A new class of legends is set to join the Michigan Baseball Hall of Fame, and the announcement has sparked excitement across the state's baseball community.
The induction ceremony will take place on August 7 at Jackson Field, the home of the Lansing Lugnuts, where the honorees' plaques will be revealed in a pre‑game program beginning at 6:30 p.m.
A Hall of Fame with Deep Roots
Terry Collins, best known for guiding the New York Mets to a National League pennant in 2015, brings a storied managerial career that began with a three‑sport star background at Midland and a NAIA national title with Eastern Michigan in 1970.
Bob Welch, a two‑time All‑Star and Cy Young Award winner, compiled a 211‑win career over 17 Major League seasons, while also helping Eastern Michigan reach top‑five finishes at the College World Series in 1975 and 1976.
Pioneers of the Game
Bob Sullivan, a longtime figure in Grand Rapids, founded an amateur baseball team and was instrumental in establishing Little League play in the city, later signing more than 200 players to professional contracts as a Detroit Tigers scout.
Connie Wisniewski, a four‑time All‑Star in the All‑American Girls Professional Baseball League, finished her career with a 107‑48 record and remains one of the league’s most celebrated pitchers.
The ceremony will be followed by a game between the Lugnuts and the Lake County Captains, offering fans a chance to celebrate these pioneers on the field where their legacies continue to inspire future generations.