This is Field of Dreams in real life. Actually, it's better because it's on Cape.
Founded about 150 years ago, the Cape League has become the country's top summer league for college players. The grass is real and the bats are wood. The players are incredibly talented and driven as this is one place where MLB scouts swarm to find talent. This is legit, high quality baseball in an incredibly inviting and casual setting.
Former players I've seen include Nomar Garciaparra, Marcus Stroman, Kolten Wong, and many others who have come through Orleans. Other former Cape Leaguers are Jason Varitek, Aaron Bleepin' Boone (Orleans), Frank Thomas (Orleans), Jonathan Papelbon, Chase Utley, Jackie Bradley, Jr., Andrew Benintendi, Mark Bellhorn, Bill Mueller, Kevin Millar, and a bunch of other dudes you would know.
The players live with host families, and many work summer jobs in addition to playing ball.
The team hosts youth baseball camps in the mornings, with the players and coaches instructing. Some players are available to private lessons (these are incredible).
The home field is Eldredge Park on the middle school grounds at the corner of Rt. 28 and Eldredge Parkway.
Home games are played in the evenings, with first pitch at 7 pm.
Bring your own chairs or blankets, and set up in any open space. Get a free roster with up-to-date stats, and grab a team program that your kids can get autographed after the game. The kids can also run the bases, sing Take Me Out to the Ballgame, play on the playground beyond the left field fence, track down some foul balls, and otherwise have good, clean fun.
It's free, but take the opportunity to play the 50/50 raffle or donate when the hat is passed around.
Say hi to George the Firebird when you see him. He'll be wearing a red bird costume and is really loud. read more