SAVANNAH, Ga. () — Monday, Mayor Van Johnson is stepping up to the plate with a new initiative designed to bring baseball – and fun – to Savannah’s youngest residents.

Normally, you see the Savannah Bananas at Grayson Stadium, but today you’ll see a new face on the field. Mayor Johnson is stepping up to the plate today. He will be giving local kids the chance to learn baseball, and maybe even learn a few dance moves on the diamond.

In what is called “Mayor Plays Ball,” Mayor Johnson is teaming up with the MLB and the U.S. Conference of Mayors to launch the program in Savannah. It’s part of a nationwide plan to introduce kids to baseball in a laid-back and community-focused way.

Coaches and players from the Savannah Bananas’ exhibition teams – including the Party Animals and Firefighters – will be on hand to teach and play with participants. Families can also expect lunch, Kona Ice, and a mini-awards ceremony celebrating the young athletes.

The event is free, which is likely a strong contributor to why it sold out so quickly. It will take place Monday morning between 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Grayson Stadium. Kids participating will get to join sandlot-style games, drills, and skill-building activities, all while learning about sportsmanship and having fun.

Mayor Johnson says this is just the first pitch and he hopes events like this one spark a lifelong love of the game.