Blue Rocks Announce Holiday Card Contest Winner

The Wilmington Blue Rocks are excited to announce the winner of the 17th Annual Holiday Card Contest. Over 1,000 entries were received, but unfortunately, there could be just one winner. After a tough decision process, Rocky Bluewinkle, Mr. Celery, Rubble and the rest of the Holiday Card Contest Committee decided that the overall winner was Izzy Nelson, a 5th Grader from Assumption B.V.M. School in West Grove, PA. Izzy’s artwork will be featured on the cover of the Wilmington Blue Rocks Holiday Card. Izzy will be rewarded with a ceremonial first pitch and 10 tickets to a 2019 Blue Rocks game.

The Blue Rocks also selected honorable mention recipients, whose artwork will be displayed on the back of the Holiday Card. Those garnering honorable mentions honors are:

Italia Fortebuono
Loomis Elementary School
Broomall, PA

Jaxon Morales
St. Elizabeth School
Wilmington, DE

Charlotte Munger
Assumption B.V.M. School
West Grove, PA

Evilyn Seeney
Mannington Twp School
Salem, NJ

Robert Vella
St. Edmond’s Academy
Wilmington, DE

The Wilmington Blue Rocks would like to thank all those who entered. Entries were received from students in Kindergarten thru 5th grade from Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey.

Each entrant will be rewarded with 2 tickets to a Blue Rocks game in 2019 as a thank you for participating. The tickets will be mailed to the participating teachers by March.

The Blue Rocks recently announced a two-year extension of their Player Development Contract to remain the Advanced-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. Season seats, mini plans and group packages for the 2019 season are available now at BlueRocks.com.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Bisons to donate tickets for every pack purchased during the ‘Season of Giving’

In the spirit of the season and how amazing it feels to share the gift of baseball with others, the Bisons today announced an all new ‘Season of Giving’ program. For every ticket package sold during the month of December, the team will donate four (4) undated flex tickets for any April game in 2019 to a local 501c3 non-profit organization of the ticket-buyers’ choice.

>>>CLICK HERE to view all Bisons 2019 Ticket Pack Options<<<</a>

The ‘Season of Giving’ will run through the entire month of December and include both renewals and new ticket package purchases made at Bisons.com, by calling (716) 843-4373 or by stopping by the Sahlen Field Box Office (Mon. -Thu. 9am-3pm, Fri. 9am-1pm).

Those that purchase a ticket package can provide the name of any registered 501c3 organization to be the recipient of the donated tickets or allow the Bisons to choose one of the many great causes the team currently works with.

The Bisons have a number of great ticket packages currently available that would include the donation of 4 undated flex tickets to a worthy cause.

All Bisons Holiday Packs (starting at $53) -Choose from 3 options with each Holiday Pack including Opening Day tickets, flex tickets, a Vladimir Guerrero Jr. ornament and a great Bisons merchandise option. Savings up to 66%

>>>CLICK HERE TO VIEW BISONS HOLIDAY PACKS<<<</a>

Season Tickets (starting at $525) -See all 70 Bisons games in 2019 with over 50% in savings and the most exclusive rewards and benefits package in sports. CLICK HERE for 2019 season ticket info.

12-Game Flex Pack ($138) -Receive 12 undated flex tickets that can be used for any game and in any combination throughout the 2019 season (excludes July 3rd).

Family Pack ($81) -Receive four undated tickets, $30 in Bisons Bucks and 25% off at the ballpark gift shops (excludes July 3rd).

Event Packs (starting at $80) -The Bisons also have special individual ticket packages for next year’s Star Wars Night, KeyBank Independence Eve Celebration with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra and Superhero Night.

>>>CLICK HERE to view all Bisons 2019 Ticket Pack Options<<<</a>

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Making their Pitch: ESU students to toss ideas at RailRiders front office staff

MOOSIC, PA (December 5, 2018) – On Thursday, December 6, students majoring in sport management at East Stroudsburg University will have a unique opportunity to present their marketing plans to the front office staff of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders during a class titled “Concepts of Sport Marketing.”

Earlier in the year, students in this class traveled to PNC Field to attend a RailRiders game and to meet members of the front office, including Team President and General Manager Josh Olerud, to learn about the organization’s marketing plan overviews. Throughout the semester, the students have been building strategic sport marketing plans to meet the needs of the RailRiders organization. The class culminates in the student presentations to members of the RailRiders executive team.

“We are excited to see the culmination of their work,” Olerud said. “This has been a lengthy process for these students, but was surely a valuable experience, both for this course and for their future as well. The RailRiders have had a strong partnership with East Stroudsburg University and this opportunity is tremendous. They gain insight and practice, we always learn a thing or two and may even find a future intern or employee. On behalf of the RailRiders, I would like to thank the students for their hard work and effort.”

For interviews or more information regarding the “Concepts of Sport Marketing” class, please contact Liz Richardson at (570) 422-3139 or at erichard10@esu.edu.

The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders begin the 2019 campaign on April 4 in Buffalo before opening PNC Field for the first time in the new season on April 11. Season tickets, corporate partnerships, and mini-plans, including the new nine-game bobblehead plan, are available now. Visit swbrailriders.com or call (570) 969-BALL for more details.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Adams & Martinez to Host Green & Gold Charity Softball Game Presented by Thornberry Creek LPGA Classic in 2019

GRAND CHUTE, WI – Davante Adams and Blake Martinez will host the 2019 Green & Gold Charity Softball Game presented by Thornberry Creek LPGA Classic on Saturday, June 1 at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium. Game time is scheduled for 12:05pm. Individual tickets for the game will go on sale Tuesday, December 18 at 10:00am through the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers ticket office and website. Fans can get tickets a week ahead of that date by purchasing a special four-game ticket package that includes tickets to the softball game and vouchers good for any three Timber Rattlers home games during the 2019 regular season.

“I am looking forward to once again hosting the Green & Gold Softball Game,” said Adams. “It’s always a fun day out there with fans and showing everyone how we can hit it, too.”

In the 2018 game, Robert Tonyan hit a walkoff home run to give the team captained by Clay Matthews a victory in front of 8,228 fans.

“I’m excited to team up with Davante on this great tradition,” said Martinez. “I can’t wait to get out there and see all the fans on June 1st….and yes, my team is going to win.”

The four-game ticket package will be available to fans on Monday, December 10 at 10:00am through the Timber Rattlers Ticket Office by calling (800) WI-TIMBER, (920) 733-4152, or in person at the Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium Box Office. These ticket packages will also be available online through TimberRattlers.com.

Prices for the four-game packages are:
Premium Box Seat: $108
Box Seat: $87
Reserved Seat: $59

The first two rows of the seating bowl at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium are the premium box seat option in this ticket package. Vouchers for the Timber Rattlers games must be redeemed at the box office and are based on availability.

Individual tickets for the Green & Gold Charity Softball Game, which includes the sponsor game at 10:00am and the Home Run Derby at 11:00am, go on sale Tuesday, December 18 at 10:00am. Tickets for the softball game are $69 for a premium box seat, $48 for a box seat, $29 for a reserved bleacher seat, and $14 for a general admission grass seat. There are also a limited number of patio tables available at $255. Patio tables seat four people and include waitstaff service and an autographed item from the captains.

All You Can Eat Seats are available for $87 for the softball game only. These seats are located on the first base side of the stadium and include a ticket to the Green & Gold Charity Softball Game and an all-you-can-eat picnic.

Individuals who purchased tickets for the Donald Driver Charity Softball Game may purchase tickets for the Green & Gold Charity Softball Game on December 17 at 10:00am.

If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities, please contact Lammi Sports Management at (414) 727-3600.

The Green & Gold Charity Softball game will benefit multiple charities in Northeastern Wisconsin.

The Timber Rattlers box office is open from 9am until 5pm Monday through Friday.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

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Soap Box Derby Named as Charity Recipient for Corbin Bernsen-headlined 2019 Hot Stove Banquet

(AKRON, OHIO) Dec. 3, 2018 – The Akron RubberDucks announced today the International Soap Box Derby® will be the charity benefactor from the 2019 RubberDucks Hot Stove Banquet on Feb. 1 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Akron. The Hot Stove Banquet will be headlined by Emmy-nominated actor Corbin Bernsen, who played Roger Dorn in the classic hit movie “Major League” and directed the Soap Box Derby-themed “25 Hill.”

The third annual Hot Stove Banquet is presented by FirstEnergy. It will be a celebration of baseball to help get fans prepared for another exciting season from the RubberDucks and Cleveland Indians. Fans will have an opportunity to ask Bernsen about his acting career, which includes his famous role as Dorn in “Major League” and his time as Arnie Becker on the hit ’80s series L.A. Law. In 2011, he wrote, directed, and produced the Soap Box Derby-related film “25 Hill,” which helped provide extra funds to the long-standing Akron institution.

“We are pleased to be partnering with the RubberDucks for their kickoff Hot Stove Banquet,” said Mark Gerberich, president and chief executive officer of the Soap Box Derby. “Corbin Bernsen’s tie to ’25 Hill’ and ‘Major League’ are both classics, and we are grateful and proud to be this year’s recipient. This will help further our leadership, STEM education and racing programs in the Akron Community,” said Gerberich.

Bernsen previously appeared as a guest at Canal Park in July 2013, when he met fans and signed autographs while the team gave away Roger Dorn snow globes.

“It’s an honor to partner with an Akron institution such as the Soap Box Derby and help this great organization raise money for its mission of helping kids in the community,” said RubberDucks General Manager Jim Pfander. “It will be an extra special Hot Stove because of Corbin’s connection to the Derby and his because of his beloved role as Roger Dorn from ‘Major League,’ which is a cult favorite of Indians fans around the country.”

The doors open at 4:30 p.m. with cocktails and silent auction, which will feature autographed items from current Indians and RubberDucks, as well as some unique items donated by corporate partners and other teams across baseball.

Starting at 6:30 p.m., a full-plated meal and dessert will be served (vegetarian option available), and the program and question-and-answer session will follow dinner. All attendees are guaranteed to receive Bernsen’s autograph, and they will have the opportunity to meet him after the program’s conclusion.

The Hot Stove Banquet is open to the public and tickets may be purchased for $100 per person or $750 for a table, fans can call (330) 253-5151 or visit akronrubberducks.com. Space is limited. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 26.

Bernsen most recently has starred as Henry Spencer on the USA Network’s hit original series Psych. He was first catapulted to stardom during the 1980s by the hit NBC TV series, L.A. Law, earning nominations for both Emmy and Golden Globe awards for his performance as Arnie Becker. He played Roger Dorn in the “Major League” film series and starred in the movie “Hello Again.” He has several directing credits, including “Carpool Guy” and All-American Soap Box Derby film, “25 Hill.” He lives in Los Angeles and is from North Hollywood. Bernsen is a graduate of UCLA where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Theater and a master’s degree in Playwriting.

2019 RubberDucks Hot Stove Banquet Details:

When: Fri., Feb. 1 at 4:30 p.m. (Doors), 6:30 p.m. (Dinner), with program and Q & A to follow

Where: Hilton Garden Inn – Akron (1307 E. Market St., Akron, Ohio, 44305)

Who: Emmy-nominated actor Corbin Bernsen, aka Roger Dorn from “Major League”

What: Cocktails, Silent Auction, Dinner/Dessert, Program, Q & A Session, Autographs (guaranteed autograph per ticket)

Tickets (On sale Monday, Nov. 26 at 10 a.m.): $100 per person; $750 per table of eight; To purchase: (330) 253-5151 or akronrubberducks.com

Benefactor: International Soap Box Derby®

About the Akron RubberDucks

The Akron RubberDucks are the Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. The 2019 season, powered by FirstEnergy, will be the franchise’s 23rd since moving to Akron. The 2019 Home Opener is on Thursday, April 4, at 6:35 p.m. vs. Altoona Curve.

For more information about the team, please visit the RubberDucks’ website, www.akronrubberducks.com, Facebook page www.facebook.com/AkronRubberDucks, Twitter feed @AkronRubberDuck, and Instagram at @akronrubberducks. Tickets packages for the 2019 season can be ordered online or by calling 330-253-5151 Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

About the Soap Box Derby

The International Soap Box Derby® is a non-profit youth education and leadership development organization whose mission is to build knowledge and character, and to create meaningful experiences through fair and honest racing competitions, STEM curriculums, and other community-focused activities. The Derby’s Core Values and Drivers include: Youth Education and Leadership Development; Family Engagement and Enrichment; Honesty, Integrity and Perseverance; Innovation and Entrepreneurship; Teamwork and Collaboration; Mentoring; Volunteerism; and Commitment to Community. The Derby’s two youth initiatives are the FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby racing program and the STEM-based Education Program, which provides educational opportunities for K-12 youth worldwide through Soap Box Derby racing. The Derby dates to 1934, when the first All-American race was held in Dayton, Ohio. For more information, visit www.soapboxderby.org.

California League Baseball Teams Unite to Assist With Fire Relief Efforts

Oxnard, CA – As California begins it’s slow recovery process after some of the most deadliest & destructive fires in California history, the baseball teams of the California League have decided to step up to the plate and do their part for the relief efforts.

The California League boasts eight teams located throughout the state: San Jose, Stockton, Modesto, Visalia, Lancaster, San Bernardino, Rancho Cucamonga, and Lake Elsinore. Each team will be producing their own logoed cap with a firefighter theme, created by Cotapaxi, a custom design and manufacturing corporation located in San Diego. These custom caps will only be available for a limited time from each team & can be purchased for $20. Net proceeds from these sales will be donated to support the disaster relief efforts as we enter this holiday season.

“Minor League Baseball is all about being involved with our local communities. These fires have affected everyone in the state, and we all want to do our part to help out as much as we can” stated California League President, Charlie Blaney.

If you would like to purchase one of these caps, you can contact each team individually via their respective websites:

###

About the Inland Empire 66ers of San Bernardino
The Inland Empire 66ers of San Bernardino are the Class A Advanced affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. The 66ers will enter a new season on April 4, 2019, their 9th season as an Angels affiliate. Ticket packages and corporate sponsorship packages are now available. To be a part of the 2019 Inland Empire 66ers season, please contact the 66ers at (909)888-9922, visit us online at www.66ers.com, or follow us on Facebook (Inland Empire 66ers), Instagram (@66ersbaseball), and Twitter (@66ersbaseball).

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

NATURALS ANNOUNCE ‘SEASON OF GIVING’ FOR DECEMBER

SPRINGDALE, Ark. – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are excited to announce the ‘Season of Giving’ for the month of December. For every ticket package sold during the month, the Naturals will donate four (4) Home Plate Super Premium tickets for an April game to a local non-profit or youth organization of choice by the account holder purchasing the ticket package.

The ‘Season of Giving’ will run from Monday, December 3rd through Friday, December 21st and will be honored for both renewal clients as well as new ticket holders. Fans interested may purchase season tickets, mini packs, or flex packs in one (1) of three (3) ways: online at www.nwanaturals.com; by calling (479) 927-4900; or stopping by the Naturals Front Office at Arvest Ballpark during regular business hours, which is 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Friday.

Once a ticket package is purchased, a Naturals representative will reach out to the account holder to confirm the order. The account holder will then be able to tell the Naturals where they’d like the four (4) tickets to be donated and the Naturals will handle the logistics of getting the tickets to the appropriate non-profit. There is a limit of four (4) donated tickets per account.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals will return to Arvest Ballpark next year on Thursday, April 4, 2019 when they’ll host the Springfield Cardinals (Double-A Affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals) on Opening Night of the 2019 season. Follow the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on Facebook and Twitter @NWANaturals all throughout the year for all of the latest information on 2019.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are the Double-A Texas League Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The Naturals play at state-of-the-art Arvest Ballpark in Springdale, Ark. For more information, including statistics, ticket options, and more, please visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

-Naturals-

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Cal League Teams Unite to Assist With Fire Relief Efforts

California League Baseball Teams Unite to Assist With Fire Relief Efforts

Eight Minor League Baseball Teams Selling Firefighting Themed Caps

Oxnard, CA   As California begins it’s slow recovery process after some of the most deadliest & destructive fires in California history, the baseball teams of the California League have decided to step up to the plate and do their part for the relief efforts.

The California League boasts eight teams located throughout the state: San Jose, Stockton, Modesto, Visalia, Lancaster, San Bernardino, Rancho Cucamonga, and Lake Elsinore. Each team will be producing their own logoed cap with a firefighter theme, produced by Cotapaxi, a custom design and manufacturing corporation located in Commerce, CA. These custom caps will only be available for a limited time from each team & can be purchased for $20. Net proceeds from these sales will be donated to support the disaster relief efforts as we enter this holiday season.

“Minor League Baseball is all about being involved with our local communities. These fires have affected everyone in the state, and we all want to do our part to help out as much as we can” stated California League President, Charlie Blaney.

If you would like to purchase one of these caps, you can contact each team individually via their respective websites:

Or if you’d like to purchase all 8 caps for $150, you can contact Matt Blaney in the California League office.

###

About the Visalia Rawhide
The Visalia Rawhide are a professional baseball team in the Class ‘A’ Advanced California League and are the only professional sports team in Tulare and Kings counties. On April 4th, 2019; the Rawhide will open their 73nd year of play, and 13th as an affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Rawhide will be defending their 2018 Northern Division Championship, and look to continue providing competitive baseball and affordable family entertainment. To be a part of the 2019 Visalia Rawhide season, please contact the Visalia Rawhide Ticket Office at 559.732.4433, visit us online at rawhidebaseball.com, or follow us on Facebook (TheRawhide), Instagram (@VisaliaRawhide), and Twitter (@VisaliaRawhide).

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Dragons Leandro Santana Wins Reds MiLB Community Service Award

Dayton, Ohio-Dayton Dragons infielder Leandro Santana has been selected as the Cincinnati Reds 2018 Minor League Community Service award winner. The Reds announced their Minor League player awards at RedsFest.

Santana spent the entire 2018 season with the Dragons. He was selected for the award based on his efforts in Dayton this season as a volunteer as part of various Dragons community service endeavors.

Santana became the seventh Dragons player to win the Reds Minor League Community Service Award since 2011. The award is given to only one player each year across all levels of the Reds farm system. Previous Dragons winners of the Reds Community Service Award were Drew Hayes (2011), El’Hajj Muhammad (2012), Brent Peterson (2013), Jon Matthews (2014), Avain Rachal (2015), and Aaron Fossas (2017).

Also at RedsFest, the Reds named the following Minor League player awards: Sheldon “Chief” Bender Minor League Player of the Year: Ibandel Isabel; Minor League Hitter of the Year: T.J. Friedl; Minor League Pitcher of the Year: Tony Santillan. Friedl and Santillan are both former Dragons. Friedl spent the first half of the 2017 season with the Dragons, while Santillan spent all of 2017 in Dayton after briefly pitching for the Dragons in 2016.

The Reds Minor League Player of the Year award is named after Sheldon “Chief” Bender, who worked in professional baseball for 64 years, 39 of those with the Reds. Bender oversaw the Reds farm system from 1967-’88, producing stars such as Ken Griffey Sr., Dave Concepcion, Ron Oester, Mario Soto, Eric Davis, Barry Larkin, Chris Sabo, Paul O’Neill, and countless others. Bender passed away in 2008 at the age of 88.

Sheldon “Chief” Bender Award winners:

2000 Austin Kearns

2001 Adam Dunn

2002 Brandon Larson

2003 Stephen Smitherman

2004 Richie Gardner

2005 Chris Denorfia

2006 Homer Bailey

2007 Jay Bruce

2008 Chris Valaika

2009 Chris Heisey

2010 Devin Mesoraco

2011 Billy Hamilton

2012 Billy Hamilton

2013 Seth Mejias-Brean

2014 Ben Lively

2015 Tyler Mahle

2016 Aristides Aquino

2017 Nick Senzel

2018 Ibandel Isabel

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Toy drive leads Foundation’s holiday initiatives

With the holiday season underway, the RoughRiders Foundation continues to be an active supporter of local non-profit organizations in Frisco and surrounding areas.

On Friday, December 7, the foundation is hosting its annual toy drive in partnership with Toys For Tots during the RoughRiders Winter Wonderland event. The drive is one of the Foundation’s biggest events each year, generating boxes full of toys for kids in need during the holidays. Fans can donate new, unwrapped toys at the home plate gate from 5-10 pm. The event will also include live updates from the ballpark on FOX4.

“The holidays are such a great time to give back and we’re doing our best to assist in every way we can,” said Breon Dennis, Executive Director of the RoughRiders Foundation. “We’re especially excited about the toy drive and thank our great fans in advance for their generous donations.”

In addition to the toy drive, RoughRiders players and staff have been busy spreading holiday cheer the last few weeks by volunteering at local schools, food banks, and animal shelters. The foundation also staged a silent auction on November 27 as part of “Giving Tuesday” to help fund future initiatives with community partners.

If you would like the RoughRiders to volunteer with your organization, please email community@ridersbaseball.com. For more information on the RoughRiders Foundation, click here.

The 2019 season begins April 4 at Dr Pepper Ballpark. Ticket memberships and group hospitality packages are now on sale. The promotional calendar will be unveiled in early 2019 with single-game tickets going on sale soon after. For more information, visit RidersBaseball.com or call (972) 731-9200.

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play their games at beautiful Dr Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, Texas. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance in each of the last 14 seasons (2005-2018). 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 Choctaw 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 140 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball, including All-Stars Chris Davis, Adrian Gonzalez, Ian Kinsler and Neftali Feliz, as well as current Rangers stars Elvis Andrus, Rougned Odor and Nomar Mazara. For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders and Dr Pepper Ballpark, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact Ryan Rouillard at RRouillard@RidersBaseball.com.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Blue Rocks Staff Volunteer in Harvey Hanna Coat Drive

The Wilmington Blue Rocks front office was out in the community on Thursday as they participated in Operation Warm at Warner Elementary School in Wilmington. The event, which was presented by Harvery Hanna and The Delaware Kids Fund, provided local children with brand new winter jackets.

Kids would walk into the school’s cafeteria, introduce themselves to a volunteer from the community and then get the opportunity to pick out a jacket of their choice courtesy of Operation Warm. They then received a kindness coin and signed a giant thank you poster for the generous folks at Harvey Hanna.

“It was an awesome event,” said Blue Rocks Director of Merchandise Jim Beck. “The kids were so grateful and it was just a terrific opportunity to speak with them, get to know them a little bit and then play a very small part in putting a smile on their faces. We want to thank both Operation Warm and Harvey Hanna for giving our organization a chance to be involved.”

Operation Warm provides warmth, confidence and hope to children in need through the gift of brand new winter coats. The organization believes a brand new coat is more than a coat. Through serving millions of children in need across North America, it has seen that a brand new coat offers a child physical and emotional warmth, confidence to socialize and succeed, and hope of a brighter future. For more information on the organization their website is OperationWarm.org.

The Blue Rocks were honored by the Carolina League in 2018 with the Matt Minker Community Service Award. The award goes to the club which best demonstrates an outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, support, and leadership within its community. The award is named after the Blue Rocks’ founder, Matt Minker, who owned the club until his death in 2007. Minker, whose construction company built Frawley Stadium, remains the team’s honorary president.

The Blue Rocks participated in numerous school programs, charitable endeavors and hospital visits in 2018 and team works with area schools to promote academic achievement (DSEA Rocky’s Reading Challenge), citizenship (Grotto Pizza Outstanding Student Program) and overall knowledge (Discover Baseball and Education Day).

The organization also helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for good causes such as Habitat for Humanity, Fight for the Gold, Boys and Girls Clubs of Delaware, Special Olympics Delaware, Food Bank of Delaware and many other charities through partnerships with local businesses such as Chase and Food Lion. Several times during the season, the team’s players and mascot also visited local hospitals, brightening the spirits of patients and their families.

The Blue Rocks recently announced a two-year extension of their Player Development Contract to remain the Advanced-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. Season seats, mini plans and group packages for the 2019 season are available now at BlueRocks.com.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

RiverDogs Host Charlie Claus Toy Drive and Movie Night at The Joe

CHARLESTON, S.C. – With the holiday season underway, Charlie and the RiverDogs family are asking fans to help give back. The Charleston club will host their annual Charlie Claus Movie Night, featuring a special presentation of “The Muppet Christmas Carol,” on Saturday, December 8 from 2-5 p.m, while accepting donations to help benefit the Salvation Army Angel Tree Charleston.

Fans that bring a new, unopened toy benefitting the Angel Tree program will gain free admission to the event, hosted by the RiverDogs’ signature mascot, Charlie T. RiverDog. Tickets to the event are $5 otherwise, while kids 3 and under and members of the MUSC Children’s Health Kids Club get in free.

“We’re excited to once again bring back the Charlie Claus Movie Night, while partnering with the Salvation Army Angel Tree in this initiative for the first time,” said RiverDogs Director of Community Relations Walter Nolan-Cohn. “Our generous donations from fans will have a profound impact to help bring much-needed gifts to kids in the Lowcountry this time of year.”

In addition, all fans that donate at least a day before the event, in-person at The Joe will receive a Family Four-Pack (includes four tickets, four hot dogs, four drinks and four bags of chips) to a RiverDogs game in 2019, plus a free admission to the Charlie Claus Movie Night. Salvation Army Angel Tree bins will be available for fans to drop off donations all week leading up to the event (Dec. 3-7) from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. each day. Fans can drop off donations and redeem their tickets at the Riley Park front office.

Along with the feature presentation from the Muppets, there will be a visit by Santa, letter writing stations for the North Pole, hot chocolate, and even an appearance from Charlie Claus himself.

About the RiverDogs

On the heels of their second straight year eclipsing 300,000 fans through the turnstiles, the RiverDogs have already begun preparations for another year down at The Joe. RiverDogs season tickets, partial season plans, and groups tickets, including options to the Riley Park Club, are now available for the 2019 campaign at riverdogs.com/tickets or by contacting the RiverDogs front office at 843-577-3647 (DOGS). The RiverDogs begin their home schedule on April 11 when they host the Greensboro Grasshoppers at The Joe, preceded by a weeklong road trip. A full schedule and list of game times for the 2019 season is available at riverdogs.com.

–RIVERDOGS–

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Cougars Announce Annual Winter Coat Drive Begins December 3

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced the dates for the organization’s annual Winter Coat Drive. Beginning Monday, December 3 fans are welcome to drop by the Cougars front office located at Northwestern Medicine Field (34W002 Cherry Lane, Geneva, IL 60134) week days between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to donate winter coats for those in need this holiday season.

Donations of new or gently-used winter coats for infants, children and adults are all encouraged. Fans will receive one (1) undated reserved seat ticket voucher valid for a 2019 regular season Cougars game with each donated item. There is a maximum of 15 complimentary ticket vouchers per fan.

In partnership with the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans, all donated coats will be given to local families and individuals in need of cold-weather outerwear this winter.

The Cougars are requesting that all gently-used winter coats be donated by Friday, December 14 at 4 p.m.

For more information, contact the Cougars front office at 630-232-8811.

Ticket packages for the 2019 season are now on sale including the Cougars Christmas Pack. From now until December 31, purchase the Christmas Pack for just $89 and you’ll receive four (4) box seat ticket vouchers valid for any game during the 2018 season, one (1) general lot parking pass, $60 in Cougars cash plus two (2) reserved seat ticket voucher for Opening Night on Thursday, April 4. That’s a savings of over 40% which makes it the perfect gift for the baseball fan on your shopping list this holiday season. Visit kccougars.com for more information or to purchase your Christmas Pack today.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates on tickets and promotions for the 2019 season

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 171 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Hooks and BUSH’S® Beans Donate to Driscoll Children’s Hospital

CORPUS CHRISTI – The Corpus Christi Hooks, in partnership with BUSH’S® Beans, announced today they will provide a donation to Driscoll Children’s Hospital as part of #GivingTuesday, a movement that celebrates and supports giving and philanthropic events at the start of the holiday season, on Tuesday, Nov. 27.

Since its inaugural year in 2012, Giving Tuesday has been a global day of giving fueled by the power of social media and collaboration. Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving and the popular shopping holidays Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the event kicks off the giving season each year by inspiring people to give back.

This past season, first baseman Taylor Jones was named the BUSH’S Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the 2018 Texas League All-Star Game in Midland. In addition to the award, BUSH’S and the Hooks will contribute to the local community by providing a monetary donation to Driscoll Children’s Hospital.

“Driscoll Children’s Hospital ensures the youth of South Texas have access to the best medical care available,” Hooks General Manager Wes Weigle said. “We are always delighted to aid them in this mission. I’d like to thank Taylor Jones for coming up with that big swing, and BUSH’S Beans for helping us make an impact in the Coastal Bend.”

BUSH’S Beans sponsored 11 All-Star Game MVP awards throughout Minor League Baseball this summer. Each BUSH’S MVP Award recipient’s team will be donating to a local charitable organization of the team’s choosing.

“It is truly inspiring to see how MiLB clubs and their local communities support each other,” said Mike Morris, Senior Brand Manager at Bush Brothers & Company. “We are proud to recognize the contributions of BUSH’S All-Star MVP Award winner Taylor Jones by joining with the Hooks to contribute to Driscoll Children’s Hospital.”

Click here to learn more about the long-term partnership Minor League Baseball and BUSH’S Beans, the “Official Beans of Minor League Baseball,” cooked up in 2016.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

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Boise Hawks Announce Holiday Food Drive

BOISE, ID: The Boise Hawks have announced they will be hosting a food drive this holiday season, benefiting 7Cares Idaho Shares, hosted by KTVB. For every donation, fans will have the opportunity to spin the wheel for great Hawks prizes.

“The demand to collect food for those who need the community’s support is year-round.” said Bob Flannery, Boise Hawks General Manager. “During the holiday season, being able to support a great cause by KTVB is something we are proud of.”

Non-perishable food donations can be made at the Hawks Front Office, located at Memorial Stadium (5600 N. Glenwood Street). Hawks Front Offices are open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Donations can be made through December 7, 2018.

For more information on 7Cares Idaho Shares, visit KTVB.com.

About the Boise Hawks

The Hawks are the Treasure Valley’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. The Boise Hawks announced that they will be hosting the Northwest League / Pioneer League All Star Game in 2019. Deposits for all 2019 season seat plans (guaranteeing tickets to the 2019 Northwest League / Pioneer League All-Star Game) are currently being taken. To stay up to date on all things Boise Hawks, follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/boisehawksbaseball) or visit www.BoiseHawks.com.

– Hawks Baseball –

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.