Why This Pico Rivera Senior Softball League Calls the Game ‘Better Than Medicine’—and You’ll Want to Know Why
At Smith Park in Pico Rivera, Thursday afternoons are anything but quiet. There, in the heart of a league that’s been swinging bats for over three decades, a spirited bunch of seasoned softball players wrestle with time and wear-and-tear, but refuse to back down. Take Eddie Castorena, 75, for example. He’s decked out in his Old Spice jersey, under which two braces—one for his knee, the other for his back—offer silent but constant reminders of countless games played. Not far behind the plate, 67-year-old Tony Spallino maneuvers with surprising agility, clutching onto hope that he won’t need a second hip replacement anytime soon. Then there’s Agustin Quezada, 83, hobbling through the dugout, his trusty bat doubling as a cane. The scent of Bengay is as familiar here as the crack of a bat, as Big Red’s utilityman Ruben Enriquez wittily recalls.
Yet, despite the aches and the creaks, the camaraderie, the thrill of chasing a fly ball, and the sweet satisfaction of circling the bases keep these players coming back. It’s not about glory or perfection—sometimes, it’s about just being out there, embracing the game, learning new skills, and relishing the company. Like Isabel Enriquez, 73, who wasn’t even a baseball player until she found herself here, stealing a sharp catch in left field and lighting up with pride. Reflexes might slow, legs might falter, but the heart? That keeps pounding for every pitch and every play.
If you want to peek behind the scenes of these indefatigable athletes who redefine what it means to never quit, dive into this vibrant world where resilience meets passion in the Go-Getter softball league. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best innings come well into your golden years.
LEARN MOREInfielder Eddie Castorena, 75, wore two braces under his Old Spice uniform, one for his knee and one for his back.
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