Under clear blue skies and perfect Southern Highlands weather, a local park transformed into a big-league classroom as more than 90 children and their families gathered for a free baseball camp led by Spencer Torkelson, first baseman for the Detroit Tigers.
The Event, hosted by CareSource Nevada in partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada, delivered far more than batting tips; it created memories that will last a lifetime.
From the moment the camp began, the field buzzed with excitement as young athletes rotated through drills focused on hitting, fielding, teamwork, and confidence. For many kids, it was their first time learning the game from a professional player, and Torkelson made sure every participant felt seen, encouraged, and inspired. Throughout the camp, he shared messages about perseverance, work ethic, and believing in your dreams; lessons that resonated just as much as his on-field instruction.
CareSource Nevada ensured every child could fully participate, supplying extra gloves and baseballs for those who needed them. The organization also made a meaningful investment off the field, presenting a $5,000 donation to the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada. The contribution will fund 250 free Club memberships for youth across the Las Vegas Valley, expanding access to safe spaces, academic support, and recreational programs. CareSource President & CEO Erhardt Preitauer and CareSource Nevada CEO Jayme Puu were on hand to present the donation to the Club’s Chief Development Officer, Yolanda Mationg.
Adding to the energy of the day, high school baseball seniors and players from UNLV Rebels baseball volunteered as coaches, helping guide drills and keep the action moving during the two-hour camp.
One standout moment featured Chase Wilk from Bishop Gorman High School, a Division I signee headed to the University of Minnesota, working alongside Torkelson to teach kids how to hit. The two were even spotted pitching together, drawing cheers as several young campers showed off impressive swings.
The day also marked a special reunion between Torkelson and Tracy Smith, the Michigan head baseball coach who coached Torkelson at Arizona State before he was selected first overall in the 2020 MLB Draft.
After the final drill, CareSource treated the young athletes to lunch, capping off a day filled with smiles, high-fives, and plenty of photo ops for parents eager to capture the moment.
Thanks to CareSource Nevada and the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada, it was a home run day for youth baseball in Las Vegas; one that proved the power of community, mentorship, and the joy of the game.
