Play Ball

Groton, CT (April 24, 2004) – Jonathan Montafia, the catcher for the Orioles, awaits the first pitch thrown by Capt. James E. Ratte Jr., Naval Submarine Base New London commanding officer, on opening day of the Dolphin Community Little League season Saturday. The DolCom Little League, made up of 28 teams in three divisions – T-ball, softball and baseball – will play until approximately mid-June. During his opening remarks, U.S. Representative Rob Simmons (2nd District) asked for a moment of silence to honor the military members serving overseas, and to remember those who gave their lives in defense of freedom, such as former NFL safety Pat Tillman who gave up a lucrative contract with the Arizona Cardinals to join the Army. Tillman was killed in combat in Afghanistan last week. Simmons concluded his remarks with the familiar ballpark cheer: “Play Ball!”