Ben Johnson Announces Retirement From Osseo Legion Baseball Program

Ben Johnson Announces Retirement From Osseo Legion Baseball Program

OSSEO, MN – After a decade of leadership, dedication, and hometown pride, Ben Johnson has announced he will retire as co-head coach of the Osseo American Legion Post 172 baseball team following the conclusion of the 2025 postseason.

A proud alumnus of Osseo High School, Johnson returned to his roots in 2016 to help lead the city’s storied Legion baseball program. Over the past ten summers, his guidance has elevated Post 172 to one of the most respected and competitive teams in Minnesota’s American Legion baseball community.

“It’s just the right time,” Johnson told CCX Media, noting his full-time role as a college coach at Dakota Wesleyan University. Balancing summer coaching with collegiate duties became increasingly challenging, and the timing aligned to step aside with the program in a strong position.

A Decade of Dedication

Johnson’s impact extends far beyond the diamond. Through player development, tactical coaching, and a deep understanding of the local baseball culture, he helped build a winning foundation while mentoring hundreds of student-athletes. His presence brought stability and continuity to Osseo’s summer baseball program—a key factor in its long-term success.

“You know what you're getting every year,” Johnson reflected in an interview, pointing to the consistency and commitment he and his co-coaches brought to the field.

Under his leadership, Osseo Post 172 achieved regular appearances in high-stakes tournament play, built a strong pipeline to college programs, and cultivated a sense of pride throughout the Osseo baseball community.

Looking Ahead

While Johnson’s departure marks the end of a memorable chapter, his legacy will endure. As he shifts his full focus to his collegiate coaching career, the Post 172 program will enter a period of transition, with local fans and players eager to see who will carry the torch next.

The program, however, remains strong—fortified by the decade-long foundation Johnson helped build and the community support that continues to rally behind Osseo baseball.

Watch the full story via CCX Media: Ben Johnson Retiring from Osseo Legion Baseball Program (Video)

Additional coverage from CCX Media: ccxmedia.org

MinneapoliMedia will continue to follow developments on leadership changes and postseason reflections from the Osseo Post 172 Legion team.

For questions, tips, or to share your memories of Coach Ben Johnson’s tenure, contact the newsroom at info@minneapolimedia.town.