Celebrating in style

The Harrisburg Senators’ Dave Machemer wins the 1,000th game of his managerial career 20 years ago today s Harrisburg beats Akron 10-8 on City Island.

At the time, Machemer becomes only the ninth active manager to reach the milestone. Four of the other eight at the time – Dave Trembley, Marc Bombard, Pat Kelly and Dave Huppert – also spend at least one summer in Harrisburg.

“It’s a milestone that comes with the territory,” Machemer says of his longevity, which for him eventually includes 1,604 wins over 23 seasons managing in the minors.

“If you’re in it long enough, then eventually something good is going to happen.”

Machemer celebrates after his 2003 milestone game with champagne, which is poured into paper cups.

Ah, life in the minors.