Double-A Reading Phillies to change name after 46 years

The Philadelphia Phillies Double-A affiliate the Reading Phillies have announced that they will undergo a name change after 46 years. The team's oldest minor-league affiliate still wants to associate with the team, but also wants to have their own identity. General Manager Scott Hunsicker explained the logic behind the move:

"We've come to realize we want our fans to be able to have their own brand. We want to be able to celebrate our association with the Philadelphia Phillies, yet at the same time give our fans their own name so that they can wave their flag even more proudly as fans of the Reading franchise."

Reading's re-branding effort will be handled by the marketing firm Brandiose, which also designed the logo for Phillies affiliate Lehigh Valley Pigs.

Hunsicker plans to unveil the new name on November 17th at 12:30 pm, as well as the new logo and new jerseys for the team. The Name Change Announcement will be held at FirstEnergy Stadium, and will run from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm.