Talent at the bat with the Lake County Captains
By Patricia Nugent
From the first crack of the bat to the roar of the crowd, the snow-cone grab, the wild pitch and mad slide into home plate, there’s nothing like watching a live baseball game.
America’s favorite pastime is alive and well, and this summer there’s plenty for fans to cheer about at Classic Park, as our beloved Lake County Captains are just two-and-a-half games out of a playoff spot as of press time.
Since the team is a Class A Affiliate of the Cleveland Indians, each year several Captains will get “the call” and make it to the majors. So, watching them play on their way up is a thrill a minute.
Scouting Report: Red-Hot Talent Pool
“We’ve got some players on the Cleveland Indians’ top 30 pick list who are making things very exciting around here,” says Media Relations Manager Tim O’Brien.
Here’s his scouting report:
- Outfielder Will Benson – A first-round draft pick, this 6’5” power hitter has already fired up seven home runs this season. (Boom.)
- Third baseman Nolan Jones – Look for this second-round draft pick from 2016 to take off at the bat and defensively.
- Pitcher Eli Morgan – Recently voted the player of week in the Midwest League, Eli has an ERA of 1.03 and is a bona fide ace.
- Outfielder Oscar Gonzalez - Showing real hitting power.
- Shortstop Ernie Clement – He likes to set the table, hitting .353 so far this year.
“These are the top five picks, but really everyone on the team is hitting their stride,” says Tim.
Child-Friendly, Parent-Approved
Providing a family-friendly experience for all ages is the order of the day, and the Classic Park team plans a plethora of events each year geared toward kids.
“Due to popular demand, this year we are expanding from one to four princess events during our games,” says Drew LaFollette, director of promotions. And with ticket prices so affordable, you may decide to bring your little princesses to all four of these events.
Also in the colorful youth-oriented lineup are Dinosaur Day, on Sunday, June 17; Trolls Night, on Friday, June 29; Jungle Terry, on Sunday, July 1; Lord of the Rings Day, on Sunday, July 1; Harry Potter Night, on Sunday, July 29; and Super Heroes Night on Friday, August 10.
“And for something different, we’ve invited WWE Hall of Famer Hacksaw Jim Duggan to make an appearance and sign autographs on Saturday, June 16, during Heroes Weekend,” says Drew.
The Captains Youth Summer Camp is always a draw. From Wednesday-Friday, August 1-3, kids receive instruction from players and coaches, and they get to play down on the field.
Dynamite Fan-Fare
The powers that be at Classic Park are introducing a bevy of dishes.
“Our Chicken & Waffles is a fun take on the classic dish, with chicken strips dredged in waffle batter with a side of sweet potato fries,” says Drew. “Our Taco and Ultimate Nacho Bar along the first base concourse is also garnering rave reviews.”
Each month a special burger is featured at The Grill by home plate. In May, don’t miss the Drunken One, which is a third-pound burger with craft beer cheese, a bourbon glaze, grilled onions and bacon on a pretzel bun.
New this year to entice fans are Thirsty Thursdays. If you buy your ticket online, your first 16-ounce Labatt beer or your first fountain soda drink is free, and you even keep the souvenir cup.
Cleveland’s ethnic fare will be celebrated at Hungarian night, Italian night and an Irish St. Paddy’s Day Party. And new this year are Slovenian, Croatian and Latino nights.
Classic Park is located at 35300 Vine Street in Eastlake. For tickets, call 440-954-WINS (9467), or visit Or visit CaptainsBaseball.com for a complete list of upcoming promotions and a game schedule for the 2018 season.