'Ribbie' selected to be fifth Pork Racer

Look out, Hambone. There's a new Pork Racer in town. Look out, Hambone. There's a new Pork Racer in town.

The Lehigh Valley IronPigs have announced Ribbie as the winner of the "New Pork Racer" campaign. He will challenge Chris P. Bacon, Diggity, Hambone and Barbie Q in the Nazareth Ford Pork Race during home contests this season at Coca-Cola Park.
"It's an honor and a privilege to have this chance to line up with these Pork Racing legends," an emotional Ribbie said upon hearing the news. "But I'm not here to just be a spare rib. I'm here to compete and rack up the wins."
In November, the IronPigs asked fans to submit nominations for a new Pork Racer. They then narrowed the list to five candidates and asked fans to vote for their favorites. Ribbie defeated Scrappy (Scrapple), Colonel Corn, Anita Carnita and Broccoli Rob for the position.

This is the first change to the lineup since 2012, when Barbie Q joined the original three racers.
Ribbie signed a 10-year deal - the longest-ever for a rookie Pork Racer. Another five-year option will be exercised if Ribbie reaches 25 victories before the contract reaches its final season.
While little film of his past races is available, scouts from the Phillies organization say that he has the potential to become one of the top-four Pork Racers in the world as soon as this season.

Ribbie is expected to make his debut during the IronPigs' April 12 season opener against the Louisville Bats. Single-Game tickets will be available during the team's annual "Pig Day" celebration on Saturday, March 3.

The other Pork Racers were unavailable for comment as they were in the gym training for a more competitive season.