Berlin Resident to Lead New Britain Baseball Franchise

NEW BRITAIN, CT — A former minor league baseball executive is returning to the sport to take over operations of the New Britain Bees of the Atlantic League.

Gerry Berthiaume, a Berlin resident with over 15 years experience in professional baseball, has been hired as the team's new general manager. He will begin work January 23, as current GM Pat Day steps down to pursue new career opportunities.

“I am extremely excited about returning to professional baseball as the general manager of the New Britain Bees," Berthiaume said in a statement released by the team. "After having discussions with (team owners) Frank Boulton and Michael Pfaff, it was evident to me that this ownership group is dedicated and committed to keeping professional baseball in New Britain. That commitment was the dominating factor in making the decision to get back in the game I truly enjoy. I look forward to working with the Bees front office staff and the coaching staff to continue to bring quality entertainment to New Britain Stadium. To be returning to this great facility and to see all the improvements that have been made by the city of New Britain and Bees ownership is incredible as the stadium has never looked better.”

Berthiaume was previously the Executive Vice President and GM of the New Britain Red Sox and New Britain Rock Cats from 1984 to 1999, and is a member of the Maine Baseball Hall of Fame. During his tenure, Berthiaume oversaw the team's move to and opening of New Britain Stadium, from its previous home, Beehive Stadium.

He joins the Bees after spending the past nine years as an executive at Capital Workforce Partners in Hartford, which leverages public and private resources to produce skilled workers for a competitive regional economy.

New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart shared her thoughts on the announcement Tuesday morning.

"Gerry Berthiaume is an ideal fit for helping to lead the New Britain Bees onto greater success during their second season," Stewart said. "As a former New Britain Red Sox general manager, he is well versed in the dynamics of how to operate a winning sports team. Additionally, through his work with the Greater New Britain Chamber of Commerce and organizations like Capital Workforce Partners, he has formed strong connections in our community that will help to foster growth for the baseball team and to create an even better experience for fans."

Photo courtesy of New Britain Bees