Scranton Baseball: A Comprehensive Guide for Fans and Enthusiasts

Introduction

The Scranton Baseball scene has a rich history and a dedicated fanbase. From the iconic Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders to the bustling youth leagues, baseball holds a special place in the heart of the community. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to all things Scranton baseball, including team profiles, league information, notable players, and more.

Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders

History

The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are the Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees. The team was founded in 1989 as the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Red Barons and played in the International League before joining Triple-A in 2000. The RailRiders have won five International League championships and have consistently been one of the top teams in the league.

Home Field

PNC Field is a state-of-the-art stadium located in downtown Moosic, Pennsylvania. The stadium opened in 2012 and has a capacity of 10,000. PNC Field is also home to the University of Scranton baseball team.

Notable Players

Over the years, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders have boasted a number of notable players, including:

• Dioner Navarro (catcher)
• Robinson Canó (second baseman)
• Jorge Posada (catcher)
• Nick Swisher (outfielder)
• Brett Gardner (outfielder)

Youth Baseball in Scranton

In addition to the RailRiders, Scranton is home to a thriving youth baseball scene. There are numerous leagues and tournaments for players of all ages. The Scranton Little League is one of the most active in the region, with over 1,000 players participating each year.

Economic Impact of Baseball in Scranton

Baseball plays a significant role in the Scranton economy. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders generate an estimated $40 million in annual revenue. The team also creates jobs for hundreds of people in the community. In addition, youth baseball leagues and tournaments bring in visitors and boost local businesses.

Why Baseball Matters in Scranton

Baseball is more than just a game in Scranton. It's a way of life. The RailRiders provide affordable family entertainment and a sense of community. Youth baseball leagues teach kids important life lessons, such as teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. Baseball also brings in revenue and creates jobs, making it an important part of the local economy.

How Baseball Benefits the Scranton Community

Baseball benefits the Scranton community in a number of ways, including:

• Economic Impact: The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders and youth baseball leagues generate revenue and create jobs.
• Youth Development: Baseball teaches kids important life lessons and encourages physical activity.
• Community Engagement: Baseball provides affordable family entertainment and brings people together.

Call to Action

If you're a fan of baseball, there are many ways to get involved in the Scranton community. You can:

• Attend a Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders game
• Volunteer with a youth baseball league
• Sign up your kids for a baseball team
• Support businesses that support baseball in Scranton

By getting involved, you can help ensure that baseball continues to thrive in Scranton for generations to come.

Humorous Stories from Scranton Baseball

The Time the Umpire Got Lost

In a memorable game, the home plate umpire got lost on the way to PNC Field. He ended up wandering around the parking lot for 20 minutes before finally finding the stadium. The game was delayed by 30 minutes, but the fans loved it.

The Time the Fan Caught the Foul Ball in His Beer

In another amusing incident, a fan caught a foul ball in his beer cup. The crowd erupted in laughter, and the fan got a free beer from the team.

The Time the Player Proposed to His Girlfriend on the Field

After hitting a home run, a player ran around the bases and proposed to his girlfriend on the third base line. She said yes, and the crowd cheered.

What We Learn from These Stories

These humorous stories show us that baseball is more than just a game. It's a source of entertainment, laughter, and memories. Baseball also brings people together and creates a sense of community.

Useful Tables

Attendance Figures for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders

Source: Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders website

Economic Impact of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders

Source: Scranton Chamber of Commerce

Youth Baseball Leagues in Scranton

Source: Scranton Little League

Tips and Tricks for Attending a Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders Game

• Buy tickets in advance. PNC Field can sell out, especially on weekends and against popular opponents.
• Arrive early. This will give you time to find your seats, grab some food and drinks, and enjoy the pre-game festivities.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat. PNC Field has a lot of exposed seating, so it's important to protect yourself from the sun.
• Be loud and cheer for the RailRiders. PNC Field is a great place to let loose and root for your team.
• Have fun! Baseball is a great way to spend time with family and friends.