This year the Wooden Bat League World Series was held in the Metro Phoenix area. Teams came from all over the country to compete, and compete they did. The games were held at stadiums and spring training facilities throughout Maricopa County, and the weather was just perfect. It was typical October weather in Arizona, with clear, sunny days and temps in the low 90's.
I learned about the Wooden Bat League from a family friend who was visiting from my home state of Rhode Island. Her son was pitching for the Rhode Island team, The Narragansett Brewers. The team is aptly named as it is sponsored by the Narragansett Brewery, producer of Narragansett Beer. It was my first year attending the tournament, and boy was I in for a surprise. I got to see three fantastic games in the 25+ age division.
This is amateur baseball at it's finest. The field was loaded with talent and these guys played their heart out. They don't get paid and most of them had to come out of pocket for their airfare and lodging. They're here for one reason and one reason only - their love of the game. Most or all of the guys have careers and families. After seeing some of their skills though, it was evident to me that some of them chose the wrong career! I mean, these guys are that talented!Our family friend, Bobby Barton, has been pitching since he was old enough to grip a baseball. He pitched the first and sixth game in relief, and both performances were masterful. One of the teams starters, Brian, pitched a complete game and was on point for the entire game. I decided to take a few pictures at the games, but ended up taking over 200 of them!
I thoroughly enjoyed watching the games and was pleased to see that my Narragansett Brewers made it to the finals and came within one game of winning the series. They won five in a row and played wonderfully throughout the tournament. I can't wait until next year when I'm confident they'll be back to take the series!I decided to start this site so that all of the players and their friends and family would have something to remember this fantastic experience. I know it's something I won't soon forget, and I'm just a spectator. I tried to get pictures of all of the guys, and if I missed someone then I apologize. Never fear, though, because if you are a player or family member and you have some photos you'd like to see on the site, then I can make that happen. All you have to do is send me an e-mail with your pictures included and I'll get them up on the site for you. I hope you all enjoy the site.
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