Another Year Without Spire City Ghost Hounds

For the last two seasons, the Spire City Ghost Hounds did not partake in the independent Atlantic League of Professional Baseball as a result of the odd number of teams. Both the club and the league agreed on a hiatus of the team for the 2024 and 2025 season until the league would expand.

The expectations were that the expansion would come in 2026 but once again this will not be the case. As a result, the Ghost Hounds will be a dormant club for he next year as well.

On its website the club posted the following message:
“After careful consideration and discussions with the Atlantic League (ALPB), the Spire City Ghost Hounds will be extending its hiatus through the 2026 season. This decision is a result of a request from the league, which requires an even number of teams for scheduling purposes. With ten active ALPB teams for the 2026 season, the Ghost Hounds will return to action in alignment with the planned league expansion to twelve teams. Please know that this is a temporary pause, and we look forward to returning in the future with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

Thank you for being a vital part of our journey—we are committed to keeping you updated on our plans and progress as we move forward.”

With the Frederick Keys moving up from the MLB Draft League to the full season Class A Advanced, as it will replace the Aberdeen Ironbirds, it remains to be seen if the Ghost Hounds can take the field at Nymeo Field at Harry Grove Stadium. With two teams playing a full season, you can bet that the turf will be damaged. A solution would be artificial turf, and you may wonder if the city of Frederick is willing to pay for that.