Before the game players and team officials hosted a baseball clinic for area youth and the John O’Sullivan League. There was also music and activities for children and families, including music from the Frank Manzi Band. Players also hosted a meet and greet with autographs before first pitch.
Mayor Sarno stated, “It was a great time having our Nations pastime, Baseball, back at our beloved and historic Forest Park. I want to thank MGM Springfield President and COO Chris Kelley and the MGM Springfield team for sponsoring this wonderful community event. Special thanks to Westfield Starfires owner Chris Thompson and his team for holding their summer classic game at our iconic Walker Memorial Grandstand here in Forest Park. This family-friendly game kicked off with a variety of pre-game events for kids and families of all ages, including a clinic hosted by the players. Music from the Frank Manzi Band and a special meet and greet with the players wrapped up the pre-game events, before the honorary first pitch where Mayor Michael McCabe took the mound and I got behind home plate where he threw a change up. As a former catcher myself who once wore the ‘tools of ignorance’ I really enjoyed this experience and watching these tremendous collegiate athletes compete and play some world-class baseball. ‘Play Ball’!”
The Starfires won 11-7.
