Top 5 Black Players in Visalia History

 

In celebration of Black History Month, throughout 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 Major League careers, others simply had great Minor League careers or, in some cases, just one incredible season that went down as “a year for the ages.”

Here is a look at five of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for the Visalia Rawhide.

Kirby Puckett

Kirby Puckett was named California League Rookie of the Year in 1983, when he hit .309 with 172 hits, 97 RBI, and 48 stolen bases. He went on to win two World Championships with the Minnesota Twins. Puckett compiled a career batting average of .318 and was elected into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2001. His home run in Game 6 of the 1991 World Series remains an indelible moment from one of the most exciting series in baseball history. He was inducted into the Rawhide Hall of Fame in 2011 as a part of the inaugural class. Kirby Puckett’s number 28 is the only retired number in Visalia franchise history, other than Jackie Robinson’ number 42.

Napoleon “Nap” Gulley

Napoleon Gulley, affectionately known as “Nap,” was one of the first African-American players in the California League. He holds Visalia’s Franchise Record for most career hits with 507. He ranks among franchise leaders in career home runs and batted .307 over four seasons. Gulley never had the chance to play in Major League Baseball, but was a supremely talented outfielder who played for Jackie Robinson’s barnstorming teams and was a Negro League and Mexican League Star..

Dave Roberts

David “Dave” Roberts played for the 1996 Visalia Oaks in the Detroit organization. In 126 games, Roberts scored 112 runs, slashed .272 and led the minors 65 stolen bases. He went on to play in the Majors, becoming a World Series Champion in 2004 with the Boston Red Sox. Roberts became manager for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2016. He led the Dodgers to the World Series in 2017, 2018, and 2020, winning it all in the latter year. In doing so, he became the first manager of Asian heritage and second Black manager to lead his team to a World Series title.

Justin Upton

The Arizona Diamondbacks selected Upton with the first overall pick in the 2005 MLB Draft. He began a stint with the Visalia Oaks in 2007, where he stole 9 bases and had an .341 on-base percentage before getting promoted to the Double-A Mobile Baybears. Upton has gone on to become a four-time All-Star and three-time Silver Slugger.

Vada Edward Pinson, Jr.

Vada Pinson, Jr .dominated the California League in 1957. He batted .367 with 209 hits, 40 doubles, 20 triples, 20 home runs, 165 runs scored, and 349 total bases while playing every game that season. He is highly regarded as a legend to all who saw him play at Recreation Ballpark. Pinson spent 18 seasons in the Major Leagues, primarily with the Cincinnati Reds, collecting over 2,700 career hits in the Majors. He remained close friends with Visalia’s Taylor Family (the founders and owners of the iconic Taylor’s Hot Dogs) until his death in 1995.

Hillsboro Hops Announce Dream Big Scholarships for Graduating High School Seniors

 

HILLSBORO, OR (February 7, 2022) – The Hillsboro Hops (@HillsboroHops) announced details of their Dream Big Scholarships for graduating high school seniors.

What: Dream Big Scholarship – $1000.00 grants for five graduating high school seniors

Who: First-generation college students who are planning on attending an Oregon university. Current high school seniors in the Greater Portland Metro & SW Washington area are eligible.

Apply:: Applications open on Monday, February 7th and will be accepted until Sunday, March 6th. Apply online at https://milb.com/hillsboro/community/scholarship

To be considered, applicants will be asked to submit three short essay responses in addition to their application. Essays will be reviewed anonymously by a committee consisting of community members, Hops staff and Hops Fund donors. Additional criteria can be found on the application page.

“We are excited to offer our Dream Big Scholarship again this year, which will prove to be one of our signature gives from the Hillsboro Hops Fund,” said Jen Anderson, Hillsboro Hops VP of People & Culture. “Last year’s initial launch was a huge success and we only hope to build upon that year after year. There are so many talented students who must weigh their next steps due to financial burdens. This scholarship was made to bridge the gap and help make dreams a reality.”

Hillsboro Hops To Host Job Fair at Ron Tonkin Field on February 12 

 

HILLSBORO, OR (February 4, 2022) –The Hillsboro Hops (@HillsboroHops), will be hosting a Casting Call for prospective employees of the team’s “HOPSpitality Team” on Saturday, February 12 from 1:00pm – 4:00pm at Ron Tonkin Field. All applicants must be 16 years of age or older.

The Hops will be processing employment applications and accepting resumes for part-time game day positions. Applicants who attend will be given on the spot interviews with members of the Hops front office staff. Overall, about 150 positions will be available for the season, including roles in Food & Beverage, Guest Services, Ticket Operations, Merchandise, Ballpark Operations, Production and more. Job applications are available at www.hillsborohops.com

“Our mission to provide a first-class, memorable experience, is brought to life by the extraordinary talent we find every year to make up our HOPSpitality Team,” said Jen Anderson, Hillsboro Hops VP, People & Culture. “This event is a chance for outgoing, friendly people to interview and become part of the fun and welcoming environment of a Hillsboro Hops game.”

Once applicants arrive at Ron Tonkin Field, they should park at Gate B and follow signage to the interview sites.

If applicants are unable to attend the Job Fair, applications are being accepted at the Hillsboro Hops Front Office, online at hillsborohops.com and can be emailed to [email protected], Additional open interviews will be scheduled at a later date.

For more information on current opportunities, contact Jen Anderson, [email protected]

Hillsboro Hops Announce 2022 Virtual Hops Fund Banquet

 

HILLSBORO, OR (January 20, 2022) – The Hillsboro Hops (@HillsboroHops) are pleased to announce their annual Hillsboro Hops Fund Banquet will be going virtual in 2022. A live stream of the event will take place from 6:30-8 PM on Wednesday, February 2nd. There is no cost to view.

The goal of the Hillsboro Hops Fund is to develop and establish a community benefits program, the purpose of which is to promote, foster and support education, health, culture and youth activities, including activities for underprivileged youth, in the Greater Hillsboro area.

The Hillsboro Hops Fund Banquet is a signature fundraising event for the Hillsboro Hops Fund. This year’s edition will feature an online silent auction, highlights from the Hops community efforts over the past year and feature conversations with current and former Hops players and staff.

This year’s special guests include 2021 Hops Manager, Vince Harrison, drafted in 2001 by the Rays, Harrison played in the Minor League System until signing on as a coach in 2013 with the Diamondbacks. Joining him is Ronnie Gajownik, Gajownik played college softball at the University of South Florida before making the United States Women’s National Baseball team, where she won Gold at the 2015 Pan-Am Games. She served as the Hops Video Coordinator in 2021 and has accepted a coaching position within the Diamondbacks organization for 2022.

Rounding out the panel, is Tristin English, who played collegiately at Georgia Tech before being drafted by the Diamondbacks in the third round in 2019. English was a position player for the Hops in 2019 and 2021.

What: Virtual 8th Annual Hops Fund Banquet

When: Wednesday, February 2nd 6:30-8:00 PM; Silent Auction open Friday January 28th at 12 PM through Friday February 4th at 11:59 PM PST

Where: Online; https://www.milb.com/hillsboro/community/banquet

Concessions Fundraising Program Returns For 2022 Season

 

AMARILLO, Texas – The Amarillo Sod Poodles, in conjunction with Diamond Creations, the team’s food and beverage provider, are excited for the return of their Concessions Fundraising Program to the community for the 2022 season. The initiative offers a unique fundraising opportunity for non-profit groups through concession stand sales at HODGETOWN.

Non-profit or 501(c)(3) groups, sporting clubs, cheer groups, girl and boy scout troops, church and school organizations, and more are encouraged to join and easily meet fundraising goals through concession sales during the 2022 Sod Poodles baseball season.

To fundraise, groups simply provide individuals to work in a concession stand, and, in turn, earn money for their organization. Groups are not limited on how many games they work throughout the 69 home-game season. All dates will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Non-profit groups interested in getting involved for the 2022 season or would like detailed information about the program and its benefits, please fill out an online request form HERE or contact Mike Lindal at [email protected] or by phone at 316-796-3110.

The 2022 Sod Poodles’ home opener is slated for Friday, April 8 against the Midland RockHounds, Double-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics, in a three-game weekend series to jumpstart the 2022 campaign.

For the most up-to-date news on the Amarillo Sod Poodles along with detailed information about the 2022 season, promotions, and tickets, follow the team on social media @sodpoodles on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For questions and more information, please call 806-803-7762 or email [email protected].

Hillsboro Hops and OHSU Health Hillsboro Medical Center Team Up to Provide Youth Vaccine Clinics

 

Hillsboro, OR. (December 8, 2021) – The Hillsboro Hops (@HillsboroHops) and OHSU Health Hillsboro Medical Center (@HillsboroMedCtr) today announced that they will be teaming up to provide the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to youth ages 5-18 this Sunday, December 12, at Ron Tonkin Field. Second doses will be given at a follow-up event on January 9, 2022. Both events will be held from 9:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.

200 doses will be available at each vaccine clinic and appointments are required.

As part of the trip to Ron Tonkin Field, youth receiving the vaccine will get to visit the Hillsboro Hops clubhouse and they will also be treated to ice cream and a goodie bag once they have received the vaccine.

“It’s important to be leaders in our community both on and off the field and getting our youngest fans vaccinated will make a tremendous impact for public health,” said Jen Anderson, Hillsboro Hops VP of People & Culture. “We’re excited to partner with OHSU Health at Hillsboro Medical Center to provide a unique and positive experience for our community’s kids.”

“We’re thrilled to help improve the safety and health of our local community by providing pediatric vaccines in partnership with the Hillsboro Hops,” said Lori James-Nielsen, Hillsboro Medical Center President & CEO. “Hillsboro Medical Center hopes all eligible children get vaccinated, and we’re looking forward to protecting some of our young community members in a place kids associate with fun, healthy activities.”

You can view appointment availability at this link (availability is limited):

https://washingtoncountycovidvaccine.as.me/RonTonkin

Aces to make toy donations to seven charities ahead of holiday season

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces, in partnership with JAKKS Pacific, will make toy donations to seven different local charities ahead of the holiday season. Washoe County Toys for Tots, Lithia Hyundai, Ashlee’s Toy Closet, Reno Rodeo Foundation, Greater Nevada Credit Union, Tahoe Truckee Toys for Tots and Washoe County Sheriff will all receive toys for wider distribution in the Northern Nevada area and beyond.

“We are thrilled to be the recipient of such a generous gift from our friends at JAKKS Pacific.,” Aces president Eric Edelstein said. “Their generosity will again be felt through the Northern Nevada community and we are proud to make the holidays brighter for those less fortunate.”

JAKKS Pacific Co-Founder and CEO Stephen Berman and Aces owner Herb Simon have been longtime friends, partnering for over a decade to make toy donations. The partnership has led to thousands of toys being donated to various charities in both Nevada and Central Indiana.

The first donation is tomorrow, November 30, benefitting Washoe County Toys for Tots. Lithia Hyundai and the Washoe County Sheriff will both be on Wednesday, Dec. 1, and Ashlee’s Toy Closet will be Saturday, Dec. 4. Monday, Dec. 13 will see toys donated to the Reno Rodeo Foundation, and the donations will conclude on December 17 with Greater Nevada Credit Union.

Apply Now: Sod Poodles 2022 Season Internships

 

The Amarillo Sod Poodles have opened their internship opportunities for the 2022 season.

Sod Poodles internships are for highly motivated individuals who have an interest in the business of sport management. The internships are designed to give individuals their first experience within the sports industry in areas including game-day operations, marketing, public relations, ticket/group sales, promotions, production, and customer service.
All internship positions are hourly, season-long roles and range between 30-40 hours per week.
Below is a preview of all opportunities available. To apply for a specific position, click the job title.
The Sod Poodles 2022 season begins on April 8, 2022 at HODGETOWN.

2022 Sod Poodles Internship Opportunities:

Position: Ticketing & Membership Fulfillment Internship

This internship is designed for you to learn all aspects of a ticket sales department. Not only will you be selling group/ticket packages, working ticket windows, helping to run the box office, you will also be a liaison to season ticket members, as well as an integral part of our gameday/event staff for all events at HODGETOWN during the 2022 season.

Position: Merchandise & Team Store Internship

The candidate will learn all aspects of team merchandising from one of the most creative and aggressive brands in MiLB. The candidate will assist merchandise staff in the team’s daily operations, with an emphasis on branded team apparel. Those interested in a career in professional or collegiate athletics will gain experience and develop skills critical to beginning a career in sports merchandising.

Position: Baseball Communications Internship

This Internship is designed to teach the operation of a Minor League Baseball Communications department through an immediate hands-on approach. This intern works closely with the Manager of Public Relations and Baseball Operations in all areas and upon completion of the program will possess the skills to successfully organize and operate in a Minor League Baseball Team’s Communications department.

Position: Video Production Internship

The candidate will learn all aspects of sports video production from one of the most creative and aggressive brands in Minor League Baseball. The candidate will assist the video and marketing teams in daily operations, with an emphasis on ballpark production and content creation. Those interested in a career in professional or collegiate athletics will gain experience and develop skills critical to beginning a career in sports video production. Applicants must have experience in video production and work closely with others in the video and marketing departments daily for the duration of the internship.

Position: Stadium Operations Internship

The candidate will learn all aspects of stadium maintenance, cleaning, and upkeep, working with subcontractors, the City of Amarillo, and vendors. Additionally, it will include planning, set-up, and breakdown of all stadium events during the season and daily management and scheduling of game day staff members (Ticket Takers, Ushers, Kids Zone, Cleaning Crew, Security Staff, Parking, and emergency service vendors).

The candidate will learn all aspects of and provide support in all marketing and promotions-related areas of the business including, but not limited to, assisting with sponsor fulfillment and game duties, and community relations efforts.

Position: Corporate Partnerships Internship

The candidate will provide administrative services to the Corporate Sales department with a focus on servicing all aspects of client contracts and service fulfillment.

Position: Accounting Internship

The candidate will provide assistance with the following, but not limited to, answering general office telephones, providing customer service and office support, receipt and posting of payments; making bank deposits, matching invoices to POS, invoice entry, vendor file maintenance, cash handling, and ensuring that all accounting and operational accounting functions are being performed in the most effective and efficient fashion while conforming to the Standard Operating Procedures of the Company.

Position: Food & Beverage Internship

The candidate will work with the entire food and beverage department and will help on training program for all concessions and hospitality, staff, including but not limited to, production, inventories, cleanliness, alcohol awareness and POS training. Additionally, the candidate will help with food and beverage operations during games by establishing operating procedures for staff to maintain positive relationships.

Rawhide Charitable Fund Supports Work with Local Families

 

Rawhide gives back with $30,000 in grants to Visalia Community

Visalia, CA – To commemorate the end of a wonderful 2021 season of Rawhide Baseball under new ownership, the Sigal Family Rawhide Charitable Fund is pleased to announce their 2021 Community Grants. In partnership with the Central Valley Community Foundation, three grants of $10,000 each will be awarded to Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias, Family Services of Tulare County, and United Way of Tulare County.

“We fully support the good work of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias, Family Services of Tulare County, and the United Way of Tulare County”, said Sam Sigal, President and Co-owner of the Visalia Rawhide. “The work that these three organizations do could not be more vital to our community.”

The Boys and Girls Clubs will receive $10,000 to provide needed maintenance on their facilities. This grant will help Boys & Girls Clubs provide safe, quality spaces for kids to attend during after school hours, school holidays and summer vacation. “We are very thankful to the Sigal Family for their concern and investment in our community’s children,” said CEO Galen Quenzer. Tulare County currently has 15 clubs located throughout the South Valley and sees an average of 910 kids a day.

Family Services of Tulare County will receive $10,000 to continue providing emergency shelter, counseling, and legal services for survivors of domestic violence and their children, as well as other programs that help strengthen families and prevent future violence. “During the COVID-19 Pandemic the need for our services increased, while survivors of violence faced new barriers to seeking safety,” said Caity Meader, CEO. “The Sigal family’s donation allows Family Services to continue its work to help local children and families heal from violence and thrive in healthy relationships.” Family Services works with more than 5,000 people each year.

United Way has been on the frontlines of the COVID-19 response in Tulare County. They will receive $10,000 to continue connecting community members with resources and services through their non-emergency hotline and comprehensive app. United Way directly serves families that have been impacted by COVID-19 by connecting them with available resources. This grant will provide critical mortgage and utility assistance for 20 families. The need in Tulare County is great. In the past year and a half, over 2700 families have requested support for mortgage and utility bills totaling over $3,000,000.

“Thank you to Rawhide season ticket holders and fans for your support this season,” said Sigal. “In honor of you, the Rawhide invests in critical resources to support our community. “

About Visalia Rawhide

The Visalia Rawhide are the Single-A Affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks and are the only professional sports team in Tulare and Kings counties. The team has been an affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks since 2007 and celebrated the 75th Anniversary of Minor League Baseball in Visalia in 2021. The Rawhide proudly hosts competitive baseball in Valley Strong Ballpark while providing affordable entertainment for all ages. For information on the upcoming 2022 Visalia Rawhide season, contact the Visalia Rawhide Ticket Office at 559.732.4433, visit online at rawhidebaseball.com, or follow on Facebook (TheRawhide), Instagram (@VisaliaRawhide), and Twitter (@VisaliaRawhide).

About Central Valley Community Foundation

The Central Valley Community Foundation has been a trusted partner in philanthropy in the Central Valley for more than 50 years. Its mission is to cultivate smart philanthropy, lead, and invest in solutions that build stronger communities. As the only nationally-accredited community foundation serving the six-county Central San Joaquin Valley, CVCF attracts investment and deploys resources to solve persistent economic, environmental, and social challenges in the Central Valley. For more details visit www.CentralValleyCF.org or connect at @CentralValleyCF.

Aces Final Stretch homers to benefit District 1 Little League in Northern Nevada

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces will be competing on behalf of Northern Nevada’s District 1 Little League, as part of Minor League Baseball’s “Homers that Help.” For each home run the Aces hit over the Triple-A Final Stretch, MiLB will donate $50 to District 1.

“We are thrilled to partner with District 1 to help fund scholarships for athletes in need of assistance,” said Aces president Eric Edelstein. “We look forward to working with them to grow participation in sports through this partnership!”

District 1 represents 12 Little Leagues across the Reno, Sparks, Carson City and Lake Tahoe areas. District 1 coordinates all league initiatives, as well as MLB initiatives such as Home Run Derby and Pitch, Hit and Run. They also coordinate training for umpires, volunteers and coaches for all leagues.

The Final Stretch will include the 10 remaining games against Albuquerque and Las Vegas, concluding on Sunday, August 3 at home against Las Vegas.

Through 118 regular season games, the Aces hit the second-most homers in all of Triple-A – 193 long balls.

Aces are back in action tonight after being off yesterday. First pitch from Albuquerque is set for 5:35 p.m. PT, and can be heard on KPLY 630AM or on RenoAces.com with Zack Bayrouty on the call.

Reno Aces to host fifth “Home Run for Life” ceremony on Friday

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces will host their fifth Saint Mary’s “Home Run for Life” ceremony of 2021, featuring Carrie Chamberlin, a breast cancer warrior,on Friday, Sept. 3 when the Aces take on the Tacoma Rainiers at 6:35 p.m. PT at Greater Nevada Field.

Since 2014, the Aces and Saint Mary’s have partnered to showcase the “Home Run for Life” program. Once a month, a brave individual in the Northern Nevada community is honored by taking a ceremonial trip around the bases with each team lining the baselines. The ceremony symbolizes the end of a battle against adversity. Individuals honored have overcome a significant medical event in their life with the help of Saint Mary’s personnel.

Carrie persevered through her relentless battle with breast cancer.

In October 2015, Chamberlin was diagnosed with stage zero ductal carcinoma in situ, which is abnormal cells found in the milk ducts of a women’s breast. Following surgery and a small round of radiation, the long-time Aces fan found herself clear of cancerous cells.

After five years without any issues, a time for celebration turned sour as Carrie found out she had breast cancer on Christmas Eve. A little over a month after the positive diagnosis, Chamberlin had both of her breasts removed and the doctors were able to remove all of the cancer cells.

The real battle came in the weeks following, as Carrie had struggled with mobility in both of her arms. Had it not been for Saint Mary’s Fitness Center and her fitness trainers, Denise and Stephanie, her road to recovery would have been stunted.

As of August 2021, Chamberlin has been cancer-free and credits her family, friends and the Saint Mary’s professionals for getting her healthy and in shape to take her life back.

Carrie Chamberlin will round the bases commemorating her “Home Run for Life” in the middle of the second inning on Friday night. The Reno Aces and the Tacoma Rainiers players and staff will be lined up at a 12-foot distance to greet him as she makes her way toward home plate.

Greater Nevada Field gates open at 5:35 p.m. PT on Friday, Sept. 3. Tickets are on sale now at www.renoaces.com or by calling (775) 334-7000.

Aces hosting Saturday toy drive with Ashlee’s Toy Closet for fire victims

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces are partnering with Ashlee’s Toy Closet for a toy drive prior to this Saturday’s game against the Tacoma Rainiers. Fans will be able to drop off items beginning at 4:30 p.m. PT for the 6:35 p.m. PT game at Greater Nevada Field. The supplies will go directly to help children affected by the various fires in our area, including the Tamarack, Caldor, Dixie and Beckwourth Complex fires.

The drive will be looking for new toys, new socks and underwear packs, new blankets and gift cards for families to use on meals, gas or general needs.

“All of us as the Aces are Nevadans who are heartbroken to see community suffering at the hands of wildfires,” said Aces president Eric Edelstein. “We pledge to support those on the front lines of this disaster just as we have the last and will do the next.”

“The Aces have supported Ashlee’s Toy Closet for several years in the form of donating toys so that they can be delivered to children who have lost everything due to fire,” said Aces general manager Emily Jaenson. “What we respect most about Ashlee is her response time to help people right here in our own community. She sees a need, fills her truck, and delivers toys into the hands of children when they need them most.”

Ashlee’s Toy Closet started in South Lake Tahoe 14 years ago after the Angora Fire. Ashlee Smith, the daughter of a firefighter, started the organization which is currently providing boots-on-the-ground support of all evacuees from the Caldor fire.

Hillsboro Hops Partner with Intel to Support STEM Education in Oregon as Part of Strikeouts for STEM Program

 

HILLSBORO, OR (August 27, 2021) – As part of a partnership between the Hillsboro Hops (@HillsboroHops) and Intel, the Oregon-based, microprocessor manufacturer is donating a total of $50,000 to fund future STEM opportunities for the children of Hillsboro in support of the Hillsboro Schools Foundations new Imagina tu Aventura program.

Intel committed to donate $10 for every strikeout by a Hops pitcher this season. Hops pitchers have delivered 918 strikeouts so far in 2021 totaling $9,180.00. Intel is rounding their donation up to $50,000

Intel has called Oregon home for 47 years and provides jobs for over 20,000 employees. Since 2016, Intel, the Intel Foundation and Intel employees gave over $55 million in grants, donations, and in-kind gifts to local Oregon schools and non-profit organizations.

“HSF’s Elementary School program ‘Imagina tu Adventure’ will bring bilingual, bicultural career exploration kits and programs to all kindergarten through sixth grade classrooms,” said Aron Carleson, HSF Executive Director. “Intel’s contribution assures we can begin with STEM career education for all students. We are thankful for Intel’s strong community support.”

“We’re proud of our ongoing partnership with the Hillsboro Hops Strikeouts for STEM program and the Hillsboro Schools Foundation to inspire the future generation of STEM professionals,” said Courtney Martin, Intel Oregon Public Affairs Director. “This year’s program will support students and educators through the Hillsboro School’s Foundation Imagina tu Aventura program, providing bicultural career exploration tools about careers and higher education.”

“We are so proud to partner with Intel for the Strike Outs for STEM promotion”, said Hillsboro Hops President KL Wombacher. “They are a tremendous community asset that is extremely generous with their community support. We can’t thank Intel enough for their partnership and generous donation to the Hillsboro Schools Foundation.”

About Hillsboro Schools Foundation:

The Hillsboro Schools Foundation is dedicated to cultivating community engagement and funding to inspire excellence in Hillsboro Schools. HSF’s Middle School STEM labs are bringing back yesterday’s shop classes and tomorrow’s technology to prepare students for careers in a global economy. For more information, visit www.hsfonline.org

About Hillsboro Hops:

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

Aces to host PLAY BALL initiative with Mayor Schieve on Sunday, July 25

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces and Mayor Hillary Schieve will partner for the PLAY BALL Initiative and National Baseball Day prior to the club’s July 25 game against the Round Rock Express, beginning 90 minutes prior to first pitch. Mayor Schieve will also be in attendance.

PLAY BALL is a partnership between Major League Baseball and the U.S. Conference of Mayors, where Mayor Schieve was recently elected Second Vice President. MLB’s initiative demonstrates the positive way the game can serve as an outlet for physical activity and fun with friends all while encouraging young people and communities to engage in the game of baseball at its most basic levels.

“The Reno Aces have been an integral part of the Biggest Little City community for more than a decade,” Reno Mayor Schieve said. “For the past few years, I’ve been partnering with the Aces on the U.S. Conference of Mayors Play Ball initiative, and each year it gets bigger and better.”

Kids of all ages with a ticket to the game are welcome to participate on the field at Greater Nevada Field before gates open, engaging in a short baseball clinic dedicated to skill development, social interaction, team building and learning basic fundamentals.

Participants will be able to enhance their hitting, fielding and running abilities through the classic tee work, in-field work and baserunning games.

“I encourage our local families to come out to Greater Nevada Field on July 25th for a fun day at the ballpark,” Mayor Schieve added. “We have one of the best Triple-A stadiums in the nation, and this is a unique opportunity for fans to get on the field.”

Any attendee will be eligible for a complimentary shirt on a first-come, first-serve basis for their participation with the Reno Aces and the Mayor’s office.

For more information, please visit RenoAces.com or contact the Aces at (775) 334-4700.

Margaritaville, Military Appreciation Nights to star in Aces’ August promotions

 

RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces to host Margaritaville and Military Appreciation Nights as part of August’s feature promotions at Greater Nevada Field. Tickets are available on RenoAces.com, by calling (775) 334-7000 or texting “TIXX” to 21003.

The Aces will go down to Margaritaville, presented by Greater Nevada Credit Union and KOLO 8 News Now, in its ode to legendary singer Jimmy Buffett on Saturday, Aug. 7, with an Aces Bucket Hat giveaway, presented by GNCU, available to fans at the gates on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Attendees can also package their tickets with a limited edition Aces Hawaiian shirt by clicking here for just $35 per package. Along with the bucket hats, fans will get a full Margaritaville experience with specialty food and beverage options such as “Margarita Burger”, “Island Tots”, “Tequila Lime Chicken Sliders” and Margarita specials.

The club will also be wearing a Hawaiian-shirt-inspired jersey for the game and will be auctioned off via Livesource for charity.

“As we continue to roll both on and off the field with Aceball this season, we know that the August promotional calendar will give all fans something to be excited about,” Aces President Eric Edelstein said. “Greater Nevada Field will continue to be the place to be all summer long in Northern Nevada.”

Following Margaritaville to kick off August’s promotions, the Aces will welcome all current and former frontline fighters to the field for Military Appreciation Night, presented by Silver State International & Peterbilt Truck Parts & Equipment, KOH AM 780 and KOLO 8 News Now, on Saturday, Aug. 28.

The evening will feature a Kevin Cron Tank bobblehead giveaway with limited quantities available for fans at the gate. A pregame collaboration with Rescue 22, a local non-profit organization dedicated to pairing service members with emotional support animals, will take place on-field so all attendees are encouraged to arrive early. During the contest, the Aces and the Sierra Nevada Vietnam Veterans 989 Chapter will hold a re-dedication ceremony for our Prisoner of War chair. The evening dedicated to our brave soldiers will also feature a postgame fireworks display.

Reno will sport a special Camo-based jersey for Military Appreciation Night and will also be auctioned off for charity through Livesource. Any active military members can buy discounted tickets by clicking here.

Biggest Little City Sundays, where the team dons their red alternate BLC ‘City Pride’ caps, are set to continue next month and will be featured twice, Aug. 8 against Tacoma and Aug. 29 versus Sacramento.

Our K-9 fans will be welcomed to the stadium once again on Monday, Aug. 9, as part of the team’s Dog Days of Summer. The first Monday of each month allows fans the opportunity to bring their dogs to the park, vaccination paperwork is required. For more information, please click here.

Baseball Bingo has returned to Greater Nevada Field for every Monday home game. When in attendance, stop by section 104 to pick up your scorecard to play along during the game and win prizes.

Daily Deals will also be featured throughout the month. Every Monday is Military Monday, presented by 105.7 KOZZ, which offers buy-one-get-one-free tickets to all military and first responders. Each week also includes Taco Tuesday, presented by Alice 96.5, featuring two tacos for six dollars, or two and a beer for 10 dollars. Additionally, Thirsty Thursdays, presented by Coors Light, Rock 104.5 and ESPN 94.5, offer two-buck Coors Lights drafts and four-dollar Aceball Ale drafts.

Weekend Daily Deals feature Firework Fridays, presented by Saint Mary’s, My News 4, Fox 11 and Nevada Sports Net, Super Saturdays’ giveaways and Family Sundays, presented by 106.9 MoreFM, that offer one-dollar hot dogs.