2024 MSBL National Hall of Fame Inductee: Alex E. Brunet, Chesapeake MSBL
By Steve LaMontia, Director of Communications
Alex Brunet has been a part of the Chesapeake MSBL since 1997, while rising to the ranks of current League President and continuing to be a presence on two national powerhouse teams, one within his local league affiliation and one on the MSBL World Series stage every October.
“I play for the 45-over Linthicum White Sox in the league, where we are the 12-time division champions,” explained Brunet. “Then I head to Arizona to play with the San Antonio Lonestars/Black Ops on their 60+ and 65+ teams at the MSBL World Series. I have played in either the MSBL Fall Classic or World Series every year since 1996. I have been fortunate enough to win ‘24’ championships in the 28+, 35+, 38+, 45+, 55+, 60+, and 65+ divisions.
However, I have also been on the losing end of 12 championship games. I feel lucky to have been in so many championship games during my career but wish we had won a few more of the close ones!”
Alex’ baseball resume speaks loud and clear, as do his endless duties heading up the 32-team Chesapeake MSBL. His efforts certainly haven’t escaped the eye of MSBL Founder and President Steve Sigler, who has inducted Alex into the 2024 class of the MSBL National Hall of Fame.
“It is hard to describe the feeling when I was first notified by Steve. It’s a tremendous honor when you see all the achievements of all the those who are currently in the Hall of Fame. I am humbled by my selection and proud to be included.
I have played in many adult leagues and truly believe that MSBL offers the best quality and competition. As league president, I interact with Steve Sigler on a regular basis and I see first-hand how much effort he exerts to create a quality product, which allows us to continue to play baseball at a high level.”
Alex is a 66 year old first baseman and designated hitter who played college ball as a ‘Vandy Boy’ at Vanderbilt University, along with a stint at the University of Maine. He also attended spring training with the Atlanta Braves in 1982.
“Unfortunately, I was released. You won’t find any baseball cards of mine at any garage sales!”
In his past days before his retirement, Alex worked for the National Security Agency Cybersecurity Hostile Deployment Team. Deciphering Alex’ job description would take an additional conversation, I’m sure.
Such a storied baseball career contains many highlights, of course. But I still had to ask the obvious question; is there one event that sticks out?
“Other than being notified that I was being inducted into the 2024 class of the MSBL National Hall of Fame, I would say winning my first MSBL Championship in 1998 with the Chesapeake Braves, which I both managed and played. It was a great team and a great bunch of guys! I think the first ring is always special and on top of the list.”
These years of playing a kid’s game are never traveled alone. Who made that journey with you?
“My family has always been supportive and my biggest fans. I was fortunate to play for two of the most respected coaches of their time, Ted Alex at Shepaug High School and John Winkin at the University of Maine. Both were tough, knowledgeable, fair, and demanded the best out of you every day. I also learned a lot about life from them. There are many other coaches, friends, and opponents that I have been lucky enough to be associated with on my baseball journey. 
I also want to mention some people who were instrumental throughout my ongoing baseball life; Bill Rector, Bob Engelmeyer, Ron Ebeline, Jesus Cruz, Ray Barrett, Mike Largent, Duane Cordrey, Amy Buser, and Vicky Medford. There are so many others who I have been coached by and played with or against that I could fill up this entire page. Thank you all for making this wonderful honor possible!”