LENEXA, Kan. — This weekend marks the return of youth baseball at 3&2 Baseball Club complexes in Johnson County.
The Big League Chew Summer Slam kicked off Friday.
Typically, the tournament welcomes 250 teams from all over the country, but this weekend 130 local teams will compete due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Earlier this week, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly put reopening plans into the hands of individual counties. While Johnson County officials are encouraging people to follow her Ad Astra plan, they are not enforcing it.
Jeff Chalk with 3&2 Baseball told 41 Action News when the announcement came, it was too late to get out-of-town teams entered back into the tournament.
Parents who plan on watching their children play this weekend told 41 Action News they're happy to be back out at the ballpark.
“I think that I’m probably more excited than nervous for the baseball tournament this weekend," Suzie Shepherd said. "It’s been an interesting three or so months for everybody, and I know everyone’s had a different experience with it, but I know that for myself and for my son, I know that he’s ready to get on the field. I’m ready to watch him play, ready to see our baseball family, the players and get back out in the sun and fresh air."
The tournament will look different than in years past.
The bleachers at 3&2's complexes will be closed. Fans are encouraged to bring their own seating.
According to the club's website, umpires will not be behind home plate but will call balls and strikes from behind the pitcher's mound.
Handshakes at the end of each game will not be allowed
For a list of 3&2 Baseball's guidelines, click here.
