SAVANNAH — Grayson Stadium transformed into a field of dreams for Savannah's youngest athletes on Monday, June 16, 2025, as the city launched its first-ever Mayor Plays Ball event — a national youth baseball initiative backed by Major League Baseball (MLB) and the U.S. Conference of Mayors.
The free clinic, aimed at kids aged 5–12, brought together city leaders, Savannah Bananas ball players, and visiting coaches to celebrate community, sport, and fun. Savannah, Georgia, is the only city without an MLB baseball team to host this event.
"This is about rekindling our love of the game," said Savannah Mayor Van Johnson. "Even without a Major League team, Savannah continues to punch above its weight. And today, our kids got to play where legends like Hank Aaron and Dale Murphy once stood."
The day included sandlot-style games, skill-building drills, and autograph sessions with players from the Bananas' fifth exhibition league team, the Visitors. Kate Denes, Bananas' executive assistant to team president Jared Orton, emphasized the team's commitment to community outreach.
"We're here to show kids baseball can be fun for everyone, regardless of age or background," said Denes, who shared a personal story about how the Bananas embraced her deaf nephew at a previous camp.
Coach Mark Crocco, who led the Visitors squad, called the experience "invaluable" for players and kids alike. "We talk about gratitude every day. Seeing our guys connect with these young fans helps them remember why they fell in love with baseball."
City of Savannah Eastside Sports Camp Director Lawrence "Bunny" Bryan also praised the event's value for young athletes when asked what this event means to the local kids.
"It means the world. Getting to see professional baseball and learning the game is huge for them. Sports camp is about life lessons, and today is a big one. We're thankful for the opportunity."
Eastside Sports Camp camper Aiden Waltower said his goal was simple: "To get better at catching and throwing—and have fun with the Bananas!"
Bradley Wilson, a player with the Visitors Banana Ball Team and a native of Irwinton, Georgia — just outside Dublin, Georgia — reflected on the event's impact. A West Laurens High School graduate, Wilson went on to play college baseball at Mississippi State, South Georgia State, and Georgia College.
"It means everything," Wilson said. "Baseball is fun, but making an impact on these kids? That's real. I'm grateful to be part of it."
With support from the Savannah Police Department's PAL program and community partners like the Savannah Fire Department and Healthy Savannah, the event introduced baseball fundamentals and delivered an unforgettable experience.
Photo Credit: Courtesy Prep Sports Report
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