Summer 2012 Preview: Hamptons Collegiate Baseball
’Tis the season to root, root, root for the home team! Opening Day for Hamptons Collegiate Baseball (HCB) is June 3.
Founded in 2007, HCB is a welcome addition to the East End scene. It’s become a popular family activity, as all games are free to the public. Bring a beach chair for optimal viewing comfort, some snacks – we suggest Cracker Jack – and take in the casual, fun baseball atmosphere.
“Since we first started out, we’ve been able to bring high-level baseball to the East End at no cost to the public,” says Brett Mauser, the president of Hamptons Collegiate Baseball. “And in these economic times, it’s great to be able to make a short walk or drive to the game and enjoy a night out with the family. That’s what this is really all about.”
Last year, the competition between the five teams was fierce, and this year promises to be even more exciting, as two more teams will join the league.
The Center Moriches Battlecats and Shelter Island Bucks will join the North Fork Ospreys, Riverhead Tomcats, Southampton Breakers, Sag Harbor Whalers and Westhampton Aviators in the hunt for the Atlantic Collegiate Baseball League (ACBL) Hampton Division Crown. HCB is one of three divisions of ACBL, a wood bat league that was established in 1967.
“After three seasons as a five-team organization, the timing feels right…We’re thrilled (with the expansion),” says Mauser.
This season, the HCB rosters are made up of players from over 80 national universities. Each team plays a 40-game regular season schedule on area fields, and four teams will make it to the divisional playoffs.
Don’t miss out on the fun, as the league builds on its reputation of providing first-class collegiate ball. Former HCB players include shortstop Nick Ahmed, a 2011 second-round pick for the Atlanta Braves, and third baseman Kyle Kubitza, a third-round pick for the Braves in 2011. Last season, 12 HCB alumni played in the pros. You could see another future star this summer right here in the Hamptons.