News Summary
Birmingham is buzzing with excitement as the World Baseball League announces open practices at Rickwood Field every Sunday through February. Aspiring players can showcase their skills while enjoying vibrant entertainment during games. Additionally, the Birmingham Barons plan to honor the legacy of the Negro Leagues with a special event at the historic field. This initiative aims to engage the community, celebrating baseball’s rich heritage and bringing new energy to the local sports scene.
Birmingham’s Baseball Buzz: Exciting Developments Coming to the Field
Hey there, Birmingham! If you’re a baseball fan or just looking for a fun way to spend your weekends, we’ve got some exciting news hitting the diamond! The World Baseball League is gearing up for its open practices, and they’re happening right at our beloved Rickwood Field, starting this weekend!
The World Baseball League: A Game-Changer for Local Sports
That’s right, folks! Every Sunday from noon to 4 p.m., through the end of February, aspiring players can strut their stuff on the historic grounds of Rickwood Field. This initiative is being spearheaded by a local graduate of Samford University, who saw the immense passion of baseball fans during a Major League game last summer. Drawing inspiration from the fun and flair of teams like the Savannah Bananas, this league wants to shake things up with some vibrant entertainment incorporated into the games!
Imagine watching a baseball game where, not only do teams compete, but entertainers take the stage in between innings, bringing you acts like singing, comedy, and even magic! Yes, you heard it right! The league aims to keep the energy high and the crowd engaged. Plus, there’s something unique about their scoring system. It’s called “matchplay,” where only the team with the most runs in an inning earns points for that inning. Just when you thought it couldn’t get any more interesting!
A Community Affair
The drive behind this initiative is strong community involvement. Plans include establishing two teams in Birmingham: one at our historic Rickwood Field and the other at the Hoover Met. The league’s creator knows they can’t do this alone and is reaching out to the city for support. So, whether you’re a player, a fan, or somewhere in-between, your participation could play a key role in the league’s success!
The Birmingham Barons: A Tribute to the Negro Leagues
But wait, there’s more! Our very own Birmingham Barons, who are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, are also making exciting plans. Mark your calendars for June 4, 2025, as the Barons will be returning to Rickwood Field to host the Rocket City Trash Pandas in a heartfelt tribute to the Negro Leagues. This will surely be a momentous occasion celebrating the history and significance of Rickwood Field and its deep connections to the Negro Leagues.
Rickwood Field opened its doors way back in 1910 and has been home to many historic franchises, including the Birmingham Black Barons from 1923 through 1960. The Barons used to host an annual Rickwood Classic, which saw a game being played there each Minor League season from 1996 to 2016, with brief returns in 2018 and 2019. With recent renovations that improved both the playing surface and facilities, Rickwood Field retains its classic charm while boasting upgraded amenities.
Avenue for Culture and Film
Let’s not forget that Rickwood Field carries a rich history beyond just baseball. It has also served as a filming location for popular Hollywood productions like Cobb, 42, and Soul of the Game. It’s a cultural gem that connects the past with the present.
Baseball is Back!
The excitement doesn’t stop there! The Birmingham Barons’ upcoming season kicks off on April 4, when they host the Knoxville Smokies. As baseball returns to the city, it brings with it opportunities to gather, celebrate, and enjoy the warm camaraderie that only a day at the ballpark can provide.
So, whether you’re a player looking to show off your skills or a supporter eager to cheer from the stands, Birmingham’s evolving baseball scene has something for everyone. Dust off your mitt, grab your friends, and prepare for an exciting season ahead!
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Additional Resources
- Bham Now: World Baseball League Holding Tryouts in Birmingham
- MLB: Barons Return to Rickwood Field 2025
- NY Times: Birmingham Barons at Rickwood
- WBRC: Return to Rickwood for Birmingham Barons
- Wikipedia: Birmingham Barons
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
