IT feels like there’s been an abundance of milestones reached this year in the Sunraysia Baseball League and the latest one is by Wonderers utility Mo Baldock, who recently clocked up 350 club games.
The 52-year-old says the number of long-term players being recognised this year is testament to the league, which feels like its own tight-knit community down at the Old Aerodrome ovals.
“There’s a massive sense of community and that’s probably what’s kept me playing for as long as I have,” Baldock said.
“I’ve got good friends who play for other teams and after the game we go and get a beer.
“We all integrate even though we stay competitive on the field.”
Baldock began his baseball journey in 1995 when he played a few games after he was invited along by some friends.
“Pretty much after that year I tried to play every game moving forward – I was hooked,” he said.
When asked about the highlight of his career, Baldock recalled a weekend close to 20 years ago that included some of the best moments in his life.
“The biggest one for me was the 2004 grand final,” he said.
“My first child was born on Friday early morning, we partied all day Saturday, came down and played on Sunday, played pretty well, and I won MVP in a grand final which we won.
“It was a massive weekend.
“Playing wise, I think that was one of the best games I’ve played.”
In his most recent years – which have included taking up umpiring – Baldock said family involvement had given him a refreshed passion for the sport.
“What brought me back was playing with both of my sons, Logan, 16, and Declan, 14,” he said.
“I came back to coach them and enjoy the sport with them.
“Logan has eclipsed me because he has already made it to the A-grade side.”
Baldock said that while he enjoyed pitching, he took great pride in his ability to play anywhere on the field.
“I’m one of the only guys who in one season played at every position,” he said.
“Last home run I hit was 13 years ago and that was in consecutive weeks.
“I haven’t hit one since.”
Although everyone slows down at a certain point, the continued banter at the club is one factor that has tied into the community-driven league and, although admittedly serious on the field, Baldock has continued to relish that side of it as well.
“They call me ‘The Bricklayer’ because they reckon every time I get on base I build a building while I’m there because it takes me that long to get off,” he said.
