2017 ALWS runners-up reunite with bat boy

Grayson Gilbert traveled more than 1,000 miles to reunite with 18 young men who taught him to "stay positive."

The 11-year-old from Shelby, N.C., was the bat boy for the 2017 American Legion World Series runners-up, Creighton Prep American Legion Post 1 of Omaha. Gilbert and his parents traveled to Omaha June 20 to support players from the team at the CWS Classic tournament, sponsored by Five Points Bank.

Omaha Post 1 players and Gilbert quickly formed a bond during the ALWS in Shelby as the team helped Gilbert through troubles with bullying. That friendship has lasted beyond the field. In January, Creighton Prep hosted a team reunion where they received rings to honor their accomplishment. In addition, the team surprised its Legion World Series bat boys with matching rings and had them remotely join in on the festivities via a video call.

"The ability to impact somebody's life is really cool," said Owen Richter, player for Omaha Post 1.