Sports in Brooklyn
Brooklyn is now home to several professional sports teams, including The Islanders, a National Hockey League team, and the Nets, an NBA team. Both teams play at the iconic Barclays Center. However, the borough lacks a Major League Baseball team, which leads residents to choose between the Yankees and the Mets for baseball loyalty. Nevertheless, Brooklyn boasts its own Minor League team, the Brooklyn Cyclones, which plays at MCU Park. The excitement surrounding the Cyclones is infectious, especially during summer games that include thrilling fireworks displays, themed nights, and the community’s beloved annual race where fans can run the bases at MCU field.
While Brooklyn’s sports scene continues to evolve, fragments of the borough’s storied baseball history remain. The legacy of the Brooklyn Dodgers, an integral part of baseball lore, still resonates among fans today.
For those interested in a DIY tour of historical baseball sites in Brooklyn, a visit to Jackie Robinson’s former residence on Tilden Avenue is a must. Robinson famously broke racial barriers by becoming the first African-American player in Major League Baseball. Although you cannot enter the house, a plaque commemorates his time there, symbolizing the impact of this baseball legend. Unfortunately, the field where he played has long been demolished.
Important Locations
Ebbets Field, a landmark in Brooklyn’s baseball history, was constructed in 1913 at 1720 Bedford Avenue. It was situated at the junction of Bedford Avenue, Sullivan Place, McKeever Place, and Montgomery Street. While some argue it is located in Flatbush, others claim it lies in Crown Heights; this confusion arises from the varying names associated with the area over the years.
While the stadium itself has been demolished, a plaque can be found on the wall of the apartment complex that now occupies the spot. Before the Dodgers claimed Ebbets Field as their home, they were known as the Brooklyn Superbas and played at the Old Stone House in Park Slope. A visit to the Old Stone House will give visitors a glimpse of the original clubhouse for the Brooklyn Superbas/Dodgers.
For those keen on delving deeper into Brooklyn’s baseball history, seeking out local independent bookstores to find Bums: An Oral History of the Brooklyn Dodgers by Peter Golenbock or The Greatest Ballpark Ever: Ebbets Field and the Story of the Brooklyn Dodgers by Bob McGee is highly recommended.
Finally, if you wish to explore Brooklyn’s baseball heritage further, consider participating in a Jackie Robinson-themed walking tour. Such tours offer a fascinating insight into the life of Jackie Robinson and the historical significance of the Brooklyn Dodgers.
Enjoy your exploration of Brooklyn’s vibrant baseball culture and don’t miss the opportunity to catch a Cyclones game!
