Chatham-Kent’s Intercounty Baseball League team will make its grand return to the ball diamond this weekend.
The Chatham-Kent Barnstormers are set to hold their home opener Saturday night against the visiting Kitchener Panthers.
Co-owner Dom Dinelle said there will be lots for hometown fans to look forward to, including music and entertainment.
“Opening day is always a great time in any sport, especially in baseball, and especially here in Chatham. Last year was wonderful,” he said.
Several upgrades have been made to Fergie Jenkins Field during the off-season, including the installation of a new, permanent fence around the ballpark. A cement pad has been laid ahead of the addition of more bleachers, which are expected to be in place by early June.
The team’s inaugural season in 2024 saw 1,679 fans attend the home opener at Fergie Jenkins Field. Dinelle said a big crowd is expected again this year.
“CK is a big baseball community but it’s not everybody that likes [it], but it’s everybody that likes to have fun and be with their friends and family,” he said. “That’s what we try to do with these games is to bring the community together and have fun.”
Gates at Fergie Jenkins Field open at 5 p.m. on May 17 and first pitch is set for just after 7 p.m.
