Long Island Ducks Kick Off Season with Home Opener Win and Heartfelt Tribute to Former Coach

Minor league baseball team the Long Island Ducks celebrated their home opener last week with a win over the Lancaster Stormers, but the ballgame was just the start of this season’s festivities. 

At a Ducks game, fun is for everyone. Every Saturday home game features post show fireworks and Sundays are family fun days. All fans are invited down for a pregame catch on the field or to run the bases postgame. (Check out their weekly promotion schedule here.)

“My favorite part of the stadium is when it’s filled with families like it is today. That’s the best part of the job,” said Sean Smith, general manager.  “Sometimes I say we’re like legos, ages 3-99 but we’ll take 1, 2 and 3 year olds.”

Bud Harrleson, former coach and part-owner of the Ducks franchise who passed away earlier this year, was honored for his ongoing commitment to the team. Harrleson’s family threw out the ceremonial first pitch while players wore a “3” patch on the front of their uniforms, in honor of his retired jersey number. Under new manager Lew Ford, this upcoming season is dedicated to honoring Harreslon. 

“Bud was my partner for over thirty years. He’s a big part of the Mets organization and a big part of Long Island,” said Boulton. 

And Long Island is a part of the Ducks. Thursday night was a brisk 48 degrees at Fairfield Ballpark but chilly weather doesn’t stop Long Islanders from showing their constant support. 

“Without the fans we really don’t have a baseball team,” said Boulton. “It’s 48 degrees and they’re happy to be here. They’re hearty souls, that’s for sure.”