Sunburns and Cyclones 

The other day, my sister and I ventured out to the iconic Coney Island. I’ve mentioned it before, but I am not a native New Yorker, and after seven years here, I still don’t think I deserve the title. While I’m not as jaded as all you readers, I’m getting there. In my head, Coney Island is this kitschy, exotic, unique place with over 140 years of history. However, I’ve come to terms with the fact that it’s not the fabulous place depicted on TV or in movies. It is, in fact, quite the opposite.

Anyway, my sister is visiting, and we were looking for things to do. A Brooklyn Cyclones game for Rockaway Night sounded like a perfect plan: a fun day of people watching, beer and hot dogs, and a little minor league baseball. It also happened to be the day that NYC broke its 125-year heat record, so Coney Island was packed! I won’t go into detail about the sights on the boardwalk, but I’m sure you could use your imagination.

I do, however, want to discuss the Cyclones … this is a sports column after all. I want to preface by saying that I have never been to any other minor league baseball games besides the Cyclones.

The Brooklyn Cyclones are the High-A affiliate of the Mets. I went down a rabbit hole that I found interesting and wanted to share with the girlies. Maybe you can throw around this knowledge and surprise some people. The minor league system is massive. There is rookie level, then Single-A, High-A, Double-A, and Triple-A is the highest level of minor league baseball. I always knew that baseball was a huge sport. I guess I never realized just how many different levels and teams there truly are.

Let’s discuss the venue: I love Maimonides Park. I think they did a fantastic job with it! There are plenty of food stands, bar carts, ice cream vendors — you name it! The staff are just lovely! I mean, where else are people wiping down your seats before you sit down? There isn’t a bad seat in the house. You get an up-close view no matter where you are. Plus, the views of the rides, boardwalk, and ocean really are something special.

The entertainment is top-notch. Do you guys know King Henry? He is the on-field emcee for the Brooklyn Cyclones, and let me tell you, that guy is pure entertainment. He has this raspy, loud, infomercial voice that gets the people going. King Henry hosted various games and raffles throughout the game, and it was often more fun to watch than the baseball itself!

As I mentioned, the Brooklyn Cyclones are the High-A affiliate of the Mets. Now, I am from a big sports town, where most kids play sports from an early age, with a high number going on to play at major universities. As I’ve said in past articles, I was not a “sporty spice,” but because I am used to seeing players like Cody Bellinger and boys from my hometown making the Little League World Series, I think I am just accustomed to a different level. I know that sounds snooty, but it’s true! And again, I am not a talented athlete myself, and I have no personal connection to them! But my sister and I were watching these minor league baseball players play and … yikes. It really just wasn’t always pretty. I gotta be honest with you guys!

Overall, the whole day was an absolutely great experience. We enjoyed lots of food and drinks, loved King Henry, and even though it wasn’t always impeccable, watched a little of the minor league baseball too. The best part of it all? We were even able to get a tan.

So, last week I told you to go bowling with your kids this summer, and now I am telling you to take them to a Cyclones game. It’s a 10/10 experience.

Eleven weeks until football season, folks, stick with me.