Lewes Base Ball Club set to play ball in 2020

The Lewes Base Ball Club is set to play ball for its 10th season in 2020. The club always welcomes new players, and those interested in playing are welcome to attend an informational meeting at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 25, at Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats in Rehoboth Beach.

Information about the upcoming season schedule, membership, practices and expanded programming will be reviewed. The Lewes Base Ball Club welcomes players of any ability over the age of 18, and the only criteria to join is a willingness to enjoy baseball and play in games, have fun and help Lewes enjoy vintage baseball and the history of baseball in the Cape Region. For those who can't get on the field, opportunities also exist to keep score, umpire and do field setup.

Playing baseball by 1864 rules, the club teaches 19th century sportsmanship, and what athletic and leisure time activities were undertaken in 19th and early 20th century Lewes, as well as how baseball brought the community together. Key differences in rules of 1864 compared to today include: No fielding gloves were permitted; the ball could be caught on bounce for an out; the pitcher delivered the ball underhand; if there was going to be a close play at first base, the runner could not "run through" the bag; and foul balls do not count as strikes. Many aspects are the same, including nine players to a side, 90 feet between bases, 9-inning games, and three outs to an inning – not to mention that base ball was indeed spelled as two words.

The team plays matches in the Mid-Atlantic Vintage Base Ball League and has traveled as far and wide as Cooperstown, N.Y., and Gettysburg, Pa., to play in matches and tournaments.  

For more information about the club, contact lewesbaseball@gmail.com.