Facts about the history of American Legion Baseball in the Department of Alabama.
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 and stay up-to-date on centennial happenings using #LegionBaseball100 on social media.
Two of the stars on Alabama’s first two American Legion World Series championship teams had something in common.
While pitcher Johnny Rushing, a member of Tuscaloosa Post 34’s championship team in 1967, and catcher Brooks Bryan, a member of Troy Post 70’s winners in 2022, helped guide their teams from different positions, they were both first-year members of their respective squads.
Rushing pitched a three-hit shutout in Tuscaloosa’s 1-0 win over Northbrook (Ill.) Post 791 in the 1967 ALWS championship game. Bryan was named George W. Rulon Player of the Year after Troy ended Idaho Falls (Idaho) Post 56’s bid for a third consecutive ALWS title in 2022.
Troy added a second title in three years when they rallied for a 5-3 win over Midland (Mich.) Post 165 in the 2024 ALWS title game.
Facts about Alabama Legion Baseball
First season of American Legion Baseball: 1928.
First state champion: Talladega.
Baseball Hall of Famers (1): Early Wynn, Hartford, 1972.
Other notable alumni: Brooks Bryan, Troy, 2022 Player of the Year; Gunnar Henderson, Selma, 2023 American League Rookie of the Year; Craig Kimbrel, Decatur, major leaguer; Billy Parker Jr., Tuscaloosa, 1966 Player of the Year; David Robertson, Tuscaloosa, major leaguer; Pat Sullivan, Birmingham, 1971 Heisman Trophy winner; Steve Woodard, Hartselle, former major leaguer and American Legion World Series color commentator.
American Legion World Series titles (3): Tuscaloosa Post 34, 1967; Troy Post 70, 2022, 2024.
Other American Legion World Series appearances (4): Dothan, 2002, 2005; Troy, 2023; Tuscaloosa, 1966.
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