Arlington Babe Ruth turns 40 this year, and there is an event scheduled to celebrate the anniversary of the junior-age baseball league for players ages 4 to 12.
The event — to be held Saturday, May 3 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Barcroft Park — also will serve as the league’s opening ceremony.
There will be a parade of teams, carnival games with prizes won, a memorabilia tent and some special guests including “legacy families.” Dignitaries and food trucks will be present.
Former league president J.P. Cooney is once such legacy person, and will be on hand. He played in the league, then years later coached his son on an Arlington Babe Ruth team.
In addition, there will be a free Major League Baseball Pitch Hit & Run competition for players up to age 14.
The event is an opportunity for players to showcase their baseball skills while earning a chance to attend and perform during the Major League World Series.
“We are looking forward to a fun and exciting event,” longtime league volunteer Beth Jones told ARLnow.
Arlington Babe Ruth began in 1985, with Earle Thorsen as president. The post currently is held by Brett Mikoy.
In recent years, Arlington Babe Ruth postseason all-star teams of all ages have enjoyed significant success, winning many district and state tournaments, then finishing high in region competitions. Two teams have advanced as far as the Babe Ruth World Series.
Arlington Babe Ruth has grown to more than 1,600 players registered for play during spring, summer and fall-ball programs.
There also is an older-age Arlington Senior Babe Ruth league for players ages 13 to 18 in Arlington. It was founded in 1997.
