TD Bank Ballpark - Somerset Patriots

Photos by Andrew Kulyk and Matthew Collins, Stadium Journey

Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57

TD Bank Ballpark 1 Patriots Park Bridgewater, NJ 08807

Somerset Patriots website TD Bank Ballpark website

Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 6,100

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Patriots Games

The Somerset Patriots are the AA affiliate of the New York Yankees, a connection that was first made in 2021 when the franchise, and the stadium, was awarded a berth in affiliated minor league baseball. Previously, the venue hosted an independent league baseball team, which also had deep connections to the Yankees, thanks to their manager, and former Yankee Sparky Lyle, who served here for well over a decade. With just 53 miles separating Somerset to the Bronx and Yankee Stadium, Somerset, New Jersey could certainly be considered a suburban “bedroom community” to the metro New York area.

Food and Beverage 3

Somerset hangs their hat on local favorites, and the Jersey Burger, which is a classic burger topped with pork roll, bacon and cheese, tops the list of must haves when visiting here. Tacos are available at Mozzarella Cucina, and there is even an in house bakery named Two Fields bake shop, offering cookies and brownies, as well as gluten free options. Prima PIzza is a popular chain in nearby Somerville, and their pizza is sold here as well. They offer a variety of soda products as well as domestic and craft beers.

Atmosphere 3

The stadium is built in the design of the “jelly green seats red brick facade” temp[late of the 90s, and there are no outfield or lawn seats available, and really only one deck of seating, with the second level reserved for suite seating only. One can view the action from the concourse which rings the top of the seating bowl.

Probably the most notable throwback element to this stadium is their mascot, Sparkee, kind of a mutt which bears a strong resemblance to the aforementioned Sparky Lyle, right down to the handlebar mustache. 

Neighborhood 3

This isn’t your downtown ballpark, or neighborhood ballpark, or suburban stadium in the middle of nowhere. TD Ballpark sits directly across the street from a major commercial district called Bridgewater Promenade, and that’s where you will find several big box stores and oceans of parking. Several miles away is downtown Somerville, amore trendy and walkable direct with bars, shops and new residential neighborhoods. 

Fans 5

Thanks to their strong relationship with the parent New York Yankees, the Patriots are a big draw and consistently post attendances over 5300 a game. In June of 2024 they packed this venue to the seams when pitcher Gerrit Cole made a rehab appearance with the Patriots. Because of their popular appeal and posting strong attendance numbers during their independent league days, Minor League Baseball awarded this city a AA team in 2021, and their connection to the New York Yankees further enhances that appeal.

Access 5

Getting to this ballpark, and in and out quickly, is ridiculously easy, as I-287 and multiple exits gets you to the front door of this stadium without blinking an eye. A local commuter rail line, NJ Transit, has a station directly behind centerfield, so close one can hear the train horn blow right in the stands as a train pulls into the station. That line can take you right to New York City and points in between. There are parking lots on either side of the stadium.

Return on Investment 4

Day of game ticket prices span from $16.50 to $20,50, although advance purchase tickets run somewhat cheaper, and they also offer a $2 discount to anyone with a military ID. Parking on stadium grounds will set you back $5, but truth be told, there is so much paring at the plazas across the street, with just a few extra steps, it is probably worth it to just snag a free space obverse there. NJ Transit fares are based on distance traveled. A ride from Manhattan and back will set you back $29,50.

Concession prices are somewhat on the high side. One can bring in a sealed water water bottle but no outside food is permitted.

Extras 2

The two points are awarded for the strong presence of Sparky Lyle, who is revered at this ballpark and this city. A statue of Lyle is on the outside main plaza of the stadium.

Final thoughts

The Eastern League pulled a bold move siting a franchise in this city. Steeped in baseball history, a track record of success hosting independent baseball, and a strong marketing connection with the New York Yankees. It all comes together with a comfortable, if not extraordinary, baseball experience here in Somerset.