RON CHIAVACCI, a product of Kutztown University and a historic figure in IronPigs baseball lore, has been given his marching orders at the behest of the AAA Toledo Mud Hens. Chiavacci, a 31-year-old native of Scranton, had appeared in 20 games (4 starts, 1-5 w-l, 2 sv, 5.24 ERA, 46.1 ip, 58 h, 25 bb, 34 so) before his release yesterday on July 4.

Chiavacci, of course, was the starting pitcher for the IronPigs in their very first game ever at Coca-Cola Park (exhibition versus Philadelphia Phillies – March 30, 2008) and also claimed the decision for the very first International League victory in the history of the AAA Lehigh Valley IronPigs franchise (April 14, 2008 vs Richmond Braves). That turned out to be the only win Chiavacci would, in fact, record for Lehigh Valley.

After having made 11 starts (1-7 w-l, 5.90 ERA) for the IronPigs to open the inaugural season at Coca-Cola Park, Chiavacci was dealt by the Philadelphia Phillies to the Houston Astros last June 2 to complete the Stephen Randolph transaction.