The Erie SeaWolves (Class AA; Eastern League) and Erie Events have announced a new lease agreement that will keep the Seawolves in town through 2020. A major change that could result from the deal is the name of the ballpark, as the Seawolves can now sell naming rights to Jerry Uht Park.
“One of the chief goals I set forth when purchasing the SeaWolves was to obtain a long-term, viable lease that keeps the team and high-quality Double-A baseball in Erie,” SeaWolves Owner/CEO Fernando Aguirre said. “Today’s announcement affirms our commitment to the Erie community and we look forward to offering affordable, family entertainment for many years to come.”
As a part of the agreement, Erie Events and Jerry Uht have granted the SeaWolves the rights to sell the name of the stadium. The SeaWolves would become the eighth Eastern League franchise with a naming rights partner. Until a naming rights partner is secured, the ballpark will continue to be identified as Jerry Uht Park.
In honor of Jerry’s contributions to the team and community, the space located between the ballpark and French Street will be named Jerry Uht Park.
“In today’s changing sports landscape, the ability to sell a naming rights package is a game changer for the franchise,” Aguirre added. “It helps add stability and gives the flexibility to enhance the fan experience. We thank Jerry for not only his initial support of the team in 1995, but his continued support throughout this process.”
The SeaWolves began play at Jerry Uht Park in 1995 as a New York-Penn League short season affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. In 1999, Erie welcomed the Double-A Eastern League affiliate of the Anaheim Angels to town. In 2001, the SeaWolves began their current affiliation with the Detroit Tigers. 2016 marks the 22nd consecutive season of professional baseball at the downtown ballpark.
“The SeaWolves offer first-class, family entertainment, and we’re excited to extend our partnership with the team through the 2020 season,” Casey Wells, Executive Director of Erie Events said.