Commissioner’s Message – 2026 Season Former Winchester Royals Alumni, 1979 VBL Champions Rick Furr Commissioner, Valley Baseball League

As we prepare to welcome the 2026 season of the Valley Baseball League, I want to begin with gratitude.

First, to the outstanding college baseball players who have chosen to spend their summer with us — thank you. You represent some of the finest young talent in the country, and we are honored you’ve selected the Valley as your summer home. You will compete at a high level, grow as athletes and as men, and become part of something that is bigger than baseball.

To our incredible host families — you are the heart of our league. Opening your homes, providing meals, transportation, encouragement, and support is a commitment that goes far beyond hospitality. You provide stability and a sense of family for our players during the most important developmental months of their careers. Quite simply, our league would not exist without you.

To our loyal fans — thank you for filling our ballparks, supporting our teams, and making summer nights in the Shenandoah Valley something special. Your energy, traditions, and community pride are what set this league apart.

To our volunteers — from ticket takers and scoreboard operators to broadcasters, concession workers, and board members, your commitment ensures every game night runs smoothly and at a championship level.

To our alumni, businesses, donors, and community partners — thank you for investing in the future of this league. Your support allows us to maintain high standards and provide opportunities for young athletes. We are proud that over 1,000 players have gone on to professional baseball.

Baseball in the Shenandoah Valley is more than a game — it is an economic driver and a community asset. Our league reaches more than 969,471 consumers across our markets.

During the summer months, our region becomes one of the most active tourism destinations in Virginia. Shenandoah National Park draws approximately 270,000 out-of-state visitors in June and July alone. Across the Valley, the region welcomes an estimated 400,000 to 600,000 visitors during peak summer months.

Summer is our most dynamic season. Families travel, outdoor recreation peaks, and communities come alive with festivals, events, and July 4th celebrations.

Valley Baseball League games provide something uniquely authentic: affordable, family-friendly entertainment rooted in community pride.

Baseball strengthens our communities in meaningful ways:

• It strengthens civic pride.

• It supports small businesses.

• It provides internships and leadership opportunities.

• It keeps families engaged locally during peak tourism months.

• It showcases our region to future residents and supporters.

In a region defined by natural beauty and historic communities, the Valley Baseball League represents summer at its best.

Together — players, host families, fans, volunteers, alumni, donors, and business partners — we will continue building a league that reflects the very best of the Shenandoah Valley.

Thank you for your support of this league, your support of our teams, and for making the Valley Baseball League a summer tradition.

Here is to an outstanding 2026 season.

Rick Furr
Commissioner, Valley Baseball League