MANNY MACHADO AND BRYCE HARPER-SALISBURY GETS GLIMPSE OF LOCAL PRO BASEBALL'S FUTURE.

We used to live in Salisbury, and can attest to the fact that the Delmarva Shorebirds and their Perdue stadium are one of the few remaining jewels in Salisbury's deteriorating crown. We also enjoy hiking the Antietam battlefield just a short car ride outside of lovely Hagerstown. Last week we were treated to a near death experience due to a micro burst storm, but got to witness the prowess of Hagerstown Sun's, soon to be Washington National's, biggest prize, center fielder Bryce Harper. The Shorebirds feature similarly uber-talented Orioles shortstop of the future, Manny Machado.


The two squared off tonight in Salisbury for the first of a three game series-we believe we are seeing that the Suns took the contest 4-1. We can not emphasize enough how wonderful going to one of these minor league games is. the parks are very accessible-no long walks from abyss-like parking lots. The players are beyond gracious, often tossing game balls, hats, base-running gloves, and we have even seen them give out game-used bats to the youth of these towns. We remember one night in Salisbury where former Oriole's pitcher, Eric Bedard, pitched while rehabbing from an injury.


The prices are comparable to what one would pay for a crappy movie, and the food is much better-especially at Perdue Stadium. The environment is "kid friendly" as it is a much smaller venue where even general admission tix get you close to the action, and boorish, drunken behavior is not tolerated by security or the fans, who often police themselves. For anyone swinging through Salisbury towards Ocean City, consider taking in one of the remaining games against the Suns tomorrow and Saturday night. We believe the Saturday night game even includes post-game fireworks, almost worth the price of admission alone. Enjoy both Harper and Machado at the "A" level parks while you can, as both their big league parent teams are already struggling big time, and their promotions to higher level ball are inevitably imminent.


These organizations also do a great deal of charity work for local causes, especially local food banks, and your support is greatly appreciated. Mostly, do it for your kids-get them away from the video games {or as Hank Hill calls them vigga' games}, the internet browser, the Ipod and, unfortunately the peers who may lead them towards more unsavory activities such as smoking, drinking, drugs and reckless sex. The activity will inspire them to respect fresh air, nature, team work, and, hopefully, they wont get early-onset diabetes at 12 years old. Play ball, and take lots of pictures {the feature photo above is of Suns stud Bryce Harper playing in Hagerstown last week}.




http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/index.jsp?sid=t548 {Shorebirds stadium and schedule information}


http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/index.jsp?sid=t563 {Hagerstown Suns stadium and schedule}

http://aliveinthechesapeake.blogspot.com/2011/05/hagerstown-suns-to-host-strike-out.html {Our recent article regarding a "Strike Out Hunger" night at Hagerstown's Municipal Stadium...Bring at least 5 canned//non-perishable food items to the gate and get a free general admission ticket. This is a hard deal to beat, and benefits the spectator and the hungry for just showing up at a baseball game. Very good karma indeed.}