J. Whitman Clark,
Communications manager
Opening day is a phrase that brings optimism for fans across every sport throughout the entire country. But for those who live in the baseball universe, opening day is not just a day on the calendar, it’s a national holiday. For those of us in the summer ball sector, opening day is a couple months late, but just as exciting as those of late March.
A lot is new for the Commodores this season. A new coach, one with World Series winning experience. A new GM, with drive for success, and per usual, a new team. However, there is still a familiar face or two around Fuller field, most of which believe the ‘Dores are sitting pretty heading into Saturday’s season opener in Chatham. Just ask Ashley Matter when you see her at the field. Our second year lead social media intern from Texas A&M had this to say when asked about what was different heading into this season was, “We’ve gotten a lot closer, especially on the intern side. It’s kind of the same around coaches and players as well.” That kind of camaraderie being built through the organization, from top to bottom, will only play out well for everyone involved.
As for the baseball side of things, first-time CCBL coach and Commodore assistant Beau McMillan says he’s, “excited to get things going.” He mentioned a bit of what he believes makes the league special, saying, “(It’s) just the fans, the kids, it’s really just a slice of Americana from what I’ve heard.” But that seems to be the common theme around town, and throughout the Cape in its entirety. This league was built on the back of the community, mostly by way of volunteers. The Commodores board of directors, along with President Bob Curtis, have devoted countless hours to the team without a single penny to show for it. It just goes to show what this team means to those in Falmouth, and the players and interns from around the country in which the team has played a role for.
But anyway, back to baseball. The Commodores are looking to reach the playoffs this season, something they did not do in 2024; however, the bar has been set much higher. The team hopes to capture its first championship since 1980. Among many people experiencing their first in Falmouth, General Manager Paul Aries has not only taken the reins for the first time but is doing so while looking to usher in a new era for the team. But you can’t officially do that until it’s time to play the games. Aries’ answer when asked what he was most looking forward to sums up not only the feelings of the Falmouth faithful, but of fans of the sport everywhere: Baseball. In one word, he managed to perfectly capture the emotions from everyone that has spent the past days, weeks, and months gearing up for another season.
With that being said, there’s only one thing left to do: hop on the bus, head east to Chatham, and play ball. We hope to see you there.
