The Burlington Royals are the Advanced-Rookie Appalachian League affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The minor league club plays its home games at Burlington Athletic Stadium on the border of the towns of Burlington and Graham. Known for providing a one-of-a-kind family-friendly fan experience, Burlington Athletic Stadium has housed an Appalachian League affiliate since 1986, and has been home to a Royals farm team since 2007. The Royals play a short-season schedule each summer from mid-June until the end of August. The 68-game slate (including 34 home contests) is often the first professional stop for its players, and has been the foundation of many future major leaguers' careers. When Burlington was home to an Indians affiliates, future major league stars Jim Thome, Manny Ramirez, Richie Sexson, and C.C. Sabathia all began their pro careers in Burlington.