Worcester Bravehearts Bid Farewell to Beloved Mascot Dave "Peterman" Peterson

On May 29, when the Worcester Bravehearts step onto the field for their home opener at Fitton Field, an accustomed and welcoming presence will not be seen around the premises.

Dave “Peterman” Peterson, who had been the general manager of the collegiate summer league team since its inception in October 2013, was — pick your word — dismissed, fired, released, a partner in a parting of the ways in mid-April.

"My job with the Worcester Bravehearts ended," Peterson, who is 45 years old, stated on May 5th.

A few days prior, Peterson shared the information on Instagram and LinkedIn to inform numerous fans, acquaintances, and backers who had joined him throughout his extended tenure in what is currently referred to as the Futures League.

“I did not choose to depart,” Peterson stated, “however, I definitely didn’t wish for supporters to believe I abandoned ship six weeks prior to the start of the season since that doesn’t align with who I am.”

“It’s just that the Vaccaro family wanted to go in a different direction with the vision of the team, and unfortunately, I didn’t fit into that vision.”

Frank Vaccaro, a prominent figure in the Massachusetts baseball scene due to his long tenure as the experienced coach of the notably successful Post 397 American Legion squad based in his native Shrewsbbury, acquired the Bravehearts from their founding proprietors, the Creedon family, back in February 2024.

His son, Matt, who runs a business in Worcester, serves as the president of Bravehearts.

They are really wonderful individuals," Peterson stated. "They have contributed immensely to the Shrewsbury community specifically, and they keep making significant impacts on American Legion baseball as well as the city of Worcester. Since I wasn’t involved in shaping their future plans, I must consequently step aside.

The Bravehearts posted a letter signed by Matt Vaccaro on Twitter on May 6 publicly acknowledging the organization had “parted ways” with Peterson and wishing him “nothing but success.”

A day earlier in a text exchange with a T&G reporter, Vaccaro used the words “sensitive situation” to describe Peterson’s organization-induced departure.

There was a sequence of events that unfolded over several weeks leading to the ultimate choice," Vaccaro stated during a phone call on May 6. "I hope everything goes well for Dave. It’s unfortunate that circumstances couldn’t be altered.

Regrettably, changes were necessary due to a sequence of events that have been unfolding for quite some time. I’d prefer not to delve into the specifics at present as they involve highly private matters.

Peterson, who hails from Medford, graduated from Syracuse and has called Worcester home since 2002, was not only the Bravehearts’ GM, but also their unofficial and unabashed head of entertainment, a handyman, behind-the-scenes technician, team leader and gregarious ballpark greeter.

Those are just a few of the hats he wore. And then there were the trademark outlandish suit jackets Peterson donned, the most prominent being a red, orange and plaid one the team fashioned its rally jerseys after three years ago.

The past eleven and a half years have been incredible," Peterson stated. "This period marked the peak of my professional journey, getting to establish a franchise from scratch. It was particularly exciting to be present when the team was christened and to gradually assemble our talented staff over the years.

Combining the fundamental principles upon which the franchise was established and having the opportunity to collaborate with the Creedon family and the Vaccaro family, as well as greeting all these wonderful fans and maintaining those relationships.

Before becoming part of the Bravehearts, Peterson spent six years working in different roles with the independent Worcester Tornadoes starting from 2005. In 2023, he made an unsuccessful bid for a seat on the Worcester city council.

What lies ahead still needs to unfold.

I haven't got a clue about the next move," Peterson stated. "Though I genuinely adore this city and wish to remain here, I'm leaving all possibilities available. Since nothing ties me down specifically to Worcester, I am pretty much free to head off wherever.

I really enjoyed myself. But now, at 45 years old, I must determine how someone like me—a wild individual known for wearing gaudy jackets—should proceed through life.

Following Peterson’s exit, Donny Porcaro will take over as interim general manager. A native of Worcester and alumnus of Holy Name, Porcaro has been with the Bravehearts since 2017 after completing an internship there.

Reach out to Rich Garven at rgarven@telegram.com. You can also follow him on X, previously called Twitter, under the handle @RichGarven.

The article initially appeared on Telegram & Gazette. The Worcester Bravehearts have parted ways with their long-time mascot, Dave 'Peterman' Peterson.