From the Bisons in Buffalo to the Mets in Syracuse, from the Red Wings in Rochester to the Rumble Ponies in Binghamton, minor league baseball has long played a major role across upstate New York.

In Binghamton, AA baseball dates back to 1885, when the Bingoes first took to the diamond. Nearly 140 years later, the Rumble Ponies continue to bring minor league baseball to the city as a New York Mets affiliate.

As New Yorkers celebrate opening day, Spectrum News 1 examined one of the longest pro-to-minor league partnerships in AA baseball. 

Minor league baseball has taken on many iterations in the area since the 1880s: the Bingos, the Triplets, the Mets and now the Rumble Ponies. As the minor league affiliate of the New York Mets since 1992, the Ponies continue that tradition for another year.

"I think baseball is part of the DNA here, and we're happy to be continuing that," said David Sobotka, owner of the Rumble Ponies.

Baseball has seemingly been the one constant the Southern Tier community can count on. And that’s set to continue.

The new ownership group and the city of Binghamton recently secured a 23-year lease for the ballpark, which in turn, provides millions in upgrades. This year, that meant installing a new drainage system, including storage tanks under the parking lot, to help with heavy rain.

"I think this is going to result in less postponement of games, safer player additions for the players and just a better overall field to enjoy for the fans and the players," said Sobotka.

Improvements will also include new scoreboards and food options.

Overall, the changes have led to an increase in attendance. Last year, ticket sales were up 52% from the previous year in Binghamton, as minor league baseball across the nation also saw a boost in attendance.

"I think we're building accessibility to the stadium, making all parts of the community feel welcome here. The dynamics have really improved a lot more energy, a lot more fan involvement. You could just feel it's a lot more electric in the stadium," said Sobotka.

Minor league baseball remains a pivotal stop along the road to the show, and it’s something fans of all ages can enjoy.

"It's a place to meet your neighbors, to make new friends, to go out with colleagues and just kick back and enjoy. And there's so few places that we can do that," said Sobotka.

Opening Day for the Rumble Ponies is April 5.