The national anthem was sung, teams introduced, the ceremonial first pitch tossed to home plate – and the 2017 Babe Ruth baseball season officially got underway on Saturday.

Sunny skies, a breeze and brisk temperatures greeted the young players, their coaches, family and friends for the 8 a.m. opening ceremony at the Hogan-Ennis Park complex on March 11. A full slate of games was scheduled throughout the day and it turned out to be a perfect one for baseball, with temperatures creeping into the 70s.

Escalon Mayor Jeff Laugero served as the emcee, with the National Anthem sung by Kymberly Brouillard, followed by introduction of Escalon City Council members attending, along with the Recreation Commission members and city staff on hand for the event.

Playing ball this season are 15 T-Ball teams, five in the 8 and Under category, eight in the Rookie division, two 10 and Under teams, five Minor teams, two Major teams and two in the 12 and Under, for a total of 39 teams.

All teams, coaches and managers, along with sponsors, were recognized at the event.

Taking her spot behind the plate to handle the first pitch was 2016 10 and Under girls all-star Shelby Wilder, with Miss Escalon 2016 Briana Brasil tossing in the first pitch. Though it went a little wide of the plate, Wilder handled the pitch and then it was time to ‘play ball.’