You won’t want to miss a minute of the action during the Lake County Captains’ 2022 season
By Patricia Nugent
If opening day’s winning game against the Dayton Dragons is any indication of the season ahead, you can look for the Lake County Captains to be putting lots of wins up on the board at Classic Park.
Having the best record in the division in the 2021 season, but not being able to play in the playoffs, has the team thinking it’s time to set the record straight.
There are many home games ahead in late May, June, July, August and September. The last official game of the season is Sunday, September 11, and playoffs begin shortly after the regular season.
Perfecting the Fan Experience
“With everything we do, the mission is to provide an affordable, family-friendly experience for all ages,” says Assistant General Manager Drew LaFollette. “From fireworks every Friday night at home games to a lineup of fantastic events, the focus is on all-American fun.”
The perfect example of fan engagement is Sunday Family FUNdays, where kids can play catch on the field before the game and run the bases after the game.
And everyone in the area is invited to enjoy a fabulous Fourth of July Fireworks show hosted at Classic Park from the cities of Eastlake, Wickliffe and Willowick, with free admission and the concessions open.
This year the Captains are introducing the team name of Picantes de Lake County for several games throughout the season. Games are Sunday, June 5 Sunday, June 5; Thursday, July 14; Tuesday, August 9 and Saturday, September 10.
Drew says the baseball fare has been a big hit this year, too, with the Beef and Cheddar Dog behind the grill being a top seller. Fans are also diving into the build-your-own hot dog bar with exotic toppings on jumbo dogs
Hot Players to Watch
Since the team is a High-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians, each year several Captains will get “the call” and be moved up on their way to “the bigs.” Here are just a few standouts you won’t want to miss. Much like the home runs the team has hit already this year, they might be going, going, gone before you know it.
In play-by-play radio announcer John Vicari’s own words:
• The Bullpen — “It’s in fine form so far this season, bringing in an impressive 1.97 ERA. Starting pitching especially has been phenomenal. Many of these players were drafted in 2021, so there’s a lot of talent to see here.”
• The Bats — “Well, much like the early spring weather, our bats have been a little cold, but the offense is showing promising signs of heating up soon.”
• Jhonkensy Noel — “This 20-year-old from the Dominican Republic is a real monster at the plate, already knocking in home runs. He is a crazy strong power hitter.”
• Joe Naranjo — “He is 5-feet 8 inches of pure force and has already clocked in two grand slams and four home runs on the season.”
• Petey Halpin — “As an outfielder and at shortstop, this dynamic player makes some unbelievable grabs. He’s only 19 but plays with a lot of maturity.”
Classic Park is located at 35300 Vine Street in Eastlake. For tickets, call 440-954-WINS (9467), or visit CaptainsBaseball.com for a complete listing of upcoming promotions and game schedule for the 2022 season.
SUMMER SPECIAL EVENTS
Don’t miss these special events at Classic Park this summer. According to Director of Promotions Izzy Farmwald, there’s a little something for every member of the family.
Marvel Defenders of the Diamond
Saturday, June 18. Enjoy a special appearance by the Hulk. Players wear Hulk jerseys that will be auctioned off after the game.
Paws ‘n’ Claws
For a $5 Pooch Pass, bring your favorite four-legged friend to a game. Proceeds go to the local Humane Society. On Wednesdays, June 1, July 13, August 10 and 24.
Giveaways Galore
Don’t miss these collectible bobbleheads to the first 1,000 fans on these Saturdays: July 2, July 16, and September 10.
Skipper in Scrubs
July 2, bobblehead presented by University Hospitals. July 16, Triston McKenzie bobblehead, August 27, Bobby Bradley jersey.
Picante Pepper by Sysco
September 10, bobblehead. The youth backpack giveaway will be on August 13, by Stanley Steemer. (First 1,000 kids, 12 and under.)
Cleveland Sports History Night
Saturday, August 6, enjoy a meet-and-greet with Cleveland sports legend Larry Nance Sr.
Thirsty ThursdaysTM
Imbibe half-priced Modelo brewskis and half priced fountain sodas before 9 p.m.
Scouts Campout
August 5, Girls Scouts and August 15, Boy Scouts participate in a parade, earn a patch, watch a movie, and get to camp on the field.