WORCESTER—In a surprise move that’s reverberating throughout Worcester’s baseball community, the Worcester Bravehearts have parted ways with Dave “Peterman” Peterson, the exuberant and beloved on-field personality who has been a fixture at Hanover Insurance Park for nearly two decades.
Peterson shared the news in a heartfelt social media post on Friday, when he looked back on his time not only with the Bravehearts but also with their predecessor, the Worcester Tornadoes.
“For nearly 20 years, I have called Hanover Insurance Park my ‘home away from home,’” Peterson wrote. “These 12 years with the Bravehearts and six with the Tornadoes are more than I could’ve ever hoped for when I first clutched that microphone as the crazy on-field emcee named ‘Peterman’ on June 6, 2005.”
Peterson’s name has long been synonymous with family-friendly summer nights at Hanover Insurance Park. Known for his booming voice, infectious enthusiasm, and commitment to making baseball fun, Peterson entertained thousands over the years—on the concourse, at summer camps, and from the mic between innings.
“Though my time with Worcester Bravehearts Baseball has now come to an end, I will always have the memories of incredible summer nights with you,” Peterson said. “Thank you Worcester. You will always hold a special place in my heart.”
While his initial post did not elaborate on the circumstances of his departure, Peterson later confirmed to the Worcester Guardian that it was not his decision.
“It was not my decision,” he said. “The last 20 years at Fitton Field have been an absolute blast, I will miss it, and I will certainly keep the relationships I have built with the fans. I have the utmost faith in Donny Porcaro taking over as GM, and he’s got the best young staff in the city to work with. Helena Stamatakis, Devin Barbour, David Echavarria and Pat Hogan are dynamite. Great people, intelligent, all moving in the same direction.”
The Bravehearts have not released a public statement as of Friday afternoon. An inquiry has been sent to the organization for comment.
In his farewell, Peterson thanked a wide range of contributors to the team’s success, including the Creedon and Vaccaro families, ownership group members Ted Tye and Alan Stone, and the fans who filled the ballpark year after year.
“I do not yet know where the next stop is for me,” he concluded, “but the future is bright.”
Editor’s note: This story will be updated as more information becomes available. Refresh this page for updates.
