Current Los Angeles Dodger and former Oakland Athletics second baseman Mark Ellis played Legion Baseball from 1992-1995 for coach Dave Ploof at Post 22 in Rapid City, S.D. Ellis is a two-time recipient of the Jim "Catfish" Hunter Award, given annually to an Oakland Athletic whose play and conduct best exemplifies the courageous, competitive and inspirational spirit of late Hall-of-Fame pitcher Jim "Catfish" Hunter. Ellis made his big-league debut in 2002, batting .272 in 98 games.
Named 2004 American Legion Graduate of the Year. A native of Jamestown, N.D., Erstad played American Legion Baseball and hit .495 with 18 homers, 86 RBIs and 21 doubles as a senior. He was the state tournament MVP in both 1991 and 1992 and a three-time all-state pick
