Former Miami Dade College baseball player Victor Caratini got the call of his career last week when the World Series Champions Chicago Cubs called him up to the big leagues as a catcher against the Milwaukee Brewers. According to the Cubs’ media guide, Caratini, 23, will back up Willson Contreras for the remainder of the season.Although Caratini’s role is primarily a catcher, he has played first and third base in the minors.With...

Not bad for a rookie. Jacob Thomas’ first ever experience playing organized sports is memorable, as the seven-year-old claimed the MVP award after leading his Giants flag football team at the Miami Lakes Optimist Club to an undefeated record, 10-0, and the spring league championship for the 5-7 age division.Thomas is a multi purpose player, playing quarterback, running back, wide receiver, and he helped his team out on defense.The...

Fresh out of high school, Jeter Downs found himself in ecstasy, as his lifelong dream of playing professional baseball became well-founded. Downs, a recent graduate of Monsignor Pace High, was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the first round (32nd overall pick) in the 2017 Major League Baseball draft last month.Downs said he was overcome with emotions after his childhood dream came true.“I’ve been dreaming about this since I...

The Miami Lakes “Geezers,” a group of several dozen local residents who some would consider are “past their prime,” are dedicated to continue enjoying regular Monday and Wednesday morning softball games at Miami Lakes Optimist Park.One of the prime motivators behind this committed group is former Miami Herald executive David Oliver who has become the official “scribe” of Geezer games and Geezer lore.In late...

The Autism Soccer Club of Miami Lakes was recognized by Florida Senator Marco Rubio for the exceptional support it provides to families and children in Florida’s communities. After launching in 2012 the group has encouraged children with autism to develop social skills in teamwork and bonding over soccer. The group was also recognized by Miami-Dade County Office of the Mayor and Board of County Commissioners for hosting socially...