Take the kids out to the ballgame! New Jersey is home to several Minor League Baseball teams that have players who are fun to watch, seats that are closer to the field and lots of activities for the kids. There are all of the amenities of a Major League game, like autographs and stadium treats. You may even get to see your favorite pros when they move down a division as they are rehabbing. Consider a season ticket plan, or even a group outing with your kid’s scout troop or for a birthday party. The teams also have special themed and promotional nights planned, plus fireworks throughout the summer. Buy some peanuts and Cracker Jacks and head to the field!
Jersey Shore Blue Claws
FirstEnergy Park, 2 Stadium Way, Lakewood
The BlueClaws are a High-A Affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. That means there’s a chance you’ll get to see your favorite pros from the Pittsburgh Pirates, New York Mets, Washington National, New York Yankees, Baltimore Orioles, Atlanta Braves and Houston Astros if they come down to rehab.
There’s more here than just baseball – take the kids to mini golf, the boardwalk area and inflatable rides. Adults can grab a drink at the beer garden or join the Thirsty Thursday Club. You can sign up for the Kids Club for free, so your child 12 or younger can eat for free on Sundays. The MVP Package includes five ticket vouchers and the opportunity to watch the fireworks from the field.
The first home game is Friday, April 5, at 6:35 pm vs. the Aberdeen IronBirds. If you’re a fan, consider getting a 5-game, 10-game or full season ticket package instead of single tickets. There is a package for youth sports teams.
New Jersey Jackals
Hinchliffe Stadium, Paterson
The New Jersey Jackals are a member of the East Division of the Frontier League, an independent baseball league which is a Partner League of Major League Baseball. They were previously members of the Northeast League, Northern League, Canadian American Association of Professional Baseball, and All-American Baseball Challenge. There’s a history lesson here, as Hinchliffe is one of the last remaining Negro Leagues stadiums in the country.
If your kid is serious about the sport, the Jackals offer Nike Baseball Camp for boys ages 7-15. Jackals staff member Jim Whalen will teach the fundamentals of hitting, fielding, base-running, team play and more.
The first home game is Thursday, May 9, at 6:35 pm vs. the NY Boulders.
Trenton Thunder
Trenton Thunder Park, 1 Thunder Rd., Trenton
Formerly a Double-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, the Trenton Thunder is now a collegiate summer baseball team of the MLB Draft League. It’s a great opportunity to see players at the beginning of their careers, and maybe inspire your own athletes.
The team’s mascots, Boomer, Cloudman and Slice pay tribute to NJ’s iconic breakfast pork roll. Rookie, the bat dog, is one of the cutest parts of the game!
Treat your future athlete to something special by signing them up for Boomer’s Kids Club. For $20, kids 12 and under will receive one ticket to the Sunday games, a T-shirt, a bracelet, a 10% discount at the team store, seven coupons for a free round at the speed pitch and the ability to join Kids Run the Bases via the express line.
Ticket memberships are available for six games, 10 games, half-season and the full season. The first home game is Thursday, June 4, at 7 pm against the Frederick Keys.
Somerset Patriots
TD Bank Ballpark, 860 E. Main St., Bridgewater
If you can’t make it to the Bronx, this is the perfect spot to catch the Double-A New York Yankees play their best.
The first home game is Friday, April 5, at 6:35 pm against Richmond. Single-ticket prices start at $14.50. You can also get season, group or premium hospitality packages.
Saturday, June 1, is Sopranos Night, with Steve Schirripa throwing out the first pitch for the 6:35 pm game. He’ll take pictures and sign autographs on the main concourse during the game. His social media star dog Willie will also be in attendance to meet fans.
The Patriots will play as the Jersey Diners for three games this season:
Saturday, June 8Â at 7:05 pm vs. the Hartford Yard Goats (Colorado Rockies)
Friday, July 26Â at 7:05 pm vs. the Portland Sea Dogs (Boston Red Sox)
Sunday, August 11Â at 5:05 pm vs. the Binghamton Rumble Ponies (New York Mets)
During these games, there will be special diner-themed music, blue plate specials at the concession stands, diner-themed promotions and more.
Sussex County Miners
Skylands Stadium, 94 Championship Pl., Augusta
The Sussex County Miners will kick off their tenth season with their first home game on Friday, May 10, at 7:05 pm, against Trois-Riveires Aigles. Single-ticket games start at $8. There are group and season ticket packages available. Or choose a suite with a cigar deck.
If you prefer different choices than ballpark food, Double S Smokehouse offers full lunch and dinner menus, plus a full bar.
Get the latest on the best things to do with your family in and around New Jersey by signing up for our newsletter and following us on Facebook and Instagram!
Read More:
New Jersey Diners Are Hitting the Minor League Baseball Field This Summer
Batter Up! Historical Baseball Game At The Farm
Choose The Right Sports Camp For Your Child
Springtime Flower Festivals In NJ