Bend Bucks

History

After the Philadelphia Phillies ended their eight-year affiliation with Bend following the 1986 season, baseball returned in 1987 with a new club. A name-the-team contest drew roughly sixty entries, and the nickname Bucks was selected. That first year the team operated as a co-op, drawing prospects from the Dodgers, Padres, Pirates, and Rangers, along with Phillies personnel including manager Mel Roberts. In 1988 the Bucks signed a player development contract with the California Angels, and that season produced the team's best record at 38–38.

Two years into a three-season agreement, the Angels terminated the affiliation, citing poor conditions at Vince Genna Stadium, and moved their short-season affiliation to Boise. The Bucks then played as a co-op again in 1990, with players from the Athletics, Phillies, and Giants, and in 1991 the roster included players from nine organizations under manager Bill Stein. After two co-op seasons, the franchise signed an agreement with the Colorado Rockies and changed its name to the Bend Rockies.

Did You Know?

• The Bucks' original colors were navy blue and red, with home uniforms and hats resembling those of the Boston Red Sox.
• After signing with the Angels in 1988, gold was added to the color scheme.