top-ten career lists for many offensive categories.

Kevin Jordan: Seven-year Major League Veteran with Philadelphia Phillies. Played with Riversharks for parts of three seasons (2003-05).

Wayne Krenchicki: Manager of Camden; eight-year Major League Veternan with Orioles, Tigers, Reds and Expos.