Archives for May 2022

AgCarolina Agriculture Night Set For June 10

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

ZEBULON – The Carolina Mudcats once again team with AgCarolina Farm Credit for Agriculture Night on Friday, June 10 at Five County Stadium. Agriculture Night is highlighted by post-game fireworks and a one-of-kind souvenir t-shirt giveaway for the first 1,000 fans with paid admission at Five County Stadium.

AgCarolina Farm Credit’s Agriculture Night starts with a 7:00 p.m. first pitch, but the Five County Stadium gates will open at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are available at www.carolinamudcats.com.

For the full schedule, visit www.carolinamudcats.com/schedule. Single-game tickets, season ticket packages, mini plans, suite and DRB HOmes Sky Lounge packages in the US Foods Club Level are all on sale now at www.carolinamudcats.com, (919) 269-CATS (2287), and the Five County Stadium front office in Zebulon.

The Carolina Mudcats are the officially licensed Carolina League, Class-A, affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. First established in 1991, the Mudcats have provided affordable family fun for over 30 years at Five County Stadium in Zebulon, N.C. Follow the Mudcats online at www.carolinamudcats.com, and on social media at facebook.com/carolinamudcats, twitter.com/carolinamudcats, tiktok.com/@carolinamudcats and instagram.com/carolinamudcats.

June 11-12: Play Ball Weekend to include youth clinic at Johnny B. Wiley Sports Pavilion

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The Buffalo Bisons have teamed up with Major League Baseball and the Willie Hutch Jones Educational & Sports Program to be part of MLB’s ‘Play Ball Weekend,’ June 11-12. The 2-day celebration, which includes a free youth clinic and a Bisons game against a divisional rival, will give kids a great chance to learn, play and just have fun with the greatest game in the world!

Saturday, June 11 (10 a.m.) The Willie Hutch Jones Educational & Sports Program will host a one-day youth clinic at the Johnny B. Wiley Sports Pavilion from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (check in at 9:30 a.m.). The clinic is available for FREE for the first 300 kids that register at Bisons.com/PlayBall and each child will receive a complimentary ticket to the Bisons game against the Worcester Red Sox on June 12. The clinic will include stationed instructions on the game’s fundaments, a free boxed lunch and then a fun pitch, hit and run competition for the children to compete in.

Full clinic details can be found at Bisons.com/PlayBall. The first 175 children to register will also receive a free Franklin bat and ball set.

Sunday, June 12 (1:05 p.m.) The Bisons host the Red Sox with a 1:05 p.m. first pitch. The team is encouraging all young players to wear their Little League jerseys to the game for special recognition during the contest. After the game, all kids are allowed onto the field for Kids Run the Bases, presented by Platter’s Chocolates, as well as a special Home Run Derby Challenge, where kids will be able to take one swing from a tee to see if they can hit a home run over the Sahlen Field outfield wall.

Tickets can be purchased here! All single game tickets are $3 OFF when purchased in advance of game day.

Homestand On Deck: Indians to Honor History of Negro Leagues in Indianapolis 

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Richard “King Tut” King, Oscar Charleston and Connie Morgan each played prominent roles with the Indianapolis Clowns. (Photo by Negro Leagues Baseball Museum)

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indianapolis Indians begin a six-game series with the Columbus Clippers, Triple-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians, next Tuesday, June 7 at Victory Field. Friday Fireworks (June 10), Negro Leagues Night (June 11) and Sunday Characters with PJ Masks™ (June 12) highlight the promotions for Indy’s fifth homestand of the season.

Tuesday, June 7 – Tuesday Dollar Menu presented by Eisenberg
Load up on your favorite ballpark snacks with hot dogs, peanuts, potato chips, Cracker Jack and popcorn all available for just $1 each.

IUPUI Men’s Head Soccer Coach Sid Van Druenen will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Gates open at 6 PM with first pitch at 7:05 PM.

Wednesday, June 8 – Wednesday Day Game presented by Elements Financial
Leave the office early and enjoy a Wednesday Day Game at Victory Field.

Gates open at 12:30 PM for the 1:35 PM start.

Thursday, June 9 – Thirsty Thursday™ presented by Sun King Brewery, Circle City Night, Bark in the Park presented by Noah’s Animal Hospital and PetSuites, Eli the Bat Dog presented by Sit Means Sit
The best drink specials happen on Thirsty Thursday™ at Victory Field. Quench your thirst with $2 Pepsi fountain drinks, $3 domestic drafts and $5 premium and craft drafts. DJ Ryan Watson will perform pregame on the home dugout, and on the field, the Indians will represent the 317 for the second Circle City Night of the season by wearing Circle City jerseys.

Exclusive to Circle City Nights, the Indians partnered with local retailer, The Shop Indy, to bring fans the Circle City t-shirt collection. These limited-edition shirts are only available to fans who purchase a special t-shirt package. The Indians also partnered with Penn & Beech – Indy’s local candle company – to bring four baseball-inspired scents into fans’ own homes.

The third game of the series also features the third of six Bark in the Park games for the season. Bring your four-legged fan to the ballpark and enjoy the game from the right and center field lawn. Fans must purchase the dog ticket package in advance, which guarantees one (1) giveaway item for the pup. Dog ticket packages are limited. Fans also get the opportunity to watch Eli the Bat Dog retrieve players’ bats during the first three innings of the game.

Special ceremonial first pitches will be thrown by Butler University Head Football Coach Mike Uremovich and the University of Indianapolis women’s lacrosse Division II national championship team along with first pitches fetched by Butler Blue IV and Grady the Greyhound.

Gates open at 6 PM with first pitch at 7:05 PM.

Friday, June 10 – Friday Fireworks presented by FOX59
Stick around after the final out and enjoy a spectacular postgame fireworks show.

Gates open at 6 PM ahead of the 7:05 PM first pitch.

Saturday, June 11 – Negro Leagues Night presented by Indiana Civil Rights Commission
The Indians pay tribute to the rich history of the Negro Leagues in Indianapolis through a partnership with the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. The Indianapolis Clowns featured some of the greatest Black ballplayers of all time, including Hall of Famer Hank Aaron and the first three women signed to professional baseball contracts in the Negro Leagues – Toni Stone, Connie Morgan and Mamie “Peanut” Johnson. Indy native Oscar Charleston, another Negro Leagues legend and Hall of Famer, managed the Clowns in the early 1950s.

On the field, the Indians will wear Clowns specialty jerseys that will be auctioned off to benefit Indianapolis Indians Charities. The jersey auction begins at 10 AM ET on June 11 and concludes at the end of the seventh inning. Fans may place their bids by texting VICTORY to 79230.

Prior to the game, former Ben Davis High School football star and current Cincinnati Bengals running back Chris Evans will throw out a ceremonial first pitch.

Gates open at 6 PM, and the game gets underway at 7:05 PM.

Sunday, June 12 – Sunday Characters with PJ Masks™ presented by MHS, Kids Eat Free Sunday presented by Aquafina and Meijer, Knot Hole Kids Club Sunglasses Giveaway presented by Riley Children’s Health

Characters from the popular TV show PJ Masks™ make their way to Victory Field for the series finale. Visit the Center Field Plaza before and during the game for a chance to meet and take photos with Catboy, Owlette and Gekko.

Every Sunday, all children 14 and under receive a free hot dog, bag of chips and bottle of water with price of admission. In addition, the first 500 Knot Hole Kids Club members will receive one pair of sunglasses at the Standings & Lineup Board behind Section 108. This is the first opportunity for KHKC members to receive the June giveaway item. KHKC members may also run the bases after the game.

Gates open at 12:30 PM before first pitch at 1:35 PM.

Single-game tickets are available along with season tickets, mini plans, group and premium reservations. For more on the Indians, visit IndyIndians.com or contact the Victory Field Box Office at (317) 269-3545 or [email protected].

Segra Park is Certified Sensory Inclusive 

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COLUMBIA, SC – KultureCity has partnered with the Columbia Fireflies to make Segra Park and all of the programs and events that the venue hosts to be sensory inclusive. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests and fans with a sensory issue that visits Segra Park.

The certification process entailed the staff at Segra Park being trained by leading medical professionals on how to recognize those guests and fans with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. Sensory bags, equipped with noise canceling headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads will also be available to all guests at Segra Park who may feel overwhelmed by the environment.

Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions (1 in 6 individuals). One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to over stimulation and noise, which is an enormous part of the environment in a venue like Segra Park. With its new certification, the Columbia Fireflies are now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when attending any event at Segra Park.

Prior to attending an event, families can download the free KultureCity App where one can view what sensory features are available and where they can access them. Also, on the App is the Social Story which will provide a preview of what to expect while enjoying an event at Segra Park.

“Our communities are what shape our lives and to know that the Columbia Fireflies are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing. We’re honored to partner with Segra Park to provide a truly inclusive experience for all fans and guests!” said Uma Srivastava, Executive Director of KultureCity.

“We are excited to partner with KultureCity and make Segra Park a more accommodating place for guests that have sensory challenges,” said Brad Shank, Fireflies Team President. “A ballpark can be overwhelming with a lot of sensory input, and by providing options to help in situations where some of our fans are feeling over-stimulated our team continues to strive to make Segra Park inclusive for everyone and Fun For ALL.”

KultureCity is a leading non-profit recognized nationwide for using its resources to revolutionize and effect change in the community for those with sensory needs, not just those with autism. Since the program’s inception, KultureCity has created over 900 sensory-inclusive venues in 5 countries: this includes special events such as the NFL Pro-Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, MLB World Series, and MLB All Star Weekend. KultureCity has won many awards for its efforts, including the NASCAR Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award in 2017 and the 2018 Clio Sports Silver for social good in partnership with Cleveland Cavaliers/Quicken Loans Arena. The Cleveland Cavaliers’ Quiet Space Sensory Room at Quicken Loans Arena was a finalist for the 2018 Stadium Business Award, KultureCity was named one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2019 and 2020 by FastCompany and recently won the Industry Partner Award in TheStadiumBusiness Design & Development Awards 2019.

National Transplant Games Athlete and Liver Recipient to Run Bases at June 3 Reno Aces Game

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Pati Hughes-Fudge, a 70-year-old horse trainer from Gardnerville, Nev., received a liver transplant in 2015; but rather than slowly ease into life after the transplant, she competed in the Transplant Games of America just six months after her transplant surgery. The Games gather thousands of transplant recipients, living donors and supporters for a weeklong celebration made up of 20 athletic and recreational competitions.

Hughes-Fudge has brought home many medals from competing against other athletes in 2016 and 2018, and she looks forward to 2022’s Games, which will take place in San Diego this July. She will compete in swimming, and track and field.

Currently, 14,000 people in the U.S. are on the national transplant waitlist for a liver.

Thanks to organ donation, Hughes-Fudge continues her passions for training horses, judging horse shows across the country, swim training and spending time with her family. She will run the bases at the Reno Aces’ Home Run for Life game, presented by Donor Network West, after the second inning, Friday, June 3, at Greater Nevada Field as they take on the Tacoma Rainiers.

“I’ve been an organ donor since I got my driver’s license at 14 years old,” Hughes-Fudge said. “Little did I know then that I would need a transplant. It felt like every fiber of my being was fixed after my transplant – it’s a blessing and a joy to be able to go compete in events like the Transplant Games and participate in the Home Run for Life game.”

Donor Network West, northern Nevada and northern California’s federally designated non-profit organ procurement organization, is proud to support six Home Run for Life baseball games throughout the 2022 season. With more than 600 Nevadans waiting for lifesaving organ transplants, the partnership brings critical awareness about organ donation to the community and its sports fans. This will be the third Home Run for Life game of the 2022 season.

“Pati regained her life after her liver transplantation – her husband, her children and her grandchildren regained their loved one because someone said yes to organ donation,” Janice Whaley, president and CEO of Donor Network West, said. “Donor Network West is honored to partner with the Reno Aces in celebrating recipients like Pati who are now able to enjoy life.“

The 2022 season is the first time Donor Network West and Reno Aces have partnered to showcase the Home Run for Life program. Once a month, a brave individual in the northern Nevada community is honored by taking a ceremonial trip around the bases with each team lining the baselines. Individuals honored have received life-saving transplants or have lost a loved one who saved lives through organ donation.

“Watching the fans at the ballpark and community cheer on these local organ recipients has been incredible to experience,” Eric Edelstein, President, Reno Aces and Greater Nevada Field, said. “We’re excited to continue our partnership in highlighting Donor Network West’s community outreach and educational efforts as they work to share the important message of organ donation.”

Anyone can register to be an organ donor. To learn more and to register as an organ donor, visit DonorNetworkWest.org.

 

The Wichita Wind Surge Continues Tornado Relief Support

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May 31, 2022

The Wichita Wind Surge Continues Tornado Relief Support

The Surge announces school supply drive through the end of August

Continuing the season long support for those impacted by the Andover Tornado, the Wichita Wind Surge will host a school-supply drive with donations earmarked for the students of Andover’s Prairie Creek Elementary School.

During home games between May 31 and the end of August, fans can bring donations to Guest Services, located behind Section 10. Those unable to attend a Wind Surge game may drop off donations at the Box Office, located on McLean Blvd. Those donating will receive a free berm ticket for a future 2022 regular season Wind Surge game.

“We want to give everyone an opportunity to help the students and teachers at Andover’s Prairie Creek Elementary School in any way they can,” said Bob Moullette, Director of Fan Experience. “Donations of pens, paper, folders, and other supplies will go a long way in replacing the items that were lost in the tornado and they will help send the message that we are all one community that supports each another.”

Accepted school supplies include: notebook paper, pencils, colored pencils, crayons, markers, rulers, backpacks, Clorox wipes, baby wipes, dry erase markers, folders, and scissors.

Donations must be new in their original unopened packaging; backpacks can be new or gently used.

­For questions and additional information contact:

Kylee Sorrells
Marketing Manager
[email protected]

Hops Announce Play Ball Weekend Presented by MLB

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Hillsboro, OR. (May 27, 2022) – The Hillsboro Hops (@HillsboroHops) have partnered with Nike and Friends of Baseball to offer five (5) FREE youth clinics all around the Portland metro area on Saturday, June 11th in 2022. On Sunday June 12th, the Hops will have a pre-game catch on Ron Tonkin Field for families from 12:00-12:30, included with admission to that game.

“Play Ball Weekend” is presented by Major League Baseball and greatly encourages MLB and MiLB teams to support the youth in their area by simply, “Playing Ball!”.

The clinics are free and open for youth between 6-14. All participants must pre-register online at https://www.milb.com/hillsboro/fans/playball

The five (5) locations for the FREE clinics are:

o Glencoe High School (Hillsboro)

o Mountain View Champions Park (Beaverton)

o Fowler Middle School (Tigard)

o Parkrose High School (Portland)

o Columbia Park (Portland)

The clinics are scheduled to run from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. with 6 elementary level stations that groups will rotate through. Hops players and coaches are scheduled to be at each site as well as staff from the Hops front office staff, Nike staff and Friends of Baseball staff.

All participants will receive:

o Nike T-shirt

o Friends of Baseball activity kit

o One (1) free Hops ticket

o Free MLB.TV/MiLB.TV subscription for the remainder of the 2022 season

o Exclusive access to virtual/in-person baseball/softball programming per MLB

o Discounts on select MLB licensed merchandise and equipment

About Hillsboro Hops:
The 2014, 2015 & 2019 Champion Hillsboro Hops are the Single-A Advanced baseball affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks of Major League Baseball. The team’s season runs from April to early September. The franchise relocated to Hillsboro in 2012 and began play in 2013 in a new state-of-the-art 4,500 capacity ballpark, Ron Tonkin Field. Follow the Hops on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HillsboroHops and on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok @HillsboroHops.

*About Friends of Baseball:
*Together, with our community partners, Friends of Baseball has provided $5.1 million in programming, scholarships, grants, and equipment since 2005, and served over 40,000 children. The Full Count after school and summer program has served over 1,200 youth through a baseball-inspired curriculum that includes physical recreation, academic, and socio emotional enrichment activities. We invest donations and funding from community foundations in programming, volunteer coach training, field renovation, and gear and equipment donations and distribution to ensure no child is denied the chance to play due to financial ineligibility, social exclusion, or lack of programming. We believe every child should have the opportunity and tools to swing for the fences on and off the field. Follow Friends of Baseball on Facebook att https://www.facebook.com/fobaseball, on Twitter @FOBaseball and Instagram @friendsofbaseball – https://www.friendsofbaseball.org/

Blue Wahoos To Wear Navy Uniforms As Part Of Memorial Day Celebration 

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The three Blue Wahoos players stared in silent awe at the dark blue, vintage World War II fighter plane positioned in a center display at the National Naval Aviation Museum.

It was a Vought F4U Corsair, a replica to the one Ted Williams flew nearly 80 years ago in Pensacola, while pausing one of baseball’s greatest careers during World War II to complete training at Naval Air Station-Pensacola and become a second lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps.

“This is incredible,” said Blue Wahoos infielder Cobie Fletcher-Vance, looking up at the plane while a tour guide explained how Williams took leave of absence from the Boston Red Sox to join the U.S. Navy– one year after his first Triple Crown batting season in Major League Baseball.

In 1941, Williams became the last player in baseball history to bat over .400 and his unmatched career included being a 19-time MLB All-Star, between two military service duties in Pensacola.

He was among more than 500 MLB players and more than 2,000 Minor League Baseball players who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II.

Williams, who later flew combat missions in the Korean War, was part of a sizeable contingent of professional baseball players who came to NAS-Pensacola for training.

“There is so much history here,” said Blue Wahoos relief pitcher Colton Hock, after joining Fletcher-Vance and outfielder Thomas Jones for a trip May 11 to the base. “So cool to see all this.”

Part of that history includes the wartime connection between baseball and NAS-Pensacola that will be celebrated Memorial Day weekend at Blue Wahoos games on Saturday and Sunday.

In both games against the Mississippi Braves, the Blue Wahoos will wear special uniforms, approved by the Navy. Officers from NAS-Pensacola will attend the games.

The three Blue Wahoos players wore the Navy jerseys on their recent visit to the base as a preview.

On Saturday, Capt. Terry Shashaty, Commanding Officer of NAS-Pensacola will throw out a first pitch, along with others before the two games.

The Blue Wahoos will show off their permanent display to Navy baseball in Pensacola, located on the wall above the stairs leading from the main entrance.

“When the players came that day and wore those Navy jerseys, the people who saw them that day just thought that was awesome,” said Jason Bortz, the public affairs officer at NAS-Pensacola.

“And to wear them (Saturday-Sunday) in front of thousands of people for a couple times this season, I think it’s going to be one of the best nights we’ve had for the base had in several years,” he said. “We have been through a lot the last several years.

“This is going to be a great night for Pensacola. We are honored to be a part of this.”

The Navy baseball jerseys will also be worn by the Blue Wahoos on July 2 during Fourth of July weekend at the ballpark.

Following that game, the jerseys will be auctioned to benefit the Navy-Marine Relief Society, a non-profit organization hat provides financial assistance and additional services to members of the Navy and Marine Corps and their families.

Also on Saturday, there will be a book signing from 11 a.m to 12 p.m. at the Bodacious Bookstore and Café on Intendencia Street, featuring Anne Keene, author of “The Cloudbuster Nine” an award-winning book about MLB players training during World War II to become Navy pilots.

Keene, a renown military historian, will be joined by Sharon Hornfisher, wife of late Navy historian Jim Hornfisher, who wrote the book “Who Can Hold The Sea, The U.S. Navy And The Cold War.”

Keene assisted the Blue Wahoos with compiling information, photos and details about the Navy baseball history in Pensacola.

“We say it all the time at the base and we truly mean it… that Pensacola is the best military community in the country,” Bortz said. “By far, it is the most military friendly.

“It is the most supportive of the military and this is a great opportunity for people in the community, whether they are in the military. or were in the military, or just living in the community to come out and see something that shows the relationship with the base, the Navy and the local community.”

Williams led an all-star baseball team, the Bronson Bombers, during his time in Pensacola. Bronson Field was an auxiliary base with baseball fields that is now part of the Blue Angel Recreation Park for military members.

The team had other MLB players training in Pensacola and competed in a championship series against Corpus Christi during 1943.

The U.S. Armed Forces used baseball and other sports as a way to help build morale and friendships while the pro athletes of that era were training.

“I think that speaks to the unselfishness of Ted Williams and that whole generation during World War II,” Bortz said. “He was a professional baseball player in the prime of his career, who didn’t have to serve, or if he did serve, he didn’t necessarily have to be in a combat situation.

“He voluntarily chose that. He wanted to be a pilot. He wanted to go into combat. It was more important to serve his country than his baseball legacy. That speaks highly of him.”

Williams, who died in 2002, played his entire 19-year career with the Boston Red Sox.

Bill Vilona is a retired Pensacola News Journal sports columnist and now senior writer for Pensacola Blue Wahoos. He can be reached at [email protected]

WANT TO GO?

WHAT: Navy Baseball Celebration

WHEN: Saturday, Sunday and July 2

WHERE: Blue Wahoos Stadium

WHO: Events part of Blue Wahoos games this weekend vs. Mississippi Braves and July 2 vs. Montgomery Biscuits. Blue Wahoos will wear specialty designed Navy baseball uniforms on these days.

TICKETS: Limited number of game tickets available for Saturday’s 6:05 p.m. game Tickets available for Sunday (4:05 p.m.) and July 2 games at www.bluewahoos.com/tickets.

BOOK SIGNING: In conjunction with weekend, a book signing Saturday at 11 a.m. at Bodacious Bookstore and Café features award-winning author and Navy baseball historian Anne Kleene, who wrote “Cloudbuster Nine”, along with Sharon Hornfisher, wife of late-author Jim Hornfisher.

Keene assisted Blue Wahoos in compiling photos, information on Navy history. Free admission to bookstore.

Squirrels offering free tickets for Veterans, military this weekend

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RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Flying Squirrels are offering two free tickets for Veterans, active-duty military, Guard and Reserve members for their games on Saturday, May 28 and Sunday, May 29, the team announced on Friday afternoon.

Active-duty military, Guard members, Reserve members and Veterans can show their IDs at the Flying Squirrels box office to receive two free general admission tickets for the team’s games against the Hartford Yard Goats on Saturday and Sunday at The Diamond.

The complimentary tickets are not available online and must be picked up at the Flying Squirrels ticket office at The Diamond.

“As we enter Memorial Day weekend, we want to take a moment to reflect and remember those who have given their lives in service to our country,” Flying Squirrels CEO Todd “Parney” Parnell said. “We also want to celebrate our Veterans and active duty military at The Diamond as a small ‘thank you’ for all they do and have done.”

On Saturday, first pitch is scheduled for 6:05 p.m. and the gates at The Diamond open at 5 p.m. Following Saturday’s game, fans can enjoy In-Your-Face Fireworks launched up close and inside the fences presented by Breeze Airways.

On Sunday, first pitch is scheduled for 1:35 p.m. and the ballpark gates open at 12:30 p.m. The first 1,000 kids 14 and under will go home with a Patriotic Youth Bucket Hat presented by Pepsi and Aquafina. Kids 14 and under are also invited to play catch on the field before the game from 12:45 p.m.-1:05 p.m. presented by Nesquik. Following the conclusion of the game on Sunday, kids 14 and younger can run the bases presented by Richmond Family Magazine.

For tickets or more information, visit SquirrelsBaseball.com/Tickets, call 804-359-3866 or stop by the Flying Squirrels offices.

Ports to host FREE Play Ball Weekend Event on June 11

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Stockton, Calif. – The Ports, in conjunction with Major League Baseball’s PLAY BALL Weekend, will host a free clinic at Banner Island Ballpark on Saturday, June 11th from 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm. Kids who attend will be able to meet former Major League Baseball Players, participate in a Q&A session, and receive a Stickball Presentation featuring the former MLB players and current Ports players.

“We are honored to be able to host a Play Ball Weekend event at Banner Island Ballpark,” said Ports team president Pat Filippone. “We enjoy presenting the game of baseball to our area youth and are appreciative of the former MLB players and current Stockton Ports players that are assisting us with the event.”

Registration is free but must be made online in advance of the event. Registration is available now.

In addition to the event, the first 200 kids that arrive to Banner Island Ballpark will be given a Play Ball Weekend Bat and Ball Set branded with the Play Ball logo.

PLAY BALL Weekend is a Major League Baseball initiative to promote the games of baseball and softball to youth across the MLB and MiLB markets. Youth are encouraged to learn more about the games and will be provided opportunities to gain new skills in a fun environment.

Below is a helpful guide on how to register your participant for the Youth Baseball Clinic. If you have any issues, please feel free to contact the Ports front office at 209-644-1900 or email [email protected].

· Click the button to register

· Create a LeagueApps Account by providing the necessary information

· Once logged in, click the three bars at the top right

· Click “Events”

· Click “Register” next to “{PBW} Stockton Ports Takeover”

· Fill out the required information for registration

Thank you for your support of the Ports and we are looking forward to welcoming you out for the Ports Play Ball event on June 11!

CLICK HERE to register for this PLAY BALL Weekend clinic.

World Series Hero Mike Timlin & WooSox to Focus on ALS at “Lou Gehrig Day” Celebration, Thursday, June 2

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The Mary Beth Benison Foundation, The ALS Association of Massachusetts, The Angel Fund for ALS Research, and UMass Chan Medical School All To Be Recognized at Polar Park

WORCESTER, MA*— *Red Sox World Series Champion Mike Timlin will visit Polar Park and meet fans on Thursday, June 2, to help the WooSox focus on ALS awareness as Baseball celebrates “Lou Gehrig Day.” The WooSox, who will be hosting the Syracuse Mets that night at 6:45 pm at Polar Park, will pay tribute to the Mary Beth Benison Foundation, based in Holden, MA, the ALS Association of Massachusetts, and the UMass Chan Medical School’s Cecil B. Day Laboratory for ALS research in special ceremonies before and during the game on June 2.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a disease for which there is no cure, took the life of Gehrig on June 2, 1941.

Timlin, the 4-time World Series Champion who helped the Red Sox win the 2004 and 2007 Fall Classics, lost his mother, Sharon Timlin, to ALS in 2002. She was born just ten weeks after Gehrig died. The veteran right-hander, who pitched 18 major league seasons, also won the World Series with the Toronto Blue Jays in 1992 and 1993. He will greet fans in the Sherwood Diner from the 3rd-6th inning after he participates in pre-game ceremonies.

“Being at Worcester’s new Triple-A ballpark to raise awareness for such a great cause is going to be a real treat,” said Timlin. “ALS is a cause that’s near and dear to me, and I’m looking forward to being at Polar Park for the very first time. Thank you to the WooSox for supporting and promoting this year’s Sharon Timlin 5K.”

The 19th Annual Sharon Timlin Memorial 5K takes place Saturday, June 18, in Hopkinton. Since its inception in 2004, the annual fundraiser has generated more than $2 million dollars for The Angel Fund, which supports research in Worcester at the Cecil B. Day Laboratory for Neuromuscular Research at UMass Chan Medical School.

“The Angel Fund and its supporters have played a pivotal role in advancing research and gene therapy clinical trials at UMass Chan,” said Dr. Robert H. Brown Jr., DPhil, MD. “These critical investigations give us hope of slowing the progression of ALS and that a cure is within reach.”

“Mike Timlin was one of the most active members in the community during our time with the Red Sox,” said WooSox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg. “We are thrilled that his annual 5K in his mother’s memory funds research right here in Worcester. He has been a champion on the field and off the field.”

The WooSox and Timlin will recognize the Mary Beth Benison Foundation, a prominent local charity that provides financial support for Central Mass families who struggle with the devastating and costly burden of ALS.

“All of us at the Mary Beth Benison Foundation are looking forward to Lou Gehrig day at Polar Park on Thursday, June 2,” said Katie Benison Camell, Executive Director of the MBB Foundation. “Having Mike Timlin on hand along with the ALS Association of Massachusetts is really going to allow us to collectively shine a light on this devastating disease. We thank the WooSox for their support of ALS families across this region.”

The WooSox and Timlin will also be honoring the ALS Association of Massachusetts, which supports research, patient and community services, public education, and advocacy for those battling the devastating disease. Their mission is to lead the fight against ALS through global cutting-edge research, and empowering people with Lou Gehrig’s Disease to live fuller lives by providing them with compassionate care and support.

“The ALS Association is once again pleased to partner with the WooSox for Lou Gehrig Day,” said John Hedstrom, Territory Executive for New England. “Baseball’s long connection with ALS runs even deeper here in Massachusetts with Pete Frates and Mike Timlin. We are grateful for Mike’s efforts and the work done by the Mary Beth Benison Foundation – together we will end ALS.”

Red Sox Hall of Famer Larry Lucchino, now Chairman & Principal Owner of the WooSox, has been an ardent supporter of ALS awareness and research, both in support of Mike Timlin’s efforts and those of Pete Frates. The late Boston College star, who hit a home run at Fenway Park before being struck with ALS, signed a Red Sox contract on the field on Opening Day, 2015, in tribute to his world-changing efforts as the father of the legendary Ice Bucket Challenge.

On March 4, 2021, Major League Baseball announced that June 2 would forever be celebrated as “Lou Gehrig Day” across the game to honor the Hall of Fame First Baseman, and to raise awareness for ALS.

“It’s a pleasure for all of us at the WooSox to put the spotlight on this disease every year in June,” said Joe Bradlee, WooSox Vice President of Baseball Operations & Community Relations. “Having Mike Timlin at Polar Park for the first time will only help us amplify these efforts, and we’re all looking forward to what will surely be an impactful evening in Worcester.”

Timlin, who won the World Series in 1992 and 1993 with the Toronto Blue Jays, joined the Red Sox in 2003 and helped the Red Sox end the 86-year drought in 2004 and won again in 2007.

AquaSox Free Youth Baseball Camp Set For June 11

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

 

The Everett AquaSox are proud to announce that they will be joining MLB and MiLB to host an event during MLB Play Ball Weekend. Even though the team will be on the road, we will be conducting a FREE three-hour camp. The first 200 campers who enroll will receive a FREE Franklin plastic bat and ball set.

Boys and girls ages 5 to 12 are invited to participate in the FREE three-hour camp at Funko Field on June 11 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. The camp is designed to give boys and girls the opportunity to develop their skills, regardless of experience or ability. With the help of current and former college / high school players and coaches, the camp will focus on the fundamentals of baseball including hitting, fielding, and base running

Campers will need a glove and hat and those who have baseball bats and turf shoes are encouraged to bring them.

Registration is open now until the day of the event, June 11. To register, please click HERE. On the day of the event, please plan to arrive at Funko Field 9:30 AM to check-in for the camp and enter through the north gates.

Below is a helpful guide on how to register for the camp.

· Click the button to register

· Create a LeagueApps Account by providing the necessary information

· Once logged in, click the three bars at the top right

· Click “Camp”

· Click “Register” next to “{PBW} Everett AquaSox PLAY BALL Clinic”

· Fill out the required information for registration

If you have any issues, please feel free to contact the AqauSox front office at 425-258-3673 or email us at [email protected]

The PLAY BALL initiative is baseball’s collective effort to encourage young people and communities to engage in baseball- or softball-related activities, including formal leagues, special events and casual forms of play. PLAY BALL events have become MLB’s signature youth engagement activity during the professional and amateur baseball and softball calendar, especially on key dates throughout MLB’s Championship Season and through the Postseason & World Series. PLAY BALL events demonstrate the positive way the game can serve as an outlet for physical activity, fun with friends and learning how to play the sport at its most basic levels.

As part of the One Baseball initiative, MLB and MiLB are united to impact 150 markets. It’s critical that MLB and MiLB reach the next wave of younger, more diverse fans by fostering Baseball and Softball communities, and driving engagement in order to ensure the long-term health of our sport.

 

Carter BloodCare to host blood drive for Uvalde, Texas

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

FRISCO, Texas (May 26, 2022) – Due to the recent crisis at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, Carter BloodCare and the Frisco RoughRiders will host a blood drive on Friday, May 27th in the Riders Field parking lot from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The blood drive will take place in Lot A/B (behind home plate) and all donors will receive both a Carter BloodCare t-shirt and a RoughRiders ticket voucher, while supplies last.

Carter BloodCare will also host blood drives at Riders Field on later dates. Check back on RidersBaseball.com for more information at a later time.

For tickets and more information about the Frisco RoughRiders, visit RidersBaseball.com or call 972.731.9200.

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance for 15 consecutive seasons (2005-2019). In August 2014, the RoughRiders were purchased by an ownership group led by Chuck Greenberg. Since then, the new ownership group, together with the City of Frisco, has spearheaded numerous major franchise enhancements, investing over $8 million in a wide array of facility upgrades and improvements, including a state-of-the-art HD video board, sound system, Bull Moose Saloon, InTouch Grille, Riders Outpost Team Store and the world’s largest water feature in a sports facility, the massive Lazy River. These enhancements earned the Riders and the City of Frisco Ballpark Digest’s prestigious “Best Ballpark Renovation” award for two consecutive years (2015 and 2016). More than 170 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball. For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact [email protected].

One Day Baseball Clinic June 12th

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

The Dunedin Blue Jays along with Major League Baseball’s PLAY BALL Weekend will host a free clinic at TD Ballpark on Sunday, June 12th beginning at 9:45 AM. Attendees will receive instruction designed for players between the ages of 5 and 12.

Registration is free! You must sign up online in advance of the event. by CLICKING HERE. Registration begins at 9:00 am and the clinic will run from 9:45 am to 10:45 am.

The Dunedin Blue Jays take on the Lakeland Flying Tigers at 12:00 PM following the clinic. Kids who sign up for the clinic receive a free ticket to the game along with other prizes for attending. Parents and adults who would like to see the clinic and game must purchase a ticket at our Dunedin Blue Jays website or by clicking HERE.

*Camp available to the first 200 kids who sign up. Sign up will close when all spots are filled.

Homestand Highlights: Stripers Celebrate Memorial Day, Raise Awareness for ALS and Cancer  

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. – The Gwinnett Stripers will celebrate Memorial Day by transforming into the Gwinnett Peaches, honor those afflicted by ALS and cancer, and give away Button Gwinnett Specialty Jersey replicas during a six-game series against the Louisville Bats (Cincinnati Reds) from May 30 to June 5 at Coolray Field.

Here’s a full look at the homestand:

Monday, May 30 – Stripers vs. Louisville Bats (Cincinnati Reds)

Game Time: First pitch is at 7:05 p.m.

Gates Open: 6:00 p.m.

  • Gwinnett Peaches Retro Specialty Jersey: There’s no crying in baseball as the Stripers become the Gwinnett Peaches! Players and coaches will wear uniforms reminiscent of the Rockford Peaches of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League to celebrate the women who played professionally during the Second World War. These specialty jerseys will be available for purchase via online auction.
  • Memorial Day with Fireworks: Stick around after the game for a Memorial Day fireworks display.

Wednesday, June 1 – Stripers vs. Louisville Bats (Cincinnati Reds)

Game Time: First pitch is at 7:05 p.m.

Gates Open: 6:00 p.m.

  • Wet Nose Wednesday: Free admission for dogs with paid owner on The Bank. Upgrade to a Doggie Bag which includes a ticket, hot dog, and Stripers dog bandana for just $14. With support from New Country 101.5.
  • Xolos de Gwinnett: The Stripers will transform into the Xolos de Gwinnett to honor Gwinnett County’s rich Hispanic heritage and culture.

Thursday, June 2 – Stripers vs. Louisville Bats (Cincinnati Reds)

Game Time: First pitch is at 7:05 p.m.

Gates Open: 6:00 p.m.

  • ALS Lou Gehrig Day: Join the Stripers and support your local ALS Association chapter as we remember the legacy of Lou Gehrig and all those lost to the disease that bears his name.
  • Thirsty Thursday™: Every Thursday night, fans (age 21 and up) can get select 12-ounce domestic beers for just $2 each, and margaritas from Cutwater Spirits for just $5 each, presented by Michelob Ultra.

Friday, June 3 – Stripers vs. Louisville Bats (Cincinnati Reds)

Game Time: First pitch is at 7:05 p.m.

Gates Open: 6:00 p.m.

  • Shut Out Cancer Night: The Stripers recognize cancer survivors, remember the fights of our friends and loved ones, and raise awareness to combat all forms of cancer.
  • Fireworks Friday: A spectacular fireworks display follows each Friday night game.

Saturday, June 4 – Louisville Bats (Cincinnati Reds)

Game Time: First pitch is at 6:05 p.m.

Gates Open: 5:00 p.m.

  • Button Gwinnett Replica Jersey Giveaway: The first 1,000 fans will receive their own replica “Button Gwinnett” jersey, modeled after the Stripers’ popular Patriotic uniforms from 2021. Available in medium and XL sizes only. Please note, this giveaway is ONE PER PERSON, and fans with extra tickets will not be permitted to exit the ballpark and re-enter to claim additional jerseys. Presented by Gwinnett Daily Post.

Sunday, June 5 – Stripers vs. Louisville Bats (Cincinnati Reds)

Game Time: First pitch is at 1:05 p.m.

Gates Open: 12:00 p.m.

  • Sunday Funday: A special matinee game for families, with Pre-Game Catch on the Field and Post-Game Kids Run the Bases, presented by Georgia United Credit Union.

Single-game tickets for all Stripers’ home games are on sale now at GoStripers.com/tickets.

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The Gwinnett Stripers are the Triple-A International League affiliate of the Atlanta Braves. The 2022 season is the team’s 13_th_ at Coolray Field in Lawrenceville, Ga. For tickets, team merchandise, or more information, visit GoStripers.com. Follow the Stripers on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at GoStripers.