Come out to Fresno State University’s Pete Biden Field July 22-26 for some high quality baseball and competition as the eight best American Legion Baseball teams in California compete for the title of State Champion, then go on to compete at the Regional Tournament in August, and hopefully the National title in Shelby, NC.

This year, one team representing each of the six areas, and two additional teams will take the field. Teams will be outfitted with uniforms representing each of the six military services, as well as law enforcement and the National Guard. A sumptuous welcome banquet for players, coaches, and families will be served at the Clovis Veterans Memorial District, hosted by Post 147 and District 14 on July 21.

Funds still need to be raised to meet the budget requirements to hold a quality tournament at a first class venue. You can help by finding major and minor sponsors, making individual donations to “baseball” to the Department adjutant, and ensuring that every post contributes $100 to help grow American Legion Baseball in California. Major sponsors will be noted prominently in the tournament handout, together with team information and photographs of the players and coaches.

For assistance with donations or sponsorship, please contact Judy Leonardi, ALB Spokesperson, at contributions@ald22baseball.org. You can also visit caLegion.org/baseball.

Ed Benes is 2022-23 chair of the California American Legion Baseball Commission

Author: Ed Benes

US Marines, 1968-1989. One year tour in Vietnam as Infantry Platoon Leader. Later flew A4's. After USMC flew for American Airlines 1990-2006. Member Legion Post 83 since 1995. Past Commander. Baseball Commissioner, Area 3 since 2014. Chairman, Calif. Baseball Commission, Nov. 2021 to present.