Saturday, March 14 dawned crisp and clear; players from the youngest T-ballers to those on the Babe Ruth and Majors teams suited up in their uniforms and got their gloves and bats ready … as the ceremonial first pitches were thrown out to officially start the OBSA – Oakdale Baseball Softball Association – 2026 season.
The Opening Day celebration for more than 800 players across multiple divisions was staged at the T.L. Davis Sports Complex in Oakdale and included an opening prayer by Pastor Henry Raven, presentation of the colors, a rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner and then a group of ballplayers came together at home plate to lead the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance.
“Are we excited?” OBSA President Samantha Franco asked the kids waiting to get introduced, going on to add kudos to those behind the scenes. “I just want to say thank you to our incredible board that makes all of this happen … there’s hundreds and hundreds of hours that go into the season and getting everybody here today, thank you to the coaches that have stepped up to coach the teams; we couldn’t do it without you guys.”
She also announced the dedication of a field in memory of Jon Lutz, a longtime coach with the OBSA, with a banner unveiled on the backstop in his honor.
Mayor Cherilyn Bairos threw out the first softball pitch and Daniel Suarez threw out the first pitch for baseball, with the teams then introduced as each took a turn to run down the third base line and touch home plate, give a high five to Franco and also high five the Love Oakdale mascot.
It was picture day for teams, there were multiple games on the schedule, vendors, food and beverage booths, and a number of silent auction items to bid on.
“I think it’s just going to be a great year, obviously it’s good to have all these kids here and this is the biggest season we’ve ever had,” Franco said once the ceremonies were over. “It’s about 725 practices, 600 games, so it adds up really quick but this is what community is all about and that’s why we do this.”
The season runs through May 15, with closing ceremonies scheduled on that day.
In addition to Franco, Vice President of the OBSA is Allen Wiley, Secretary is Brooke Gaither, and Treasurer is Breanne Stever, with a number of others taking on roles ranging from running the snack shack to being the special events director, registrars and more.
“My favorite part of it is just seeing all the kids have fun,” Franco explained. “It’s super easy to get lost in it’s a game and we want to win, but when you see these kids grow and develop and just have fun with their friends, that’s what it’s all about.”
