MLB yesterday held a launch event for its new Play Ball youth participation program at Macombs Dam Park in N.Y., adjacent to Yankee Stadium. The event included several local Little League and youth baseball programs, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, Yankees DH Alex Rodriguez, P Dellin Betances, OF Chris Young, Marlins RF Giancarlo Stanton and 2B Dee Gordon. Manfred said the efficacy of the program will be somewhat hard to judge given the difficulty of statistically measuring the level of casual play. But MLB conducted several polls and focus groups prior to the creation of Play Ball, and that internal research will continue. Manfred said, “What we hope to get through events like this is organic activity where kids play more these smaller games. It’s going to be a difficult thing to measure, but we’re going to work really hard at it.”
The presence of Rodriguez marked a continued transition for the embattled vet. After personally battling with Manfred less than two years ago and serving a year-long suspension for PEDs, Rodriguez yesterday was a prominent presence. Manfred: “I think Alex has tried really hard to make a smooth and successful re-entry into the game, and we appreciate the fact he showed up here today.” Rodriguez said, “I’m glad to be a part of it. I’m flattered that I was asked to come here today.”
