Jack Russell Stadium was built in Clearwater, Florida, thanks in large part to former Major Leaguer Jack Russell, who was later a Clearwater city commissioner. He lobbied hard for the construction of a minor league ballpark in the city, having blueprints drawn up and then presented to the Clearwater Mayor in 1954. When the city decided to move forward with construction, the Mayor surprised Jack Russell by naming the stadium after him.
Robin Roberts pitched the first game in Jack Russell Stadium, a 4-2 win over the Tigers. When the stadium hosted its final game in 2003, Roberts was there once again, to throw out the first pitch. Jack Russell passed away in 1990, at which time the stadium changed its name to Jack Russell Memorial Stadium.
In 2004, the Phillies moved into Bright House Field (now called Spectrum Field). Much of Jack Russell was razed, but the field and dugouts remain, and are used by Clearwater High School’s baseball team.
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