This Day in History: Minor league baseball returns to Burlington

BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - Minor league baseball officially returned to Burlington on this day in history.

On June 16, 1994, the Vermont Expos played their first game at historic Centennial Field, bringing professional baseball back to the Queen City after a 6-year absence.

The return of the game was driven by Burlington businessman Ray Pecor, who was determined to land a new team for the city after the Vermont Mariners left town in 1988.

With a fan-friendly focus, affordable family fun and a new mascot-- Champ-- the Vermont Expos quickly became a hit with local baseball fans and summer crowds at Centennial Field.