Dreams come true

Dreams come true

What's it like to throw out the first pitch at a Brewers game? Just ask Linda McCulloch, Montana's secretary of state.

"It's a dream come true," said McCulloch, who got the honor of starting off the Helena pro baseball season with the ceremonial toss Tuesday evening at Kindrick Legion Field. "It was such fun. I've always dreamed of doing this."

McCulloch was on hand along with a near-capacity crowd to take in the opening-day festivities at the storied ballpark. She wasn't there just for the pitch, though. She, like the rest, was there to take in a baseball game, something she said she has enjoyed for years.

"We're outside, it's a sunny day," McCulloch, said, smiling. "And we have great players from all around that love to play the game."

Father-son combos dotted the park, as well. Daryl Reed brought his 10-year-old son, Preston, back to the park for another season.

"We just love the small town, being close to the players," said Daryl, while Preston nodded. "We like to see the new pitchers, the high draft picks."

Blue and gold Brewers supporters nearly covered the recently painted grandstands; baseball still thrives in the Queen City.

Two fans who clearly wanted in on the action were 7-year-old Jacob Allen Spencer and his little brother, Caleb, 4.

Caleb spent time in the aisles during the game, practicing his form with a miniature blue bat and catcher's mitt. Jacob, whose favorite Brewers player is Derrick Alphonso, paid more attention to the on-field happenings as he enjoyed a fudgesicle.

Michelle Moore, performing her duties as "Nana" for the Spencer brothers, also enjoys the game.

"I've always loved baseball," Moore said. "I just love being outside and watching the game."

The Brewers' homestand continues through the week, with games starting at 7:05 p.m. at Kindrick tonight and Thursday. On Friday, Helena will travel to Missoula for another three games against the Osprey.

Original URL: http://helenair.com/news/local/dreams-come-true/article_0b049d2e-b489-5dde-867d-ded5ddce85a4.html