Earlier this month, Orange County Parks & Recreation (OCPR) was able to bring home their Diamond Dayz activities by hosting their weather-delayed MLB Pitch, Hit, and Run event. Despite the rescheduling, staff were happy to see many familiar faces, including Gunner Favorite. For the past two years, this young athlete has been making a name for himself at OCPR baseball events. Last year, Gunner won Orange County's local MLB Pitch, Hit & Run competition in the 9/10 age division, earning the opportunity to advance to the Washington Nationals Team Championship at Nationals Park. Competing against some of the top young baseball players in the region, Gunner finished second, narrowly missing a championship title. A ‘Favorite’ Baseball Experience with Parks & Rec. Programs By: Joe Falin, Programs & Facilities Manager, Orange County Parks & Recreation Department
Looking back on the experience, one memory stands out to Gunner the most. "The thing I remember the most about advancing to the Washington Nationals Team Championship was like, 'WOW, I am standing on a pro field,'" Gunner said. "I didn't know anybody there like I do when I play local, but we all had a great day and I got to go to a Nats pro game. Thank you for this memory. I loved it!" Earlier this spring, Gunner was once again in the spotlight during our inaugural Diamond Dayz celebration. Created as a week-long series of baseball-themed events designed to celebrate the sport and bring the community together, the event featured a unique “Bunt Derby.” Gunner became the first-ever Bunt Derby Champion, taking home the inaugural gold bat trophy. "Winning the first Bunt Derby was special and I loved the gold bat trophy," he said. MLB Pitch, Hit & Run was originally scheduled to be part of Diamond Dayz as well, but weather forced a postponement until June. When held earlier this month, Gunner once again came out on top, winning the local 11/12 age division. Advancement to the next level has not yet been determined; qualifying results are expected later this summer. While his accomplishments on the field are impressive, Gunner says his favorite part of participating is much simpler.
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OCI June 2026
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