Facts about the history of American Legion Baseball in the Department of Connecticut.
NOTE: As we prepare to celebrate American Legion Baseball’s centennial season, we’re taking a quick look at historical facts from each Legion department which sponsors, or has sponsored, the program. Check out stories at Legion.org/Baseball (or click here for the previous story) and stay up-to-date on centennial happenings using #LegionBaseball100 on social media.
No state has sent more teams to the American Legion World Series without a title than Connecticut.
The state’s best finishes in the ALWS were third-place showings by West Hartford in 1959, Branford in 2005 and Bristol in 2008.
Nevertheless, Connecticut can still claim a Baseball Hall of Fame Legion alum in Jeff Bagwell, who was also a Graduate of the Year—as was Mo Vaughn.
Facts about Connecticut Legion Baseball
First season of American Legion Baseball: 1928.
First state champion: Hartford.
Baseball Hall of Famers (1): Jeff Bagwell, Middletown, 2017 (2003 Graduate of the Year).
Other notable alumni: Aaron Civale, Windsor Locks, major leaguer; A.J. Pollock, Marlborough/Hebron, former major leaguer; Mo Vaughn, Norwalk, 1997 Graduate of the Year.
American Legion World Series appearances (23): Berlin, 2009; Branford, 2005, 2007, 2010, 2013; Bristol, 1974, 1984, 1997, 2008; Cromwell, 2014, 2015; East Hartford, 1991, 1992; Meriden, 1981; Milford, 2012; Naugatuck, 1969; New London, 1985, 1986; North Haven, 1972; Trumbull, 1977; West Hartford, 1959, 1961, 1973.
- Baseball