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This was one of many local amateur teams that sprung up in the early 1880s after the first baseball game in Visalia. It's a shame that modern teams don't still pose like these distinguished gentlemen did (especially the two guys in front). Also, we've got to find some excuse to bring the candycane hats back. And the high socks...well, they're just classy.
This photo (found in the 1982 team program) also proves the incredible heritage of the Simpson family in Visalia baseball lore. John Simpson (top row, far left) was the great-great grandfather of Stan Simpson, who owned the Visalia Oaks during the 1980s and has been a passionate supporter of local sports his entire life.
