Bluefield State College and New River College of Dublin Virginia played the inaugural Wooden Bat Classic in April at the Bland County Sports Complex. It was the first time BSC players used wooden bats since 1980.
The six most regrettable decisions made by Major League Baseball
6. Too many expansion teams
5. Domed stadiums
4. Artificial playing surface
3. Designated hitters
2. Inter league play
1. Lowering the pitcher’s mound
Cincinnati Reds vs McDowell County All Stars 90 years ago
After a fourth place finish in 1924, the Cincinnati Reds traveled to Welch West Virginia to take on the McDowell County All Stars on October 8th.
The All Stars won 4 – 3.
The Reds requested another game be played on October 9th. The Reds got revenge by winning 20 – 8.
Photo: WV Archives
Could baseball be big winner with new U.S. / Cuban relations ?
It’s unclear if President Obama’s new approach to dealing with Cuba will result in loosening all travel restrictions currently in place since the early 60’s. If it does American baseball – both collegiate and professional – could be a big winner.
I say “could” because there are a few questions that remain unanswered:
First, if a Cuban prospect expresses an interest in playing for a Major League team , would that team compensate the Cuban government which essentially owns the player?
Second, how would negotiating with Cuba affect the posting system with Japan and South Korea?
One thing is clear however. No one loves the game of baseball more than the Cuban people. And it shows. Just ask the White Sox about Jose Abreu.
Bring Back Wooden Bats by Craig Hammond
A discussion concerning the return of wooden bats, especially in high school, took place Thursday December 11th during, and after, a broadcast of Radio Active on WHIS (1440 am) in Bluefield, WV.
Those participating in the conversation were myself, Russ Hatfield, Jeff Keczan, Rich Bezjak, Mike McClanahan, and Matt Deal.
Everything from a wooden bat summer league to wooden bat tournaments during the school year were considered.
Also, the creation of a political action committee (PAC) to identify wooden bat friendly legislators was reviewed.
There’s a growing concern that kids may play baseball from ages 5 to 18 without ever hearing the crack of the bat.