The opening ceremony of Baseball & Softball in Paradise brought an international baseball community together at Pos Chiquito Ballpark, with a welcome to Aruba, a ceremonial first pitch and the unmistakable sounds of Carnival.
Teams from Mexico, Curaçao, the Netherlands, the United States, the Czech Republic, Bonaire and Aruba gathered to celebrate the start of the tournament’s sixth edition.
A warm welcome to Aruba
Shurty Tremus welcomed everyone to Aruba for the tournament, setting the tone for an event that brings players, coaches and families from different countries together through their love of the game.
The ceremony offered a moment to celebrate that international connection before the competition began.
Antwone Kelly returns to throw the first pitch
Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Antwone Kelly delivered the ceremonial first pitch, adding a special connection to the tournament’s history.
Kelly participated in the first edition of Baseball in Paradise. His return to the event as a Major League pitcher made the moment especially meaningful—a former participant coming back to help welcome another generation of players.
TBS Brassband brings the Carnival spirit
TBS Brassband brought Aruba’s Carnival music to the ballpark and had everyone dancing, turning the opening ceremony into a celebration that extended beyond baseball.
The music gave visiting teams a taste of Aruba’s festive spirit while bringing the international delegations together.
With its opening ceremony complete, Baseball & Softball in Paradise begins another edition built around competition, friendship and a shared passion for the game.
One game, one dream, one paradise.
