The team is hosting its annual open tryout this Saturday, April 4, giving athletes the opportunity to showcase their skills in front of coaches and compete for a spot on the 26-man roster. “It’s a way to start the summer and come out, and also have a chance,” said Ducks field manager Lew Ford. Players will be put through a fast-paced evaluation process, including the 60-yard dash, fielding drills, and batting practice, all packed into just a few hours. “There’s a lot of interest this year,” Ford said. “In fact, every year it’s been getting bigger and bigger.” The tryouts have a track record of finding local talent, something the Ducks take pride in. One success story is pitcher Chad Pike, a Southampton native who grew up attending games and is now living out his childhood dream on the mound. “I actually have pictures of me at Ducks games when I was 6 years old,” Pike said. “You have a whole community behind you, I think it’s super cool that we have that here.” His advice for those stepping onto the field this weekend: give it everything you’ve got. “If those guys show and work super hard, I think they have a great chance,” Pike said. For the open player registration form, click here.