Home / Arts and Entertainment / Sandlot Star Explains Vitar's Absence from New Series
Sandlot Star Explains Vitar's Absence from New Series
24 Aug
Summary
- Patrick Renna discussed Mike Vitar's non-participation in 'Dugout Dads'.
- Vitar, a former Sandlot actor, is now a firefighter and private individual.
- 'Dugout Dads' premieres on YouTube on August 26th, 2026.

Patrick Renna has shed light on why Mike Vitar, his "Sandlot" co-star, is not participating in the new comedy series, "Dugout Dads." The series reunites several actors from the 1993 baseball classic, but Vitar, who played Benny the Jet Rodriguez, declined the invitation.
Renna explained on his podcast that Vitar, now a real-life firefighter, is a private individual. While Vitar is asked frequently to participate in projects, he prefers to maintain his privacy, though he does keep in touch with his former castmates via email. Renna emphasized that there is nothing contentious between Vitar and the cast or crew.
"Dugout Dads" is not a direct sequel to "The Sandlot," with actors portraying new characters. Renna encouraged the show's writers to draw inspiration from the actors' real personalities for these new roles. The series is scheduled to begin premiering new episodes weekly on YouTube starting August 26, 2026.