Bridgewater, NJ- The Somerset Patriots and Manager Emeritus Sparky Lyle have announced that they will host their annual Holiday Toy Drive at TD Bank Ballpark on Saturday, December 12^th from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Fans will be able to bring new, unwrapped toys to the Somerset Patriots Team Store located at the ballpark throughout the day. The toys will be donated to The Salvation Army of New Brunswick.

“The Somerset Patriots are partnering with The Salvation Army in New Brunswick to help bring a little comfort and joy to local families. The Holiday season is a crucial time for the Salvation Army. The New Brunswick Salvation Army registered 860 local households for Thanksgiving and Christmas Assistance. That represents 1,504 Adults and 1,589 Children that hope to receive food, coats and toys. These are never before seen amounts of local people seeking help. Donations will help impact the lives of those less fortunate in our community,” said Tom Park, Fundraising Chair of Salvation Army – New Brunswick.

Lyle will be at the event to meet fans, sign autographs, and take pictures from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.

The Patriots will welcome Santa Claus, who will take pictures with children at the ballpark.

Fans will have the opportunity to take photos and get autographs from Sparkee and his pals Slider and General Admission.

“This is a special holiday event that we always look forward to each year. We have a tremendous group of fans that help us collect hundreds of toys for those less fortunate and help bring a little holiday cheer to those who need it, ” said Patrick McVerry, President/ General Manager of the Somerset Patriots Baseball Club.

On December 12^th, the Patriots will also host a Holiday Kickoff with Somerset Sluggers Kids Club Members. Somerset Sluggers will be able to participate in special holiday activities and much more at the event. There will be holiday themed snacks available for all participants.

There will be special Holiday Gift Packages available for purchase and a Ticket Voucher And Diamond Dollar Package. The Team Store will be open from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

The Somerset Patriots won their Atlantic League leading sixth championship during the 2015 season. The schedule for 2016 has been released and can be viewed at www.somersetpatriots.com. For more information about the 2016 season, stop by TD Bank Ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or visit www.somersetpatriots.com.