Minor League Baseball has returned to New Jersey with opening day, and the Somerset Patriots have started a new era as the New York Yankee’s affiliate team.

“I think the boys are ready. We are ready and we couldn’t be more excited to come over here and enjoy the season,” says manager Julio Mosquera.

Minor League Baseball was canceled last season because of the pandemic. Mosquera says that it makes this opening day even sweeter. He describes his roster as “talented” and “well-balanced.”

“We have a lot of versatility. We have a lot of speed. We have a lot of power and we have some guys who can put the ball in play. So we are hoping we can continue to help them develop,” Mosquera says.

The current Patriots roster includes two of Baseball America’s Top 10 Yankees prospects, including outfielder Estevan Florial. He says players are impressed with the upgraded facilities at TD Bank Ballpark.

“I was impressed with everything. With the facility, with the locker, the field, everything is nice,” Florial says. “We are really happy to be here.”

The Patriots opened with a six-game series at home against Harrisburg.