(Central Islip, N.Y., Dec. 9, 2016) – The Long Island Ducks have announced the completion of a playing field makeover at Bethpage Ballpark, home of the Atlantic League club for 17 years. The natural grass field has been completely replaced for the first time since 2008 and will be on display for all to see on Opening Night in 2017.

The four-week renovation process, undertaken by DeLea Sod Farms of Long Island, provided multiple upgrades to the playing field of the ballpark, including a better-quality playing surface, improved drainage, and aesthetic enhancement to the gameday experience for fans. The 100,000 square feet of Kentucky Bluegrass was installed following the stripping out process of the old field. Clean product, tilling and laser-grading followed prior to sod installation, and each step was tracked closely by the team’s official social media platforms on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Additionally, the sod outside the ballpark has been replaced and the landscaping improved as well. “It is important that we maintain the high level of performance that Ducks fans have come to expect,” said Ducks President/GM Michael Pfaff. “This project, combined with a few others we are working on, will assist in accomplishing that goal, while greatly enhancing the on-field product for 2017 and beyond.”

Ducks fans will get their first look at the Bethpage Ballpark playing surface in action on Opening Night, April 28, 2017, when the team hosts the New Britain Bees to begin the 18th season of Ducks baseball on Long Island.

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.

About the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB)

The Atlantic League has been a leader in professional baseball and a gateway to Major League Baseball since 1998. Over 36 million fans have attended Atlantic League games and more than 800 players and 50 managers and coaches have joined MLB organizations directly from the ALPB. The Atlantic League emphasizes winning baseball games, showcasing the talent of top-caliber players and offering affordable family entertainment to metropolitan markets serving nearly 15{f7b134541f126dcd33819b5eec9a91dff238b58155023223dba97c27371a7fb5} of the US population.

For more information, please visit www.atlanticleague.com.

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