Manfred: “We are grateful for your contributions as ambassadors of our sport.”
Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred is congratulating American Legion Baseball on its centennial.
In a letter to American Legion Baseball in care of Americanism Commission Chairman Mark Avis, Manfred wrote:
“Dear American Legion Players and Officials:
“On behalf of Major League Baseball, I am pleased to congratulate all of you on the 100th anniversary of American Legion Baseball. This is an extraordinary milestone for an organization that has long been meaningful to our sport. Players, coaches, officials, and families have gained memories that last a lifetime through this platform. American Legion Baseball continues to showcase the kind of talent and character that demonstrates why our National Pastime is poised to thrive for generations.
“When baseball is at its very best, the game instills sportsmanship, teamwork, determination, and the importance of daily effort. Our players discover that hard work and perseverance are the qualities that lead to enduring excellence. The values learned on the diamond can also be applied to their academics, professional goals, and service to others. I appreciate American Legion Baseball’s focus on leadership and community, as well as its impact on countless Major Leaguers, coaches, and fans.
“As our sport continues to grow and becomes even stronger in our communities, I am proud to count the participants in American Legion Baseball as members of the baseball family. I look forward to seeing all that they will accomplish and know they will set a proper example for the young ballplayers who will follow in their footsteps. We are grateful for your contributions as ambassadors for our sport. All of us at MLB applaud you for being a part of a century of American Legion Baseball.
Sincerely,
Robert D. Manfred, Jr.”
American Legion Baseball has had a long relationship with Major League Baseball, stretching back to the program’s earliest days. After financial issues forced the cancellation of the 1927 American Legion World Series, Major League Baseball donated $50,000 to the program in 1928 to help the Legion program continue.
- Baseball