by Australian Baseball Federation
SYDNEY – Construction wasn’t the only thing breaking ground at the Sydney Cricket Ground last Wednesday.
The historic grounds were host to the Sydney Blue Sox Official Season Launch Party, where many gathered to usher in a new season of “True Blue Baseball” and also a new era of the sport in New South Wales.
Modifications continue to be made to the SCG as the 2014 Opening Series between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Los Angeles Dodgers approaches. The ties between Major League Baseball and the ABL continue to strengthen as the reputation of Australian baseball continues to spread.
“Where we are standing right now is a testament to where baseball is going in this country,” said New South Wales Treasurer Michael Baird.
“This is about grassroots making it big time.”
International players have been coming to the Australian Baseball League in their offseason to develop their game while competing at the highest level of baseball the country has to offer. The 2014 Opening Series will mark the centennial of the 1913 MLB world tour, when the Chicago White Sox and New York Giants came to town.
MLB was represented Wednesday by Arizona Diamondbacks first baseman Paul Goldschmidt and CEO/President Derrick Hall. Also in attendance were representatives from the ABL, New South Wales Board members, Premier Barry O’Farrell, Treasurer Michael Baird, and Minister of Sport Gabrielle Upton .
Hall presented signed memorabilia from Chase Field, home of the Diamondbacks, to both Premier O’Farrell and SCG representatives, including a signed third base bag. Blue Sox outfielder and Diamondbacks prospect Keon Broxton was also presented with his home Blue Sox jersey for the 2013/14 ABL season. Broxton and the Blue Sox will host their first home series of the season this weekend at Blacktown International Sportspark.
Two junior teams also took part in the festivities. The Manly Seasiders and Ku-Ring-Gai Stealers took to the field with the 2013 Blue Sox to take part in drills and on field activities.
The Blue Sox begin play for their home opening series this Friday, 8 November, hosting Canberra at Blue Sox Stadium.
