Bellingham, WA — February 21, 2025 — The Bellingham Bells Baseball Club is excited to announce a new partnership with Base By Pros to enhance the development of young baseball players in the region. Beginning April 2025, Base By Pros and the Bellingham Bells will collaborate on the Junior Bells Development Program, including the inaugural spring baseball league for boys and girls ages 3-8, a summer baseball league, and a spring baseball kickoff event at Base By Pros – Skagit on Saturday, March 15th. 

Base By Pros is a respected youth baseball organization known for its comprehensive training programs and its dedication to fostering athletic development in young players. Owned by former MLB players and Western Washington natives Steven Souza and Brent Lillibridge, Base by Pros has three locations (Seattle, Lynnwood and Mount Vernon). 

“This partnership represents a step forward for both organizations,” said Stephanie Morrell, President & General Manager of the Bellingham Bells. “We are highly aligned in our values and the way we view development of young athletes. Blending the Bells’ commitment to community engagement and top-tier baseball with Base By Pros’ expertise in skill-building and player development just made sense.”

The youth spring league will serve as the foundation for the partnership, where Base By Pros coaches will bring their expertise to train and support volunteer coaches in the best methods for young player development. The partnership will also feature a summer league offering even more opportunities for players to hone their skills while engaging with experienced mentors and coaches affiliated with both the Bells and Base By Pros.

“We are thrilled to partner with Base By Pros to support the next generation of baseball players,” Morrell said. “Brent and Steven’s dedication to player growth aligns perfectly with the values we hold as a baseball club, and together, we look forward to offering young athletes in Bellingham and the surrounding areas an exciting and enriching baseball experience.”

Enrolled and interested athletes can attend a Spring League Kick-Off Clinic on Saturday, March 15th. This clinic will give athletes and their parents the opportunity to meet Bells and Base by Pros staff, learn more about the Spring League, and find out about volunteer opportunities.

The Spring League Kick-Off will be held at Base by Pros – Skagit (2464 E Blackburn Road,  Mount Vernon). The event will take place on Saturday, March 15, with 3-6 year olds from 2-3:30 p.m. and 7-8 year olds from 4-5:30 p.m. It is free to attend, but registration is required at www.juniorbells.com. 

“Base By Pros is proud to be joining forces with the Bellingham Bells, a beloved community organization with a deep history in the region,” said Lillibridge. “Together, we aim to provide a nurturing environment for young athletes to grow their love for the game, improve their skills, and build lasting memories on and off the field.”

Both organizations are committed to creating a fun, positive, and educational environment for all players. The focus will not only be on developing the technical skills needed to excel in baseball but also fostering teamwork, leadership, and a passion for the sport.

More information about the Bells & Base by Pros partnership, including specifics on the spring and summer youth leagues, can be found at www.juniorbells.com. 

About the Bellingham Bells Baseball Club
The Bellingham Bells are a summer collegiate baseball team based in Bellingham, Wash. Competing in the West Coast League, the Bells have been a cornerstone of the local sports scene, offering exciting baseball experiences for fans while fostering the development of emerging baseball talent. The Bells are dedicated to promoting youth participation in baseball and supporting the local community.

About Base By Pros
Base By Pros is a youth baseball training organization dedicated to providing high-quality coaching and skill development. Founded by a group of former professional baseball players, Base By Pros focuses on personalized, hands-on instruction that helps young athletes improve their performance while learning the importance of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.