Idaho may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of baseball, but the sport has a rich history and a growing presence in the state. From youth leagues to college teams to minor league professionals, there are plenty of opportunities for fans and players to enjoy America’s pastime in Idaho.
For those new to the sport or unfamiliar with Idaho’s baseball scene, a guide can be helpful in navigating the different leagues, teams, and resources available. This guide will provide an overview of baseball in Idaho, including information on college programs, scholarships, local teams, and resources for beginners.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan, a curious newcomer, or a player looking to take your skills to the next level, this guide will offer valuable insights and resources to help you get the most out of baseball in Idaho.
History of Baseball in Idaho
Early Years
Idaho has a long and rich baseball history, dating back to 1867 when the first recorded baseball game was played in Lewiston between the local Lewis and Clark College nine and a team from Fort Vancouver. Informal baseball leagues started to form in the 1840s, and the first teams began to agree upon rules of play. One of these early teams was the New York Knickerbockers. Although they didn’t invent baseball, they are credited with the first set of Baseball rules.
Idaho’s first professional team was the Boise Irrigation team, which began play in the short-lived Intermountain League in 1903. The team played in a wooden ballpark called Athletic Park, which was located on the site of the current-day Boise High School.
Growth and Development
Over the years, baseball in Idaho has grown and developed, with many amateur and professional teams playing throughout the state. Boise has had many amateur, semi-pro, and professional teams throughout its history, including the Boise Gems, the Boise Hawks, and the Boise Pilots. The Idaho Falls Chukars, a minor league baseball team, have been playing in Idaho Falls since 1940. The team has been affiliated with several Major League Baseball teams over the years, including the Kansas City Royals and the San Diego Padres.
Today, baseball continues to be a popular sport in Idaho, with many youth leagues, high school teams, and adult leagues playing throughout the state. Idaho also has several baseball fields and parks, including Melaleuca Field in Idaho Falls, Memorial Stadium in Boise, and Hawks Memorial Stadium in Boise.
Idaho Baseball Teams
Idaho may not be the first state that comes to mind when thinking of baseball, but it has a rich baseball history and is home to several amateur and professional baseball teams.
Amateur Teams
Idaho has several amateur baseball teams, including high school and college teams. Some of the notable high school teams include the Boise Braves, Boise Hawks, and Bonneville Bees. The Boise Hawks are a particularly strong team, having won several state championships in recent years.
As for college teams, Idaho is home to the Boise State Broncos, the College of Southern Idaho Golden Eagles, and the Lewis-Clark State Warriors. The Lewis-Clark State Warriors are a particularly successful team, having won 19 NAIA National Championships.
Professional Teams
Idaho has only a few professional baseball teams, but they are still beloved by fans. The Boise Hawks are the state’s only Minor League Baseball team, playing in the Pioneer League. They are affiliated with the Colorado Rockies.
Another professional team in Idaho is the Idaho Falls Chukars, also a Minor League Baseball team. They play in the Pioneer League and are affiliated with the Kansas City Royals.
Finally, Idaho is home to the Treasure Valley Spartans, a semi-professional baseball team that plays in the Boise area. They are part of the Rocky Mountain Baseball League and play against other semi-professional teams in the region.
Famous Idaho Baseball Players
Idaho may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of baseball, but it has produced some notable players over the years. Here are a few of the most famous baseball players from Idaho:
| Name | Position | Teams | Years Active |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harmon Killebrew | 1B, 3B, LF, OF | Washington Senators/Minnesota Twins, Kansas City Royals | 1954-1975 |
| Larry Jackson | SP | St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs, Philadelphia Phillies | 1955-1968 |
| Jerry Johnson | RP | Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, Cleveland Indians, Kansas City Royals | 1968-1977 |
| Mike Fetters | RP | California Angels, Milwaukee Brewers, Oakland Athletics, Baltimore Orioles, Los Angeles Dodgers, Pittsburgh Pirates, Arizona Diamondbacks | 1989-2004 |
Harmon Killebrew is perhaps the most famous baseball player to come out of Idaho. Born in Payette, Killebrew played for the Washington Senators/Minnesota Twins and the Kansas City Royals over a 22-year career. He was a 13-time All-Star and won the American League MVP award in 1969. Killebrew was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1984.
Larry Jackson, born in Nampa, was a starting pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs, and Philadelphia Phillies from 1955 to 1968. He was a two-time All-Star and won 194 games over his career.
Jerry Johnson, born in Boise, was a relief pitcher for the Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, Cleveland Indians, and Kansas City Royals from 1968 to 1977. He had a career ERA of 3.77 and recorded 28 saves.
Mike Fetters, born in Van Nuys, California but raised in Spokane, Washington, played for seven different teams over a 16-year career as a relief pitcher. He recorded 100 saves and had a career ERA of 3.86.
Baseball Stadiums in Idaho
Idaho is home to several baseball stadiums, each with its unique features and history. Here are some of the most notable baseball stadiums in Idaho:
| Stadium Name | Location | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Halliwell Park | Pocatello | 2,580 |
| Wolfe Field Baseball Stadium | Caldwell | N/A |
| Memorial Stadium | Boise | 3,452 |
| Melaleuca Field | Idaho Falls | N/A |
Halliwell Park in Pocatello is a popular destination for sports fans in the area. It was once the home of the Pocatello Giants, a minor-league baseball team. The stadium has a seating capacity of 2,580 people.
Wolfe Field Baseball Stadium in Caldwell is one of the premier venues to watch baseball in the Gem State. It was constructed in 2009 as a joint partnership between the City of Caldwell and the College of Idaho.
Memorial Stadium in Boise is the home field of the Boise Hawks of the independent Pioneer League. The stadium has a current seating capacity of 3,452 on land owned by Ada County, adjacent to the Western Idaho Fairgrounds on the banks of the Boise River.
Melaleuca Field in Idaho Falls is primarily used for baseball and is the home field of the Idaho Falls Chukars independent Minor League Baseball team. It was built during the Pioneer League 2006-07 off-season.
Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for a fun outing with friends and family, Idaho’s baseball stadiums offer something for everyone. From historic venues to modern facilities, these stadiums provide a unique and exciting atmosphere to watch America’s favorite pastime.
Baseball Leagues in Idaho
Amateur Leagues
Idaho has several amateur baseball leagues that cater to both youth and adult players. One of the most popular amateur leagues in the state is the Idaho Club Baseball League.
This league facilitates competitive baseball leagues and tournaments for existing “club/travel” teams based in Boise, Idaho, to help grow the quality of baseball in Southern Idaho. Idaho Club Baseball is not affiliated with any team, club, or league, and they welcome all teams.
Another amateur league is the South East Idaho Amateur Baseball League (SEIABL). This men’s adult baseball league connects great athletes across South Eastern Idaho to play the game they love. SEIABL hosts competitive, fun, family-friendly baseball games.
There are also several youth baseball leagues in Idaho, including the Idaho Baseball Academy, which offers year-round training and development for young baseball players. The academy provides a positive learning environment for players of all skill levels, with programs designed to develop fundamental skills, physical fitness, and mental toughness.
Professional Leagues
Idaho does not have any professional baseball teams, but the state does have a collegiate summer baseball league. The Idaho Competitors Collegiate League offers collegiate baseball players ranging from NCAA Division I to community college the opportunity to play summer ball. The league is open to all players who are interested in playing baseball and developing their skills. Overall, Idaho has a thriving baseball community with several amateur leagues and a collegiate summer league that provides opportunities for players to develop their skills and compete at a high level.
Conclusion
Idaho may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about baseball, but the state has a rich baseball history and a thriving baseball community. From youth leagues to college teams, there are plenty of opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels to enjoy America’s favorite pastime.
One of the best ways to get involved in baseball in Idaho is through the NCSA Idaho Baseball athletic scholarships portal. This platform connects student-athletes with top college coaches and teams, increasing their chances of securing a partially subsidized education to play baseball in college.
For collegiate players looking to continue playing baseball over the summer, Idaho’s Competitors Collegiate League offers a unique opportunity. This league is open to players ranging from NCAA Division I to community college, providing a chance to hone their skills and compete against other talented players.
But baseball in Idaho isn’t just for college players. The state is also home to numerous youth leagues and high school teams, giving young players the chance to learn the game and develop their skills.
And for fans of the sport, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a game and cheer on their favorite teams. Overall, while Idaho may not be known as a baseball powerhouse, the state’s baseball community is thriving and offers plenty of opportunities for players and fans alike to enjoy the game.
