Local baseball league calls for batters up

With the weather being as brisk as it’s been, outdoor sports may not be on many people’s minds, but at least one local league is getting the jump on the spring season.

The Elk Grove Babe Ruth baseball league is now accepting registration for youths ages 13 to 15 for the 2012 spring season. Parents can register their children online at the league website. This year’s registration includes player’s cap, socks, pants and a jersey. The 22-game season costs $170 for a full year or $125 for high school players who join the league late.

Registration costs go up $25 after Jan. 21, 2012.

Those who are interested in coaching are also welcome.

There are several reasons the league is growing after a half-century in existence, according to league vice president Rick Venegas, like guaranteed playing time for all players, traveling all-star play and the chance to compete for a state title.

“Our league is one of the longest-running programs in the valley, having just celebrated our 50th year in 2011,” Venegas said in an email. “Our league is for 13-15 year-olds, and with all the budget cutbacks many freshman sports programs like baseball have been cut.”

That’s yet another reason to take up America’s pastime — once the weather warms up.

For more information, contact Joe Matlen at 747-6252 or Doug Penney at 607-3131.