The Wizard back in shape, leading annual clinic

COOPERSTOWN, N.Y. — This was the 15th consecutive year that Hall of Fame shortstop Ozzie Smith led his “Play Ball with Ozzie” clinic.

The fundraiser that included a group of 42 kids began bright and early Friday morning on an all-dirt Little League-sized infield behind the Clark Sports Center.

2016 Hall of Fame Inductions Watch live coverage of Sunday’s Hall of Fame inductions on MLB Network and MLB.com starting at 11 a.m. ET.

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As always, it’s the first event of Hall of Fame Induction Weekend, and each year, it involves a different group of Hall of Famers as The Wizard’s supporting cast. This year, Ken Griffey Jr. and Mike Piazza will be inducted into the Hall on Sunday. Coverage of the inductions will begin on MLB Network and MLB.com at 11 a.m. ET, with the ceremonies beginning live at 1:30 p.m. ET.

And this year, Smith was aided by fellow inductees Rich “Goose” Gossage, Craig Biggio and John Smoltz. For the latter pair, it’s their first return to this little hamlet on the banks of Lake Otsego since they were inducted last year.

Smith has recovered enough from a lower back injury to again spearhead the project.

“It’s all about raising money and keeping a connection with the fans, and I think it’s a great way to do it,” said Smith, the longtime wizard of a defensive shortstop for the Padres and Cardinals who was inducted in 2002. “What we try to do every year is bring somebody different out and give the fans a chance to meet them more on a personal level.”

As far as the fundraising aspect of it goes, a Hall official said Friday’s session would raise $30,000. The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is a nonprofit organization, and that money is much needed for the Hall’s education and intern projects.

Smith has long been one of the most giving …

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