PRESS RELEASE – There are some exciting changes coming to the PGCBL in 2013. The league is adding two teams that have decided to make the jump to the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League. The Utica Brewers and the Adirondack Trail Blazers, both playoff eligible clubs in the NYCBL in 2012, look to step up the level of competition next season.
“Teams from upstate New York are gravitating to the high standards set on and off the field by the PGCBL.” stated league President Jeff Kunion. “It is a natural fit for these teams to join our league. Both teams have been playing for quite some time. First in the Eastern Collegiate Baseball League, then the NYCBL. As they have improved their operations it only makes sense for these clubs to want to compete at the highest level within NY state.”
The Brewers play at a former NYPL ballpark, Donovan Stadium at Murnane Field and led the NYCBL in attendance last season. The Trail Blazers, who finished right behind Utica in attendance, play at the renovated Robert Smith Sports Complex.
The PGCBL is affiliated with Perfect Game USA, the largest independent scouting service in the country. Last season more than 85% of all
2012 MLB draft selections had either worn the uniform of a PGCBL team or were alumni of a Perfect Game USA showcase event.
Dont see how this is a win for the PGCBL. They have added two mediocre franchises in Utica and Adirondack and lost a quality franchise like Oneonta back to the NYCBL. I think you will find more teams jumping ship back to NYCBL next year.
As an upstate New Yor resident that attends quite a few summer college games, I’ve been very impressed with the PGCBL since it was started up compared to the NYCBL. The Perfect Game League is run more like a short season team and the talent has increased each season with good division 1 kids. Nice to see others getting on board.