MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — American Legion baseball has been canceled in almost half of the states across the country due to the pandemic. But the possibility exists that a condensed regular season can still be salvaged this summer in West Virginia.
On April 7th, World Series and regional play were canceled for the 2020 season. Individual states however were given the opportunity to decide for themselves whether to continue competition up to the state tournament level. To date, 21 states have canceled play entirely.
American Legion State Baseball Chairman Bill Burkett hosted a conference call on May 2 with team leaders across the state. While the West Virginia state tournament will not be contested this year, teams are holding out hope to play a limited regular season beginning around July 1 and concluding around August 8. The preseason practice window for high school sports in West Virginia begins August 3.
Teams are assessing the possibility of playing a 20-25 game regular season with 2 or 3 ‘local pools’ to limit travel and expenses. For example, teams could play up to four games at a particular site over a weekend to maximize opportunities to schedule games.
Any games that could be played would do so in accordance with the Governor’s office and state health officials.
Wheeling was scheduled to host this year’s state tournament. It is likely that Post 1 will have the opportunity to do so in 2021.
American Legion baseball provides players with an opportunity to compete during the summer beyond the end of the high school season. All spring sports throughout West Virginia were canceled in April. College coaches frequently scout Legion games and tournaments as part of their recruiting efforts.
Burkett and team leaders will reconvene on May 16 to further discuss the potential of starting the season.