2026 MSBL World Series Hall of Fame Inductee: Scott Scardina, Sacramento MSBL
By Steve LaMontia-Carlentini, MSBL Director of Communications
Scott Scardina is my hero on a number of levels, including his recently being inducted into the MSBL World Series Hall of Fame by MSBL Founder and President Steve Sigler. Why, you ask?
To mildly shift gears, I live in fire-ravaged Colorado, which mirrors Scott’s residence in Oroville, California and most all of California. Scott is a Fire Captain for the Yocha Dehe Fire Department and deals with hot and nasty fire conditions every day.
We have been evacuated because of three huge wildfires in our area the past decade and I am personally aware of what Scott goes through on a daily basis. We have an area in the house stocked with ‘bug out’ bags in case that phone call comes again. I’ll close by saying ‘Thank You’ for all you do, Scott!
Back to our purpose here, Scott Scardina is a ball player who knows his way around the Arizona Valley of the Sun as a player and manager at our MSBL World Series, year after year, since 2014. Steve Sigler has recognized Scott’s involvement, dedication, and passion the past dozen years, and as mentioned previously, Scott is the newest member of the MSBL World Series Hall of Fame.
“Honestly, I never imagined I would be considered for this award,” said Scott. “I thought that maybe one day I might be inducted into the Sacramento Hall of Fame, but I never expected to be considered for the National Hall of Fame.
When I received the email from Steve, I was genuinely surprised and incredibly honored. To be recognized alongside so many people who have contributed to this game is truly humbling, and I am deeply grateful to receive this award.”
The 58-year-old Scardina calls the Sacramento MSBL his baseball home.
“I began playing in the Sacramento MSBL in 2009 after looking for a way to continue playing competitive baseball as an adult. I currently play for the Bulldogs. I managed the Bulldogs for 15 years before stepping down last year because of my work schedule. I also manage the Sacramento Capitals Tournament team.”
Scott currently pitches and plays second base, when not fighting fires.
“It is nice to call the Sacramento MSBL home, after moving around a lot in my early baseball days. I first started playing baseball when I was 9-years-old for the Indians. I still have that team picture hanging on my wall today.
My family moved around frequently, so I wasn’t able to play consistently until I was 13 years old. I made my high school baseball team as a freshman, but unfortunately, we moved again before the season, so I never had the opportunity to play.”
Off the field, Scott been married to his wife, Heidi, for 21 years. Together, they share five children.
We asked Scott about his MSBL World Series history, as a player and a manager.
“I manage the Sacramento Capitals and have had the opportunity to play with several outstanding teams over the years. This year I’ll be playing with the Sacramento Dawgz in the 55+ division, and the Sac Sox in the 45+ division. I’ve also played for the Fresno Knights, the Sacramento Rockets, and in Las Vegas with the Combines from Canada.
As a manager, I’ve been fortunate to experience many successes, and my teams have won numerous tournaments over the years. After taking a team to the MSBL World Series for 14 years, we finally won our championship ring in 2024! That accomplishment made all the hard work and dedication worthwhile.”
Though I had a feeling what the answer would be to my next question, I asked Scott if there was a highlight from his MSBL National Tournament involvement.
“Without question, winning the World Series ring in 2024!” (I was correct!)
Are there any individuals you would like to thank for helping your baseball career?
“There are several people I would like to thank. Chad Carrington and Scott Corliss have been incredible coaches and friends. Without them, I’d probably have a lot more gray hair than I do now.
I’d also like to thank Ever Maldonado and Scott Spanner, who have generously stepped up over the years to help purchase jerseys and hats for the team.
Finally, I have to give a special shout-out to League President Alan Van Ness, who has been an amazing supporter of the Bulldogs, the Sacramento Capitals, and me personally. His support over the years has meant a great deal.”
Are there any final thoughts?
“I’ve never been one to hold back when I’ve had concerns about tournament fields or umpiring. I appreciate that the MSBL staff has always listened to my concerns and addressed them promptly and professionally. That commitment to the players is one of the reasons I’ve remained involved for so many years.
“I would also like to thank the entire MSBL staff for everything they do to keep this organization running. Your dedication gives so many of us the opportunity to continue playing the game we love, build lifelong friendships, and create memories that will last forever.”
