Bees Name Ricker Field Manager

Bristol's Ray Ricker will pilot the Bees in New Britain's maiden voyage
in the Futures Collegiate Baseball League in 2020.

NEW BRITAIN—The New Britain Bees, who are transitioning from the Atlantic League to the Futures Collegiate Baseball League starting with the 2020 season, announced today that Ray Ricker will be the team’s field manager for the Bees debut season in the NECBL.

A Bristol resident, Ricker is currently serving as head coach at Post University in Waterbury. He has previous experience in summer collegiate baseball with both the Cape Cod League, as well as the NECBL.

During his tenure at Post, Ricker has put an emphasis on player development and mentored Post’s first-ever player selected in the MLB Draft, Mike Costello. In addition to his development program, the former catcher for University of Bridgeport and Albertus Magnus has led the Eagles to the most Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference wins in the program’s history.

“I’m excited to join the Bees and help put a top shelf product on the field,” said Ricker. “We are going to build a strong team, compete hard every game, and have a program Central Connecticut baseball fans will want to come out, support, and root for.”

“Ray brings the Bees a tremendous amount of knowledge, experience and a track record of success,” said Bees general manager Brad Smith. “He is local, has successful previous summer collegiate experience, and runs a terrific program at Post. I am excited to work with him.”

About the FCBL

The Futures Colleagiate Baseball League (FCBL) is made up of seven teams from various parts of New England, each of which plays 28 home games and 28 away games. Each franchise is made up of elite collegiate athletes competing in a minor league style format. Each franchise provides high quality, affordable entertainment, in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. At least 50% of the players on each team must be from New England or attend college in New England. For further information, visit www.thefuturesleague.com.

The Bees are Connecticut’s team in the FBCL and play their home games at New Britain Stadium. For information on tickets packages, group outings and sponsorships call 860-826-BEES (2337) or visit NBBees.com.

—Staff Reports

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