Opening days announced for New Jersey minor league baseball

Now that spring is in full swing, it's time to start thinking warm thoughts. Yes, we love all kinds of sports in New Jersey, but there's nothing that screams spring more than baseball.

Now that the 2024 Major League Baseball season is officially underway, baseball fans everywhere are getting excited. And honestly, who can blame them? After all, baseball is America's pastime.

Outside the major leagues, New Jersey is home to three minor league teams, with each one bringing their own unique brand of excitement to the field.

The minor leagues, of course, are a bit different with their seasons when compared to the major leagues. Especially here in the Garden State.

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Not just brand, but their own twist as to what makes them authentically Jersey.

Ranging from location to mascots, and even alternate identities, it just couldn't be any other way. This is New Jersey after all, so why not be loud and proud about it?

Here's a look at opening day for all three Garden State minor league ballparks, along with any additional festivities to help kick off the season. These are the first home games in 2024 throughout The Garden State.

Somerset Patriots

Or the Jersey Diners, depending on which name you want to go by. Jersey Diners was announced earlier in 2024 as the Somerset Patriots' alternate identity beginning this season.

Opening day for the Somerset Patriots aka Jersey Diners at home is happening Friday, April 5 at TD Bank Ball Park. They will be facing off against the Richmond Flying Squirrels.

First pitch will be at 6:35 P.M. along with fireworks. And let's be real, there's no better way to kick off the season without fireworks.

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Jersey Shore BlueClaws

The next minor league team is just as Jersey as the first. In fact, they're so Jersey, that their games regularly consist of a running pork roll, egg, and cheese.

The Jersey Shore BlueClaws are returning to the field with their home opener against the Aberdeen IronBirds. First pitch will be at 6:35 P.M. on Friday, April 5.

After the game, enjoy an evening of fireworks to celebrate the start of minor league baseball season for the Jersey Shore BlueClaws at First Energy Park.

Rich Schultz, Getty Images

Trenton Thunder

Now to our friends by the state capital along the Delaware River. The Trenton Thunder are preparing for their first home game at Trenton Thunder Ballpark for the 2024 baseball season.

According to their website, the Trenton Thunder will be kicking off their season later than New Jersey's other minor league teams. Their first game for the 2024 season is scheduled for Tuesday, June 4.

They'll be visited by the State College Spikes from University Park, PA, with the first pitch being thrown at 7 P.M.

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