Patriots Honor 25 Years in Somerset

The Somerset Patriots commemorated 25 years playing baseball in Somerset County, New Jersey.

Starting off as one of the founding members of the Independent Atlantic League, and thanks in major part to the dreams of the late Steve Kalafer who brought baseball to the Somerset, the Patriots were born in 1998, and soon their stadium would be too, with ground breaking taking place in '98.

By 1999 the Somerset Patriots had moved into TD Bank Stadium, a place they have called home for 25 years.

Many things have changed over those years. The Patriots have been the Double-A Affiliate of the New York Yankees going on three years now. But one thing hasn't changed is the Patriots dedication to the community, and the tradition of winning.

Winners of seven League titles, including winning their first Double-A Eastern League title in 2022, the Patriots have welcomed over eight million fans to their stadium.

On Saturday, the Patriots commemorated the event with the Co-Chairmen Josh and Jonthan Kalafer leading a group of distinguished guests and partners that included Patriots Manager Emeritus Sparky Lyle, General Manager Patrick McVerry, Bridgewater Mayor Matthew Monech, and Somerset County Commissioner Shanel Robinson.

"I can't help but remember 25 seasons here. We have new friends and old friends. Some of our old friends are here with us now; they are incredible partners.  I like to thank you from everyone at the Somerset Patriots and our family, thank you to Bridgewater Township, Somerset County, and you, our incredible fans in our community," Co-Chairman Josh Kalafer added.

The Somerset Patriots, the Double-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, commemorated 25 years at TD Bank Ballpark with a stirring ceremony that welcomed back distinguished guests to the ballpark. Included were Bridgewater mayor Matthew Monech, Somerset County Commissinor Shanel Robinson, as well as Patriots co-chairmen Jonathan and Joshua Kalafer, Manager Emeritus Sparky Lyle, and General Manager Patrick McVerry.