Though many expected a rainout, the sun rose brightly over Jim Martin Field on Saturday, April 2 — just in time for the Jim Martin Inaugural Alumni Game. 

Pirates baseball players and fans believe it would have made Martin happy to see former Pirates players of all ages getting together to play once a year with their old coaches and teammates, and this day would not disappoint.

Enough current and former Vashon players turned out for this game to field two teams. Coach Hall even donned catcher’s gear for a couple of innings, and Tyler Bernheisel mowed down batters of all ages. The unquestioned play of the day went to Ben Hanusa, with his diving catch in left field. Hanusa (class of 2007) proved he still has what it takes to be a Pirate. 

Other noteworthy performances were made by pitchers Justin Calhoun, Chris Allman and Micah Deibell (Class of 2008), Matt Amick (Class of 2010) and Greg Applegate (Class of 2003).  Lester Gannaw (Class of 2007) demonstrated his trademark first baseman’s lunge. 

Island “celebrity chefs” Rick Powelson and Chris Ott came out of retirement to feed everybody at the barbeque, and the day ended with a raffle drawing for Mariners tickets, a Dan Wilson autographed game ball, and Pirates Baseball sweatshirts.  

The real prize of the day, however, was the chance for Pirates to visit with old friends — both players and families — involved with VHS baseball over many years.

— Rita Allman does Web and team support for the Pirates. 

Pirates baseball games scheduled last week were all cancelled due to rain. The next games are scheduled for 4 p.m. Friday, April 8, at Cashmere High School, and 11 a.m. Saturday, April 9, at Chelan High School.