Facts about the history of American Legion Baseball in the Department of Washington.
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/Baseballat100 (or click here for the previous story) and stay up-to-date on centennial happenings using #LegionBaseball100 on social media.
Yakima Post 36 made the most of the state’s first American Legion World Series appearance, winning the title in 1953 in Washington’s first trip to the ALWS.
Tom Gibson allowed just three hits on the mound while tallying two hits and three RBIs as a batter in the 4-1 championship win over Winnetka (Ill.) Post 10.
Facts about Washington Legion Baseball
First season of American Legion Baseball: 1928.
First state champion: Seattle.
Baseball Hall of Famers (2): Ryne Sandberg, Spokane, 2005 (1984 Graduate of the Year); Ron Santo, Seattle, 2012.
Other notable alumni: Pat Allen, Yakima, 1979 Player of the Year; Dave Elder, Yakima, 1975 Player of the Year; Todd Hollandsworth, Bellevue, former major leaguer; Lyle Overbay, Centralia, 2009 Graduate of the Year; Todd Stottlemyre, Yakima, 2001 Graduate of the Year; Josh Zender, Deming, 2000 Player of the Year.
American Legion World Series titles (3): Yakima Post 36, 1953, 1975, 1979.
Other American Legion World Series appearances (13): Bellevue, 1981, 1995, 2012; Bellingham, 2007; Kennewick, 1999, 2004, 2016; Pasco, 2005, 2008; Vancouver, 1987, 1996; Yakima, 1976, 1988.
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