Both Alumni Field and Helena's Kindrick Legion Field turned professional in 1978,
when the Pioneer League expanded from 6 to 8 teams. While Helena came in as an
affiliate of the Phillies, Butte came in as a co-op and would have to wait a year
before getting its first affiliation. Even without a Major League team to call
its own, Butte would still feature an upcoming star... one that would go on
to break records for longetivity in the Major Leagues, including oldest player
to steal a base and hit a home run. Julio Franco was the first Copper King to
hit the Major Leagues. He would hit .305 with 3 hrs in his first pro season. |