With a record number of participants – more than 800 – suiting up for games at all levels, it was a packed day for baseball and softball players, fans and umpires on Saturday, March 16.

It was Opening Day for teams in the Oakdale Baseball Softball Association and the day featured bright blue skies and perfect weather for playing ball. Festivities included some music by the Oakdale Community Band as families arrived for the Opening Day Ceremonies, with remarks by both OBSA President Samantha Franco and Secretary Madison Sorensen, offering an update on the program. There was the presentation of the colors, a prayer offered, the National Anthem sung, a flag salute, and the ceremonial first pitches. Oakdale Police Officer Brian Terry threw out the first pitch for baseball; Deputy Fire Chief for Modesto Fire Andrew Hunter threw out the softball first pitch.

Then all teams were introduced and took their turn racing from third base to home plate, continuing on up the first base line and back to the edge of the outfield, before games started for day.

The older divisions also play teams from Riverbank and Escalon during the season.