The Philadelphia Phillies announced on Monday morning that Tugger, a 10-week-old service puppy in training would be getting called up to the big leagues ahead of Tuesday’s game against the San Diego Padres.
Tugger, a yellow labrador retriever, is named after the former Phillies closer and 1980 World Series champion, Tug McGraw. The inspiration for the name came from Tugger’s birthday, April 24, 2025. This is two days prior to the 50th anniversary that McGraw made his Phillies debut.
McGraw is of course the father of famous country singer Tim McGraw. “Ya gotta believe young Tugger’s going to be a hero for a veteran with an invisible wound of war,” said the country star. He continued by saying “My father loved the Phillies and took immense pride in his service with the United States Marine Corps. The thought that this little pup will one day contribute to enhancing the quality of life for a veteran is truly remarkable. We can never do enough to honor our veterans, and I am certain my father would have felt deeply honored to have Tugger named in his memory.”
Phillies make an impact
Tugger comes to the Phillies through their partnership with Team Foster and the Warrior Canine Connection. Both organizations focus on training service dogs to foster healthy relationships with veterans who need their assistance. Team Foster has placed over 500 dogs with former service men and women to aid them in their post-service return to society.
The young pup will spend two years with Warrior Canine connection to train for his future service. By the time he is ready, he will be able to assist veterans with anything from putting on their socks to detecting anxiety attacks. His assistance and the support from his brothers and sisters in the program are a much needed boost to those who served our country.
Tugger is the second survive dog to be sponsored by the Phillies, with the first being Major, who has recently been placed with a veteran.
“We’re incredibly honored to have a future service dog named in honor of a Phillies legend,” said Rick Yount, founder and executive director, Warrior Canine Connection. “It’s a meaningful way to carry forward his legacy—one rooted in strength, service and impact. This special partnership with the Phillies and Team Foster is making Tugger’s mission possible and exemplifies the power of community coming together to support our nation’s veterans.”
For more information on Team Foster, Warrior Canine Connection, or the Tug McGraw Foundation, please visit their websites, which are linked in this article.
*All quotes come courtesy of the Philadelphia Phillies and their staff.
Photo credit: REUTERS/Tim Shaffer PP03090150
