It was opening day at the two major baseball leagues on New Providence on Saturday and over at the Freedom Farm Baseball League, action was underway in all of the divisions.

In the Coach Pitch Division (7-8), the Wasps secured a narrow 6-5 victory over the Bees.

The Wasps set the pace early with two home runs and three runs batted in (RBIs). The first home run came in the top of the first inning, an inside-the-park shot that brought in a teammate. An RBI single added another run to the scoreboard, giving the Wasps an early 3-0 lead.

The Bees countered in the bottom of the first inning. They hit their own inside-the-park home run, driving in three runs and leveling the score at 3-3. That impressive hit energized the Bees, maintaining the intensity of the competition.

In the top of the third inning, the Wasps regained control. The Bees committed an error, and the Wasps capitalized with another inside-the-park home run. A subsequent single to center field extended the Wasps’ lead to 6-3.

The Wasps allowed nine hits and five runs, with four earned, over five innings. There were eight strikeouts and no walks.

On the Bees’ side, they gave up 12 hits and six runs, with four earned across five innings. There were seven strikeouts and no walks.

Greg Burrows, founder of the Freedom Farm Baseball League, shared his thoughts on Opening Day.

“Thirty-seven years of Freedom Farm excellence, I call it. In my contribution, I just want to express the success of Freedom Farm and how well Freedom Farm has been through the sport of baseball,” said Burrows. “How many players have gone through the system, played in college, and even played and coached professionally. Some have created academies that help sign players, focusing on the discipline of the kids. I want to give the parents a charge that it’s important they do their part to ensure Freedom Farm continues to be the village that helps nurture kids in our community.”

When asked about his expectations for the season, Burrows said: “Well, it’s always the same — that we have an injury-free season, complete the season, and that the kids and parents have a good time. We want to showcase our talent internationally, and hope and pray that we do very well when we do that.”

The game showcased the talent and spirit of the Freedom Farm Baseball League, highlighting the passion and dedication of players and organizers alike. As the season progresses both teams will continue to aim for excellence on and off the field.