The Long Island Ducks are on the verge of clinching the Atlantic League Professional Baseball Championship after a strong postseason run. Currently leading the best-of-five championship series against the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs, the Ducks hold a 2-0 advantage heading into their upcoming home games.
The season in Central Islip has been marked by resilience, especially following the departure of former MLB All-Star Trevor Bauer, who left the team midseason in June to continue his career in Mexico. Manager Lew Ford noted that the team responded positively despite the roster change, with various players stepping up as the year progressed. “We just started playing our best baseball” starting in early August, Ford remarked.
The Ducks finished the regular season with 80 wins, securing their playoff spot by sweeping the Blue Crabs in the final series. They then advanced to the championship round by sweeping the Hagerstown Flying Boxcars in the divisional round. Ford credited the team’s success to strong pitching and solid defensive play, emphasizing that their pitching staff has played a significant role in their recent performance. He also highlighted the importance of timely hitting throughout the postseason.
Looking ahead to their remaining games at home, Ford expressed confidence and enthusiasm about the atmosphere, anticipating strong support from local fans. Among those expected to attend is Frank Boulton, the Ducks’ longtime former owner who sold the team last winter to REV Entertainment, an affiliate of the Texas Rangers organization. Boulton remains a devoted supporter of the team, pleased to see them competing for the title.
The Ducks are now poised to secure the championship with one more victory, aiming to capitalize on the momentum built over a challenging but ultimately fruitful season.