The American Legion’s successful baseball program celebrates its centennial this year, thanks in large part to the volunteers, donors and others who make a difference in California and elsewhere.
California American Legion Baseball games take place on fields all over the Golden State. Judy Leonardi, the face of fundraising and events for the program, says that as a single parent her “favorite F word is free” and that Legion baseball is “practically free,” thanks to the generosity of donors and sponsors.
This is the 100-year anniversary of the American Legion Baseball (ALB) program that continues to grow. That growth includes influence in Major League Baseball (MLB), including 89 Hall of Famers.
On May 2, about 185 people attended an event called “HEROES, LEGENDS & BASEBALL DREAMS,” coordinated by the Department of California American Legion Baseball Commission. The purpose of the event was to keep youth dreaming baseball dreams, for the next 100 years.
Impressively, this continuously growing program that is “practically free” for the participating players, requires a significant fundraising effort. These events played out in venues like this so that the games can play out on Legion Baseball fields, as they have for the past century.
The American Legion presence was felt at the event, held at the Old Ranch Country Club, in Seal Beach, Calif. Department Commander Nick Rosa thanked “the donors and volunteers for making a top-notch program that the Department of California and the entire American Legion is proud of.”
Department Membership Director J.R. Duarte commented that “American Legion Baseball is more than just a game — it’s a living legacy of our commitment to youth, community, and patriotism. Every player, coach, and fan strengthen the bond between our posts and the public, building pride and purpose that leads directly to new members and lasting support across California.”
The evening included social hour, dinner, and a silent auction, finishing up with a lively and competitive live auction. The live auction also had a department presence. Ways & Means Chairman David Brambila donated a prized time share condo for one of the largest donations of the night. Brambila also won the bidding for a limited-edition Reggie Jackson signed bat. The Hall of Famer also known as Mr. October was unable to attend the event but donated this special bat. He only gives away around seven of these each year, so this was a prized auction item.
Other contributors included Nick Saifan, a Legionnaire from Newport Harbor Post 291, who facilitated the waiving of the venue fees but also donated a golf foursome at the prestigious Old Ranch Country Club.
Also in attendance were Felix Giles, a Navy veteran and trailblazing NASCAR driver, who lit up the evening with his enthusiasm and appreciation for the cause. Former Seattle Seahawks player Dave DesRochers donated signed footballs and a golf foursome package to support his own upcoming event, the 1st and Goal Project, which focuses on helping veterans transition successfully into civilian life.
For the first time, branch specific jerseys were on sale at the event. They will also be available at the California Department Convention. Additionally, they will be on sale at the state championship tournament. Branch pride was a driving force for people purchasing the jerseys, which is yet another way to visually and financially support the program.
These funds are needed to continue to expand a program that encompasses Americanism and Children & Youth, two of The American Legion’s four defining pillars.
ALB was founded in 1925 at Milbank, S.D. The first National Championship in 1926 was won by Yonkers, N.Y., Post 321. In the 100-year history of the program the only years with no national tournament were 1927 and 2020.
The longevity of Legion Baseball, even through tough times, shows the importance of the program and the game of baseball. Though Major League Baseball and American Legion Baseball have no formal partnership, MLB continues to provide monetary support to ALB as it has since 1928. In turn, Legion Baseball trains and showcases a steady lineup of big league talented players.
Even with mostly volunteers running the program, it takes a budget dependent on donors and sponsors to keep the cost to families “practically free.” Through the hard work of the ALB commissioners including Chair Ray Flores and Vice Chair Dave Fuller, along with Judy Leonardi, the fundraising will continue.
When Leonardi asks fundraising questions, she gives you two choices for answers. The first acceptable answer is YES. If that doesn’t resonate with you, you always have the second option to choose, which is also YES. In homage to Leonardi, please consider the following questions:
• Is the American Legion Baseball program impactful to the Legion and the youth of America: yes or yes?
• Do you think that your contribution will result in a positive return on investment with The American Legion’s “Veterans Strengthening America” mantra: yes or yes?
• The American Legion Baseball Commission in California and other departments needs your answer to be “yes” or “yes.”
Learn more about American Legion Baseball here.
- Baseball