Independent Atlantic League opens tonight

The independent Atlantic League opened it's season weekend. The league doesn't get much publicity outside the northeast, but it is worth watching.

Every year, major league clubs pluck players from the Atlantic League to fill their rosters. In years past Rickey Henderson, Jose Canseco and Ruben Sierra have jumped from Atlantic League teams to the show. Former Chicago Cub Henry Rodriguez is off to a hot start for the Long Island Ducks. He may be the next to go.

I spent a day at the Atlantic League's spring training site in Lakeland, Fla. Seven teams take over the Detroit Tigers spring training site, living in on campus dorms and practicing on back fields. The Florida State League's Lakeland Tigers play on the main field.

The spring training games draw sparse crowds - mostly family and friends. It's a shame, because fans have the ability to interact with players, many of whom are former major leaguers. There were a few savvy autograph seekers wondering around, but for the most part players and coaches wandered the campus in peace. I wouldn't be surprised to see attendance at the Atlantic League's spring training increase steadily over the next few years.