BY GEORGE FJELD
Proctor—For the second time in the last decade, Proctor’s varsity baseball team will journey to Cooperstown, NY to play on the Championship field at the Baseball Hall of Fame. Invited by former Proctor coach, Mike Perrone, the team will play a game against the Warrensburg, NY varsity. Current coach, Jeff Patch, is looking to raise $2,000 for the day trip. Patch said “We’ll take a school bus to save money.”
Catcher Cameron Cannucci says “It’ll be a really good experience for the entire team, a lot of fun!” “We’re not looking at a win or loss, just the experience.” That experience will include a tour of the Hall of Fame. Cannucci says he’s looking forward to seeing David Ortiz’ display, as he was his favorite player.
On the last trip in 2017, Jacob Patch who accompanied the team but did not play, met hall of famer, Vladimir Guerrero who was there for a media day after his induction into the Hall and came out to spend some time with the team. Jacob, who pitches and plays shortstop, is hopeful to meet another but mostly “I’d like to pitch in the game.”
Lucas Merrill, pitcher and shortstop also, is excited “to play on the championship field for New York State.” He hears that the field is very well maintained. Regarding the regular season, Merrill thinks they have a chance to do well in the Southern League, as they have all of their players back from last year.
To raise money for the trip, Merrill and Patch said they had held a bottle drive and are planning a spaghetti supper at Franklin’s, 25 North Street in Proctor on February 27th. Planned cost will be $13.95. Owner Frank Beyette will provide the spaghetti, sauce and meatballs. He said, “I will donate 100% of the dinner proceeds to the baseball team.” Any additional funds raised will go towards new uniforms and warm up sweats which haven’t been replaced in years.
So do your part, go to Franklin’s on February 27th and support the baseball team!
