Amazing streak: The Lakewood BlueClaws completed their 14th season on Monday and officially wrapped up their 14th South Atlantic League attendance title.
This year, 380,573 fans came to FirstEnergy Park, an average of 5,597 fans at the 68 home dates (two of the 70 scheduled games were postponed).
In 14 years, the team has now welcomed a total of 6,029,588 fans. The BlueClaws crossed the 6-million mark on August 24th when 12-year old Connor Cino of Toms River came through the gates at 4:19 pm. The BlueClaws are the fastest team in New Jersey and South Atlantic League history to reach the 6-million fan mark.
“Our entire franchise is very proud to once again lead the South Atlantic League and New Jersey in attendance,” said BlueClaws General Manager Chris Tafrow. “This is something that would not be possible without the continuous support that we have received from the Jersey Shore community, the best fans in Minor League Baseball.”
The BlueClaws had 10 crowds of at least 7,000 fans, 28 crowds of at least 6,000, and they finished the season with crowds totaling 23,167 fans in the final three games.
Among the season highlights was the June 9th retirement of the number 19 worn by 2003 BlueClaws LHP Cole Hamels. The Phillies star pitcher was in Lakewood for the ceremony, at which he became the second BlueClaws alum to have his number retired by the team (following the number 29 worn by 2002 BlueClaw and current Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard, which was retired in 2010).
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