El Duque Hernandez Highlights Visit from Cuban National Team

On Friday, June 24, as the Cuban National Team visits Rockland for a historic three game series, the Boulders will also welcome former Cuban National star, and New York Yankees pitcher, Orlando “El Duque” Hernandez to Palisades Credit Union Park. A fan-favorite, “El Duque” will throw out the first pitch prior to the 7 p.m. contest and fans can purchase a specialty ticket pack which will include a special meet & greet with the four-time World Series champion.

A nine-year Major League veteran, Hernandez debuted for the Yankees in 1998 and was a part of three straight World Series Championship teams. The righty finished fourth in the Rookie of the Year voting and was named Most Valuable Player of the 1999 American League Championship Series. He also went on to pitch for the Chicago White Sox, Arizona Diamondbacks, and New York Mets, winning a fourth title in 2005 with the White Sox.

“I am very excited to be a part of this historic weekend of baseball,” said Hernandez. “An opportunity to showcase the talent of Cuban baseball players to the fans in the Lower Hudson Valley and Northern New Jersey, as well as a chance to return to a region where I was fortunate enough to win three World Series titles is something I’m looking forward to very much.”

Rockland opens up the 2016 season with their fourth annual exhibition game against the NYPD’s Finest. The contest is free for all fans, but tickets are required, and begins at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 14 with a Fireworks Extravaganza to follow.

The Boulders begin their quest for a third straight pennant on Thursday, May 19 when they host the Sussex County Miners for a 7:00 pm first pitch. It’s the first $1 Beers night of the year, presented by Budweiser, with the first 1,000 fans in attendance receiving a 2016 Magnet Schedule. After the game, stick around for a Fireworks Extravaganza to celebrate the new season!