By ABC-7 Reporter Jill Galus

LAS CRUCES -- Residents won't have to drive far to catch a professional baseball game anymore. The Vaqueros will soon be in town and local baseball fans are excited to finally have a home team to root for.

Ernie Martinez, a die-hard Chicago Cubs fan originally from Chicago, said he as been waiting for a professional baseball team for many years. "This could be the prayer for us. My wife and I can go to the ball park, see a winning team and go home happy," he said.

Martinez's expectations are sky-high as his own beloved Cubs have not won a World Series title in more than 100 years. "We went to see the Diablos and they started losing so I hope the Vaqueros are the winning team."

Las Cruces city council members welcomed the Continental Baseball League's Vaqueros Monday. The team will wear powder blue jerseys and play four days a week at Apodaca Park.

The team's owner, Andrew Dunn, said his team may not have the New York Yankees' budget but is ready to be a positive influence in the community. "We just need basic community involvement and participation and we'll be fine," he said.

Dunn told ABC-7 players will be selected from the far southwest but he will give preference to local talent. "We'll do everything in our power to get as many players from Las
Cruces as possible."

Mark Johnston, and administrator for Las Cruces Parks and Recreation, said Apodaca Park will be the perfect venue for the team.  "It's gonna keep it affordable for our families, be lucrative for the city and keep costs down for the team," he said.

Affordable or not, Martinez said he will be at every game. "I'm just thrilled we're gonna have baseball."