Ducks to Host 8 Millionth Fan Celebration on Thursday
August 28, 2019 - Atlantic League (AtL)
Long Island Ducks News Release
(Central Islip, N.Y.) - The Long Island Ducks will host a pre-game celebration on Thursday, August 29, to recognize the 8 millionth fan entering through the gates of Bethpage Ballpark.
"We are proud to add another milestone to this already historical season," said Ducks President/GM Michael Pfaff. "We would like to thank our tremendous fan base for their support in helping us achieve this feat and are forever grateful that they have been able to share in all the memories we have created."
On Wednesday, August 28, six-year-old Declan McCann from Yaphank entered through the East/West gate prior to the Ducks game against the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs. In doing so, he became the 8 millionth fan in franchise history to attend a Ducks game in their home ballpark. Long Island became the first club in Atlantic League history to reach the milestone attendance figure despite having begun play in the league's third year of existence (2000). The Ducks are also currently the Atlantic League's all-time leader in sold out crowds with 689 and have led the Atlantic League in attendance 14 times.
Prior to Thursday's game between the Ducks and Blue Crabs, Declan will be recognized during a VIP on-field ceremony for being the 8 millionth fan. The Ducks will present him with a commemorative 20th Anniversary teal jersey featuring "8 Million" as the name on the back and the number "20", representing the milestone being surpassed during the 20th Anniversary Season. Declan will also receive a luxury suite for Thursday's game, complete with food and beverage included, the opportunity to throw out a ceremonial first pitch, a 2019 Ducks team-signed baseball, and other exciting prizes.
Long Island dropped their game on Wednesday night to Southern Maryland 11-5. Lew Ford and L.J. Mazzilli each had three hits for Long Island, with Ford scoring twice. D'Arby Myers and Deibinson Romero each added two hits and an RBI for the Ducks, while Rey Fuentes also chipped in with two hits, including a two-run home run.
The Blue Crabs were led by Jon Griffin, who had three hits and four RBIs, including a two-run single and a two-run homer. Tony Thomas and Josh McAdams each had three hits and an RBI as well, while Edwin Garcia and Charlie Valerio both collected two hits, two RBIs and two runs.
Brian Matusz lasted five innings for the Ducks, allowing three runs on six hits while striking out five. John Hayes pitched four innings for the Blue Crabs, yielding three runs on nine hits and two walks with three strikeouts. Adam Choplick (3-2) picked up the win with two scoreless innings of relief, giving up two hits and a walk with one strikeout. Anderson DeLeon (0-1) took the loss, conceding three runs on two walks in one and one-third innings.
The Ducks and Blue Crabs wrap up their four-game set on Thursday night. Game time is slated for 6:35 p.m., with the Bethpage Ballpark gates opening at 5:35 (5:20 for full season ticket holders). The first 1,500 kids 12 and under will receive Back-to-School Lunch Boxes, courtesy of SCOPE Education Services. It's Thirsty Thursday at the ballpark, and fans will be able to enjoy drink specials, including half-price Bud and Bud Lights, by visiting the Adult Zone along the left field line. In addition, food and drink specials will be available at the concession stands. It's also an RXBAR Thursday, and Ducks staff members will be handing out free delicious and nutritious protein bars as fans exit the ballpark (while supplies last). Right-hander Joe Iorio (5-3, 2.94) gets the ball for the Ducks against Blue Crabs righty Daryl Thompson (14-7, 3.26).
Tickets to the game, and all Ducks home games, can be purchased by visiting the box office, calling (631) 940-TIXX. Those unable to make the game can follow all the action on the Long Island Ducks Broadcast Network. Live streaming video and audio will be available via BoxCast on LIDucks.com, Facebook Live and the Ducks official YouTube channel.
The Long Island Ducks are members of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball and play their home games at Bethpage Ballpark. For further information, call (631) 940-DUCK or visit www.liducks.com.
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