Baseball team qualifies for national tournament

The Downey Dirt Devils are raising money to compete in two national tournaments.

DOWNEY – The Downey Dirt Devils, a travel baseball team for kids ages 10-12, are fundraising after qualifying to compete in two national tournaments, including a World Series tournament in Florida. The team is coached by Jose Rodriguez, a 2001 Warren High graduate and former professional baseball player. He also coaches the Bears’ JV team.

The Dirt Devils traveled to Northern California over the Presidents’ Day holiday to play in a tournament that would qualify them for the United States Specialty Sports Association’s DeMarini Elite World Series and the Louisville Slugger Major Baseball Championship, which are held in Florida and Texas, respectively.

A total of 12 teams competed, with the Dirt Devils the only team representing Southern California. The Dirt Devils won the championship game, 7-1, earning a birth in the two national tournaments.

“We are very grateful to the Downey community,” the team said in a statement. “Our boys practice at Downey Sports Complex Tuesdays and Thursdays for those interested in seeing the boys in action or if you would just like to say hello.”

The team has started a Go Fund Me page to solicit donations (link on the Patriot’s Facebook page), or call Coach Jose at (562) 244-1661.

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Published: March 5, 2015 - Volume 13 - Issue 47