STAMFORD — The Catskill Mountain Little League will close out its 55th season June 20 with a visit from former Major League pitcher Bill “Spaceman” Lee and a skills competition that could send local youngsters all the way to the MLB World Series.
Lee, the colorful left-hander known for his years with the Boston Red Sox, Montreal Expos and, more recently, the Savannah Bananas, will take part in a meet-and-greet during the league’s annual Pitch, Hit & Run competition, which also marks the program’s 50th anniversary.
The free event is open to boys and girls ages 7 to 14, regardless of whether they have previously played in the league. Participants will compete in age-based baseball and softball divisions, earning points for hitting, pitching accuracy and running speed.
Players are evaluated on five hits off a tee, five pitches thrown at a target the size of a Major League strike zone from 45 feet away, and their fastest time in a 90-foot sprint.
Recent local champions have advanced beyond the district level to compete at venues including Yankee Stadium, Citi Field and Williamsport, Pennsylvania, home of the Little League World Series. Top performers can ultimately earn a trip for four to compete during the MLB World Series festivities.
Registration will be held from 8:30 to 9 a.m., with competition beginning promptly at 9 a.m. Organizers encourage families to register in advance, although walk-up registrations will be accepted.
The day will continue with the league’s season-ending awards ceremony and ice cream social beginning at noon.
Catskill Mountain Little League is located at 65502 state Highway 10 in Stamford. For information or registration contact the league at catskillmtnlittleleague@gmail.com
