A Tradition in the Dugout
For 32 years the Ogden Raptors have tapped into the local high school talent pool, hiring students to serve as batboys during each home game. The role goes beyond simply catching stray balls; it involves managing the flow of equipment, keeping the dugout organized, and ensuring the umpire receives fresh baseballs at the right moments.
Current batboys Taelon Voorhees, Jaxton Searle, Gavin Hebdon and John Painter each describe the experience as more than a job — it is a pathway into the world of professional baseball. Gavin Hebdon, the oldest of the group, notes that his grandfather serves as the scoreboard operator, adding a family connection to the ballpark atmosphere.
Evan Parker, the team's field manager, emphasizes that hiring local youth does more than fill a logistical need; it builds a bridge between the club and the community it represents. "We want kids who can relate to the fans and who will grow with the organization," Parker says.
The batboys relish the proximity to professional players and the chance to be part of the game's inner workings. John Painter calls the experience "cool and unique," while Jaxton Searle sees it as an opportunity to deepen his understanding of baseball fundamentals.
Beyond the day‑to‑day tasks, the youngsters express a sense of local pride in supporting the Raptors. Their involvement underscores a broader mission: to embed the team within the fabric of Ogden, creating a shared identity that extends from the stands to the field.
The Raptors' first home stand of the season runs through Sunday afternoon, with a return home June 9‑14 to host the Great Falls Voyagers. As the schedule unfolds, the batboys will continue to play a quiet yet essential role in each game's smooth execution.