30 WEEKLY MAY
VOL 2 • NO. 19
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BALDWIN CITY BLUES: A INSIDE CITY-WIDE CORNERSTONE OF COMMUNITY p.2 GARAGE SALE LISTINGS!! AND BASEBALL EXCELLENCE management and coaching staff. Owner and General Manager Michael Moore, a cornerstone of the team since its inception, works tirelessly each season to assemble a roster of talented and principled young men. The team is managed by Tanner Kilmer, a former state champion from Lawrence High School and a standout collegiate player. Tanner, who also serves as the associate head coach for Baker University, was named the 2023 MidPlains League Manager of the Year. His father, Wilson Kilmer, brings a wealth of experience as an All-American player and long-time assistant coach at the University of Kansas. The Baldwin City Blues players take the karaoke stage at the 2024 Ice Cream Social on May 22, 2024.
The Baldwin City Blues, a pillar of the local community and a beacon of baseball excellence, have carved out a notable legacy since their humble beginnings. Initially formed as a neighborhood coach-pitch team in the Johnson County Parks and Recreation League, the Blues have grown into a formidable force in the Mid-Plains League, with a storied history and a bright future.
From Humble Beginnings to League Champions
The Baldwin City Blues’ journey began in local parks, where young players first took to the diamond. Their entry into the historic Ban Johnson League in 2012 marked a turning point, as the Blues quickly
garnered respect and made history by becoming the youngest team in the league’s 85-year history to clinch the title. This early success set the stage for further achievements and growth. In 2014, the team relocated to Baldwin City, Kansas, and played a pivotal role in establishing the Mid-Plains League. With Michael Moore as the General Manager and Chris Faddis as Team Manager, the Blues found their new home at Baker University’s Sauder Field, a partnership that has flourished ever since.
Home Field Advantage
The Blues play their home games at the field located at 100 Bullpup Dr, adjacent to the Intermediate Center, which also serves the local high school team. This facility offers a close-knit and accessible venue for fans to enjoy high-quality baseball.
Building a Competitive Roster
Michael Moore’s extensive network of college coaches nationwide allows the Blues to recruit players who are not only skilled but also embody the values of dignity, pride, and hard work. Each spring, the goal is to build a competitive team that will represent Baldwin City with honor.
Leadership and Management
The heart and soul of the Baldwin City Blues lie in their dedicated
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