Little League Opening Day is Saturday

The little boys of summer are back—and some not so little, as well.

Saturday marks the start of baseball season in Lemon Grove with an opening day ceremony and festivities hosted by the Lemon Grove Little League at Monterey Heights Park.

This year promises to be the biggest and best ever, says league president Art Martinez. The mechanical bull returns for brave buckaroos, there’s a rock climbing wall to scale, and a gladiator jousting pit if you feel like getting knocked around.

The event features family friendly games and carnival rides, entertainment, a variety of vendors with goods and services, and plenty of food for every taste.

Lemon Grove Patch will be on hand as well, with balloons and Patch giveaways. Come by the big green tent and say hello to , and sign up to win a Patch gift basket.

Opening Day ceremonies begin at 10 a.m. Festivities run until 3:30 p.m. The is located at 7800 Nichals St., at Glencoe Drive.

Admission is free. An all-day wristband for rides, games and lunch costs $10. There is also a free zone with lots of activities for everyone.

“It’s all about having fun,” Martinez said.

With seven divisions and 26 teams, there are about 414 kids ages 4 to 14 playing ball this year, according to Martinez.

Last year, the Lemon Grove Braves brought home the trophy for being the 2011 TOC Minors Champions, defeating Valley de Oro 7-4.

Local sponsors of the Lemon Grove Little League are , , , , and