RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - As spring sunshine returned to the ballfields, bats cracked and cheers echoed across the diamond as another season of youth baseball got underway in Rancho Cordova.

Rancho Cordova Little League (RCLL) celebrated Opening Day on March 7 at Ahlstrom Park, 2425 Zinfandel Drive, bringing together nearly 500 young athletes and their families to kick off the league’s 72nd season.

The morning began at 9 a.m. with the league’s traditional team parade and opening ceremony, which ran through 10:30 a.m. Players in colorful jerseys marched onto the field with their teammates, coaches and banners while parents and supporters filled the stands.

Coffee, donuts, league swag and snack bar specials were also available for families attending the event.

Dinger, of the River Cats, gives the players a high five during the Opening Day celebration.

This season, Rancho Cordova Little League includes 40 teams and approximately 478 players across multiple divisions, according to league President Cassie Reyes.

“Opening Day brought together players, families, coaches and volunteers from across the community to kick off what promises to be another exciting season,” Reyes said.

During the ceremony, league leaders reflected on the organization’s long-standing role in the community and recognized the volunteers and sponsors who support the program.

“As we proudly opened our 72nd season of Rancho Cordova Little League, we took time to recognize the incredible community partnerships and volunteers that make the league possible,” Reyes said. “To our sponsors and community supporters, your generosity fuels our programs, supports our improvements, and allows us to create lasting memories. To our volunteers, you are the backbone of this league. Your energy and commitment are what make this organization thrive.”

Four-year-old Emiliano Aranda throws the opening pitch to 14-year-old Jesse Baishiki-Ma.

Reyes also highlighted the work of the league’s volunteer board of directors, who oversee operations throughout the year.

“Our Board of Directors serve entirely as volunteers and remained focused on protecting the integrity of our league and strengthening our systems for the future,” Reyes said. “Their countless hours behind the scenes reflect the heart, resilience and dedication that define our league.”

Reyes also shared a message for the players and families beginning the season.

“To our players: this is your season. You are here to learn, to grow, to challenge yourselves, and to have fun,” Reyes said. “There will be wins and losses, great plays and learning moments, but every practice, every inning, every cheer from the stands is part of something bigger. And to our families, let’s remember why we’re here. Let’s remember why we’re here. Let’s cheer loudly, model good sportsmanship, support our coaches and umpires and create an environment where every child feels encouraged and valued. The lessons learned here extend far beyond baseball,” said Reyes.

League President Cassie Reyes reads the Little League Pledge to the players, coaches, families and friends.

Following the ceremony, the celebration continued with a Hit-a-Thon fundraiser from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., where players took swings to raise money for league improvements and programs.

Several players and teams stood out during the fundraiser.

The National Marlins earned the title of top fundraising team, raising $4,979 and winning a team pizza party. Kent K. was the top individual fundraiser with $2,690 raised, earning a Nintendo Switch 2. King A. placed second with $2,105 raised and won a gift card for a custom glove, while Grayson R. finished third with $1,400 raised and received a gift card to Bruce Bolt.

“Seeing the players take pride in supporting their league and helping improve the experience for everyone was incredibly inspiring,” Reyes said.

The Rancho Cordova Little League Board of Directors pose for a group shot during the Opening Day ceremony.

League officials say the program continues to grow as families remain actively involved.

“This season has continued to build on the progress and growth we’ve worked hard to achieve,” Reyes said. “The continued engagement from families and community partners has helped reinforce that Rancho Cordova Little League remains a central part of the community.”

The season is now underway with a full schedule of games and events planned at the fields throughout the spring.

“Opening Day is always special because it marks the beginning of months of memories for our players,” Reyes said. “Whether that’s their first hit, their first catch, or simply the joy of being part of a team. Together, we are stronger. Together, we are united. Together, we are RCLL.”

Dinger helped hand out ceremonial bats to all the 2025 All Star players.