CHARLESTON, W.Va. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) last night attended the West Virginia Power’s Opening Game where she threw out the first pitch. Since the news broke that West Virginia was in jeopardy of losing all four minor league affiliates, Senator Capito has worked together with each affiliate, community and civic leaders, MLB and MiLB, and other state and local officials to ensure baseball remains in West Virginia.
“The West Virginia Power baseball team is such an important part of our Charleston community. West Virginia’s rich tradition of baseball is no secret and I’m thrilled it’s continuing across our state in Bluefield, Princeton, Morgantown, and of course right here in Charleston this year,” Senator Capito said.
BACKGROUND:
In October 2019, Baseball America first reported that a potential contraction of Minor League Baseball affiliates was being considered. The New York Times subsequently published a list a few weeks later indicating three of West Virginia’s four affiliates were on the cut list, and there was no guarantee for the fourth. This meant that Morgantown, Charleston, Bluefield, and Princeton would be the home of empty ballparks and local communities would be left without baseball for the 2021 season.
From the very start, Senator Capito had conversations with each affiliate, community and civic leaders, MLB and MiLB, and her colleagues. After letters and legislation, numerous calls, and close collaboration, baseball is officially being played in all four West Virginia cities this season.
To read Senator Capito’s full statement on the return to baseball in Charleston, click here.
U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) throws out the first pitch at the West Virginia Power season opener in Charleston, W.Va. on Friday, May 28, 2021. Video of the pitch can be found here.
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