Montpelier is unique for so many reasons, including the endless recreation opportunities in and around the city. One of the many hidden gems in this town includes the historic grandstand and baseball field at the recreation area on Elm Street. Central Vermont has a deep history with baseball dating back to the turn of the century, around 1900. Our local team the Mountaineers, as a part of the NECBL (New England Collegiate Baseball League), began in 2003. Student-athletes compete all summer long in professional level games in teams across six New England states, bringing communities together to enjoy baseball at its finest. Many collegiate players from the NECBL, including the Mountaineers, move on to professional baseball after completing their summer seasons. The Mountaineers are proof that small towns can dream big!
We asked Brian Gallagher, the current Mountaineers team manager, a few questions about this season and what the prospects are as the team heads into the playoffs.
Can you tell us a bit about how the season has gone? How does it compare with previous years?
It started out great with an 8 game winning streak, then one loss, and then a 9 game winning streak! We have had a tough stretch after the Major League Draft took two top players, and then 4 all-stars were injured, as well as two other regular players…all within one week!
What else is special or unique about this year's season and players?
We had the most all-star players in the league, the best record to date and we had a combined no-hitter on opening night!
We noticed a special event coming up with Chad Hollister's band. Can you tell us about that?
We are looking forward to having a concert at Barr Hill on September 24th. This will be a lot of fun and will be our major off-season fundraiser. Chad Hollister is a member of the Mountaineers’ board of directors and this is his way of giving back to help us raise funds for the 2023 season.
When does the season end and what is the goal for this year?
We always hope to win a championship, and that last game could be played as late as August 12th.
On Friday, the Vermont Mountaineers tied the New England Collegiate Baseball League record for wins in a single season by defeating the Keene Swamp Bats. The Mountaineers tied a 12-year old record set by the Newport Gulls in 2006, meeting one the team’s goals for the season!
Vermont clinched a first-round bye of the 2022 NECBL postseason. Their first playoff series starts Tuesday, August 2nd at home. For the playoff schedule and info, visit the Mountaineers website: http://pointstreaksites.com/view/thevermontmountaineers.