Dusty Baker International Baseball Academy

The Dusty Baker International Baseball Academy completed its 25th season on July 27th with a strong turnout of local youths. One of the local coaches was Christian Skelly of Rio Americano High School, and two of the participants from Carmichael were Jimmy Boras and Matt Mascuzzio.

The camp was held at two sites this year, Hagan Park in Rancho Cordova and Capitol Christian Center in Sacramento. The split sites allowed more flexibility in the coaching exercises and drills and more one-on-one time for specialized coaching techniques. There were over 100 participants in this year’s training camps.

Dave Stewart and Jim Barr were among the twelve former major leaguers and veteran group of top-flight coaches providing instruction to student groups ages 9-20. Other coaches included Lloyd Moseby, Roland Office, Bob Oliver, Hal Steinback, Rich Murtray, Jalal Leach, Bruce Carmichael and Cordova High School Coach Guy Anderson.

This was a fantastic learning experience and training program for all the young baseball players. Many young pitchers received direct coaching from both Dave Stewart, former ace of the Oakland A’s and Jim Barr, a team record holder for the San Francisco Giants.

Approximately 5800 of the 7900 previous academy participants have moved on to high school, college or professional baseball. Active outstanding graduates are current major leaguers Geoff Jenkins, Derek Lee, Darren Oliver and the 2007 Cy Award winner Carsten “C.C.” Sabathia.

Dusty Baker and the Academy wish to thank their many sponsors including; Raley’s, Blue Diamond Almonds, Coca-Cola, Holiday Inn of Rancho Cordova, Goodline Sports, Schutt Sports, Easton Sports, Rawlings, Capitol Christian Center, the American River Messenger, the Carmichael Times and all the others who helped make this year’s camp another success.

For a brochure, or to find out about next year’s camp, call Bruce Carmichael at 1-530-644-3067, or E-Mail: bdcarmichael@sbcglobal.net. Visit Dusty’s website at www.dustybaker.com