Cardinals Open May 30: Summer Baseball Returns to Front Royal as Team Seeks Host Families

As summer approaches, the Front Royal Cardinals are getting ready to take the field for another exciting season of Valley Baseball League action. Opening day is Thursday, May 30, at Bing Crosby Stadium, with free admission sponsored by C&C Frozen Treats. But while the team is nearly ready to play ball, it still needs one important thing from the community—eight more host families.

“We’re down to the wire and still short,” said Donna Settle, Executive Director of the Cardinals. “Host families are the heart of our team. These players come from all over the country, and they need a place to call home while they’re here.”

The team’s 2025 roster is full, with 35 collegiate players recruited from across the U.S.—and even Japan. Most are between the ages of 18 and 21 and come to the Valley to sharpen their skills using wooden bats, just like the pros. Many have gone on to professional careers, making the Cardinals a favorite among local baseball fans and scouts alike.

Players stay busy, spending much of their day training, traveling, and playing ball. That means hosting isn’t a heavy lift. Families are simply asked to provide a bed, laundry access, and a little room in the fridge. The team mostly takes care of meals.

“You don’t have to cater to them,” Settle said. “They’re independent. Most families find it’s a rewarding experience, and many stay in touch with their players long after the season ends.”

Host families also receive perks like free season tickets, discounts on team merchandise, and free registration for their children or grandchildren at the Cardinals’ summer camp.

This year’s season includes a full lineup of themed game nights and family-friendly events. On Saturday, June 7, the team will host its annual Little League Night, welcoming Front Royal Little League players and their families with free admission, games, prizes, and even a pie-eating contest.

While the bridge near the stadium will be temporarily closed for construction, Settle emphasized that access to Bing Crosby Stadium remains clear via several alternative routes. “It may be confusing at first, but fans will still get there—especially with GPS and posted detour signs,” she said.

Games will be held Monday through Saturday at 7 p.m., with Sunday games starting at 6 p.m. This year, there will be no doubleheaders, giving fans the chance to enjoy full nine-inning games.

Two highlight nights tie into Front Royal’s summer festivities. On Wednesday, July 3, fans can stick around after the game for a fireworks show sponsored by the Town of Front Royal. A similar celebration is planned for Thursday, July 10, to coincide with the Fireman’s Carnival.

With new players, enthusiastic interns handling promotion, and a strong support system from the community, the Cardinals are looking to bounce back from a challenging 2024 season. “We’ve got a great lineup and a great summer ahead,” Settle said. “Now we just need a few more families to help make it happen.”

To learn more about becoming a host family or sponsoring a game, contact Donna Settle at 703-244-6662 or by email donna.settle@icloud.com