News Summary

Alex Call, the Washington Nationals outfielder, returned to his hometown of River Falls, Wisconsin to host a free baseball clinic for local youth aged 11 to 13. The event showcased Call’s dedication to giving back to the community, with over 50 eager young players participating. Featuring other local baseball talents, the clinic highlights the commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletes. The community’s investment in the sport is apparent as they look forward to a promising future for baseball.

River Falls Welcomes Back Hometown Hero: Alex Call Hosts Youth Baseball Clinic

River Falls, Wisconsin, is buzzing with excitement as local resident and Washington Nationals outfielder Alex Call has returned to his roots during the Major League Baseball season. Just a quick 40-minute drive from Target Field in Minneapolis, Call made a special visit to his hometown on a day when the Nationals had no game, and boy, did he make it count!

A Day Dedicated to the Future of Baseball

On a beautiful Thursday, Call decided to host a free baseball clinic for 50 eager young players aged 11 to 13. This wasn’t just any ordinary clinic; it was a chance for Call to give back to the community that shaped him. In a heartfelt gesture, he dedicated his time to share his love for the game with the next generation, creating an unforgettable experience for the local youth.

Originally, the clinic was supposed to run for only two to three hours, but Call enjoyed himself so much that he stayed from the crack of dawn at 7 AM all the way to noon! The enthusiasm of the kids and the joy of teaching clearly energized him, rather than tiring him out before the Nationals’ game the following night.

A Glimpse into a Promising Future

The event was organized in collaboration with the MLB Players Trust, showcasing how current players can play an active role in nurturing youth talent. River Falls High School baseball coach Ryan Bishop expressed just how special this day was not just for the kids, but for him as well. With over 26 seasons of coaching experience, he has witnessed only a handful of his players, including Call, make it to the professional level. In fact, Call is one of just three players to rise to the ranks of professional baseball during Bishop’s impressive career.

In addition to Call, familiar faces like former players J.P. Feyerisen and Marty Herum also attended, bringing a sense of camaraderie and community to the clinic. With such a strong turnout, the River Falls Baseball Council had to implement limits on registrations due to overwhelming interest. This speaks volumes about the community’s investment in the sport and the future of their young athletes.

Improvements in Local Facilities

It’s worth mentioning that the local ballpark, First National Bank Stadium, received a significant facelift in 2021, thanks to an $850,000 grant that provided new turf. This upgrade not only enhances the quality of play but fosters a more inviting environment for players and fans alike. Furthermore, the University of Wisconsin-River Falls has also revived its baseball program this year, signaling an exciting renaissance for the sport in the area.

Inspiring Dreams

Throughout the clinic, Call encouraged all the young players to dream big and cultivate a passion for baseball. He emphasized the importance of instilling a love for the game early on and highlighted the efforts within the River Falls community to promote baseball. His commitment to giving back is not just talk; it’s clear that this young star understands the significance of nurturing the next generation.

Aside from his community involvement, Call has been making waves on the field too. In 2023, he has participated in 69 games, boasting a batting average of .270, with two home runs and 21 RBIs. Having debuted with the Cleveland Guardians earlier in the year before joining the Nationals in August, Call’s journey is one of hard work and determination, having been drafted in the third round of the 2016 MLB Draft by the Chicago White Sox.

As River Falls enjoys this bright moment in the spotlight thanks to one of its own, the community can only look forward to seeing what the future holds for both Alex Call and the local baseball scene. With each swing of the bat, the dream of many young players takes flight, reminding everyone that the heart of baseball still beats strong in River Falls, Wisconsin.

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