On Sunday, the Seacoast Mavericks (summer collegiate; Futures Collegiate Baseball League) hosted what are expected to be their final games at Leary Field.
The Mavericks have been exploring the possibility of a new ballpark, and are working to obtain a facility that would be constructed as part of complex in Dover, NH. In the interim, it has been decided that the 2017 season will be the team’s last at Leary Field in Portsmouth, their home since 2013.
As it stands, Mavericks owner Dave Hoyt believes that progress is being made on developing the new ballpark in Dover. However, it is unlikely to be completed until at least the 2019 season. That means that the Mavericks are now considering explore their options for the 2018 season, which include playing at another venue while construction on the new ballpark unfolds or not fielding a team. More from Seacoastonline.com:
Hoyt explained that in the gap-year scenario, the Mavericks would continue to pay affiliation fees to the league but not field a team. He said two venues are currently being considered for 2018.
Futures League commissioner Chris Hall did not immediately return a call seeking comment.
Games at Leary Field were plagued by small dimensions and small crowds. The Mavericks played their first two seasons, in 2011 and ’12, in front of small crowds at Spaulding High School in Rochester.
“The city was wonderful and we had a great experience there,” said Hoyt, who also operates USA Training Centers in Newington. “We’ve paid attention to the rest of the franchise ownership groups. Leary Field is just a real challenge.”
The Mavericks hosted a double header on Sunday for their final games at Leary Field, splitting a twin bill with the Nashua Silver Knights.
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