Ashland Honors Baseball Legend with Ball Field Dedication
Joe Lyons •
September 12, 2024
Ashland, OH – September 12, 2024 – Ashland celebrated the legacy of baseball legend John “Junior” Roseboro today with a dedication ceremony at Cahn Grove Park. The event, which began at 11:00 AM, honored Roseboro by naming the Little League ball field after him.
Ashland Mayor Matt Miller led the ceremony, expressing the city’s pride in commemorating Roseboro’s remarkable achievements. “Today, we were honored to name our Little League ball field after John Roseboro,” Miller stated. “John Roseboro grew up right here in Ashland. Born in 1933, he went on to become a world-class athlete in baseball. He played in four World Series and was a significant part of the LA Dodgers’ success. We are incredibly proud to celebrate one of Ashland’s heroes here at this great park.”
John Junior Roseboro, born on May 13, 1933, in Ashland, Ohio, was a distinguished Major League Baseball catcher known for his defensive prowess and contributions to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Roseboro played from 1957 to 1970, earning four All-Star selections and winning two Gold Glove Awards. He was instrumental in the Dodgers’ victories in three out of four World Series appearances.
A pivotal moment in Roseboro’s career came on August 22, 1965, during a fierce Dodgers-Giants rivalry game. Roseboro was involved in a notorious altercation with Giants pitcher Juan Marichal, who struck him with a bat, leading to a suspension and fine for Marichal. Despite the controversy, Roseboro continued to be a key player for the Dodgers, contributing to their 1965 World Series win.
Roseboro’s career was marked by exceptional defensive skills and leadership on the field, including catching for Sandy Koufax in two no-hitters. His contributions extended beyond baseball, as he appeared in various films and television shows.
After his retirement, Roseboro faced personal and financial challenges but found support through his second marriage to Barbara Walker Fouch. He battled health issues later in life and passed away on August 16, 2002, at the age of 69.
The dedication ceremony at Cahn Grove Park not only celebrated Roseboro’s legacy but also highlighted his deep roots in the Ashland community. The renaming of the ball field serves as a lasting tribute to his impact both on and off the field.
The dedication ceremony at Cahn Grove Park not only celebrated Roseboro’s legacy but also highlighted his deep roots in the Ashland community. The renaming of the ball field serves as a lasting tribute to his impact both on and off the field.
