Ducks posthumously honor co-owner during Opening Day

The Long Island Ducks brought out hundreds to the Fairfield Properties Ballpark Thursday night for their season opener as they honored their late cofounder.

Bud Harrelson and Frank Boulton brought the Ducks to Long Island in 2000. Harrelson died in January after battling Alzheimer’s.

The team will wear patches with the number 3, Harrelson’s jersey number, throughout this season. Harrelson’s grandchildren also threw the opening pitch.

Harrelson’s former wife, Kim Battaglia, said the bittersweet honor is a reminder of the lasting impression Harrelson had on the team, and most importantly, the fans.

"You were the best part of this endeavor for Bud. If it wasn't for fans filling the seats, there'd be no reason to play baseball here. And for him, that meant, that meant everything,” she said.

The Ducks faced the Lancaster Stormers.