Tuesday, March 31, 2009

No more "Surf"ing in Atlantic City

The Atlantic City Surf have called it quits.

The Surf are one of two clubs in the independent Can-Am League discontinuing operations. The Ottawa Voyageurs are also throwing in the towel.

Miles Wolff, the league's commissioner, said a deal to sell the Surf last week fell through.

"We are tremendously disappointed that the Can-Am League will not be in Ottawa and Atlantic City in 2009," Wolff said. "These are two cities that we believe can be strong members. However, without solid ownership and the financial commitment behind these teams, it is in the best interest of the league to go with six clubs."

The Surf, who were managed in their final season by Cecil Fielder, the former Detroit Tigers and New York Yankees slugger, averaged 2,765 fans per game last season at Bernie Robbins Stadium.

Major leaguers who toilded for the Surf include Giants outfielder Marvin Benard, Phillies shortstop Kim Batiste, Blue Jays pitcher Marty Janzen, Cubs third baseman Ryan Minor and outfielder Ozzie Timmons, and Angels pitcher Ben Weber.

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