Boston Astros opening night at Jim Rice Field

Published May 18 2009, 01:06 PM by Mike Miliard

The Boston Astros kick off their 30th anniversary season tonight in Roxbury, feted by Boston sports legends such as Tommy Heinsohn, Joe Morgan, and, not least, former Astros hurler Manny Delcarmen.

The evening will include a practice demonstration, silent and live auctions, cocktails and dinner, all in honor of Astros founder Robert Lewis, Jr.

Since 1979, more than 2,000 kids have played for South End Baseball team, which competes at the local, regional, and national levels and has done battle in years past with squads such as the Canadian National Team, the Dominican Republic All-Stars, and Team Puerto Rico.

In addition to Delcarmen, several other Astro alums have gone pro, including Juan Carlos Portes, who plays in the Minnesota Twins organization, and Dorian Rojas who’s played in the CanAm and Northern Leagues.

As important as the Astros’ W-L record, however, is the team’s community service initiatives and support for its players. More than 75 percent of its players have gone to college — each with a laptop donated by the team.

Jim Rice Field is at 1927 Washington Street in Boston. Tickets for “Opening Night At The Park” are $100. For more information, call (617) 346-6061.