The crack of a bat, fans cheering in the stands, an umpire’s sharp “strike three” call. Those are the sounds of baseball which are finally back at Hinchliffe Stadium.

For the first time in nearly three decades, baseball returned to the once-dilapidated ballpark in the heart of Paterson this week.

Built in 1932, Hinchliffe Stadium was a stanchion for the growth of Negro League baseball in the 1930’s and 1940’s. Over 20 professional baseball hall of fame players touched the field at one time or another.

But after falling into disrepair in the late 1990’s, Hinchliffe needed a $105 million renovation to come back to life.

Paterson Eastside players and coaches were given the opportunity to return to their old home for the first time on Wednesday. The Ghosts faced Don Bosco Prep for the first game at Hinchliffe in 26 years.

JSZ’s Jay Cook gives an All-Access look at the revival, and return, of baseball to Hinchliffe Stadium: