Trash Pandas Successfully Launch Non-Profit Foundation

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MADISON, Alabama – In just its first year, the Rocket City Trash Pandas Foundation raised more than $150,000 in donations for non-profit organizations in North Alabama and the Tennessee Valley. The Foundation, the 501(c)3 charitable arm of the Trash Pandas was incorporated prior to the 2022 baseball season, is dedicated to educating and promoting healthy lifestyles through sport and to positively impact communities in the region.

The donations were fueled by fundraising events, both new and returning, including Game-Worn Jersey Auctions, Community Clubhouse Sales, Youth Camps, and the Trash Pandas Food & Beverage Volunteer Program.

CLICK HERE to view the full 2022 Rocket City Trash Pandas Community Impact Report.

Highlights from 2022 include:

  • Six specialty game-worn jersey auctions featuring jerseys worn by Trash Pandas players and coaches during select home games. After the game, jerseys were auctioned with proceeds going to local non-profits that raised over $100,000 throughout the season. 2022 jersey auctions included Space Night, Star Wars Night, Armed Forces Night, Patriotic Jerseys for Independence Day, Marvel Defenders of the Diamond Night, and Huntsville Stars Throwback Night.
  • The Trash Pandas Food and Beverage Volunteer Program allowed organizations to assist in operating concession stands during games. Each volunteer was paid hourly with profits going to their organization, which collected over $57,000.
  • The Trash Pandas Foundation hosted two Community Clubhouse Sales in 2022, offering a variety of autographed and game-used memorabilia to fand in a garage sale fashion. Items included autographed cards, mystery autographed baseballs, broken bats, game-worn hats, limited-edition specialty jerseys, and more. These sales raised over $21,000 for the foundation.
  • Trash Pandas players took part in a Youth Instructional Camp where over 100 children aged 7-10 learned baseball fundamentals. Players also embraced the North Alabama community, making appearances at the St. Jude’s Clinic and Pediatric Wing at Huntsville Hospital, Volunteering with Rock, Steady, Boxing’s Senior Class, and reading to students at local schools.
  • During each Wednesday home game, fans were invited to bring their four-legged friends to Toyota Field for Dog Day, with a $1 donation per dog going to an animal-related non-profit. Throughout 10 Dog Days, over $700 was collected.
  • Sprocket made dozens of appearances at special events such as school visits, Little League Opening Days, a Huntsville Havoc game, and even a trip to Los Angeles.
  • Throughout the year, Toyota Field also hosted school groups ranging from elementary to college for behind-the-scenes tours of Toyota Field with stops including the press box, clubhouses, the field, and luxury suites.

The Rocket City Trash Pandas Foundation is led by Director of Community Relations, Maddison Kendrick, who has been with the team since 2020 following a successful three years leading community relations for the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. The Foundation looks forward to continuing their work in the local community as the 2023 season approaches. To learn more about the foundation and get involved, CLICK HERE.

Trash Pandas To Host Military Tribute Night, Donut 5K Challenge 

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USA Patriots Softball Game set for September 10, Donut 5K Challenge on September 24

The Rocket City Trash Pandas today announced details for two events taking place at Toyota Field in September, the Military Tribute Night on Saturday, September 10, and the Rocket City Trash Pandas Donut 5K Challenge on Saturday, September 24

The Military Tribute Night on September 10 will be a celebration to pay tribute to our Armed Forces. In partnership with AUSA, the evening will feature pregame festivities such as a parachute team, large flag presentation, color guard, and more.

Team USA Patriots will take on Team AUSA in a softball game that night, before the evening will conclude with fireworks and a performance from Scotty Hasting, Nashville artists, and Army combat veterans. Tickets are now available and can be purchased by CLICKING HERE.

Tickets cost $10 in advance with the price increasing to $15 on September 10. Gates will open at 5 p.m. The USA Patriots will be hosting a pre-game meet and greet with an autograph signing on the concourse from 5:15-5:45 p.m. Scotty Hasting will then perform at 5:45. Following a patriotic pre-game display, the game will begin at 6:15 and last nine innings. Scotty Hasting, Nashville artists, and Army combat veterans will perform a post-game concert as well.

Group and hospitality options are available. To learn more, please call (256) 325-1403 extension 2.

Two weeks later, Toyota Field will host the Rocket City Trash Pandas Donut 5K Challenge, a great test of endurance for fans with an appetite. Participants will start inside Toyota Field then run to the designated donut pick up spot inside Town Madison. After eating at least three donuts, participants will make their way back to the Start/Finish line inside Toyota Field. The race will begin promptly at 8:30 a.m.

Medals will be awarded to the Top 3 Male and Female Finishers who complete the challenge by eating the donuts and crossing the finish line. Registration is now open by CLICKING HERE and costs $30 in advance, with the price going up to $50 on the day of the race. Registration will include a T-Shirt, Bib, Donuts for the challenge, access to the post-race celebration at the Inline Electric Rock Porch with one drink voucher included per participant, as well as a post-race healthy snack. The deadline to register and receive a T-Shirt is Sunday, September 4, and the deadline to register online is at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 21.

The Inline Electric Rock Porch will be open for spectators and participants to enjoy a nice cold beverage and to partake in a Build Your Own Bloody Mary Bar.

Trash Pandas Explore Negro League History

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Baseball is a game built on its history, with the sacrifices of players’ past paving the way for today’s stars to shine brightest. In Alabama, that history is especially significant, with professional baseball’s roots in the state dating back more than a century.

The Rocket City Trash Pandas are the newest addition to Alabama’s rich baseball history, blasting off with the inaugural season in 2021. This week, the Trash Pandas will celebrate the history with Negro League Tribute Night on Thursday, June 16.

The second annual Negro League Tribute Night at Toyota Field will feature appearances from former Negro League players Eugene Scruggs of the Detroit Stars and former Birmingham Black Baron Horace Moore. Also on the concourse will be a traveling exhibit from the Negro Southern League Museum in Birmingham.

During the Trash Pandas’ road trip in Birmingham in May, several players and coaches visited the museum before a game, learning about the history of the game that is their passion. At the museum, the Trash Pandas explored a wide variety of Negro League memorabilia and artifacts, including uniforms, equipment, contracts, and even a hologram of the legendary Satchel Paige with a hologram of his arsenal on the mound to show movement on his pitches.

It was an eye-opening experience for the Trash Pandas, and a preview of what fans can expect on Thursday night.

“It’s an awesome opportunity for the players. I’m really excited for them to be able to experience this,” Trash Pandas Manager Andy Schatzley said. “It’s incredibly informative and celebratory of a portion of the game that needs to be celebrated and recognized.”

“Coming here and getting to take in the museum, it’s definitely humbling and I’m also proud of the heritage of the people that came before me that paved the way for me to be able the game that I love today,” said outfielder Torii Hunter Jr., who was recently promoted to Triple-A Salt Lake. “I’m extremely grateful, appreciative, and I’m also humbled because they endured a lot to get us to where we are now but I’m thankful for everything they’ve done and the contributions they’ve made to this game.”

The exhibits featuring Negro League legends such as Paige, Josh Gibson, Willie Mays, and many more were especially meaningful to some, and it speaks to the overall message of the Negro Southern League Museum.

“We tell the story of black baseball through the eyes of Birmingham and the country,” said Valerie Wilson, Project Manager for the Negro Southern League Museum. “It’s so important to pay respect and homage to the players and their adventures.”

The story behind many of the exhibits on display feature even greater significance, with each player paving their own success story. That message was felt by the Trash Pandas.

“The biggest thing is that people didn’t care about what kind of bat was used or what kind of glove they had. They were just out there to play the game and be the best they could,” Hunter Jr. said. “There were not a lot of excuses being made. It makes me take a step back and look at my career and how everything has gone for me. There’s not many excuses for me to not go out there and play the game the right way because that’s what they did, especially given the circumstances that they were in.”

“It was nostalgic,” Schatzley added. “Understanding that every player, these players included, have their own individual path to getting to where they want to be and being able to learn and empathize with the path of some players that came before these guys is awesome for the players to see.”

“In the minor leagues you go from city to city, league to league, it’s a grind,” said Hitting Coach Kenny Hook. “I think it’s important for them to understand the history of the Southern League. There’s so much history here and it’s something they are proud to be a part of.”

“Being here and seeing all of the history. It’s cool to be able to take a step back and see where our game was and how our game has grown,” added pitcher Kolton Ingram.

Those thoughts echo what the museum is hoping to hear when players from other teams stop by throughout the season.

“It’s extra special for us that current players respect their elders and want to learn about their history,” Wilson said. “We’re always excited when players take the time to come here and learn.”

For more information on the Negro Southern League Museum in Birmingham, visit birminghamnlsm.org.

A Look at the Top Five Black Players in Barons History

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In recognition of Black History Month and the newly launched MiLB outreach program, The Nine, the Barons, in addition to teams across Minor League Baseball, are highlighting the top five Black players in team history. Birmingham, Alabama’s rich history of baseball dates back to 1885 and has seen many talented and accomplished players pass through on the way to Major League success.

The first four nominees come from a notable chapter of Birmingham’s baseball history, the Birmingham Black Barons, who played for over 40 years alongside their white counterpart from the West End Park known as the “Slag Pile,” to the famous Rickwood Field. The Black Barons played in various iterations of Negro Leagues, from the minor league level Negro Southern League, to a more stable placement in Negro American League, the highest level of Negro League baseball.

At a time predating the civil rights movement and active segregation, the Black Barons saw their own success with the Black community of Birmingham, often drawing larger crowds to Rickwood Field than the Barons. White fans were encouraged to attend Black Barons games, which were held while the Barons were on the road, suggesting a relatively amicable affiliation between the two franchises amid the tenuous racial atmosphere of the time.

The 1948 Black Barons were one of the most successful teams of the Negro Leagues and saw many players drafted by Major League teams following the breaking of the color barrier by Jackie Robinson in 1947. Despite the positive progress of a newly racially integrated league and recognition of player talent regardless of race, this inadvertently resulted in the 1948 Negro World Series between the Birmingham Barons and the Homestead Grays being the last of its kind before the disbandment of the Negro National League.

Certainly one of the most widely recognized players across baseball, Willie Mays began his storied career in 1948 with the Negro minor league Chattanooga Choo-Choos before joining the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro American League and playing in the final true World Series of the Negro Leagues. At just 16, Mays had not yet graduated high school and juggled Barons home games with high school football. During his time with the Black Barons, from 1948 to 1950, his fielding and speed on the bases caught the attention of several Major League teams, who waited until he had graduated high school before offering him a contract. Mays eventually signed with the New York Giants and went on to have a legendary career that included titles of Rookie of the Year (1951), World Series champion and MVP (1954), numerous recognitions as an All-Star (24 appearances), Gold Glove awards (12) and countless more, culminating in his election to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979, his first year of eligibility.

Another member of the 1948 roster, Rev. Bill Greason has a legacy that extends beyond baseball; just prior to his baseball career, a military enlistment in World War II with the all-Black 66th Supply Platoon put him in the action of the Pacific Theater of the war, including the Battle of Iwo Jima. Greason, a pitcher, played for the Black Barons from 1948 to 1951, before he was acquired by the St. Louis Cardinals as the second Black player on their roster in 1954. He retired in 1959 after a handful of years with the Cardinals minor league affiliates. He studied ministry at Birmingham Baptist College and Samford University following baseball and remained engaged with the Birmingham community as a member of the historical 16th Street Baptist Church and a pastor of Bethel Baptist Church.

Lorenzo “Piper” Davis, nicknamed for his hometown of Piper, Alabama, played for the Black Barons beginning in 1942, following a stint in Alabama’s Coal and Iron League. During his time in Birmingham, he was noted for strong fielding, recognized as a versatile player comfortable at any position in the infield with a keen ability to complete double plays. After helping the Black Barons earn consecutive pennants in 1943 and 1944, Davis transitioned to a playing-manager in 1948 and led the team to the Negro League World Series with a young Willie Mays and Bill Greason under his leadership. Davis strongly influenced Mays’ style of playing, notably his field positioning and his approach to hitting curveballs. As Mays was only 16 when he began playing for the Black Barons, Davis ensured his focus was on schoolwork and did not allow him to make road trips with the team during the school year. Following the 1948 Negro League World Series loss, Davis moved between affiliated ball with the Boston Red Sox, the Black Barons, the Oakland Oaks of the Pacific Coast League and the Chicago Cubs system. Davis’ career ended at the Double-A level of the Cubs organization in 1958.

While he never reached Major League Baseball like his contemporaries Mays and Greason, his style of leadership and influence certainly played a role in their success. He commanded respect and encouraged his players and teammates to exhibit great character on and off the field. While better known for his baseball skill, Davis was a two-sport athlete, playing for the Harlem Globetrotters for three winters during his tenure with the Barons and also spent significant time in the Latin American winter leagues.

Before Mays, Greason, and Davis, another Negro League legend passed through Birmingham, though briefly, from 1927 to 1930: Leroy “Satchel” Paige. While his reputation as a star pitcher with a tendency to goad opposing batters wasn’t fully exhibited in Birmingham, fans of the Black Barons and beyond were witness to his maturation as a pitcher and the beginnings of his acclaimed career. During his time with the Black Barons, Paige met or broke the strikeout records of major league players, recording 17 strikeouts against the Cuban Stars and 18 strikeouts against the Nashville Elite Giants in the same week of April 1929. Paige, individually, was a draw for crowds and was rented out to other teams by then Barons owner, R.T. Jackson, with equal financial benefit to both parties.

Paige would spend 1930 through 1948 in the Negro Leagues playing with the Pittsburgh Crawfords, Kansas City Monarchs, and Philadelphia Stars, among others, in addition to several Latin American league teams. It was during these years that he flourished and was prone to his more outlandish antics, such as pulling his outfielders in to watch as he struck out opposing batters or intentionally walking two batters in order to reach Josh Gibson, a well-known dangerous hitter, with the sole, and eventually successful, goal of striking him out.

He eventually brought his talents to the major league level with the Cleveland Indians in 1948, a season in which he would be the first Black pitcher in the American League, the seventh Black player in the majors overall, the oldest player to debut at 42 years of age, and ultimately a World Series champion. He went on to play briefly for the St. Louis Browns, but his time there was marred by dwindling stats that signaled the decline of his career. After some time with a handful of minor league teams, he played his last game with the Triple-A Portland Beavers at age 55. Four years later, Paige was signed to a one-day contract with Charles O. Finley’s Kansas City A’s, where he was brought onto the field in the fourth inning for a standing ovation and a crowd-led rendition of “The Old Gray Mare.” His place in baseball history was cemented in 1971 with his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

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In addition to signing Satchel Paige, albeit for a single day, Charles O. Finley was also responsible for bringing Reggie Jackson to Birmingham with his signing in 1966. Jackson, with Rollie Fingers, Joe Rudi, and Dave Duncan, moved through the A’s system from Modesto and arrived in Birmingham in 1967. He got a taste of the majors with a midseason call up to Kansas City, but was sent back down to the Barons to finish the season after a disappointing debut. Despite the full racial integration of the major leagues by the 1960s, Jackson still faced the challenges of being a Black player in the south and was encouraged and bolstered by Barons coach John McNamara regarding his experiences on and off the field. He started the 1968 season in Oakland, where Finley had relocated the A’s, and helped the team to three straight World Series titles. He continued his major league career with the Baltimore Orioles, New York Yankees, California Angels, and returned to Oakland for a single season in 1987 to end his professional playing career.

Jackson was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1993 and had his numbers, 44 and 9, retired by the New York Yankees and Oakland Athletics, respectively.

Willie Mays, Bill Greason, Piper Davis, Satchel Paige, and Reggie Jackson are only five of the numerous Black players that have played in Birmingham, each of them with their own unique experience of navigating their playing careers at different points in history and the varying effects of how their race affected their careers. These five paved the way for future Black players who have made their mark on Barons history and will usher in future generations of players to make their own name in the history and tradition of baseball in Birmingham and beyond.

Trash Pandas Celebrate Black History Month

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In celebration of Black History Month throughout the month of February, teams across Minor League Baseball are taking a look back at five of the best Black players to suit up for their club.

While some of these standout performers went on to long and illustrious careers in the big leagues, others had a great Minor League career, or in some cases, one incredible season that went down as a year for the ages.

Here is a look back at the five of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for North Alabama’s team.

Prince Fielder

The seventh overall pick in the 2002 draft was destined for stardom from a young age. The son of World Series Champion and All-Star Cecil Fielder, Prince began his professional career in 2002 in the Milwaukee Brewers system.

After finishing 2003 in Low-A, Fielder skipped High-A in 2004 and went straight to Double-A Huntsville as a 20-year-old for his third professional season. Despite being one of the youngest players in the Southern League, Fielder had an impressive season, batting .272 with 23 home runs, 78 RBI, 70 runs, 29 doubles, and 11 stolen bases over 135 games for the Stars. Those totals ranked among the Southern League leaders in numerous categories including home runs (T-2nd), RBI (T-4th), and hits (T-5th, 135), That summer, Fielder launched a home run at the Southern League All-Star Game and played for Team USA at the All-Star Futures Game in Houston.

The next season, Fielder made his MLB debut for the Brewers and never looked back, playing over 1,600 big leagues games between the Brewers, Detroit Tigers, and Texas Rangers. He ended a 12-year big league career in 2016 with six All-Star selections, three Silver Slugger Awards, and was eventually named to the Milwaukee Brewers Wall of Honor.

Rickie Weeks

Another member of the 2004 Huntsville Stars proved to be one of the franchise’s best. Rickie Weeks took an interesting path to North Alabama, winning the Golden Spikes Award for Southern University in 2003 and making his MLB debut for the Brewers later that season after being selected second overall in the draft.

In his first full professional season, the 21-year-old Weeks joined the Stars in 2004 and spent the entire season in Huntsville.

Over 133 games, Weeks batted .259 with eight home runs, 42 RBI, 35 doubles, 57 runs scored, and 11 stolen bases while ranked as the Brewers’ top prospect. His 35 doubles led the Southern League and he joined Fielder on the American squad for the All-Star Futures Game in Houston.

That 2004 season was Weeks’ only at the Double-A level. He became a mainstay in the Brewers’ lineup in 2005 and spent more than a decade in the big leagues, mainly with Milwaukee. In 2011, he earned his first and only All-Star selection and is also enshrined on the Milwaukee Brewers Wall of Honor.

Lorenzo Cain

It took a little while for Lorenzo Cain to reach Double-A, and just a bit longer to reach the big leagues. But once he got there, he never looked back.

Drafted by the Brewers in the 17th round of the 2004 draft, Cain first arrived in Huntsville late in the 2008 season and hit .277 over 40 games in his Double-A debut following a strong start with High-A Brevard County. The next year, he returned to Huntsville, but his average dipped to .214. In 2010, Cain, but it all together and hit .324 with 21 stolen bases over 62 games for the Stars to be named a Southern League Mid-Season All-Star.

He made his MLB debut for the Brewers later that season before an offseason trade sent him to the Kansas City Royals. He became a regular in the Kansas City lineup in 2013 and worked his way to stardom over the next couple seasons. He earned ALCS MVP honors in 2014 as the Royals reached the World Series for the first time since 1985. The next year, he earned his first All-Star selection and drove in three runs in the decisive Game 5 of the World Series to lead Kansas City to the title.

Cain returned to the Brewers as a free agent in 2018, earning his second All-Star selection that season. A strong defensive center fielder, Cain earned his first Gold Glove Award in 2019. Now 36 years old, Cain is still on the Milwaukee roster heading in to the 2022 season.

Gary Jones

Although Gary Jones never played in a Major League game, his contributions to the Huntsville Stars rank him among the greats in franchise history. In 1986, Jones arrived to North Alabama for the first time and hit .311 with two home runs, 49 RBI, 34 stolen bases, and led the league with both 116 runs scored and 128 walks for a dominant Stars squad that went 78-63 before ultimately falling in the Southern League Championship Series.

Three years later, Jones returned to Huntsville for the second time as a 28-year-old player/coach and hit .275 with 16 stolen bases, 67 runs, and 45 RBI over 96 games in what proved to be his final season as a player. His 235 career walks and .486 on-base percentage for the Stars are both franchise records.

Jones became a full-time coach the next season and quickly worked his way back to Huntsville in 1994. In his only season at the helm for the Stars, he earned Southern League Manager of the Year honors after guiding the club to an 81-57 record, the best winning percentage in Stars history. In the playoffs, the Stars swept Chattanooga before defeating Carolina in four games to win the second Southern League title in franchise history.

Jones has been coaching ever since; leading affiliates from a number of different organizations. From 2014-17, he was the third base coach for the Chicago Cubs, including their World Series winning club in 2016. Most recently, he managed Triple-A Lehigh Valley from 2018-21 and will be back in the big leagues as the first base coach for the Detroit Tigers in 2022.

Torii Hunter Jr.

A fan favorite with a contagious energy both on and off the diamond, Torii Hunter Jr. was a mainstay in the Rocket City Trash Pandas’ lineup during the inaugural 2021 season

Constantly dancing in the dugout and making friends along the railing before the game, Hunter dazzled on the field with spectacular defense in the outfield and speed on the bases, with his 12 stolen bases tying for 16th in Double-A South.

On June 15, he became the first player in Trash Pandas history to record a steal of home plate as a part of a delayed double steal against Biloxi. He ended his first season at the Double-A level at the top of his game, hitting .333 with six doubles and eight runs scored over 12 September games.

Although Hunter Jr.’s long-term legacy in the Rocket City is still to be written, his impact in the team’s first season ranks him among the favorites.


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2021 Trash Pandas Community Impact Report 

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

 

The Rocket City Trash Pandas are thrilled to assist the North Alabama community by raising more than $100,000 in cash donations for non-profit organizations during the team’s inaugural season in 2021.

The funds were raised through a series of events throughout the season including Game-Worn Jersey Auctions, Dog Day Donations, and the Trash Pandas Food & Beverage Volunteer Program.

CLICK HERE to view the full 2021 Rocket City Trash Pandas Community Impact Report.

Highlights from 2021 include:

  • Five specialty game-worn jersey auctions featuring jerseys worn by Trash Pandas players and coaches during select home games. After the game, jerseys were auctioned with proceeds going to local non-profits that raised over $65,000 throughout the season.
  • The Trash Pandas Food and Beverage Volunteer Program allowed organizations to assist in operating concession stands during games with profits going to their organization, which collected over $47,000.
  • During each Wednesday home game, fans were invited to bring their four-legged friends to Toyota Field for Dog Day, with a $1 donation per dog going to an animal-related non-profit. Throughout 10 Dog Days, over $750 was collected.
  • Four drive-through food drives at Toyota Field where over 40,000 pounds of food was distributed at each event to provide more than 2,500 families with much-needed food during the pandemic.
  • Trash Pandas players took part in a Youth Instructional Camp where over 200 children aged 8-10 learned baseball fundamentals. Players also posed with rescue animals for a calendar photo shoot to help puppies find a new home.
  • Sprocket made dozens of appearances at special events such as school visits, Little League Opening Days, trade shows, visits with Trash Pandas partners, and delivering holiday meals to those in need.
  • Throughout the year, Toyota Field also hosted school groups ranging from elementary to college for behind-the-scenes tours of Toyota Field with stops including the press box, clubhouses, the field, and luxury suites.

The Trash Pandas are looking forward to continuing their work in the community as the 2022 season approaches. To learn more on how to get involved in Trash Pandas community events, please CLICK HERE to view the Community Tab at TrashPandasBaseball.com.

Opening Night at Toyota Field is set for Tuesday, April 12, 2022 at 6:35 p.m. against the Pensacola Blue Wahoos.

Trash Pandas To Host Job Fair On February 19

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In preparation for the second season in franchise history in 2022, the Rocket City Trash Pandas will be hosting a job fair at Toyota Field on Saturday, February 19 from 8 a.m. to noon.

The Trash Pandas are currently seeking candidates with strong energy, passion, and enthusiasm to work at Trash Pandas home games at Toyota Field to help create the best fan experience in professional baseball. Positions are available across many departments including ushers, ticket takers, promotions, production, parking, security, food and beverage, retail, and many more!

Interested candidates must be at least 16 years of age with legal work status. During the job fair, applicants will be able to interview for a maximum of three (3) positions. Each interview will take about 5-10 minutes. Individuals who might not be hired for one of their top three positions, may be offered a role in a different department.

All applicants MUST have a completed job application prior to being interviewed. The application can be downloaded and filled out in advance by CLICKING HERE, and there will also be forms available on-site at the job fair. Job preference sheets will be available for those interviewing for multiple positions.

The 2022 Trash Pandas season starts on the road in Birmingham on Friday, April 8 before the home opener at Toyota Field against the Pensacola Blue Wahoos on Tuesday, April 12.

Trash Pandas Hosting Trunk or Treat on October 30

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Trunk or Treat and Halloween Movie Night will be returning to Toyota Field for the second time on Saturday, October 30. Trick-or-treating at Toyota Field will be from 5-7 p.m. in the Toyota Outfield Experience followed by a screening of The Haunted Mansion at 7:15 p.m.

“We are looking forward to welcoming fans back to Toyota Field for the biggest Halloween celebration in North Alabama,” Trash Pandas General Manager Garrett Fahrmann said. “This event is perfect for fans of all ages, and we can’t wait to see everyone dressed in their Halloween costumes.”

Tickets are $10 if purchased before the day of the event. On October 30, tickets will be available for $15. Parking at Toyota Field is free and available at the gravel parking lot.

The Rocket City Wranglers will be on hand to provide over 60 trunks for the event from 5-7.

The Dumpster Dive concession stand will be open for fans to purchase traditional ballpark fare.

Tickets are available online by clicking here or in person at the Toyota Field box office.

Trash Pandas To Host September 11 Tribute Night

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On Saturday, September 11 the Rocket City Trash Pandas, in conjunction with AUSA, are proud to host a special Tribute Night at Toyota Field as we honor and remember our heroes in recognition of the 20th Anniversary.

This tribute day will feature events throughout the day, capped off by a softball game featuring the USA Patriots against the BeArded WARRIORS, a dazzling post-game fireworks display, and a live concert after the game with Brandon Elder. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 on the day of the event.

Pre-Game Activities

  • 9/11 Memorial Service: Madison Fire and Police departments will be hosting a memorial service beginning at 8:30 a.m. in honor of all of those who perished on September 11, 2001.
  • Adventure Fun Run: AUSA and Huntsville Boot Camp will be hosting a free adventure at Toyota Field following the conclusion of the 9/11 Memorial Service. Runners can register at https://bit.ly/AUSAfunrun. Check in starts at 8 a.m.
  • Cornhole Tournament: The AUSA Redstone Huntsville will be hosting a 16-team cornhole tournament beginning at 10 a.m. Space is limited and teams must register at https://bit.ly/AUSAcornhole.
  • Softball Clinic: The USA Patriots will be hosting a free youth softball clinic from 10:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. with stations including infield and outfield drills, pitching, hitting, and throwing. Registration is open at https://bit.ly/AUSAsoftballclinic.

Tribute Night Game

  • Gates Open: All gates will open at 5 p.m. The USA Amputee Patriots and BeArded WARRIORS softball game will be seven innings and is scheduled to begin at 6:35 p.m.
  • T-Shirt Giveaway: The first 2,000 adults through the gates will receive a commemorative Tribute Night T-Shirt, presented by Northrop Grumman.
  • Meet and Greet: The USA Patriots softball team will be available for a meet and greet to sign autographs and take photos with fans on the concourse at Toyota Field from 5-5:30 p.m.
  • Parachute Team: Before the game, the All-Veterans Group Parachute Team will jump from the Rocket City sky and land on the field.
  • National Anthem: Sheena Collier will perform the national anthem, as a large American Flag is unfurled on the field by members of the local ROTC.
  • Tribute Night Fireworks: Following the game, a dazzling fireworks display will light up the Rocket City sky, presented by Northrop Grumman.
  • Post-Game Concert: After the fireworks, country music star and former American Idol contestant Brandon Elder will be performing live from home plate.

Regions Field to Host Fultondale High School Baseball Home Opener

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Regions Field is honored to announce that it will host the Fultondale High School Wildcats home opener against the Ramsay High School Rams on Saturday, February 27th. The game will begin at 12:00 p.m. with gates opening at 11:00 a.m.

Due to the recent tornado damage sustained to Fultondale’s home field, the team has been forced to move their practices and home games 20 miles away to Tarrant Field. To assist in this incredibly tough time for the club, Regions Field is proud to offer the Wildcats the chance to play their home opener on the very same field that the Birmingham Barons call home.

“Our prayers and thoughts continue for our Fultondale neighbors as they recover from the recent tornado,” said Barons President and General Manager Jonathan Nelson. “Knowing Fultondale’s High School Baseball Team had their 2020 season cut short due to COVID, and then to not have a home season at their ballpark due to this devasting tornado is heartbreaking. We are honored to help Fultondale kick-off their season against Ramsay High and want to make this a special experience for Fultondale’s student-athletes as well the entire Fultondale community.”

With their home field destroyed, Fultondale is living by the motto “Home is Where the Heart is”. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the team has decided to bring the bases and the home plate from their home field to every game. This act represents the pride the team has for their community, and to always remain Fultondale Strong.

“We dug up home plate and are taking it everywhere we go because our heart is back at our home field, wherever we are fortunate to play will now become our home.” Said Fultondale Head Coach Michael Franklin. “We really hope to have the community come out to Regions Field and support the boys on February 27th.”

Tickets for the Fultondale’s home opener can be purchased at the GoFan digital ticketing site for $6. Fans will also be able to purchase tickets at Regions Field on the day of the game. Proceeds from the ticket sales will go directly back to the Fultondale Baseball Team.

As with all events at Regions Field, the facility will be enforcing all social distancing and safety regulations set forth by the City of Birmingham and the Jefferson County Department of Health Department.

Trash Pandas to Host Job Fair on February 27th

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

 

In preparation for the inaugural 2021 baseball season, the Rocket City Trash Pandas will conduct a job fair at Toyota Field on Saturday, February 27th at 10 A.M. Central.

The team is looking for candidates with great energy and enthusiasm to work during Trash Pandas home games, helping to create the best fan experience in baseball. Positions are available across all departments: Food & Beverage, Retail, Ushers, Ticket Takers, Promotions, Production, Parking, Security, and more.

Interested candidates must be at least 16 years of age with legal work status. During the job fair, applicants will be able to interview for a maximum of three (3) positions. However, if you are not hired in one of your top three positions, you may be offered a spot in another department. Each interview will take about five (5) minutes.

Applicants MUST have a completed job application prior to being interviewed. The application can be downloaded and filled out in advance HERE, and there will also be forms available on site. Job preference sheets will also be available for those interviewing for multiple positions.

CDC and Madison County COVID safety mandates will be followed at the job fair, and interviews will be conducted in a socially distant manner. Masks are required.

Trash Pandas attempt world-record food drive

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

Toyota Field serves as donation site for massive philanthropic event

The Rocket City Trash Pandas recently staged one of the most successful and impactful events in the short history of the franchise. They also fell short of a much-publicized stated goal. Two things can be true at the same time. The Rocket City Trash Pandas, located in the greater Huntsville,

The Rocket City Trash Pandas, located in the greater Huntsville, Alabama area, are currently the Double-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels. The team was slated to play their inaugural season at brand-new Toyota Field in 2020 after relocating from Mobile, Alabama (where they were known as the BayBears). Of course, COVID-19 got in the way of those plans. But like Minor League teams across the country, the Trash Pandas have dedicated themselves to staging socially-distanced events that benefit the community while keeping the club in the public eye.

On Wednesday, the Trash Pandas, alongside an army of volunteers from local philanthropic organizations, attempted to enter the Guinness Book of World Records in the category of “World’s Largest Food Drive in a 24-hour period at a single location.” The record they were trying to surpass was 559,885 pounds, achieved by the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics in Durham, North Carolina. The Trash Pandas, making a difficult task twice as challenging, attempted to break this record in half the amount of time. Wednesday’s food drive was a 12-hour affair, taking place at Toyota Field between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Lindsey Knupp, Trash Pandas vice-president of marketing, promotions and entertainment, reported on Thursday morning that the Trash Pandas had failed to enshrine themselves in the Northern Hemisphere’s (and perhaps the world’s) most prestigious record book.

“We didn’t beat the Guinness world record, but we did do very well,” she said. “There were 13 organizations that we were able to give food to. A lot of rescue missions, food banks, churches. All local organizations within 45 minutes of here. They have been running out of food, so we’re thankful we were able to do what we could.”

Minor League teams are known for making world record attempts, many of them on the absurd end of the spectrum. But very few of these attempts, be it for simultaneous bubble-gum blowing or ballpark-wide games of Duck Duck Goose, actually achieve the Guinness world record in question. This is often because Guinness, based in the United Kingdom, is notoriously strict when it comes to documentation. All involved with Wednesday’s food drive worked to ensure that their “World’s Largest Food Drive” attempt would meet Guinness standards. Cameras were set up, scales were certified and signed witness statements were collected.

The total weight of Wednesday’s Toyota Field food haul was well into the six figures. Knupp was unable to say the precise total, however, because late in the day it was determined that the record was out of reach. Weighing efforts were then abandoned, in order to prioritize the more pressing work of sorting and distribution. Throughout the day, a myriad of the Trash Pandas’ corporate partners – including Halsey Foodservice, Pepsi and Publix – provided both logistical support and food donations.

“It was all contactless. People would pop open their trunks and we’d take the food out,” said Knupp. “We had to do quality control, certify that it wasn’t outdated. Then put it on the scales, then load it into trucks and sent them off to different organizations once they were filled.”

While the Trash Pandas’ food drive was clearly a team effort, Knupp singled out local volunteer Nicole Wilson as the individual most responsible for making the event a reality. Wilson, working with Manna House, a Huntsville-based non-profit food assistance organization, approached the team with the idea and also oversaw the Guinness Book of World Records application process. Organizations like Manna House are always in need of food donations from the community, but the ongoing pandemic has made this work all the more important.

“Manna House is one of the largest distributors in North Alabama,” said Wilson, speaking to Huntsville’s WZDX at Toyota Field. “And typically for Thanksgiving for example, they would have thousands of turkeys in their freezer. Right now they only have eight– eight turkeys in their freezer.”

In promoting the World Record Food Drive, the Trash Pandas implored their fans to “Be a Souper Hero.”

“A lot of people did bring soup, a good heavy-type donation,” said Knupp. “We had crackers, pasta, rice and a lot of canned goods, for sure. Some people didn’t think about weight. We had some ramen noodle donations.”

Whether it was 10 pounds or 10 ounces, the Trash Pandas collected as much as they could to help as many as they could. The team came up light on achieving Guinness world record immortality, but Wednesday’s Toyota Field effort set a template for possibly heavier endeavors in the future.

“We’re trying to make sure our community knows we’re here for them,” said Knupp. “We’re not just here for season ticket holders, mini-plan holders, sponsors. We’re here for the entire community and we’re not going anywhere. We want to help, give back, and do good.”

Benjamin Hill is a reporter for MiLB.com and writes Ben’s Biz Blog. Follow Ben on Twitter @bensbiz.

World Record Food Drive Attempt To Take Place at Toyota Field

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

 

The Rocket City Trash Pandas have partnered with multiple local organizations to help feed families across North Alabama in a big way as the holiday season approaches.

On Wednesday, November 11, a Guinness World Record attempt for “Largest Food Drive in 24 Hours at a Single Location” will take place at Toyota Field. The goal of 600,000 pounds of food would eclipse the current record of 559,885 pounds, set back in 2011 in North Carolina.

The drive will run from 8 AM to 8 PM. For safety purposes, there will be a designated drive-through route to drop off non-perishable food items. Drop-offs will be contactless – food can be placed in the back seat or trunk, and volunteers will simply remove the items from the vehicle. Any size donation is encouraged and appreciated.

Cameras will be set up on site to document the donations, weigh stations, and packing of the trucks for the world record attempt. Independent witnesses will also be on hand to confirm a breaking of the record. Giveaways will take place throughout the day for those who contribute food items.

For ease of traffic flow, visitors with donations should enter Toyota Field from the west via Intergraph Road, taking a left on Lime Quarry Road and then another left onto Town Madison Blvd to arrive at the stadium.

¡HICA! selected as a recipient of the 2020 MiLB CommUNITY grant

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BIRMINGHAM, Ala.– Minor League Baseball (MiLB) announced today that the Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama (¡HICA!), a long-time partner of the Birmingham Barons, will receive a $500 grant on behalf of MiLB Charities.

The new MiLB CommUNITY grant recognizes five nonprofit organizations from across the nation that support diversity within their local MiLB community. Grant recipients show dedication to promoting unity, understanding, acceptance, and inclusion in their community through impactful programs.

“¡HICA! Is beyond honored to receive this gift from MiLB,” said ¡HICA! Executive Director Isabel Rubio. “Our partnership with the Birmingham Barons is a real treasure- we love the opportunity to bring communities together through such an American institution as baseball. Thank you for recognizing our work.”

Founded in 1999, ¡HICA! Focuses on community development and advocacy for Latino and immigrant families in Alabama. It offers economic development, citizenship and naturalization, family, and civic engagement programs that assist families transition to life in America as well as helps them become an integral part of their local communities. The Barons partner with ¡HICA! annually for Los Barons night at Regions Field. The night includes specialty jerseys, dancers, and bands as a way to celebrate Latino culture and raise awareness about ¡HICA!’s mission. Los Barons night has been a prominent night in the Barons season since 2013.

“¡HICA!’s work bridges cultural gaps in our community while providing resources for Latino and immigrant families to grow and thrive,” said Birmingham Barons General Manager and President Jonathan Nelson. “We value our long-term partnership with them and are excited to see them recognized for their hard work.”

The four additional MiLB CommUNITY grant recipients include Dreams Go On (Altoona Curve), Charleston Hope (Charleston River Dogs), the Young Black Leadership Alliance (Charlotte Knights), and the El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank (El Paso Chihuahuas).

Barons to Host Annual Job Fair on February 29th

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

 

BIRMINGHAM, AL. – The Birmingham Barons will host their annual job fair on Saturday, February 29th at Regions Field in the Dread River Lounge from 9 am-12 pm.

The Barons are looking for qualified, hardworking candidates, with an emphasis on customer service skills who want to help provide a fun, family entertainment for our guests. Parkview Catering, the official concessionaire of Regions Field, will also be conducting interviews.

A variety of seasonal positions are available and vary based upon skill set. The Barons are seeking staff that can work all home games and additional events as needed at Regions Field. Most games are held in the evening hours during the week and weekend. Candidates must be able to accommodate the schedule, stand for long periods of time and must be able to work outdoors.

Interviews will be conducted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Applicants are encouraged to bring a resume and dress for a job interview.

The following Barons part-time seasonal positions are available:
• Bat Boy/Girl
• Parking Lot Attendant
• ID Checker
• Ticket Attendant
• Mascot
• Ticket Seller
• Usher
• Promotional Team
• Retail
• Camera Operator
• Technical Director

The following Parkview Catering part-time seasonal positions are available:
• Club Lounge Server
• Set-Up Staff
• Event Server
• Warehouse Runner
• Suite Attendant
• Concessions Cook
• Cart Cook
• Cashiers
• Bartenders

For a complete list of jobs and descriptions, please visit Teamwork Online.

The Birmingham Barons are the proud Double-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. The Barons 2020 home opener at Regions Field will take place on Thursday, April 9th against the Rocket City Trash Pandas, Double-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels, with first pitch set for 7:05 p.m. For ticket information, game schedule, promotions calendar, or for additional information about Regions Field, visit barons.com or call (205) 988-3200.

Southern League Champions: 1906 • 1912 • 1914 • 1928 • 1929 • 1931 • 1958 • 1967 •1983 • 1987 • 1989 • 1993 • 2002 • 2013 31-Year Double-A Affiliate of the Chicago White Sox