A new independent baseball team prepares for its first pitch

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The Lake Country Dockhounds are set for the opening pitch of their inaugural season in mid-May 2022.

The team is officially a part of the American Association of Professional Baseball League, which has no affiliation with Major League Baseball. The Association includes 12 teams reaching from Winnipeg to Texas, with two teams located in Wisconsin.

The acquisition of another team within the dairy state creates an immediate rivalry between Lake Country (located In Oconomowoc) and Milwaukee (located in Franklin) home of the Milwaukee Milkmen. The battle of I-94 posts an interesting dynamic to independent baseball fans across Wisconsin.

New Dockhound fans can also see their team play in a brand-new ballpark opening this month. The official name of the stadium being named “Wisconsin Brewing Co. Park” keeps the local beer in-state with being located conveniently between Madison and Milwaukee just off Interstate 94 in Oconomowoc. Some fans are excited to have something so unique to their neck of the woods. Brody Joseph works in the area, and he has a good feeling about the new digs.

“This is going to be something good for the community.” Joseph said. “Small-town baseball is something that can bring a city together. The new ballpark looks nice and state-of-the-art. Can’t wait to get out there for a game.”

One thing that independent baseball leagues such as the American Association look for is consistency. Major League Baseball contracted the minor leagues two years ago, cutting 120 affiliated teams. With seven major independent leagues, many of those players may find new opportunities. One of those teams, the Kane County Cougars, moved from the Single-A Midwest League to the American Association.

The American Association of Professional Baseball has been in operation since 2005, but has struggled for stability.

Wisconsin Brewing Co. Park offers a family-style ballpark experience with activities for the kids as well as specialty craft beverages and events for adults. Since the team’s inception, there has been a main focal point to provide everyone with a good time at an affordable price. The 2,500-capacity ballpark will also include an indoor sports training facility along with the stadium’s opening in the spring of 2022. For more information about the American Association or the Lake Country Dockhounds, visit https://aabaseball.com.