June 30, 2016 - Baseball players with the Elmhurst Little League at Mason Park, 5800 Mason Dr., will soon have new green screens at the diamonds as a way to improve the game experience for players, umpires, and fans. In addition, batting cage screens and netting will be upgraded to make batting practice safer for players and coaches.

Installation work is taking place this week. The project is a result of a partnership between the City of Fort Wayne and the Fort Wayne TinCaps through the Play Ball initiative, a joint effort between the United States Conference of Mayors, Major League Baseball, and Minor League Baseball. 

“This is a great opportunity to give back and make a meaningful difference for young people in our community,” said Mayor Tom Henry. “We’re a caring and giving City with a commitment to being a quality of life leader and providing amenities for everyone to enjoy.”

“We’re honored to take part in a fun project to enhance experiences for baseball players as we want to encourage positive growth and sportsmanship in a competitive learning environment,” said Mike Nutter, president, Fort Wayne TinCaps. “We’re fortunate to be part of a community that values baseball and helping others.”

Play Ball focuses on the fun nature of baseball and encourages widespread participation in related activities. Mayors across the country are implementing the initiative with the goal of strengthening the connection between communities and baseball.

The City and TinCaps are encouraging families and individuals to find time to play catch, run bases in the backyard, and implement baseball activities into family gatherings.