by Roy Reiss

While we didn’t have any Cape Cod Baseball League action to fill our hardball appetite this summer, we satisfied our baseball hunger by following some of the former Kettleers in the major leagues. There’s fan favorite Mike Yastrzemski (2010-2011) who finally got his chance this summer with the San Francisco Giants. Heading into the final week of the regular season Yaz is hitting .285 and solidified his status as a major leaguer. Everyone remembers Tony Kemp (2012) the youngster with that electric smile. TK is now a member of the Oakland Athletics and was nominated this year for the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award. Remember Mike Ford (2012-2013) who fulfilled his boyhood dream by making the roster of his hometown New York Yankees. Then there’s the Zimmer brothers. Kyle (2011) finally made it to the Kansas City Royals major league roster this summer after many injuries and has a sparkling 1.29 era in 14 appearances. Unfortunately, brother Bradley (2013 Playoff MVP) continues to be hampered by injuries as he tries to establish himself with the Cleveland Indians. Out in Seattle pitcher Justin Dunn (2015) continues to shine with a 3-1 record while striking out 30 in 35 innings pitched. And in Arizona, Kevin Ginkel (2015) has been utilized in the closer’s role. These are just a few of the many former Kettleers making headlines in Major League Baseball.

If you haven’t been to Lowell Park recently, you’re really missing atreat. Workers are putting the final touches on the brand new first base grandstands that will be unveiled in the summer of 2021. Meanwhile pavers are being laid in the area to match what’s on the third base side of Lowell Park. The entire first base area has been opened up and will be able to accommodate many more fans in the stands as well as those sitting in chairs along the first base fence and patio. In addition the organization is working on plans for a whiffle ball promotion that will appeal to the younger generation while also finalizing plans for the annual Christmas in Cotuit promotion in early December.

Lastly, we’d like to acknowledge Joe Cavanaugh, long time Board member and volunteer who has left the Board of Directors, for his seven years of contribution and service to the Cotuit Athletic Association. While on the Board and as a volunteer, Joe created the 4th of July post parade, Family Fun Day at Lowell Park, captured many great moment as a photographer, volunteered his time on maintenance and ground improvements and was an overall dedicated hard worker. We thank Joe for his service.