Larry Younger's Skills and Helpful Nature Will Be Remembered

March 1, 2026

Larry D. Younger last played with the Sacramento Islanders 70 team in the 2024 season, including in the World Championships in Las Vegas.

By Terry Hennessy
Softball News Report

SACRAMENTO – Larry Younger, 75, who died Jan. 26 here, had a rocket arm, gentle hands, swift legs and a graceful, powerful, swing.

He played baseball for the Cincinnati Reds until an injury took him out of the game, but continued playing the sport he loved until last year, switching from baseball to softball early on in his career.

Larry played tournament and league ball with literally scores of players in Northern California and was almost as well known for his excellent skills as he was for his advice.

Playing outfield and third base with Larry – who played Rover and shortstop -- for 4 years with the Sacramento Islanders, I learned to appreciate his tips to improve my game.

As outfielders, we even listened to Larry when he told us to move in or over – which shows ultimate respect from outfielders who generally hate to move in for anyone.

Larry’s advice was always clear and to the point, probably skills he developed in the military and as a correctional officer for 20 years.

But the message that came through always was that Larry wanted to help others improve, never to put them down, but to help them become better for themselves and the team.

In his overflowing service in February, that point was driven home by his six children and 15 grandchildren. Most all of them portrayed Larry as exactly the same softball teacher/teammate we saw on the diamond.

Larry Younger's memorial service, February 26, with players (far left) and family (center back) in attendance, as teammate and friend, Anthony Hinojosa speaking.

More than 60 players wearing team jerseys could be seen nodding as the kids and grandkids told how Larry changed to a stern teacher of the importance of discipline the moment he stepped on the field.

They spoke of the love that inspired them in their lives; of a good man who taught them the important lessons of the sport – and life.

Larry, indeed, was an excellent player, but more important, he was a good man.