Brooklyn Cyclones season promises to be a fun one

Coney Island, it’s time to play ball!

Although the Mets and Yankees started their respective seasons in April, opening day for the other New York baseball team, the Brooklyn Cyclones of the Short-Season A New York Penn League, is right around the corner with the home opener on Friday, June 7.

Celebrating the franchise’s 15^th season in Brooklyn, the Cyclones remain a popular Coney Island draw. From the cheap tickets, to the plethora of promotions and theme nights, as well as the opportunity to get a glimpse of young, promising talent, the Mets affiliate gives fans a reason to keep returning to MCU Park.

On the roster front, it’s too early to tell which players will fill out the team, but fans have typically been treated to the team’s youngest and more promising players that you may see play in Citi Field sooner rather than later. Current Mets that got their start in Brooklyn include star in the making, outfielder Michael Conforto, catcher Kevin Plawecki, Gold Glove recipient outfielder Juan Lagares, starting first-baseman Lucas Duda, infielder Wilmer Flores, and more.

Some of the team’s highest prospects started with the Cyclones. The team’s third highest rated prospect, shortstop Amed Rosario, played for Brooklyn just a couple of seasons ago.

On the coaching front, enthusiastic manager Tom Gamboa returns for his third straight season. Joining him is Mets Hall of Famer, infielder Edgardo Alfonzo, a former all-star who help lead the team to the World Series in 2000. The team loves to bring former players to coach the youngsters, and very few players are more loved than Fonzie.

Although minor league teams are well known for their series of promotions to get fans in the park, the Cyclones do it as well, if not better, than any team. The team won an award for its famous Seinfeld Night in 2014, which has become a tradition since. On Saturday, July 2, Salute to Seinfeld Night III will take place. Fans will receive a Second Spitter Bobblehead (diehards will know about that). There will be tons of themes and surprises during the game commemorating what many believe to be the greatest sitcom of all-time.

The Cyclones will also host the team’s first Full House Night on Saturday, July 9. Fans will receive an Uncle Jessie aka John Stamos bobblehead. The event will also include a Danny Tanner clean-off, an Uncle Jesse air guitar contest, a no-hands cereal eating competition and more.

Catcher Mike Piazza will be the first position player in New York Mets history to be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame and the team is holding a special day of events to honor the greatest home-run-hitting catcher’s accomplishment. On Sunday, July 24, the Cyclones will host a Hall of Fame Day. Gates will open at 1:30 p.m. and fans will be able to watch the ceremony on the field’s screen.

In addition, there are incredible giveaways, such as  Edgardo Alfonzo, Michael Conforto, Wilmer Flores “Tears to Cheers” and Joe Torre bobbleheads, various themed jerseys, and more. Don’t forget that after every Friday game there are fireworks.

For more information, visit www.brooklyncyclones.com.