James Huss takes fans out to the ballgame all week

By John Sherman
Minnesota American Legion Baseball volunteer James Huss sings, scores and announces at Legion state tournament games.

ROGERS — James Huss, a State American Legion Baseball Tournament volunteer, is part historian, part entertainer and all-around ambassador for the Legion.

Most fans have heard a familiar refrain during fifth-inning stretches this week. Huss’ trademark is his rendition of the grand old song, “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.” It’s hard for fans not to join in the fun, and Huss always encourages fellow crooners.

“The National Anthem is an important part of every game for me,” Huss said as he relaxed over pizza after announcing two games Aug. 2. “And the second song that belongs in every game is Take Me Out to the Ballgame.”

Huss loves to talk about baseball just as much as he loves singing about it. He got his first sports volunteer assignment almost by accident.

“I was at the Kunkel Field in North St. Paul watching a VFW Baseball tournament,” Huss recalled. “They didn’t have an announcer, so they asked me if I would do it.”

Minnesota American Legion Baseball volunteer James Huss likes to wear his red game jersey during state tournaments.

From there, word spread that Huss was willing to help, and before long, he was announcing games for summer baseball teams. That led to more opportunities as he became the announcer for several varsity sports teams at North St. Paul High School.

Always thankful to be of service, Huss credits several community leaders for giving him opportunities, most notably former North St. Paul baseball coach Ron Adams and assistant activities director Andy Nevis. Their loyalty has meant a lot to Huss.

At most of the games he works at, Huss keeps the scorebook, announces and operates the scoreboard. In a pinch, he is capable at the concessions stand. He’ll do anything to help an event run smoothly.

Huss likes to choose music for games. His list of top baseball songs includes “Nothing Like a View From the Cheap Seats” by Alabama, “Center Field” by John Fogarty and “Glory Days” by Bruce Springsteen.

What would the lyrics say if a composer was to write a song about Legion Baseball?

Here are the thoughts Huss would include: “The American Legion teaches lessons inside and outside of baseball. The baseball program means a lot to the Veterans and also a lot to the country. I am so proud to be affiliated with American Legion Baseball. Although I never served in the military, I love what the Legion stands for. The baseball program and the work that goes into it is an investment in America’s youth.”

Huss likes the fact that teams can go beyond the state level in Legion baseball. “In high school sports, the season ends at the State Tournament. In Legion Baseball, there are opportunities to play in Regionals and a World Series. You keep moving on.”

Huss appreciates the Legion Color Guards that present the flags before games. And he appreciates the pre-tournament banquets that the host committee organizes.

If there’s one person who is having a great time in St. Michael this week, it is James Huss. In fact, he’s so happy that he’s ready to sing.