Celebrating piece of Babe Ruth history in Kirby Park

WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Play ball! A charitable softball competition celebrating a piece of local history is set to take place this fall in Luzerne County.

A Babe Ruth kiosk is situated at Wilkes-Barre’s Kirby Park, directly across from the city’s artillery park. Why? It’s where Babe Ruth hit the longest home run of his career.

That 650-foot hit landed right where the display stands on October 12, 1926, during an exhibition game.

“To commemorate this milestone event we thought we’d have some fun with it and celebrate Babe’s legacy in a fun way,” said Visit Luzerne County Executive Director Alan K. Stout.

Stepping up to the plate is the Babe Ruth Sultan of Swat Home Run Derby.

Presented by Visit Luzerne County and the city of Wilkes-Barre, the event will take place at the softball field in Kirby Park on October 12, benefitting the Geisinger Children’s Miracle Network.

The organization provides lifesaving care to kids across NEPA.

“Babe Ruth had a soft spot for children. He went and visited kids that day in Wilkes-Barre at Mercy Hospital in South Wilkes-Barre, which is now owned by Geisinger, and so what better way to honor his legacy than to do something that would benefit children?” Stout stated.

The derby will feature male and female competitions, as well as a city vs county game.

Elected officials say they’re up for the challenge and the cause.

“This is wonderful. Wonderful for the kids. Wonderful for the people that wanna come over and see this,” said Wilkes-Barre Mayor George Brown.

“It’s important all around. It’s important because we’re thinking about children just like Babe Ruth did, and we’re gonna enjoy a beautiful day in wilkes-barre,” Luzerne County Manager Romilda Crocamo said.

The event will take place on October 12.

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