Dragons Set for IGS Energy’s “Little Big Leagues” Takeover

DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons and IGS Energy continue their partnership to enhance the youth baseball experience all over the Dayton area in 2018. The “Little Big Leagues” program, presented by IGS Energy, has been an integral part of connecting Dragons players with aspiring youth baseball players over the years, and this program extends out into the community as well.

The “Little Big Leagues” Takeover is one of the favorite events for youth baseball players in the area. The event, presented by IGS Energy, is on Saturday, June 9, and gives local kids the chance to “bring the Dragons to your home turf”. Not only will the famed Green Team, Heater, and Gem make appearances at local youth baseball fields and practices, but Dragons players will be in attendance too. Kids have the chance to learn baseball fundamentals from current Dragons players. Teams won this experience by signing up for a Little Big Leagues Pre-Game Parade.

Thousands of youth baseball players have the opportunity to participate in one of the IGS Little League Parades before a sold-out Dragons game this summer. Leagues that come to a Dragons game as part of a group outing will be escorted for a lap around the warning track at Fifth Third Field during pre-game warmups and have an opportunity to take a league-wide photo on the field. Leagues were encouraged to sign up early, so they could be entered to win the Grand Prize Game and other experiences.

For more information on how little league teams and players can get involved in the Dragons “Little Big Leagues” program, presented by IGS Energy, contact the Dragons group sales department at (937) 228-2287, email dragons@daytondragons.com, or visit www.daytondragons.com/IGS.

About IGS

IGS is a leading provider of retail energy supply, home services products, distributed generation such as solar and combined heat and power as well as compressed natural gas services. With over 25 years of experience, the company leverages extensive in-house expertise to bring innovation to the energy industry. By embracing new technologies, supporting alternative energy resources, and encouraging energy independence, IGS is inspiring homeowners, businesses, and communities to make smart energy decisions. The company also has a community investment program which provides employees with opportunities to get involved with and give to causes that are meaningful to the company and to them personally.

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

Squirrels to Host 5th Annual Guns & Hoses Softball Game

Funnville – The Richmond Flying Squirrels, Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, will celebrate the culmination of National Police Week (May 13-19) and the beginning of National EMS Week (May 20-26) with a First Responders Day at The Diamond on Sunday, May 20. The day will feature the fifth annual Guns & Hoses charity softball game between the Richmond Police Department and Richmond Fire Department following the Flying Squirrels’ 1:05 p.m. contest against the Harrisburg Senators.

Pregame activities for First Responders Day at The Diamond are scheduled to include a Touch-A-Truck-style event with fire trucks, law enforcement and EMS vehicles parked outside the front gates of the ballpark beginning at noon. Richmond Sheriff Antionette Irving and members of her staff will participate in Catch with a Cop in the outfield from 12:15-12:35 p.m.

“We’re committed to the greater Richmond community, and a day like this gives us an opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to the men and women who serve and protect our community every day,” said Flying Squirrels VP & COO Todd “Parney” Parnell. “The competitive spirit between the Richmond police and fire departments is a lot of fun to watch and we encourage our fans to come out and support both on the field as well as their charitable causes.”

Both the Richmond police and fire departments are selling fundraiser tickets to Sunday’s game. Proceeds from the Richmond police fundraiser will benefit the Bike for Blue campaign while Richmond fire proceeds support the Muscular Dystrophy Association summer camp. Both organizations will also be selling T-shirts during Sunday’s game as an additional fundraiser to benefit the respective charities they are supporting.

To purchase tickets to support the Richmond Police Department fundraiser, click here: https://groupmatics.events/Richmondpolice

To purchase tickets to support the Richmond Fire Department fundraiser, click here: https://groupmatics.events/Richmondfire

As part of every Sunday home game, kids ages 14 and younger can run the bases after the game presented by Richmond Family Magazine. The Guns & Hoses softball game will begin immediately after kids run the bases.

For more information regarding First Responders Day, call 804-359-FUNN (3866). To learn more about upcoming events in Funnville and to purchase tickets, visit www.squirrelsbaseball.com.

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

South Bend Cubs Co-Host Inaugural Military Honor & Appreciation Fair on Memorial Day

SOUTH BEND, IN – As a kickoff to South Bend’s “Best.Week.Ever.” festival, the South Bend Cubs will host the inaugural Military Honor & Appreciation Fair at Four Winds Field on Monday May 28. The fair is part of “Armed Forces Week”, a special week of home games dedicated to the United States military service branches starting on Monday, May 21st and culminating with Military Appreciation Days on Sunday evening and Memorial Day.

“Every year, we are honored to partner with Express Employment Professionals over Memorial Day weekend,” said South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart. “This season, we have expanded the weekend to include the full eight game homestand as well as a Military Honor and Appreciation Fair to help bring awareness to issues that our active duty military and veterans are facing.”

Co-hosted by Express Employment Professionals, Military Appreciation Days on Sunday, May 27 and Memorial Day, May 28, will honor veterans and currently-serving military personnel by offering two free tickets to either the Sunday or Monday games with proof of service.

On Sunday, visitors around the Four Winds Field Plaza will be visually inspired by 50 US flags placed in-line by the Indiana Patriot Guard Riders in dedication to Vietnam veterans. This display will recognize members of the Vietnam Veterans of America. The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association will also ride their motorcycles onto the field, which will be followed by a live flyover and field landing of UH-1 Huey 369, a restored Huey helicopter from American Huey 369 out of Peru, Indiana.

On Memorial Day, Express Employment Professionals and the South Bend Cubs will host the inaugural Military Honor & Appreciation Fair. The event starts at 10:45 a.m. with a special wreath-laying ceremony featuring area dignitaries that include Indiana’s 2nd District Congresswoman Jackie Walorski, 95.3 MNC’s afternoon radio host Casey Hendrickson, and South Bend Cubs President Joe Hart. Other participants will include the Miller’s Vets Color Guard, area Boy & Girls Scouts, and representatives of the Indiana Army National Guard, who will perform TAPS and the National Anthem.

Following the ceremony will be the Military Appreciation Fair. Over 25 local military service organizations will be represented along with military vehicles and equipment on display. There will also be a paintball shooting booth from BlastCamp out of Hobart, Indiana. All events on Monday will take place outside of Gates A & B in the Four Winds Field plaza.

Prior to first pitch on Monday, the families of fallen service members will be recognized on the field, organized by US Army Survivor Outreach Services and Helping Hands for Freedom.

In addition to the events on May 27 and 28, the South Bend Cubs and Express Employment Professionals will host a food drive during all eight games. Nearly 25% of food insecure Hoosiers are our military veterans. All food and money collected will benefit the Food Bank of Northern Indiana and their area food agencies, who help feed hungry and food insecure families across North-Central Indiana.

About Express Employment Professionals
Express Employment Professionals is a leading workforce staffing provider in the U.S., Canada and South Africa. Founded in 1983, Express Employment Professionals has nearly 800 franchise locations, including three franchise offices covering a six-county area and located in Mishawaka, Elkhart, and Warsaw, in North-Central Indiana. Express specializes in the placement of job-seekers with employers for commercial, administrative, skilled trades, and professional positions.

About the South Bend Cubs
The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 30 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. This year, Four Winds Field, home of the Cubs, was named Ballpark Digest’s Best Single-A ballpark. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

Tortugas Announce Veterans Job Fair

DAYTONA BEACH, FL – The Daytona Tortugas are pleased to announce their first Veterans Job Fair, which will take place at Jackie Robinson Ballpark as part of Memorial Day Weekend. The job fair is the first of it’s kind for Minor League Baseball.

The job fair is designed for local Veterans who are searching for a new job, career change, or just a chance to get back on their feet.

The Tortugas have partnered with CareerSource Volusia Flagler for the event, which will be held on Friday, May 25th, from 5:30-7:30 PM during Daytona’s Military Appreciation Weekend.

The jobs will range from entry-level positions to post-grad degree required positions. Any Veteran interested in attending is asked to enter at the East Gate of The Jack (by the tennis courts) to check in, and to bring plenty of resumes with them.

All attendees of the Veteran’s Job Fair will receive a free ticket to the Tortugas game, courtesy of Budweiser.

 

For any questions, or additional information, in regards to the job fair, please call the Daytona Tortugas at (386) 257-3172.

The Tortugas will be celebrating Veterans throughout Memorial Day Weekend, when they host the Dunedin Blue Jays Friday-Sunday. For tickets, you can call the Tortugas or visit daytonatortugas.com.

The Tortugas are also looking for candidates for their Hometown Hero Card Set. You can submit a Hero here.

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

Military Appreciation Night headlines weekend homestand

FRISCO, Texas (May 15, 2018) – Military Appreciation Night on Saturday, May 19, highlights an action-packed four-game homestand for the Frisco RoughRiders, Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, this Friday-Monday at Dr Pepper Ballpark.

As part of the franchise’s annual Military Appreciation Night, presented by ABC Home & Commercial Services, the Riders are offering discounted tickets to all military personnel. The Riders will suit up in special military-themed uniforms, which will be auctioned during the game to benefit Patriot Anglers of North Texas. Additionally, the first 1,500 fans will receive a Riders “Land of the Free and Home of the Brave” T-shirt.

The LEGO Let’s Play tour visits Dr Pepper Ballpark Friday through Sunday. As part of LEGO Let’s Play, kids and their families will have access to plenty of hands-on activities and displays, with more than 2,000 square feet of LEGO fun in the park.

Here’s a full breakdown of what to expect this weekend at Dr Pepper Ballpark:

Friday, May 18 vs. Corpus Christi (Astros), 7:05 p.m.

* Fireworks Friday, presented by Ambit Energy: Fans can watch a sparkling fireworks show from the field after the game.
* LEGO Let’s Play Friday: Kids and their families will have access to more than 2,000 square feet of special LEGO displays and activities.

Saturday, May 19 vs. Corpus Christi, 7:05 p.m.

* Military Appreciation Night, presented by ABC Home & Commercial Services: The Riders honor the brave men and women who serve and have served our country. The first 1,500 fans take home a special Riders “Land of the Free and Home of the Brave” T-shirt.

* Saturday Post-Game Party: Enjoy live music from DJ Roven and DJ Chris Floyd, along with half-price drinks starting in the ninth inning at the Bull Moose Saloon.

* Kids Run The Bases: Youngsters can take lap around the diamond after the game

Sunday, May 20 vs. Corpus Christi, 4:05 p.m.

* Kids Sunday Funday: Kids and their families can participate in a free pregame catch on the field from 3:00-3:30 and enjoy $1 ice cream sandwiches from all game long.

* LEGO Let’s Play Sunday: Experience more than 2,000 square feet of special LEGO displays and activities.

* Kids Run The Bases: Youngsters can take lap around the diamond after the game

Monday, May 21 vs. Corpus Christi, 11:05 a.m.

* Education Day: The Riders welcome students from across DFW to Dr Pepper Ballpark. The day features in-game educational features in addition to a fun day of baseball.

For tickets to these games and other remaining home games during the Riders 15th Anniversary Season, visit RidersBaseball.com, call (972) 731-9200 or visit the Dr Pepper Ballpark box office.

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 13 seasons (2005-2017). 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.

OKC Dodgers Host Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night Friday

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers will honor the service and dedication of local military members and their families Friday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on the first of two Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Nights this season.

The Dodgers play the Nashville Sounds at 7:05 p.m. Friday, and special festivities will be held throughout the evening, culminating with postgame fireworks, presented by Oklahoma Blood Institute.

“Our Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Nights are always some of our most anticipated dates on our schedule because they provide us with the opportunity to show our gratitude to our local service members and their families first-hand,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “These commemorative nights allow us to honor the sacrifices and commitments made by these devoted individuals and show how appreciative the Oklahoma City community is for their service.”

An Air Force F-16 Mini-Jet and customized SUVs will be on display on the Warren Spahn and Johnny Bench Plazas and a swearing-in ceremony of new Air Force recruits will take place on the field prior to the game.

Representatives from Tinker Air Force Base will participate in several pregame events. Col. Geoffrey Weiss, 552 Air Control Wing CC, is scheduled to throw out the first pitch. Command Chief Master Sgt. Mark Hurst is slated to deliver the lineup card and Airman Lauren McNary will perform the national anthem. The Tinker Air Force Base Honor Guard will present the colors.

Retirement and re-enlistment ceremonies will take place between innings, as well as a working dog demo by Tinker Air Force Base’s Security Forces.

The Dodgers open a four-game series against Nashville at 7:05 p.m. on a $2 Thursday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, featuring $2 Pepsi products, bottled water and select beer.

The series continues at 7:05 p.m. Friday and Saturday before wrapping up with a 2:05 p.m. game on a Chaparral Energy Family Sunday, featuring pregame player autographs, a mascot meet-and-greet, face painters, inflatables and postgame kids run the bases.

The second Hometown Heroes Military Celebration Night of the season is slated for Friday, Aug. 17 when the Dodgers play the Iowa Cubs at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

OKC Dodgers tickets are available through the OKC Dodgers ticket office located on South Mickey Mantle Drive, by phone at (405) 218-2182, or by visiting okcdodgers.com.

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

Hispanic Heritage Celebration highlights next homestand

The Lehigh Valley IronPigs return to Coca-Cola Park for a four-game homestand May 21-24 against the Rochester Red Wings. Fans should look forward to the two-night Hispanic Heritage Celebration presented by La Mega Radio that includes both a jersey auction and cap raffle featuring our “Tocino” logo.

We are kicking off Wednesday’s theme night with a team photo and autograph session presented by People First Federal Credit Union. Guests will have the opportunity to take photos with and get autographs from players from 5:30-6:15 p.m. before the first pitch at 7:05 p.m.

In addition, the jersey auction and cap raffle presented by Tito’s Handmade Vodka will take place over the two-night event. The winners will be announced following the game on May 24. The jersey, which has a white base with blue sleeves and red accents, features the word “Tocino” in bacon-filled letters across the chest. The numbers on the back feature the same bacon pattern and a blue outline. The cap includes the same “Tocino” script and features alternating white and red panels with a blue bill. Proceeds from the jersey auction will benefit the Fe Foundation and their ‘Futuros Empresarios’ (Future Entrepreneurs) Program.

The celebration will be complete with Hispanic music, entertainment, and food choices.

5/21 (7:05 p.m.): $1 Berks hot dogs | TD Bank Dog Days | St. Luke’s EMS Night

5/22 (7:05 p.m.): Penn State Lehigh Valley/ IronPigs visor presented by UGI Utilities | Agriculture Night | Lucky Ticket Tuesday presented by PA Lottery

5/23 (7:05 p.m.): Team photo and autograph session presented by People First Federal Credit Union | Hispanic Heritage Celebration presented by La Mega Radio | Tocino jersey auction and cap raffle presented by Tito’s Handmade Vodka

5/24 (7:05 p.m.): Hispanic Heritage Celebration presented by La Mega Radio | Tocino jersey auction and cap raffle presented by Tito’s Handmade Vodka

The 2018 Season is the IronPigs’ 11th season at Coca-Cola Park and 11th as the top affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. Fans can get closer to the team than ever before with a Bacon, USA membership — a year-round IronPigs experience pass featuring numerous amenities such as savings on parking at games and at the Majestic Clubhouse Store at Coca-Cola Park, on-field VIP access to watch batting practice, access to the annual holiday party, and more. For more information, visit IronPigsBaseball.com or call (610) 841-PIGS (7447).

The 2018 IronPigs baseball season is presented by Capital BlueCross.

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

Dragons Baseball Camps Set for This Summer

DAYTON, OHIO – The Dayton Dragons and IGS Energy continue their partnership to enhance the youth baseball experience all over the Dayton area in 2018. The Little Big Leagues program has been an integral part of connecting Dragons players with aspiring young baseball players over the years, and this program expands out into the community as well.

This summer, the Dragons will host two baseball camps at Fifth Third Field as part of the Little Big Leagues program, presented by IGS Energy. The camps run for two days each from 9 AM to 1 PM each day. Participants will learn baseball fundamentals from Dragons players and coaches. The experience includes player autographs, a Dragons shirt, Dragons hat, certificate of participation, a gift from IGS Energy, and four tickets to a future Dragons home game.

The dates for the camps are June 25 and 26 as well as July 30 and 31. Any youth baseball or softball player ages 7 through 14 is eligible to participate in the two-day camp. The cost is $90 for the two-days and lunch will be provided at the ballpark on the second day of the camp.

For more information on how little league teams and players can get involved in the Dragons “Little Big Leagues” program, presented by IGS Energy, contact the Dragons group sales department at (937) 228-2287, email dragons@daytondragons.com, or visit www.daytondragons.com/IGS.

About IGS

IGS is a leading provider of retail energy supply, home services products, distributed generation such as solar and combined heat and power as well as compressed natural gas services. With over 25 years of experience, the company leverages extensive in-house expertise to bring innovation to the energy industry. By embracing new technologies, supporting alternative energy resources, and encouraging energy independence, IGS is inspiring homeowners, businesses, and communities to make smart energy decisions. The company also has a community investment program which provides employees with opportunities to get involved with and give to causes that are meaningful to the company and to them personally.

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

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TinCaps to Again Host Military Appreciation Day

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne TinCaps once again have partnered with OmniSource LLC and Steel Dynamics Inc. to welcome military personnel to Parkview Field for Military Appreciation Day on Sunday, June 10, when the team hosts the Lansing Lugnuts (Toronto Blue Jays) at 3:05 p.m.

Complimentary tickets are currently available for military families-both active and veteran-to enjoy the game on June 10, thanks to the generosity of OmniSource and Steel Dynamics, caring individual donors, and the San Diego Padres.

As they have in the past, the Padres, Fort Wayne’s MLB affiliate, are underwriting the costs for 1,000 tickets for military families. The San Diego Padres are proud to partner with the TinCaps in support of military and charity initiatives in the Fort Wayne area. The Padres had the first military outreach program in professional sports and it is currently the largest in Major League Baseball.

“It’s an honor to provide military families the appreciation they deserve on this special day,” said TinCaps President, Mike Nutter. “This gives us an opportunity to give back to the men and women, and their loved ones, who’ve done so much for this country. We’re proud to have partners in OmniSource and Steel Dynamics, as well as the San Diego Padres, to help us host a game like this.”

“The men and women of our OmniSource and SDI family are proud and honored to be a part of this celebration for our courageous United States military heroes,” said Russ Rinn, President & COO OmniSource LLC. “We all know that because of them, we live in freedom.”

The TinCaps also have continued their partnerships with multiple military organizations offering military personnel in attendance the chance to visit kiosks highlighting many of the support organizations and offerings available to military-active and veteran-in the area.

For this game, TinCaps players will be wearing red, white, and blue patriotic jerseys. The TinCaps also will wear these jerseys on the Fourth of July. On Independence Day, the jerseys will be auctioned off on TinCapsJersey.com, with proceeds being donated to Honor Flight Northeast Indiana.

Military personnel and their family who are eligible to request tickets to Military Appreciation Day can visit TinCapsMilitary.com for more information. Tickets will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Those with questions can contact McKenzie Brown with the TinCaps at 260-407-2809 or brown@tincaps.com.

In addition, the TinCaps continue to take nominations for the team’s Military Salutes throughout the season on fireworks nights. Contact TinCaps Vice President David Lorenz (260-407-2815, lorenz@tincaps.com) for more information.

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

Riders Foundation raising funds for Boys & Girls Club of Collin County Bus Fund

FRISCO, Texas (May 11, 2018) – The Frisco RoughRiders Foundation has announced a season-long, multi-faceted initiative to raise funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County Bus Fund. The foundation’s goal is to help purchase a 72-passenger bus to aid the organization’s mission.

“With the addition of at least one new full-size bus in each club in Frisco, McKinney and Plano, we will be able to add over 300 new members, impacting these young lives with great programs in a safe, nurturing environment, where we concentrate on academic success, character and leadership as well as health and life skills,” said Mike Simpson, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County. “New buses are the vehicles to great futures for more kids.”

A portion of the proceeds from following events will be earmarked for the Bus Fund:

* Riders Classic golf tournament (July 10)

* RoughRiders Baseball Academy (all summer)

* RoughRiders Foundation in-game fundraisers

* Riders 50/50 Raffle (Wednesday-Sunday raffles)

* Auctioned autographed items and sports memorabilia

“It’s important for the Frisco RoughRiders to make memories for our community in and out of the stadium,” said Breon Dennis, Executive Director of the RoughRiders Foundation. “The 72-passenger bus will let children at the club know that the future is now and we support them. I hope the entire North Texas community will join in this campaign to make a difference together.”

To participate in the fundraising efforts, join us at Dr Pepper Ballpark all season. Tickets are available online at RidersBaseball.com, by phone at (972) 731-9200 or at the Dr Pepper Ballpark box office.

About the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County has been meeting the needs of children in Collin County and North Texas for 50 years since 1968. BGCCC’s mission is to “Enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens“. The organization currently serves over 9,300 children each year through its after-school, summer and outreach programs.

BGCCC serves 71 schools in Collin County and has 21 buses and vehicles which must transport the children to the Clubs. The organization has branches in McKinney, Plano and Frisco and currently operates an on-site school program at Shepton High School in Plano.

Visit the BGCCC website at: http://www.bgccc.org

About the RoughRiders Foundation

The mission of the RoughRiders Foundation is to enhance the community we serve through charitable contributions, grants, and programming initiatives. The RoughRiders Foundation supports programs and organizations in our community that motivate and reward children and families in the areas of education, good health and community services activities.

For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders Foundation, contact Breon Dennis at breon@ridersbaseball.com or at community@ridersbaseball.com.

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 13 seasons (2005-2017). 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.

MILITARY APPRECIATION NIGHTS HIGHLIGHT SKY SOX UPCOMING HOMESTAND

The Colorado Springs Sky Sox will begin their third homestand – an eight-game stretch – beginning on Saturday, May 12, when they host the Oklahoma City Dodgers -Triple-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers – for four games with game one scheduled for 6:00 p.m. at Security Service Field. Following Oklahoma City, the Sky Sox welcome the St. Louis Cardinals highest affiliate, the Memphis Redbirds, to town for a four-game set beginning Thursday, May 17.

Highlighting the Sky Sox homestand are the first two Military Appreciation Nights of 2018 and two fan giveaways. Throughout the 2018 season, the Sky Sox will host a total of six nights dedicated to honoring the men and women of our armed forces. For these nights across the entire season, military bases across the local Colorado Springs area are provided with thousands of FREE tickets to come out to these games.

To kick off the week of events, Security Service Field will feature “Air Force Appreciation Night” presented by USAA & Pioneer Landscape Centers on Saturday, May 12, which is dedicated to the men and women in the Air Force and features Post-Game Fireworks. The night will feature a special pre-game parachute drop-in by the United States Air Force Parachute Team, Wings of Blue, to deliver the game ball. The team will be wearing special patriotic American flag jerseys that will be auctioned off on the final Military Appreciation Night of the season on August 23rd.

On Friday, May 18, the Sky Sox will hold “Fort Carson Appreciation Night” presented by USAA & Pueblo Motorsports Park, which is dedicated to the men and women at Fort Carson. This night’s pre-game ceremonies will feature Howitzer Cannons as well as a Mounted Color Guard team to present the colors during the National Anthem. The team will be wearing our special throwback, replica Sky Sox jerseys from the 1950’s Sky Sox era. The night will also feature Post-Game Fireworks.

On back-to-back days, the Sky Sox will be holding giveaways when gates open. On Saturday, May 19, the first 1,000 fans through the gates will get a 2018 Sky Sox Team Cap presented by Prodigy Salon/Paul Mitchell School. The next day, on Sunday, May 20, a Kids Sky Sox Jersey Giveaway presented by U.S. Forest Service will take place and will be given to the first 1,000 kids who are 12 & Under through the gates at Security Service Field.

Also featured in the homestand is 50-cent Hot Dog Sunday presented by Safeway, $2 Tuesday presented by Boost Mobile, $3 Thirsty Thursday presented by Coors, and two dates where the team will be celebrating “Cheers to 45 More Years” with the 1950’s Colorado Springs Sky Sox era while the players wear throwback replica jerseys from that period (May 18-19).

Details of each game date are below:

Saturday, May 12 vs. Oklahoma City – 6:00 p.m.

  • Gates open at 5:00 p.m.
  • Air Force Appreciation Night with Post-Game Fireworks presented by USAA & Pioneer Landscape Centers

Sunday, May 13 vs. Oklahoma City – 1:30 p.m.

  • Gates open at 12:30 p.m.
  • 50-Cent Hot Dogs presented by Safeway

Monday, May 14 vs. Oklahoma City – 6:40 p.m.

  • Gates open at 5:30 p.m.
  • Community Ticket Monday Presented by NOVA Home Loans

Tuesday, May 15 vs. Oklahoma City – 6:40 p.m.

  • Gates open at 5:30 p.m.
  • $2 Tuesday presented by Boost Mobile
    • $2 Tickets, $2 Parking, and $2 Coors Light drafts

Thursday, May 17 vs. Memphis – 6:40 p.m.

  • Gates open at 5:30 p.m.
  • $3 Thirsty Thursday presented by Coors
    • $3 Parking, $3 Upper Reserve Tickets, $3 Craft Beers

Friday, May 18 vs. Memphis – 6:40 p.m.

  • Gates open at 5:30 p.m.
  • Fort Carson Appreciation Night with Post-Game Fireworks presented by USAA & Pueblo Motorsports Park
  • “Cheers to 45 More Years” 1950’s Sky Sox Celebration with players wearing throwback replica 1950’s Sky Sox jerseys

Saturday, May 19 vs. Memphis – 6:00 p.m.

  • Gates open at 5:00 p.m.
  • 2018 Sky Sox Team Cap Giveaway (First 1,000) presented by Prodigy Salon/Paul Mitchell School
  • “Cheers to 45 More Years” 1950’s Sky Sox Celebration with players wearing throwback replica 1950’s Sky Sox jerseys

Sunday, May 20 vs. Memphis – 1:00 p.m.

  • Gates open at 12:00 p.m.
  • Kids Jersey Giveaway presented by U.S. Forest Service (first 1,000 kids 12 & Under)
  • 50 Cent Hot Dogs presented by Safeway
  • Bark in the Park! – Bring your favorite companion to the game!

For more information for military members on how to get game tickets on Military Appreciation Nights, please visit or contact your base information center.

For more information on promotions and ticket options, please call (719) 591-7699 or email info@skysox.com. Get the latest Sky Sox news online at www.skysox.com, like us on Facebook or follow the team on Twitter at @skysox.

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

Redbirds, Ford Bring “Mid-South Heroes Weekend” to AutoZone Park

MEMPHIS, Tennessee — The Memphis Redbirds have partnered with Ford to honor heroes during the team’s games May 25-27 at AutoZone Park as part of “Mid-South Heroes Weekend presented by Ford,” where firefighters and EMS, military, and police will be celebrated each day during Memorial Day Weekend.

Mid-South Heroes Weekend presented by Ford
– Friday, May 25: firefighter and EMS recognition
– Saturday, May 26: military recognition and postgame fireworks
– Sunday, May 27: police recognition and postgame fireworks

Each day features recognition of these groups of heroes, and equipment, displays, and interactive experiences in the Plaza and around the stadium.

Fans are also invited to come to the ballpark early on Sunday the 27th for the second annual Shelby County Sheriffs versus Memphis Police Department softball game. Gates open at 3:45 for the softball game, which runs from 4:15-5:30. The winner will be presented with the Sheriff’s Cup on the field.

“This is shaping up to be one of the marquee weekends of the season at AutoZone Park,” Redbirds President/General Manager Craig Unger said. “We are pleased to partner with Ford to honor the heroes of the Mid-South all weekend long. These events are just a small token of the gratitude we have for these heroes who do so much for each and every one of us.”

“The Mid-South Ford Dealers are proud to honor our Mid-South Heroes through our sponsorship of the Memphis Redbirds,” Don Kitchens, Chairman of the Mid-South Ford Dealers said. “We appreciate those who ‘Go Further’ every day for our country and Mid-South communities. We invite everyone to come out to the ballpark over the Memorial Day Weekend and support our Military, Veterans, First Responders, and Memphis Redbirds.”

Special ticket pricing is available for firefighters, EMS, military, and police by contacting the Redbirds at (901) 721-6000, compliments of Ford.

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

Matthew Mattocks to Celebrate “Home Run For Life” Friday with OKC Dodgers

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS continue the 2018 “Home Run For Life” series Friday at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark by recognizing Matthew Mattocks, who suffered a massive brain stem stroke and a rare neurological disorder called locked-in syndrome at age 29.

Mattocks experienced a cerebral infarction that blocked the supply of blood and oxygen to his brain in July 2016. He survived the massive brain stem stroke, which many people are unable to do, but suffered from locked-in syndrome. He was conscious, but unable to move for nearly a month.

After the care he received at INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation, Mattocks continues to push toward his ultimate goal of walking once again.

“Home Run For Life” recognizes individuals in the Oklahoma City community who have overcome a significant medical event with the help of their families, physicians and health care professionals. To symbolize the end of their battle against adversity, honorees take a home run “lap” around the bases during an in-game ceremony.

“For the eighth straight year, we are proud to partner with INTEGRIS to recognize some amazing Oklahomans who have faced extraordinary adversity with their health,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “Their perseverance and courage are great examples and we are pleased to have the opportunity to honor their hard work in overcoming these challenges.”

Mattocks was a talented young musician who played several instruments by ear, loved theatre and performed in several productions and plays. But on July 6, 2016, the body that had provided him with so many talents and gifts, turned into a personal prison.

With locked-in syndrome, “there is complete paralysis of all voluntary muscles except for the ones that control the movements of the eyes,” according to the National Organization for Rare Disorders website. Cognitive function is typically unaffected and individuals with locked-in syndrome are conscious and awake, but are unable to produce movements or to speak, according to the website.

Once he was deemed strong enough, Mattocks moved to INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation for 30 days.

“When Matt first got here, he wasn’t able to do much,” Occupational Therapist Dani Voight said. “His arms were very tight. His legs were very tight. He was kind of just stuck.”

Therapists at INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation used Mattocks’ passion for music to build their sessions together.

He used a harmonica to help with his breathing and speech.

“It was neat to really incorporate his love for music into speech and make it something he enjoyed doing,” Speech Therapist Halley Bailey said.

Voight also used music to help in Mattocks’ sessions.

“I saw his guitar and I handed it to him and I said I need you to play this for me,” she said. “I mean, I’m sure it was frustrating for him because it wasn’t the big beautiful pieces that he used to play, but he just lit up.”

Mattocks’ brother David Dobson said his brother was on a clear plan from his first day at INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation with a vision for what he was going to go accomplish throughout the month.

“He went from someone who could barely stand up at all, to somebody who stood up with pride,” Dobson said. “He went from somebody who could barely get a word out, to somebody who could say a sentence.

“That’s a lot for somebody who was never supposed to move.”

Mattocks kept fighting and smiling despite his initial bleak prognosis.

“He didn’t just make this miraculous recovery that happened overnight where he got up and walked out of here – that didn’t happen,” Voight said. “But despite all the challenges, he had a smile on his face.”

Now Mattocks continues to push toward his ultimate goal thanks to the care he received at INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation.

“I will walk again,” Mattocks said. “Never give up. Never.”

To read Mattocks’ full story, visit okcdodgers.com.

The OKC Dodgers continue their series today against Memphis at 11:05 a.m. at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on a Field Trip Day. Tomorrow the Dodgers and Memphis play at 7:05 p.m. on a $2 Thursday, featuring $2 Pepsi products, bottled water and select beer.

Watch Mattocks complete his “Home Run for Life” following the third inning of Friday’s 7:05 p.m. game against Memphis at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. Fireworks are scheduled to follow the game, presented by True Sky Credit Union.

Tickets are available through the OKC Dodgers ticket office located on South Mickey Mantle Drive, by phone at (405) 218-2182, or by visiting okcdodgers.com.

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

Tarpons to Host Annual Cancer Survivor Event on Saturday, May 12th

The Tampa Tarpons have teamed up with BayCare to host their annual Cancer Survivor Event on Saturday, May 12th at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Survivors in the Tampa community will be honored and are offered free tickets to see the Tarpons battle the Florida Fire Frogs at 6:30 p.m.

To receive free tickets, survivors must register online. A food voucher and an exclusive gift will be included while supplies last. Additional tickets may be purchased at a discounted rate. To register, visit www.BayCareCancerSurvivorEvent.org.

Gates will open at 5:30 p.m. and fans can meet select Tarpons players during an autograph signing between 5:40-6:00 p.m. Players will wear custom jerseys for the event and select jerseys will be available for bid in a silent online auction with the proceeds benefiting BayCare. To bid on the jerseys, click here.

“BayCare is a leading not-for-profit health care system that connects individuals and families to a wide range of services at 15 hospitals and hundreds of other convenient locations throughout the Tampa Bay and central Florida regions. Our mission is to improve the health of all we serve through community-owned, health care services that set the standard for high-quality, compassionate care.” – BayCare.org.

Following the game, all fans are invited to watch a fireworks extravaganza and enjoy a postgame concert by the country music artists Smithfield.

The Tampa Tarpons are the Single-A Advanced Affiliate of the New York Yankees. For more information about the Tampa Tarpons, call (813) 673-3055 or visit TarponsBaseball.com.

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

Blue Wahoos Show Gratitude with Military Mascots

Pensacola, Fla. – To kick off Military Appreciation Month, the Pensacola Blue Wahoos have unveiled five new mascots representing each branch of the United States Military. The mascots participate in an on-field race between innings during every home game at Blue Wahoos Stadium.

“We thought it would be so wonderful to honor the military and we thought we could have a lot of fun with fans rooting on who can win each night,” said team owner Quint Studer.

A blue falcon with a flight helmet represents the Air Force, the Army is depicted by a mule, a bulldog for the Marines, the Coast Guard is depicted by a bear and the Navy is a goat. The mascots represent the appreciation the Blue Wahoos have collectively as an organization for the men and women who serve our country, in particular, those assigned to our many bases around the Pensacola area.

“We started this last August, so it has been over a year in planning between design and the finished product,” said Blue Wahoos President Jonathan Griffith. “We got a lot of feedback from the military community. We wanted to make sure we represented the military right.”

The Blue Wahoos will launch a naming contest for each of the mascots later in the summer. Fans will be given the opportunity to submit creative names for each of the mascots. The names will be ceremoniously chosen to conclude the contest.

 

– Pensacola Blue Wahoos – 

The Pensacola Blue Wahoos are the Double-A affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds. The 2018 season is underway at beautiful Blue Wahoos Stadium on Pensacola Bay. Group packages, season tickets, mini plans and single-game tickets are available for the 2018 season by calling (850) 934-8444 or online. Follow the Blue Wahoos at bluewahoos.com, facebook.com/PensacolaBlueWahoos, and twitter.com/BlueWahoosBBall

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