Photo by Hudson Valley Renegades
The New York Yankees team up with Dutchess Stadium to farm talented minor league players from the Hudson Valley and offer a site for local rehab.
The next Derek Jeter or Aaron Judge might have an 845 area code.
On November 9, 2020, the New York Yankees announced major revisions to their affiliates. How — and where — the Bronx Bombers “farm” new players from the Minor Leagues has changed.
Members of the Hudson Valley Renegades will soon have the opportunity to move out of “the Dutch” and into “the house that Ruth built.” As a part of an MLB-wide change, teams have opted to reduce their minor league programs. The Yankees announced partnerships with six teams (down from ten), including our own Dutchess County ballplayers.
“Restructuring our minor league affiliates — especially with the additions of Somerset and Hudson Valley — gives us greater continuity to streamline and improve the development of our minor league system,” stated Brian Cashman, Senior Vice President and General Manager to the Yankees, in a press release.
The Yanks grant an incredible opportunity for Hudson Valley players and fans alike. Patrons of Dutchess Stadium in Wappingers Falls can eagerly watch the field, looking to spot the next big Major League talent. Plus, the Dutch will host Yankee players on rehab assignments — offering a taste of superstar talent to local baseball aficionados.
— HV Renegades (@HVRenegades) February 18, 2021
2021 will also present fans with the first full-season for the ‘Gades in a while — they’ve been in the Class A Short Season since 1994. Their long-time professional affiliate was the Tampa Bay Rays, who elected to utilize the Hudson Valley team outside of High Class A.
Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro emphasized his excitement on the move in a recent press release.
“The next generation of Yankee stars — ballplayers who will look to etch their names in Yankees history alongside legends like Ruth, DiMaggio, Mantle, and Jeter — will take the field as professionals right here in Dutchess County,” Molinaro enthuses.
For our new fans…. The Dutch! pic.twitter.com/lZ0afIXbtN
— HV Renegades (@HVRenegades) November 8, 2020
Located just a few MTA stops away from the Bronx, Dtuchess Stadium gets to foster a renewed connection between our region and one of the most recognizable names in all of professional sports. With more World Series wins than any other team in baseball, the Yankees may be the best chance for our local players to take home a championship ring.
Plus, we think Rookie the Racoon would look pretty sharp in fresh pinstripes.
