Bobblehead Monday #7

Pete having fun at the ballpark

Bobblehead #7

Name: Pete Vonachen

Position: Owner

Team: Peoria Chiefs

Description: 7.25 inches tall; Pete’s holding a baseball in his right hand and is dressed in a Chiefs’ hat, polo, and khaki pants.

Relevance: Pete Vonachen is the champion of minor league baseball in Peoria, IL.  He was the longtime owner of the Peoria Chiefs who has handed the reigns over to his son, Rocky Vonachen.

How Acquired: A giveaway promotion at a Peoria Chiefs baseball game on during the 2002 season.

Other Notes: Pete still attends games at Chiefs Stadium on a semi-regular basis. One of his favorite things to do at a game, when he was owner, was giveaway a ball to youngster.  There is a statue of him doing just that when you walk into the downtown Peoria ballpark.  

Bonus Note: Pete is also known for being a close friend to the late Harry Caray.  One of my favorite cards in my collection is a card featuring the two (pictured).  Somehow when I was much younger my dad was able to gain access to the announcers’ booth at Wrigley to get Harry’s autograph.  What a thrill that was!  Snagging Pete’s signature was not nearly as challenging for a local who easily attends over a dozen Chiefs games each season.

 

Chiefs tickets from 2012