Ted Williams famously hit a home run in his last at-bat. In a similar moment, Frank Boulton, the owner of the Long Island Ducks, has ended his remarkable 25-year journey with the team, leaving a monumental impact on Atlantic League professional baseball.
Boulton’s dedication transformed the Ducks into a cherished team, and nearly 10 million fans flocked to the stands to support them. Growing up in Bayshore, he played varsity catcher in the late 1960s and was deeply connected to baseball from the start.
“Many have reached out to me over the years for this role,” he mentioned in conversation. “We finally found a great fit — a team that’s young, well-capitalized, and not tied up in private equity.”
As he spoke, Boulton was helping the grounds crew cover the field due to rain delays. This hands-on approach has become a hallmark of how he has built the Ducks into something special, overshadowing even their four championships since their inception in 2000.
From the festive postgame fireworks reminiscent of “The Sandlot” to the genuine engagement with baseball legends like Bud Harrelson, fans felt a real connection. Harrelson always made sure to stick around for autographs, creating lasting memories for children and parents alike.
Walking through the stands filled with excited kids — many at their very first game — and witnessing contests and sing-alongs during breaks brought an undeniable sense of joy. Leaving the stadium felt bittersweet; being part of that experience was truly special.
During the golden age of Ducks baseball, Boulton worked tirelessly to bring the team to Long Island. Before establishing the Ducks, he attempted to relocate the Double-A Albany Colony Yankees, but MLB team owners thwarted his efforts in the 1990s.
His vision was met with skepticism, but he cleverly founded the Atlantic League in 1998. When asked about people’s insinuation of his motives, he joked, “Guilty.”
Without the Ducks, my youth would have been entirely different. I got my very first taste of baseball excitement watching Rod Henderson pitch a no-hitter at just six years old, which was unforgettable.
I even got to experience the thrill of emceeing a game at age ten, singing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” alongside Quackerjack, the team’s beloved mascot. Moments like these sparked my passion for baseball and ultimately led to my journey into sports media.
My wife, a native of Westchester, now proudly owns a yellow Ducks souvenir, symbolizing her induction into the Long Island community thanks to Boulton’s efforts.
Boulton truly made the Ducks a fixture in the area, allowing them to soar higher than anyone imagined. It all stemmed from his genuine love for the community.
Though he’s been prompted to aim for major league ownership, he stayed true to his roots. “This is what I was meant to do,” he affirmed, stepping into an advisory role with pride.
Williams might have hit a memorable home run, but Frank, your legacy is what truly soars.
