Double-A Somerset Patriots to Honor Black Yankees this Summer

The New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, the Somerset Patriots, will recognize the New York Black Yankees this summer as part of Minor League Baseball's (MiLB) “The Nine” initiative. The Patriots announced last week, February 22, that they are expanding their partnership with Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum (SSAAM).

The museum tells the story of the contributions African Americans made in the Sourland Mountain Region, which in case you don't know is in Hillsboro, New Jersey.

On Friday, August 30, the Patriots will don uniforms and caps that honor the tradition of the New York Black Yankees, and the storied history of the Negro Leagues.

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“The work Beverly, Elaine, Donnetta, and the rest of the team at SSAAM are doing is simply fantastic,” said Jonathan Kalafer.  “The way they have preserved our vital local history and engaged the community to explore and understand it is an inspiration for us as we develop our ‘The Nine’ initiative.  We are proud to be able to be a part of the crucial work SSAAM does and thankful for their guidance and wisdom.”

Added Josh Kalafer, “We always strive as a family and ballclub to make a positive impact in the many communities we serve. The telling of the African American experience through SSAAM is something everyone needs to understand. We will do our part to help share the message to educate our fans and the community.”

The Patriots also pledge $25,000 to the Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum (SSAAM) for their continued service in educating the community.