News

The NYCMBL family lost a longtime member on July 29 when Metro League veteran Frank Almonte succumbed to injuries after being struck by a car in Spain.  Almonte served in the US Navy and was stationed in the town of Rota at the time of his death. He was just 24 years old.

Almonte played for several teams during his time in the league, including the Queens Red Sox, Forest Hills Marlins, Tri-Boro Rays, and most recently, the Bronx Titans. In 2009, the shortstop was part of the Marlins’ first NYCMBL championship run. Marlins’ manager Leo Costa praised Almonte’s play, labeling him as a true competitor, someone who would do anything to help his team win.

“Heart, hustle, he played hard and put his body on the line,” said Costa. “In our championship game in 2009, he had to play outfield and never said a word. He was ready to do whatever we needed him to do.”

Friends and teammates remember Almonte as a person quick to laughter and as a young man with an undeniable passion for the game of baseball.

“He was always happy to be on the field,” said Costa. “He got along with every one of his teammates.”

“He always had a smile on his face,” said Titans’ pitcher Jason Wertheimer. “He loved to joke around.”

News of Almonte’s passing spread quickly through the league, and numerous players and coaches posted recollections of the fallen ballplayer on social media sites such as Facebook.  A candlelight vigil was planned for St. Mary’s Park on July 29 in remembrance of Almonte’s life.

The Bronx Titans plan to hold a moment of silence before their playoff opener on August 3. Game time is scheduled for 2 p.m. at Randall's Island Field #48.