Delta Baseball League is about to begin its 25th season of play. The league, originally named Delta Peanut League, was started to promote a positive environment in which kids can learn the game of baseball.

The big difference between this league and others is that players cannot sit out more than one inning before everyone else sits once. You can’t learn the game of baseball on the bench.

Last year, the league partnered with Cal Ripken Baseball to create a competitive division for the 11-to-12-year-old boys. Through district and regional tournaments, the kids could play in the Cal Ripken World Series in Baltimore. The league’s girls program has partnered with Babe Ruth Girls Softball to afford the older girls the same opportunities for postseason play.

More than 1,000 kids participated in Delta Baseball League last year, making it the largest baseball/softball program in East County.

Three years ago, Freedom League baseball was started for developmentally/physically handicapped children. Through generous donations from various companies, this league is offered for free. Kids and young adults from ages 4 to 22 are welcome to participate.

Peer-aged, regularly-abled buddies help the special-needs children on the field, providing an opportunity for growth for both participants.

The league fills up fast, but will be accepting late registrations to fill team needs. Go online for buddy sign-ups and late registration.

– Contributed by Mark McBride