One of the most notable changes for the 2026 season is the introduction of a league-wide end-of-season tournament. Teams in the AA, AAA, Majors, 50/70 and Juniors divisions will compete in a single-elimination tournament seeded by regular-season results. Photo by Nicolas Brown

DIXON, CA (MPG) - Dixon Little League is preparing to open its 2026 baseball season March 6 and 7 with record participation, expanded upper-division offerings and a full slate of pre-season activities across its four fields.

League President Ricky Rodarte said the organization enters opening weekend with nearly 500 registered players, the highest total in league history.

“We are extremely excited heading into opening weekend,” said Rodarte. “Our board has worked tirelessly throughout the offseason to set Dixon Little League up for a successful 2026 season.”

The increase in participation has allowed the league to expand at the older age levels. For the first time, Dixon Little League will field two Juniors teams at the 14U level and two 50/70 teams for 13U players. Rodarte said retaining older players has been a challenge in the past, as some moved on to travel baseball.

“Being able to roster two full teams in both divisions shows that players want to stay and play for Dixon Little League,” said Rodarte.

Dixon Little League is preparing to open its 2026 baseball season March 6 and 7 with record participation, expanded upper-division offerings and a full slate of pre-season activities across its four fields. Photo by Nicolas Brown

Preseason practices began in February and will continue throughout the month. With 40 teams across all divisions, practice schedules were carefully managed to ensure access for each team. According to Rodarte, teams were limited to two practice slots per week, each lasting one to two hours, across the league’s four fields. Once the regular season begins in March, practice time will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Player assessments were held in January for participants ages 7 and older. According to Rodarte, assessments are designed to promote competitive balance while placing players in appropriate divisions.

“Players rotate through fundamental skills stations including fly balls, ground balls, throwing, running and hitting,” said Rodarte. “Coaches score each player using standardized evaluation sheets.”

Following assessments, all players enter a draft pool. Drafts begin with the oldest divisions and proceed to the youngest.

One of the most notable changes for the 2026 season is the introduction of a league-wide end-of-season tournament. Teams in the AA, AAA, Majors, 50/70 and Juniors divisions will compete in a single-elimination tournament seeded by regular-season results. Previous seasons determined champions by first-half and second-half standings.

“This change gives every team an opportunity to compete for a championship, regardless of how their season started,” said Rodarte.

While no formal player clinics are currently scheduled, many coaches attended a recent coaching clinic hosted by the JA Taylor Foundation at The Farm in Dixon. Rodarte said the league is exploring a potential partnership with the foundation to offer player clinics later in the season.

All coaches and volunteers are required to complete background checks and live scans, along with mandatory trainings in abuse awareness, concussion protocols and CPR/AED certification.

“These requirements ensure that our volunteers are properly prepared and that player safety remains our top priority,” said Rodarte.

The league’s largest fundraiser, Family Day, is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 14. The event will include games, raffle drawings, local vendors and activities, with proceeds benefiting league programs and field maintenance. Photo by Nicolas Brown

Community sponsorships continue to play a key role in supporting league operations. According to Rodarte, sponsorship funds help offset rising costs and allow Dixon Little League to keep registration fees among the lowest in the area.

The league’s largest fundraiser, Family Day, is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 14. The event will include games, raffle drawings, local vendors and activities, with proceeds benefiting league programs and field maintenance.

According to Rodarte, field preparation has become a year-round effort in recent years, resulting in improved conditions and increased tournament hosting opportunities.

“We’ve invested a substantial amount of funding and volunteer hours to ensure our fields are in top condition for opening weekend,” said Rodarte.

Looking ahead, Dixon Little League teams will participate in interleague play, with division champions advancing to district competition at season’s end.

For more information, visit dixonlittleleague.org or email [email protected].