The 2017 National Baseball Congress World Series, features a few former Atlanta Braves. One of which was recently spotted taking batting practice in Gwinnett.
A couple of weeks ago, the National Baseball Congress released its participants for the 2017 NBC World Series coming in August. The team most flock to see, is the Kansas Stars that boast a few former Atlanta Braves.
A team made up of former big leaguers, they draw the biggest crowd. The NBC is based out of Wichita, KS. It was formed by Hap Dumont and the first NBC World Series was played in 1935.
"“Thousands of young prospects and ex-major leaguers have played in the tournament, which is still held in the stadium Hap helped build. In the first few decades, most of the teams were either barnstorming semi-pro clubs or town teams sponsored by local factories. The typical star was an ex-professional, and many of the players had also played major league ball.As a result of Hap’s success over the last 82 years, the NBC has helped produce over 800 professional players. The tournament has become a widespread tradition within the city of Wichita, gaining popularity across the country.” – nbcbaseball.com"
That’s just a little bit of what the NBC has been responsible for the last 82 years. This year, the Kansas Stars roster might have some familiar faces to you.
The roster includes former Braves such as Ben Sheets, Adam LaRoche, Dan Uggla, Jonny Gomes, Ryan Langerhans, and of course, Chipper Jones.
You may have seen Jeff’s post about Chipper being in the cage and on the field “helping out” down at Gwinnett. Well, yeah, it was to help out, but it was also a prepping session.
Look who just joined in on some BP, @RealCJ10 himself out here still hitting dingers. A call-up coming soon? pic.twitter.com/YapDjDrZwH
— FOX 5 Sports (@FOX5Sports) July 18, 2017
Yes, Chipper was getting in reps for the NBC World Series. But while he may have looked like he could still rake in the majors, Chipper joked about his time in the cage.
Like riding a bike, only more painful now! https://t.co/nVyr3NnzLz
— Chipper Jones (@RealCJ10) July 18, 2017
Chipper Jones isn’t the only big name or future Hall of Famer to play for the Kansas Stars in 2017. Other former big leaguers are Roy Halladay, Roy Oswalt, Brad Penny, Heath Bell, Brandon Inge, and Koyie Hill.
Here is the complete roster for the Kansas Stars:
- Pitchers: Nate Robertson, Roy Halladay, Joe Nathan, Roy Oswalt, Jake Peavy, Brad Penny, Ben Sheets, Heath Bell, Brett Tomko, Justin Germano, Ryan Kohlmeier, Brian Gordon, Tom Martin, Jeff LaRoche.
- Infielders: Chipper Jones, Adam LaRoche, Dan Uggla, Brandon Inge, Koyie Hill, Jack Wilson, John Buck, Andy LaRoche.
- Outfielders: Jonny Gomes, David Dellucci, Ryan Langerhans.
The World Series actually began on July 22nd. July 29th will be the first chance to see the Kansas Stars.Championship Week runs from 29 July through the Championship game on 6 August.
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As far as where you can see the Stars play, other than in Wichita, you can tune in for live feeds via YouTube at the NBC’s YouTube Channel here.
For more information about the National Baseball Congress and the participants, you can go to their website at https://nbcbaseball.com/.