MLB, Scotts giving ballfields a whole new look

Major League Baseball is starting an effort this weekend to increase participation in baseball. One necessary ingredient is a suitable playing field.

On Monday, a joint venture between Scotts Company and Major League Baseball brought Hall of Famer Cal Ripken, Jr., to Ladson, S.C. and Tom Conley Park, beginning a national program involving youth baseball fields across America.

Scotts, the official lawn care company of Major League Baseball since 2010, has titled the program, “It’s good out here” field refurbishment program. Complete field makeovers include new sod on the infield, new fencing, new scoreboards and other needed improvements.

The program will refurbish six fields a year in six Major League markets — starting in Atlanta Braves country near Charleston, S.C..

“The future of our game is really right here in the youth leagues so it’s very important to us,” said Jim Allen, vice president for corporate partnerships with Atlanta Braves. “The fact that Major League Baseball wanted to start this program in Braves country means a lot to us.”

The Cal Ripken Sr. foundation has been involved in the development of youth league fields for several years and was an obvious perfect partner for the MLB and Scotts alignment.

“I’ve always enjoyed the influence I had with the younger guys and when I retired I wanted to help promote the game,” Ripken said. “We’ve been able to do that through the foundation and this is a great opportunity to …

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