The brand-new Chelsea RBI League, under the direction of the Jordan Boys and Girls Club (JBGC), held its Opening Day ceremonies April 27 on the baseball field at the Mary C. Burke School Complex.
Former Boston Red Sox pitcher Manny Delcarmen, who was a member of the 2007 World Series championship team, threw out the first baseball of the season. Delcarmen grew up in Hyde Park and starred for the West Roxbury High School baseball team.
“I just want to say there’s nothing better than being a great player and just putting in 100 percent and trying your hardest,” Delcarmen told the young athletes. “But it’s also very important to be a good teammate. So, if you see a teammate that’s down and not doing too well, always pick them up, because that’s how winning teams win, just picking each other up and the same goal is to win a championship. I got a chance to do that in 2007. Have fun, respect the game, and love your parents. This game is the best game in the world but have fun.”
JBGC Club Teen Director John Montes delivered the opening remarks, welcoming the baseball players to the program for students in grades 4-6. Executive Director Gina Centrella was also in attendance at the ceremonies.
Councilor-at-Large Leo Robinson, a longtime supporter of youth sports in the city, spoke at the ceremony, commending the Jordan Boys and Girls Club for organizing the league and giving students an opportunity to play baseball in Chelsea. Robinson stressed to the players the importance of working hard in the classroom.
Aneury Pichardo, Youth Baseball and Softball Program Manager for the Boston Red Sox Foundation, wished the players good luck in the 2024 season. “We’re really proud to support you today,” said Pichardo.
“It’s a beautiful day for the beautiful game,” said JBGC Athletic Director Taylor Mallett. “Thank you for all being here. It means a lot to us and definitely to the kids.”
Montes thanked the “city’s building and grounds management, especially Douglas Pena and Anibal Santiago,” for its diligent efforts in getting the field ready for the baseball season. He also thanked Executive Director Gina Centrella (“who leads by example,”) Marilyn Vega and Kelly Garcia for their support of the new baseball program.