Alternatives to Major League Baseball – Atlantic League Independent Baseball in New York and New Jersey

There are alternatives to paying top dollar at the new Major League ballparks in Queens and the Bronx. You can watch the Atlantic League's Long Island Ducks, Somerset Patriots and Newark Bears. The Atlantic League is an independent league made up primarily of former Major and Minor League players. My Wife and I have attended games since 2007 and have had the Saturday Plan for the Somerset Patriots since 2008. Cost of tickets range from $10.00 to $12.50 for excellent seats. The stadiums are family and fan friendly.

The Long Island Ducks play at Suffolk County Sports Park in Central Islip, NY. The Ducks won their division last season under manager Gary (Kid) Carter but lost in the opening round. Their current manager is Dave LaPoint.

The Somerset Patriots play at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ and are managed by ex-Yankee Sparky Lyle. They won the league championship last year and are looking forward to another playoff run this year.

The Newark Bears play at the Bears & Eagles Riverfront Stadium and are managed by Tim (Rock) Raines.