California Baseball Stadium Destroyed by Fire
- A California baseball stadium, featured in 'A League of Their Own', was destroyed by a fire.
- The stadium's destruction was confirmed by officials on Thursday night.
- The Hollywood blockbuster movie now has a real-world connection to the tragic event.
A fire late Thursday night has resulted in the total destruction of the Jay Littleton Ballpark in Ontario, California, a site made famous by the film “A League of Their Own.” The blaze erupted around 11:30 p.m., and city officials confirmed that the wooden grandstand likely contributed to the rapid spread of the flames. Investigators are currently working to determine the cause of the fire, which has left the community in shock. Designated a historic landmark in 2003 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2021, the ballpark has been a cherished venue for generations of local youth. City spokesperson Dan Bell expressed the community's grief, noting that the stadium has been a significant site for Little League and higher-level baseball, as well as a venue for some professional games. “This is a legendary field, not just in Ontario, but in the region and the country,” he stated. The ballpark, completed in 1937, was known for its impressive dimensions, including a center field distance of 402 feet, surpassing even Dodger Stadium. In addition to “A League of Their Own,” the stadium hosted filming for notable movies such as “Eight Men Out” and “The Babe Ruth Story,” solidifying its place in cinematic history. Local baseball enthusiasts, including Ontario Eastern League president Aaron Matthiesen, expressed their sorrow over the loss. Matthiesen highlighted the park's significance as a community hub for young players, lamenting that future generations will no longer have the opportunity to play at this historic venue.