Congratulations to my friends at Little League International. The 2019 World Series was off the charts. I just wanted to say thanks for another great experience. The Spencers made it over to Lamade and Volunteer on a few occasions. My son is obsessed with Little League baseball, and he witnessed most if not all of the action. I had to work, but special shout to big Mike Coledo for taking his grandson to all of the games.

Hats off to the talented youngsters who captured the hearts of millions of viewers. These 10, 11 and 12-year-old ballers continue to amaze. The play and entertainment were outstanding. The game itself might change, but the love for baseball and the memories from last week remain. There were so many special moments with this 2019 World Series. Rather difficult to describe them all. I love where youth baseball is headed. New bats and balls and they got rid of the 200lb 13-year-olds. Well done boys and GIRL and safe travels home.

I would also like to applaud the folks who flew to IPT for the BIG game at Historic Bowman. This was the third installment of the MLB Little League Classic, and this unique showcase continues to exceed all expectations. The interaction with the pros and young players is amazing. From arriving at the airport to the bus. Lamade Stadium and the Sunday Night Baseball Game itself. OK. I had to laugh when the Pittsburgh Pirates had a police escort, and they were stuck on the Market Street Bridge. ESPN poked fun of the situation while they waited for five minutes just to turn left.

I had my doubts back in 2017. There was definitely a buzz, and our field underwent a major facelift. The City of Williamsport kicked in some cash, and MLB donated a large amount to help with the tab. Rumors quickly spread and it was bedlam. Memorial Park turned into Area 51. How will they ever pull this off? I watched the first Little League Classic from my kayak. It’s true. I have pictures and a retweet from ESPN’s Tim Kirkjan to prove it. The Pirates beat the Cardinals 6 to 3, and those in attendance said the game with the big league players was an inside the park home run. I wouldn’t know I was stranded on Lycoming Creek with no ride home.

Jensen and I scored two tickets at very last minute, and we were very fortunate to be in the stands for the 2018 MLB Classic. A fan of this page must have read my column on MLB from a kayak and hooked us up. I still owe him. We were just three rows behind the New York Mets’ dugout with the Asian Pacific team. I didn’t understand a darn word they said, but we had a ball with our new Korean friends. The game itself was a lot of fun, and the Mets took down the Phillies 8-2. I still have many pictures from that very special night. It was grand.

I didn’t get the call for the 2019 MLB Classic. No worries. Been there done that. My media credentials were denied once again, and I struck out in the Disgruntled Residents of Lycoming County. The same people from the area always seem to win. Jensen and his friends from Hepburn Little League got the nod and were seated behind home plate. MLB always invites some local teams to take in the game. In fact, the youngsters from the 17728 were one row from Alex Rodriguez and Jennifer Lopez who came in late. She’s really pretty, Dad. Incredible. Jensen and his mates were everywhere, and I got to see my son getting autographs on ESPN. My phone buzzed whenever there was a sighting on the big screen. My boy is a magnet for TV. He had a great time, and I am very thankful that he had this opportunity.

I am proud to say that I am from Williamsport, PA. Congratulations again to my many friends at Little League International. Cheers.