The city of Hampton is getting a baseball team again. After taking a one season hiatus, the Hampton Graybacks have returned to Franchise Ball, joining the now-complete Ocean Star East division along with the Baltimore Orioles, Louisville Lions, Miami crazybear, Denver Raptors, and Toledo Yellow Jackets.
Before taking the season off, the Hampton Graybacks had considerable success. In thirteen seasons, they won five division titles, including four consecutive to begin the franchise. Although the early years of their franchise looked promising, the team began to spiral back towards mediocrity in the following seasons, which may have led to their eventual departure.
In total, the former Hampton Graybacks had a 410-370 record but had marginally fewer runs scored per game versus runs allowed, 4.980 compared to 4.991.
Though Hampton hasn’t been without baseball for long, the city is undoubtedly very excited about the Graybacks’ return. The Graybacks hope to have more long-term success this time around in a new division that also added the Baltimore Orioles this offseason. The team’s offense will be led by 27 year old left fielder Taylor Bird, who has three years of major league experience with a .286 average and 21 home runs. The new Graybacks have a very solid rotation of pitchers, featuring three exciting rookies and two veterans with successful careers already. The Graybacks will definitely be a team to watch in the coming seasons.