Facts about the history of American Legion Baseball in the Department of Rhode Island.
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.
Barrington Post 8’s runner-up finish in the 1979 American Legion World Series came in one of the hottest tournaments on record. The championship game between Barrington and Yakima (Wash.) Post 36 was played in nearly 100 degree heat and thick humidity in Greenville, Miss.
Facts about Rhode Island Legion Baseball
First season of American Legion Baseball: 1926.
First state champion: Central Falls Post 79.
Notable alumni: Rocco Baldelli, Warwick, 2019 American League Manager of the Year; Charlie Day, Newport, actor/comedian.
American Legion World Series appearances (6): Barrington, 1979; Bristol, 1950; Cumberland, 2016; Warwick, 1971, 1976, 1980.
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