October 2, 2021, Central Islip, N.Y. – Long Island Ducks outfielder/hitting coach Lew Ford broke the franchise’s all-time hits record on Saturday night during the Ducks game against the Lancaster Barnstormers at Fairfield Properties Ballpark.
Ford, who has spent 11 seasons with the Ducks (2009, 2011-present) lined a single to left field in the top of the first inning on a 2-1 pitch from Barnstormers starter Nile Ball. The hit was the 964th of his Ducks career, moving him into sole possession of first place on the team’s all-time hits list. Ray Navarrete (2006-13) previously held the franchise record of 963 hits and became the Ducks all-time hits leader in 2011.
To celebrate Ford’s accomplishment, the Ducks have announced the team will host Lew Ford Appreciation Night on Saturday, October 9, when the Ducks face the York Revolution at 6:35 p.m. Prior to the game, Ford will be recognized during a special on-field ceremony for breaking the all-time hits record and for his many accomplishments in a Ducks uniform. Also that evening, Tyler’s Amazing Balancing Act will be performing at the ballpark.