30 Years Ago Today, the Portland Sea Dogs Played Their First Game

Congratulations to the Portland Sea Dogs, Maine's longest-running professional sports organization, marking 30 years today!

WMTW had a great story and video from their first home game, 30 years ago today! Back in 1994, they were a Florida Marlins affiliate. That first home game was very exciting against the Albany-Colonie Yankees. Kathie Lee Gifford sang the national anthem, and Frank Gifford (her husband) threw out the first pitch.

It wasn't until 2002 that they became a Boston Red Sox affiliate and hosted its first Eastern League All-Star Game in 2005. The Sea Dogs won their first (and still only) Eastern League Championship in 2006. We keep our fingers crossed every year.

Some of your favorite Boston Red Sox players were Portland Sea Dog players.

The list of Boston Red Sox players who came up from the Sea Dogs is pretty extensive, with some of your favorites right here in Portland.

• Clay Buchholz
• Johnathan Papelbon
• Kevin Millar
• Dustin Pedroia
• Hanley Ramirez
• Edgar Renteria
• Kevin Youkilis
• Mookie Betts
• Jacoby Ellsbury (pictured above)

Even back in 2008, Big Papi (David Ortiz) played three games rehabbing an injury here in Portland, Maine. Sure, it's been almost 20 years since the Sea Dogs have won a championship, but no one cares.

We love our Portland Sea Dogs, whether they are winning or losing. Hadlock is constantly at the top of the minor league baseball's highest-attended games. Congratulations on your first 30 years Portland Sea Dogs (yes, that includes you too, Slugger)! Here's to 30 more and beyond!