Learn the History & Legacy of DeLutis Fields and the Rome Baseball Association, Inc (RBAI)

Since the late 1990s, DeLutis Fields has been a mainstay for local baseball in Rome, NY. Learn more about its history and legacy.

A Historical Timeline

Early Spring 1997:

The RBAI project was initiated due to Griffiss Air Force Base's deactivation and the need for a quality baseball facility in Rome, New York.

1997:

Construction of the first baseball field, later named Larry DeLutis Field, begins in the fall on a 20-acre tract of land at the Griffiss Business and Technology Park entrance.

June 28, 1998:

Larry DeLutis Field officially opens with a game between the Rome Indians and the Schenectady Mohawks.

Spring 1999:

Volunteer crews install state-of-the-art lighting on the main field, enabling the first night game in Rome in over 50 years on May 23, 1999.

July 2003:

The second field, Volunteer Field, opens to honor the volunteers who played a significant role in its construction.

June 2008:

The third field, Freedom Field, opens. It accommodates Cal Ripken/Little League size and serves youth of all ages with 60—and 70-foot bases.

Spring 2013:

Legacy Field, designed for youth ages 13-18, opens as the RBAI's fourth field.

Spring 2024:

ICAN and Elevate CNY partner with RBAI to operate the DeLutis Fields Complex in Rome, NY. Through the ICAN operating partnership, top-notch facilities and services will continue in the community.

Throughout its history, the RBAI has hosted youth baseball camps for underprivileged children, fostering skills development, hard work, competition, and teamwork under the guidance of college-level coaches and players.