The independent Can-Am League is exploring the possibility of a team in Old Orchard Beach, ME, with league representatives set to be in the city Thursday.
A team in Old Orchard Beach would play home games at The Ballpark in Old Orchard Beach, which has an interesting history. The ballpark was first built in 1984 for the Maine Phillies/Guides (Class AAA; International League), who ultimately left the market after the 1988 season and relocated to Moosic, PA, where the franchise remains today as the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Following the departure of Class AAA baseball, Old Orchard Beach Ballpark’s condition deteriorated through neglect and a serious fire, but volunteers stepped up to repair the facility and it became operational again in the spring of 2010.
There now appears to be interest in placing a professional team in the ballpark, as the Can-Am League is reportedly showing interest in the Old Orchard Beach market. Representatives of the circuit–including Can-Am League Executive Director Kevin Winn, and New Jersey Jackals and Sussex County Miners President of Baseball Operations Greg Lockard–are expected to be at a local restaurant Thursday night for a community meet and greet. Old Orchard Beach is being considered for a team in the 2020 season, according to the Biddeford Journal Tribune.
Since its reopening, The Ballpark in Old Orchard Beach has served stints as home to various independent and summer-collegiate level teams. The most recent was the Old Orchard Beach Surge (independent; Empire Professional Baseball League), who relocated to Saranac Lake, NY ahead of the 2019 season. Old Orchard Beach Ballpark is currently active for a number of events, including baseball tournaments.
Photo courtesy of Old Orchard Beach.
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