Senator Lea Webb Honors the Binghamton Rumble Ponies with the New York State Senate Empire Award

Senator Lea Webb presented the New York State Senate's Empire Award to the Binghamton Rumble Ponies, the highest honor bestowed by the State Senate on businesses and organizations that have made significant contributions to their communities. To celebrate this prestigious recognition, Senator Webb presented the team with an official award and made a ceremonial first pitch at the Rumble Ponies game on Friday, August 23rd.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies are a Minor League Baseball team that plays in the Eastern League. They are also the Double-A affiliate of the New York Mets major-league club. Led by a roster of talented athletes and seasoned coaches, the Rumble Ponies embody the spirit of perseverance and dedication, striving for excellence - both on and off the diamond. Their legacy is etched in the archives of local baseball history, a testament to the unwavering passion and enduring support of their devoted fanbase.

"I’m delighted to present the New York State Senate Empire Award to the Binghamton Rumble Ponies,” said Senator Lea Webb. “This team represents the heart and soul of our community, not just through their performances on the field, but through their dedication to enriching the lives of Binghamton residents. The Rumble Ponies have consistently shown what it means to be a true community partner, and this award is a reflection of their outstanding contributions to our city and the lasting impact they’ve made."

“We are incredibly honored to receive the New York State Senate Empire Award from Senator Lea Webb,” said Richard Tylicki, General Manager of the Binghamton Rumble Ponies. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of our entire team, both on and off the field. The Binghamton Rumble Ponies are proud to be a part of this community, and we’re committed to continuing our tradition of providing exciting, family-friendly entertainment while making a positive impact in Binghamton and beyond.” 

“As an organization, we are truly grateful to receive the New York State Senate Empire Award from Senator Lea Webb,” said David Sobotka, President of the Binghamton Rumble Ponies.  “This award means the world to us, as it highlights the strong bond between the Rumble Ponies and the Binghamton community. Our team strives to be more than just a sports franchise; we aim to be a positive force in the lives of our fans and neighbors.” 

BACKGROUND: 

In 1976, the team now known as the Binghamton Rumble Ponies played as the Williamsport Bills in Pennsylvania. The New York Mets purchased the team in 1981, leading to its relocation to Binghamton and a name change to the B-Mets in 1992. With a commitment to staying in the Southern Tier, the franchise rebranded on November 3, 2016, and embraced a new identity as the Binghamton Rumble Ponies, which reflects the city's unique heritage and spirit.

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