Long Island Ducks Reach Atlantic League Title Series
The Long Island Ducks have secured a spot in the Atlantic League Championship Series after an 80‑win season and a late‑season surge. They face the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs in a best‑of‑five series, with the Ducks looking to close the title at home.
By Felo News Desk · Published
The Long Island Ducks have surged into the Atlantic League Championship Series, setting up a showdown with the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs. With an 80‑win record, the Ducks have become the most dominant team in the league this season, and their momentum has carried them through a tight playoff run that saw them sweep the Blue Crabs in the final regular‑season series to secure a playoff spot.
Season‑Long Dominance and Late‑Season Surge
From the outset of the season, the Ducks displayed a high‑powered offense and a disciplined pitching staff. Their performance earned them the best record in the Atlantic League, a feat that has not been achieved in several years. However, the team’s true strength became apparent in August, when they began to play their “best baseball.” Manager Lew Ford noted that the Ducks’ players responded well to the pressure and stepped up in key moments.
Despite the departure of former MLB All‑Star Trevor Bauer in June, the Ducks’ roster remained resilient. Bauer’s exit left a void in the pitching rotation, but the team’s depth allowed them to adapt. The Ducks’ bullpen and starting rotation, led by pitchers such as Tanner Jacobsen, stepped up to maintain the team’s competitive edge.
Playoff Journey to the Finals
In the Atlantic League’s playoff format, the Ducks faced the Hagerstown Flying Boxcars in the divisional round. The Ducks swept the Boxcars in a clean series, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive solidity. Their victory propelled them into the championship series against the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs.
The Blue Crabs, who had a strong regular season, were pushed to the brink after the Ducks took a pair of road wins in the best‑of‑five series. With the Ducks now just one win away from the title, the stakes have never been higher.
Home‑Field Advantage and Fan Support
Lew Ford expressed confidence that playing at home will provide a significant advantage. He highlighted the importance of fan support, noting that the Ducks’ supporters have been “very supportive” throughout the season. The Ducks’ former owner, Frank Boulton, who sold the team to REV Entertainment last winter, remains enthusiastic about the team’s success and has voiced his support for the championship run.
“He just loves his Ducks,” Ford said, underscoring the emotional connection that the community has with the team. The Ducks’ home stadium in Central Islip is expected to be a roaring venue as fans rally behind the team in the final series.
What’s Next for the Ducks?
The Ducks will focus on maintaining their pitching and defensive strengths as they prepare for the next games. Coach Lew Ford emphasized that the team’s pitching staff has “stepped up so much,” and that the defense will be critical in securing the title. The Ducks’ hitters are also expected to deliver in big situations, as the team’s offensive production has been a key factor in their success.
With the championship series now in motion, the Ducks’ fans and the broader Long Island community are watching closely. The outcome will not only determine the league’s champion but also cement the Ducks’ place as a powerhouse in the Atlantic League.
Key facts
- 80‑win season leads to championship berth
- Swept Blue Crabs to secure playoff spot
- Late‑season surge after Bauer’s exit
- Home advantage and fan support key
- Former owner Frank Boulton remains supportive
Why it matters
The Ducks’ championship run highlights the strength of independent baseball leagues and showcases the community’s support for local sports teams, reinforcing Long Island’s sporting culture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the current record of the Long Island Ducks?
The Ducks finished the regular season with 80 wins, the best record in the Atlantic League.
Who is the manager of the Ducks?
Lew Ford is the current manager.
Which team will the Ducks face in the championship series?
The Ducks will face the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs.
Where are the championship games being played?
The games are scheduled to be played at the Ducks’ home stadium in Central Islip.
How did Trevor Bauer’s departure affect the team?
The Ducks’ pitching staff adjusted and stepped up, maintaining strong performance throughout the season.
Sources
- [1] nypost.com — originally reported as “Long Island Ducks get quack at title as championship series heads to Central Islip”
