The Long Island Ducks welcomed fans back to Fairfield Properties Ballpark this past week for their annual Fan Fest, creating an exciting afternoon filled with baseball, family fun, and the first glimpse of the 2026 season.
Fans received free admission and enjoyed a variety of activities while watching the Ducks take on the California Dogecoin in a spring training matchup. Before the game, the 2026 Ducks roster was introduced along the first base line, giving supporters a chance to meet the new-look team.
Pregame festivities also included a team autograph session in the Picnic Area, where players spent time signing memorabilia and meeting fans. The Ducks’ Opening Night starting pitcher also greeted fans and signed autographs for 90 minutes during the event. Younger fans had plenty to enjoy as well, including inflatables in the Ducks Fun Zone, video games from Party Mags, and face painting provided by Dina’s Dynamics.
Prior to Fan Fest, the Ducks also held their annual Media Day. Local media members had the opportunity to hear from members of the organization ahead of the new season. Taking part in the press conference were Team President and Chief Business Officer Michael Pfaff, General Manager Sean Smith, Field Manager Lew Ford, and pitcher Trevor Bauer.
Once the game began, Long Island put on an offensive show in a 13-2 victory over the California Dogecoin in its final spring training contest of the year. Juan Yepez got things started with a three-run home run to left field, while Aaron Takacs added an RBI single in the first inning for an early 4-0 lead.
Wilmer Difo later launched a solo homer in the third inning, and Yepez added a sacrifice fly in the fifth to extend the advantage. After California scored twice in the sixth, the Ducks quickly responded with three more runs, highlighted by Austin Dennis’ two-run single and Henry Kusiak’s RBI double. Marcus Chiu then capped the scoring with a two-run homer in the seventh.
On the mound, Ducks starter Nolan Clenney was sharp, tossing three scoreless innings. He allowed just one infield single and one walk while striking out six batters. Kristian Scott, Buddy Reed, and Ramon Santos each added a scoreless inning in relief.
With Fan Fest complete and a convincing win in hand, the Ducks now turn their attention to Opening Night and the start of another exciting season.