The Dorchester Baseball Little League kicked off its season last Saturday (April 22) with a parade through Savin Hill that ended at the brand-new Little League field in McConnell Park. More than 550 kids are part of Dorchester Baseball and the Martin Richard Challenger League this year and 100 coaches as well.

Joining League Co-Presidents Charlie Maneikis and Mike Manning on Opening Day were City Councillors Frank Baker and Erin Murphy, who both shared inspiring words about the new field. The guest of honor was former Mayor Marty Walsh, now the executive director of the National Hockey League Players’ Association, who threw out the first pitch before Saturday’s games.

Walsh told the crowd of several hundred that it was coaching Little League at the former Cedar Grove Little League that got him started in his political career.

The guest of honor was former Mayor Marty Walsh, now the executive director of the National Hockey League Players’ Association, who is shown throwing out the first pitch before Saturday’s games began

“That’s where I learned to coach,” he said. “Being part of that league allowed me the opportunity to run for and win state representative, then mayor of Boston, then be named US Secretary of Labor, and now director of the NHL Players’ Association.”

He also thanked the players coached, players who, he said, have now returned as adults to give back and coach kids from the neighborhood. “I’m so proud of you,” Walsh said.

Maneikis said this Opening Day marked the sixth year since the Cedar Grove and Savin Hill Little Leagues merged to become Dorchester Baseball. “We’re proud to stand at this brand-new field,” he said. “Be a good teammate. Respect your coaches and work hard and listen to those at home that love you. Also, don’t forget to do your homework.”

During the ceremony, a moment of silence was held for Jimmy Driscoll and Mary Frances George.

Ivan Feliciano, a third grader, gets some catch in before the Opening Day Parade.

Ellen Moy-Maneikis, Rosalie Manning, and Co-Presidents Mike Manning and Charlie Maneikis

Teammates Sean Conlon, Noah Holt, Brady Robbins, and Gavin Price get ready for a new season.
Seth Daniel photos

Councillors Erin Murphy and Frank Baker were on hand to celebrate Opening Day.

The Fireflies team pauses for a photo with Councillor Erin Murphy.

Ali Gonzalez, 4, gets ready for his first Little League season in T-ball.

The first players to have the honor of running the new basepaths were Brendan Blandino (right) and Colin Holt.