Rapid City, SD – The Canyon Lake Little League marked the start of its season Saturday morning with opening ceremonies featuring the dedication of Ellis Field, formerly known as Timberline Field. The newly named field honors former Major League Baseball player Mark Ellis, who began his baseball journey on this very diamond within the local league. Ellis flew from Seattle for the dedication.
A highlight of the ceremony was the ceremonial first pitch, thrown by Mark Ellis to Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun.
Addressing players, coaches, and parents, Ellis expressed his sincere appreciation for the honor of having the field renamed. “I’m glad they are naming it Ellis Field and not Mark Ellis Field,” he remarked. “My parents made a huge impact on my career.”
Ellis played in Rapid City including a National Championship winning Post 22 and made it to Major League Baseball from 2002-2014, primarily in the Athletics but also with Rockies, Cardinals, and Dodgers.
The dedication of Ellis Field stands as a powerful symbol for the young players embarking on their season. It serves as a reminder that local fields can be the starting point for significant achievements. The opening day ceremony also included team introductions, a parade of players, pinning of 12 year olds, singing of the national anthem; building excitement for the season ahead with a shared passion for baseball.
