Amateur baseball, or Town Ball, has thrived in Minnesota for more than 100 years. There are more than 300 teams in Minnesota, more than any other state in the country. Background and perspective provided by Bud Grant, Patrick Reusse and Mike Max.
With more than 300 teams, amateur baseball in Minnesota is thriving. Just who are these young men and not so young men who spend their summers playing Town Ball? They range in age from teenagers to fathers in their 50s. Guest appearance from John Anderson, University of Minnesota baseball coach.
Minnesota is known for some of the most beautiful amateur baseball parks in the country. We highlighting Town Ball parks across the state; the pride of local communities. Featuring Dave Hartmann, author of "Town Ball Parks of Minnesota".
Amateur baseball in Minnesota has produced many players who went on to play professionally. Profiling those who made it (and some who didn't), the journey of Town Ballers/Major Leaguers like Terry Steinbach, Dana Kiecker, Jim Eisenreich and Chris Coste are amazing.
As amateur baseball continues to thrive in Minnesota, the sport relies on communities and individuals who work behind the scenes to support Town Ball. These supporters include groundskeepers, umpires, stadium personnel and the players themselves.
The goal of every amateur baseball team in Minnesota is to qualify for the state tournament. Held every September since the 1920s, the tournament has a rich tradition. Attendance and individual records seem to fall every year.
Amateur baseball in Minnesota has many prominent families. Some can boast of three generations playing on the same team. The generations also come together in old timers games, such as the one in Fairfax with an ex major league pitcher.
What is the future of amateur baseball, or Town Ball, in Minnesota? As rural communities decline in size and with so many distractions for today's youth, what steps are being taken to ensure this Minnesota tradition endures?