Facts about the history of American Legion Baseball in the Department of Kentucky.
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.
Kentucky’s best bid for an American Legion World Series title came in 2000, when Paducah Post 31 met Danville (Calif.) Post 246 in the championship game.
The duel ended in a 2-1 victory for the California squad. As Paducah manager Clarence Adams put it, “This was the best game of the series. … This wasn’t a loss, this was just one helluva ballgame. I’m so proud of my kids.”
Facts about Kentucky Legion Baseball
First season of American Legion Baseball: 1926.
First state champion: Louisville.
Baseball Hall of Famers (1): Pee Wee Reese, Louisville, 1984.
Other notable alumni: Steve Finley, Paducah, 1999 Graduate of the Year; Corey Hart, Bowling Green, 2011 Graduate of the Year.
American Legion World Series appearances (4): Owensboro, 1981; Paducah, 2000, 2004; Richmond, 1982.
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