Helena Phillies
April 8, 2020
The Helena Phillies were established in January 1978 as part of a two-team expansion of the Rookie-level Pioneer League. Butte, Montana joined shortly after Helena to boost the circuit from 6 to 8 clubs. When the Phils debuted in June 1978 it marked the first pro baseball played in Montana’s capital city since 1914. The 1978 Helena squad was notable for producing two future Major League Most Valuable Players: 18-year old outfielder George Bell and fellow 18-year old shortstop Ryne Sandberg
