MLB decided to reduce the number of minor league teams from around 160 to 120. As a result several leagues with long ties to the Orioles were eliminated or restructured (Appalachian League and NY-Penn League).
The Frederick Keys served as the Orioles High Class A affiliate in the Carolina League from 1989-2020. Actually 2019, since everything was shut down this past summer.
The Orioles had a tough decision and in the end the short season Aberdeen Ironbirds (NY-Penn League) were promoted to full season status and the Frederick Keys lost their affiliation with the Orioles.
This was a bit disappointing to me as I have some good friends at the Keys. Over the years, Dave Ziedelis (Keys GM) and his staff have done a great job of bringing a high quality product to the fans in the Frederick area. The Keys are always near the top of league attendance and have nice promotions throughout the season. In their last season, the Keys hosted the Carolina League All-Star game. Everything about the event was first class.
During the 31 season, the Keys printed 214 different programs. I have 209, missing a few from 2002-2003.
Here are a few items from the Keys first season in 1989
Program and Media Guide
Attachment 432022 Attachment 432029
Other publications
Attachment 432023 Attachment 432024
Team Photo including Anthony Telford, David Segui, Jack Voigt and Luis Mercedes
Attachment 432025
Finally a few items from the last season
2019 All-Star game program and ticket
Attachment 432027 Attachment 432028
Last program from 2019
Attachment 432026
There will still be baseball in Frederick for years to come, as the Keys will now be part of a 68 game development league for college players. However, I can't help but think the Keys and their fans deserve a better fate. Thank you Keys for some great memories.