The Harrisburg Alumni Association

Felix Fermin turning a double play in 1987 for Harrisburg

Felix Fermin, the first of many slick-fielding shortstops in the Harrisburg Senators' modern era, is promoted 39 years ago today directly from City Island and Class AA to the major leagues.

In return for plucking Fermin from Harrisburg's roster, the Pittsburgh Pirates send to City Island another outstanding shortstop in Rafael Belliard, who later plays in four World Series during the 1990s with the Atlanta Braves.

Fermin has a fine 10-year career in the majors with four teams, but may best be remembered in Cleveland – one of those four teams – as the player the Indians ship along with backup outfielder Reggie Jefferson to Seattle in December 1993.

In return, Cleveland receives shortstop Omar Vizquel, who forges a Hall of Fame-caliber career with a handful of teams before finally retiring after the 2012 season.

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