Standout Black Players in Quakes History

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

 

In celebration of Black History Month, throughout February, teams across Minor League Baseball are taking a look back at 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 four of the best Black baseball players ever to suit up for the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes.

Howie Kendrick

A fan-favorite in Rancho in 2005, Kendrick appeared in 63 games for the Quakes and then made his big-league debut the following year, cracking the Angels’ roster in 2006. Kendrick made multiple rehab appearances in Rancho while with the Angels, then returned to LoanMart Field as a Dodger, rehabbing again over four games in 2016, becoming one of only two Quakes (Adam Kennedy) to appear in a Rancho uniform for two different MLB organizations. The Jacksonville, Florida native played in more than 1600 games over a 15-year big-league career and was a career .294 hitter. He was named NLCS MVP in 2019 and later helped lead the Washington Nationals to their first championship, defeating the Houston Astros in the 2019 World Series.

Gary Matthews, Jr

A member of the Quakes in both 1996 and 1997 while coming up through the Padres’ organization, Matthews appeared in 192 total games with the Quakes. The son of former Major League slugger Gary Matthews, Sr., the San Francisco, California native debuted with the Padres in 1999 and wore the uniform of seven different major league teams, appearing in 1281 games. He was an American League All-Star in 2006 with the Rangers, before signing a free-agent contract and enjoying three years with the Angels here in southern California towards the back-end of his 12-year big-league career.

Derrek Lee

One of the most popular Quakes of all time, Lee totaled 274 games in a Rancho uniform over parts of three different seasons (1993-1995). In 2002, Lee appeared in a league-high 162 games, leading the Florida Marlins in home runs (27), while helping them to a World Series win over the New York Yankees. The two-time All-Star and three-time Gold Glove winner went on to play for six major league teams over a 15-year career. The Sacramento, California native returned to Rancho Cucamonga to celebrate the Quakes’ 25 anniversary season in 2017, throwing out a ceremonial first pitch on Opening Night at LoanMart Field to kick off the year.

Chris Jacobs

The Quakes’ all-time franchise leader in home runs (56) and RBIs (183), Jacobs played for the Quakes over three seasons (2012-2014) and was a huge fan-favorite thanks to his ability to hit long and majestic home runs. “Big Jake” played ten seasons of minor league baseball for three different organizations, but none longer than the eight he played while a Los Angeles Dodgers farmhand. The Winston-Salem, North Carolina native’s franchise records still stand today, as he’s also among the Quakes’ top-five in games played (286) and hits (273).

Top 5 Black Players in Fresno Grizzlies History

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

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 Fresno Grizzlies:

Fred Lewis

Fred Lewis was selected by the San Francisco Giants in the 2nd round of the 2002 draft out of HBCU Southern University and A&M College. Lewis dominated the lower levels of the Giants system before being called up to Fresno for a cup of coffee in 2004. After that quick stint, Lewis would make it back to the Grizzlies for the 2006 season. Over 120 games, Lewis batted .276 with an .828 OPS and at the time, a single-season, franchise-record 11 triples. His season was extended as he earned a September call-up to the Giants. In 2007, Lewis split time with Fresno and the Giants, appearing in a combined 100 games with a .290 batting average. Lewis’ last stint in Fresno came in 2010, playing in seven games. Lewis finished his career in 2015, but was known as a crowd favorite among both Grizzlies and Giants fans.

Tony Kemp

Tony Kemp was selected by the Houston Astros in the 5th round of the 2013 draft out of baseball powerhouse Vanderbilt University. Kemp vaulted through the lower levels of the Houston system before reaching Fresno during the middle of the 2015 season. For the next couple of years, Kemp would bounce between the Grizzlies and Astros. When he donned the F-slash, Kemp was unstoppable. Over four seasons (2015-18) with the Grizzlies, Kemp appeared in 296 games, slashing .312/.373/.425. He also ranks in the Top 10 of four different offensive categories for Grizzlies career records. He is first in triples (21), fourth in steals (67), eighth in runs (206) and 10th in hits (372). Despite multiple trades and teams, Kemp is still talked about as one of the biggest and kindest-hearted players to ever play for the Fresno Grizzlies.

Calvin Murray

Calvin Murray was selected by the Cleveland Indians in the 1st round of the 1989 draft, but decided to not sign and take his talents to the University of Texas. Three years later, the San Francisco Giants drafted Murray with the 7th overall pick and he signed. Murray was a part of the first 1998 Fresno Grizzlies team after spending a couple of seasons with the Phoenix Firebirds. He would spend three seasons in Fresno (1998-99, 2001), with the major chunk of it coming in 1999. In that year, Murray would go on to win the PCL Most Valuable Player, one of only two Grizzlies to ever earn those honors. Murray played 130 games, racking up 183 hits, 297 total bases and scoring 122 runs. The latter three statistics are all single-season Grizzlies records. Murray also stole 42 bases and batted .334 (top 10 single-season marks). That season will go down as one of the best offensive displays in Grizzlies history, despite it being only the second year of the Grizzlies’ existence. Besides that, Murray is known as the batter facing Randy Johnson when Johnson hit a dove with a fastball in a spring training game in 2001 and is the uncle of NFL Quarterback Kyler Murray.

Emmanuel Burriss

Emmanuel Burriss was selected by the San Francisco Giants in the 1st round of the 2006 draft out of Kent State University. Burriss spent his first couple of seasons at the Single-A Level before making the leap to Fresno in 2008. After two weeks-worth of games, Burriss had his contract selected by the Giants. For the next four years, Burriss would split time between the Central Valley and the Bay Area. He enjoyed a couple of bright spots over those four years, which included being San Francisco’s youngest Opening Day starting second baseman (2009) since Robbie Thompson back in 1986. In 2011, Burriss batted .297 over 45 games with the Grizzlies, stealing 24 bases and scoring 31 times. Most notably, he swiped a Grizzlies franchise-record four bags on April 8th against the Las Vegas 51s. Burriss finished his Fresno career playing 172 games over five seasons and became one of the best do-it-all players in Grizzlies history.

Jalal Leach

Jalal Leach was selected by the New York Yankees in the 7th round of the 1990 draft out of Pepperdine University. After playing for eight years and a trio of teams, Leach still hadn’t cracked the big leagues. At that point, he was offered a coaching position by Brian Sabean, despite still wanting to play. After some roster moves, Leach was activated as a player and would head to Fresno for the next four years, which included joining the 1998 Grizzlies club. Over those four seasons, Leach became one of the most lethal bats in the Pacific Coast League and Grizzlies history. He finished his Fresno career with four Top-10 franchise records, which included homers (8th, 52), triples (6th, 15), doubles (7th, 73) and RBI (7th, 216). The culmination of his determination and prowess at the plate earned him his long-awaited call-up to the Giants in 2001. Leach is the definition of Farm Grown in Fresno.

Stockton Ports Announce 2022 Job Fair February 26

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

 

STOCKTON, Calif. –The Stockton Ports, in conjunction with Professional Sports Catering, are excited to announce the upcoming Ports Job Fair at Banner Island Ballpark on Saturday, February 26, 2022 from 9 AM – 12 PM. The Ports and Professional Sports Catering will be hiring for all positions and candidates that are interested in working for the Ports this season are highly encouraged to show up for the Ports Job Fair on Feb. 26.

The Stockton Ports and Professional Sports Catering are seeking people to fill a wide variety of roles for the 2022 season of Ports baseball. Positions include Box Office, Team Store, Press Box, Kids Zone, Food Service jobs, andmore that can be located in the Ports 2022 Job Fair application.

Open tryouts for Public Address, Master of Ceremonies, and National Anthem will be held on Saturday, March 5. Details of the event will be issued at a later time.

Job seekers are encouraged to fill out an application prior to the Job Fair, which can be found by clicking here, however, applications will be available at Banner Island Ballpark on the day of the Job Fair. The interview process should take less than 30 minutes and candidates should refrain from returning their application to Banner Island Ballpark prior to February 26.

As a member of the Ports staff, gameday employees will receive the following additional benefits:

  • Two complimentary Ports Tickets per month
  • Ports Merchandise Employee Discount
  • Ports End of the Season Staff Party

The ideal candidate must be trustworthy, outgoing, reliable, and enthusiastic. All applicants must be 16 years of age or older by April 8 in order to work for the Ports or Professional Sports Catering.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to [email protected] or call 209-644-1900.

The Ports encourage all candidates to show up to the Ports Job Fair on February 26 to be part of Ports game day crew!

Top 5 Black Players in Visalia History

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

 

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.

CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

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

 

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 Modesto Nuts.

2B Joe Morgan (’63)

Hall-of-Famer Joe Morgan is a NorCal native that began his pro career in Modesto. Morgan went to Castlemont High School in Oakland. He played at Cal Sate – East Bay and Merritt College before he was signed. Over 45 games with Modesto in 1963, Morgan hit .263 while slugging .434. Morgan would reach the big leagues and make his debut later that season as a 19-year-old for the Houston Colt .45s.

Morgan would be inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1990. He was a two-time MVP, a two-time World Series champion, a ten-time all-star and a five-time Gold Glove winner.

OF Reggie Jackson (’66)

Hall-of-Famer Reggie Jackson spent 56 games in Modesto during his first season as a professional. The second overall pick in the 1966 draft went on to provide one of the most spectacular displays of power in franchise history. As a 20-year-old, Jackson smashed 21 home runs in just 56 games. It was a rate of one home run per 11.5 at-bats. The very next season, he made his Major League debut with the Kansas City A’s.

Jackson went on to become one of the greatest sluggers the game has ever seen. He crushed 563 career home runs. He was the 1973 MVP, a 14-time all-star, and a five-time World Champion.

Rickey Henderson (’77)

Hall-of-Famer Rickey Henderson was drafted in the 4th round of the 1976 draft out of Oakland Technical High School. The next year he made his full-season professional debut in Modesto. He put on a show for the California League. He hit .345 and stole 95 bases in 134 games. Just two years later he made his Major League debut at the age of 20 with the Oakland A’s.

Henderson was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2009. He set the Major League record for stolen bases with 1,406 during his career. He was a ten-time all-star and a two-time World Series Champion.

OF Kyle Lewis (’17-’18)

After being underrecruited out of high school, Lewis attended Mercer University where he electrified college baseball. In 2016, Lewis hit .395 and slugged .731 while crushing 20 home runs in 61 games. Lewis won the Golden Spikes Award that year which is awarded to college baseball’s top player each season.

Later during the 2016 season, Lewis suffered a devastating knee injury at the end of the minor league season that kept him out for an entire year. He would return from the knee injury in June of 2017 with the Modesto Nuts but reaggravated it after just two games. Lewis would return to Modesto again in July. He was able to stay healthy the rest of the year and was an integral part of the Nuts run to the 2017 California League Championship.

Lewis would return to Modesto in 2018 for 49 games where he hit .260 with five home runs. He made his Major League debut in 2019. In 2020, Lewis was named the A.L. Rookie of the Year after batting .262 with 11 home runs in 58 games during the pandemic shortened season for the Mariners.

RHP Reggie McClain (’17-’19)

Reggie McClain was selected in the 13th round of the 2016 draft out of the University of Missouri. The next season he joined Modesto and earn all-star honors after an electrifying first half. McClain spent the entire season pitching in the Nuts’ rotation on a team that won the First Half North Division Championship. That squad would later go to a perfect 6-0 run through the postseason on the way to their first California League Championship since 2004.

McClain returned to Modesto in 2018 but struggled to repeat the same success over 23 starts. Finally, during the winter of ’18-’19, McClain went to the Mariners “Gas Camp” where he added almost ten miles an hour to his fastball. McClain spent a third straight opening day with Modesto at the start of the 2019 season but this time he was working out of the bullpen throwing heat. He quickly zoomed through the Mariners MiLB system until he made his Major League debut on August 2nd, 2019.

Black History Month – San Jose Giants History

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

 

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.” In no particular order, here is a look at five of the best Black baseball players to suit up for the San Jose Giants since our affiliation with the San Francisco Giants began in 1988:

ROYCE CLAYTON

Royce Clayton was drafted out of St. Bernard High School in Playa del Rey in the first round (15th pick overall) by the San Francisco Giants in 1988. He made his San Jose Giants debut in 1989 after being called up from the Clinton Giants. In his time in San Jose, Clayton batted .243 with 17 doubles, 10 triples and 75 RBI in 151 games.

He made his San Francisco Giants debut in 1991 and would go on to play for 10 other teams in his 16-year major league career. In 1997, as a member of the St. Louis Cardinals, he was selected to his first and only MLB All-Star game.

In 2011, Clayton portrayed Miguel Tejada in the film _Moneyball_, making him the first former big-league player to appear in an Oscar nominated Best Picture film. Clayton was the childhood favorite player of San Francisco Giant shortstop Brandon Crawford, and is currently the head varsity baseball coach at Oaks Christian High School in Westlake Village, CA.

THOMAS NEAL

Neal was drafted by San Francisco in the 36th round of the 2005 amateur draft, and signed with the Giants organization in 2006 out of Riverside Community College. After a slow start to his professional career, Neal found large success at the plate in his third year, and first full season in Augusta in 2008.

In 2009, Neal had one of the best seasons in San Jose Giants history, as he batted .337/.431/.579 with 22 home runs and 90 runs batted in. Neal was among the Cal League leaders in runs, hits, doubles, home runs, RBIs, and average. Baseball America ranked him as the best prospect in the Cal League, and as high as #9 in all of the minor leagues. He was also named to the Cal League All-Star team and helped lead San Jose to a league title.

Neal was ultimately traded to the now Cleveland Guardians in 2011, where he made his big-league debut in September of 2012. Neal retired from his playing career in 2015 and has since served as a minor-league hitting coach in the Giants organization.

FRED LEWIS

Fred Lewis was drafted out of Southern University and A&M College in the second round (66th overall) by the San Francisco Giants in 2002. Lewis made his San Jose Giants debut in 2004, and batted .301 with 20 doubles, 11 triples and 57 RBI in 115 games before being called up to AAA Fresno.

He later debuted for the San Francisco Giants on September 1st, 2006. In only his 16th appearance in the major leagues, Lewis hit for the cycle in Colorado on May 13, 2007. He was also the first player in San Francisco Giants history to hit two grand slams in a rookie season. Lewis eventually retired from Major League Baseball in 2012.

JEROME WILLIAMS

Jerome Williams was selected in the first round (39th overall) of the 1999 draft by the San Francisco Giants out of Waipahu (Hawaii) High School.

After spending the 1999 season in rookie ball, Williams came to San Jose in 2000 where he appeared in 23 games, posted a 7-6 record with a 2.94 ERA, and struck out 115 batters. His success in the minor leagues came with a Futures Game Invite during the 2001 season.

Williams made Giants’ history when he made his Major League Debut on April 26, 2003, becoming the first Hawaiian-born player in organizational history (including New York) to appear in a Giants’ uniform. He would eventually receive the same honor when he took the field as a Washington National in 2007. Williams retired from Major League Baseball in 2016, and his accomplishments were later celebrated in San Jose with his own bobblehead.

DARREN FORD

Ford, drafted in the 18th round of the 2004 draft, began his Giants career in 2008 when he was traded by the Milwaukee Brewers. He would spend the remainder of this season in San Jose, finishing the year with 62 total stolen bases. The 48 bases he stole prior to his arrival in San Jose was good for second in the entire Florida State league, despite only playing 91 games in that league.

Ford returned to San Jose in 2009 where his success on the base baths continued while enjoying one of his best career years at the plate. Ford batted .300 with 50 RBIs and added 35 stolen bases, fourth overall in the Cal League. Alongside an impressive San Jose team featuring the likes of Buster Posey, Brandon Crawford, Madison Bumgarner and Thomas Neal, Ford and his teammates brought home the 2009 California League Championship.

Ford was eventually called up to make his big-league debut with San Francisco Giants, appearing in seven games in 2010 and 26 games in 2011, before jumping between the Mariners, Pirates, and back to the Giants from 2012-2016.

MODESTO NUTS RELEASE 2021 COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT

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

 

MODESTO, CA – The report covers the 2021 fiscal year and discloses the Nuts contributions of over $170,000 to community related programs.

“It was an absolute honor to return in 2021 and offer Stanislaus County a safe, affordable place to enjoy friends, family & co-workers,” said Zach Brockman, General Manager of the Modesto Nuts. “We are supremely confident that our organization will complete that comeback in 2022 and get back to hosting more fans and attending more community events. Donations, in-kind services & direct support for quality-of-life projects in the Modesto area will return in full. We couldn’t be more excited for the future!“

With the help of The Parks Group and Mocse Credit Union, the Modesto Nuts began the Health and Wellness Program with over 10 schools enrolled and about 10,000 students participated. The Health and Wellness Program motivated children to focus on mental health, physical health, and cleanliness by offering performance-based incentives from Save Mart, Health Plan of San Joaquin, and The Modesto Nuts.

Non-profit organizations and little leagues used the Modesto Nuts ticket fundraising program to generate much needed funds. Additionally, the Nuts donated gift baskets which included game tickets, premium suites & autographed memorabilia.

Modesto front office donated their time generously to different organizations throughout the community. From school career fairs, to little league opening days, and much more; the Modesto Nuts were able to teach important values such as chasing dreams, having integrity and working hard for what they want.

In back to back years, the Modesto Nuts have doubled their community appearances. For more information on how you can have a Modesto Nuts representative at your event, please head to our Community Appearance Page.

CLICK HERE for the full 2021 Community Impact Report

###

About the Nuts:

The Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball team is the Class A Affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. For more information visit modestonuts.com or call 209-572-HITS (4487)

Rawhide Charitable Fund Supports Work with Local Families

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

 

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.

2021 LoanMart Scholarship Winners Announced

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

 

RANCHO CUCAMONGA – For the ninth consecutive year, LoanMart and the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes have partnered to award a total of three $1,000 scholarships to local college-bound students.

Selected based on the criteria of leadership, community involvement and character, this year’s competitive pool of applicants submitted personal statements, letters of recommendation and records of academic performance.

“The Quakes are proud to continue to team with LoanMart and reward these three exemplary students,” said Quakes Vice President – General Manager Grant Riddle. “With so many impressive and deserving applications submitted, this year’s decision process was a challenge, but we’re very confident in the future success awaiting these accomplished students.”

All three recipients finished high school with GPAs of 4.0 or higher and were members of their school’s National Honor Society.

Congratulations to this year’s scholarship winners:
Rylee Fochtman (Santiago High School)
Haley Aichlmayer (Rancho Cucamonga High School)
Ford Melillo (Rancho Cucamonga High School)

A multi-sport athlete and active member of her school’s Best Buddies program, Fochtman’s teachers noted her ‘compassion, self-discipline, and integrity’. She is attending UC Davis to study Neurobiology.

As a notable and talented flutist, Aichlmayer was chosen to perform in many area honor bands, including the iconic Rose Parade Marching Band. She plans to study Biological Sciences at UC Irvine this fall.

Headed to Stanford to pursue an English degree, Melillo was recognized for his outstanding high school career and selected as student of the year in multiple advanced placement subjects.

The Quakes will announce Fochtman, Aichlmayer, and Melillo’s selection on social media.

B’nai B’rith to introduce 2021 Class of Student-Athlete Scholarship Recipients at Fresno Grizzlies Home Game

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

 

B’nai B’rith Fresno will celebrate 70 years of recognizing Fresno-area student-athletes by introducing its 2021 class of scholarship recipients at Chukchansi Park on Sunday, May 23, 2021 at 1:05 p.m. during the Fresno Grizzlies game.

B’nai B’rith is proud to partner with the Fresno Grizzlies to recognize 17 outstanding student-athletes as Covid-19 protocols made an in-person dinner impossible this year. A small ceremony, in accordance with CDC and State of California mandates, will occur during the game where each nominee and their parents will be present.

“We are honored to have the opportunity to host such a historic, meaningful event out here at the ballpark,” said Derek Franks, Grizzlies President. “Year after year I am astounded by the accomplishments of our local student athletes and I am grateful that B’nai B’rith Fresno chose Chukchansi Park as the location of this year’s event.”

The B’nai B’rith Student-Athlete Dinner and Scholarship is the longest running scholarship program in Fresno County and is celebrating its 70th year. Each high school that draws students from a Fresno zip code nominates a senior based on athletic achievements, academic accomplishments and school and community activities.

The B’nai B’rith Student Athlete Award started in 1952 as part of Brotherhood Week in Fresno. Race, creed, nationality, religious background nor gender has anything to do with the considered choices for award nominees.

San Jose Giants and Sirious Baseball Team Up for Official Youth Baseball Partnership

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

 

SAN JOSE, CA– The San Jose Giants have announced today a new strategic, official partnership with local Baseball Company, Sirious Baseball. The two will team up for over 50 dates of Youth/Elite High School Baseball at Excite Ballpark in 2021.

“This partnership represents a truly exciting next step for baseball camps and clinics at Excite Ballpark,” said Ben Taylor, San Jose Giants Chief Operating Officer. “The past year has shown that regardless of games being played, the San Jose Giants will remain steadfast in our commitment to use the ballpark and baseball as a means to positively impact San Jose. There is no doubt that with Sirious Baseball on board, led by Anthony Siri and Robin Navarro Strong, we will enhance the opportunities for local youth to be exposed to baseball and top-level skill development.”

During the upcoming year, dates for showcases, team tryouts and week-long camps will be released for both Youth and High School level baseball players. In addition, Sirious Baseball and their established group of coaches, including former San Jose Giant and World Series Champion Dan Runzler, will be leading the typical Summer Camps at Excite Ballpark as the Official Summer Camp Provider of the San Jose Giants.

“We are very excited to be the Official Partner of the San Jose Giants for amateur baseball,” said Anthony Siri, Founder of Sirious Baseball. “Both organizations share the vision to remain committed not only to the Youth players in our community, but also providing Elite High School Baseball Training. Our combined resources will allow all baseball and softball players to enjoy their journey in the game, all while having meaningful platforms to do so.”

For more information on the San Jose Giants and Sirious Baseball and how to get involved next season, call 408.297.1435, visit sjgiants.com or siriousbaseball.com.

2020 Giants in the Community Report

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

Annual report highlights organization’s impact in the San Jose community

SAN JOSE, CA– The San Jose Giants released today their 2020 Community Report. In unprecedented circumstances, this year’s report highlights the organization’s creative success and community involvement throughout the COVID-19 pandemic that resulted in 166 events despite the absence of baseball.

“As we look towards brighter days and the return of baseball sounds echoing through Excite Ballpark, I hope this report brings a communal sense of pride in what we can accomplish together when the odds are against us,” said Daniel Orum, San Jose Giants President and CEO. “We look forward to seeing you out in the community and cannot wait to welcome you all back to the ballpark when baseball returns.”

The 2020 Community Report demonstrates the club’s activity in the community and overall pledge to giving back both inside and outside the stadium’s gates. Highlights of the report include the organization’s involvement with Bay Area SHiP Kits, information on successful fundraising efforts to support both Frontline Workers battling the pandemic and the Northern California Fires, as well as never-before-seen events and opportunities at the ballpark without Giants games being played. For the complete 2020 San Jose Giants Community Report, click on the link below.

For more information on the San Jose Giants and how to get your organization involved next season, call 408.297.1435 or visit sjgiants.com.

View 2020 Community Report

October 2020 Community Report

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

 

In the month of October, The Stockton Ports delivered $200 worth of gift cards to six different schools in our local community. After raising $1,200 through a Virtual Back to School Drive, The Ports were able to purchase gift cards to support Hong Kingston, Pittman, Pulliam, Cleveland, Kennedy, and Adams Elementary schools in their efforts to adapt to virtual learning. With COVID-19 Guidelines followed, the gift cards were hand delivered to each school along with a personal message wishing them the best of luck during the school year. This was the first time The Ports held this event, and after the success that it brought about, it is safe to say that this will become an annual drive to benefit the Stockton Unified School District at the start of each school year.

Later in the month of October, Splash made some Halloween visits around town and participated in events taking place in our local community. The first stop was Chase Chevrolet’s “Trunk or Treat” where Splash handed out candy to children and families at this drive through event. Splash was greeted with smiles and cheers, although he did get frightened at times due to some scary costumes! After “Trunk or Treat”, Splash’s next stop was at a new venue in town called Stocklandia, a permanent location filled with a variety of local food trucks and boutiques that recently opened. Splash was given a plethora of different foods and desserts to try, all of which he loved. He was also greeted by many Stockton Ports fans asked to take pictures with all of them. The Stockton Ports were happy to be out in the community are excited to continue their community efforts in the upcoming months!

Former and Current Owners of the Visalia Rawhide Baseball Club Team up to Donate $250,000 to the Visalia and Tulare County Community

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

 

VISALIA, CA- The former and current owners of the Visalia Rawhide have jointly contributed $250,000 to establish the Visalia Rawhide Charitable Fund at the Central Valley Community Foundation to serve the community where Visalia Rawhide fans live, work and play.

“The Visalia community provided great support over our 18 years with the Rawhide ballclub,” said Tom Seidler, former Rawhide co-owner and President of Top of the Third, Inc. “We are excited to have the opportunity to give back to the community during this time of great need, in partnership with the Rawhide and the Sigal family. I can’t think of a better way to commemorate the one year anniversary of the Rawhide championship than this effort to help many families in need through these two grants.”

To support families with childcare costs, food, distance learning supplies, and other essential services, an initial grant from the new fund of $50,000 has been donated to First 5 which supports six family resource centers, including the Visalia Family Resource Center. During the COVID pandemic, family resource centers in Tulare County are experiencing, on average, a 50% increase in the number of calls for assistance, many from families that have never sought help before.

A second $50,000 grant will help fund The Healthy Harvest Program in Tulare County. The local ag industry is essential and has continued the food production we all rely upon. This new program expands messaging to the Valley’s food production industry about coronavirus safety. It will provide access to testing, house workers who need to self-isolate and provide food and transportation to make quarantine possible. These are essential steps to stop the spread of the virus throughout the community.

“It takes all of us coming together to make a difference in this national crisis”, said Sam Sigal, current co-owner of the Rawhide and Vice President of First Pitch Entertainment, LLC. “ The Healthy Harvest Program is a partnership that brings together state, federal, industry, and philanthropic dollars.” Among the agencies that support The Healthy Harvest Program are the California Department of Food and Agriculture, Tulare County, and the Tulare Farm Bureau.

“It is an honor to team up with the Central Valley Community Foundation, The Family Resource Centers, and the Healthy Harvest Program, said Sam. “Although professional baseball is in a pause due to the pandemic, we look forward to many enjoyable seasons in the years ahead. For now, the health of the people of Visalia and the surrounding area is our focus.”

In April, at the beginning of the pandemic, the Sigal family donated over $30,000 to support Central Valley non-profits. In collaboration with the Central Valley Community Foundation, support was directed to emergency relief funds, food bank distribution efforts and local hospitals.

“The Visalia Rawhide has been an iconic presence in Tulare County by tipping its hat to the Ag industry that propels our community. And by stepping up to help financially support our Healthy Harvest program, the Community Care Coalition in Tulare County can bring much needed supportive services to our farmworkers and their families affected by COVID-19,” said Coalition Co-Chairs Rosemary Caso, Executive Director of United Way Tulare County and Francena Martinez, Division Manager, Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency. “We applaud their efforts in making sure this critical program is available to those that need it.”

For more information about the efforts of the Central Valley Community Foundation in the fight against the Coronavirus, contact Hannah McAbee ([email protected])

###

The Visalia Rawhide are a professional baseball team in the Class A Advanced California League and are the only professional sports team in Tulare and Kings counties. The team has been an affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks since 2007 and will be celebrating the 75th Anniversary of Minor League Baseball in Visalia in 2021. The Rawhide look to continue their reputation for hosting competitive baseball while providing affordable family entertainment and defending the 2019 California League Championship. For more information, please contact the Visalia Rawhide Front Office at 559.732.4433, visit us online at rawhidebaseball.com, or follow us on Facebook (TheRawhide), Instagram (@VisaliaRawhide), and Twitter (@VisaliaRawhide).

Ports Virtual Back to School Drive

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

 

The Ports are excited to launch it’s Virtual Back to School Drive, starting today and running until September 14!

The purpose of this event is to support local schools in the community and provide schools, teachers, and students with the proper supplies and visual learning materials to enhance both online and in person education. This drive gives the Ports the opportunity to interact with the community and give back to those schools, especially during times where many schools are dealing with the downfalls of COVID-19. Schools we will be supporting are Hong Kingston Elementary, Pittman, Pulliam Elementary, John Adams Elementary, John F. Kennedy Elementary and Cleveland Elementary.

In order to follow safety protocols and guidelines regarding COVID, we will allow the local community to contribute to the back to school drive without having to leave their house! We are asking for Monetary Donations that will be used towards gift cards for teachers to purchase software educational enhancements to best supply their students with the proper learning material for virtual learning. Gift cards will be to Target, Walmart, Amazon, Office Depot, Teachers Paying Teachers, etc.Donations can be done online on the Ports Website. Donation values are in increments of $5, $10, $20, and $50, but multiple donations are able to be combined to add up to $15, $30, $40, etc.

Donor names will be featured on “The Honor Roll” page on the Stockton Ports website. Donors also have the opportunity to win one of the three special gifts – the more you donate, the more chances you have to win a gift!

Gift 1: A suite with 16 tickets to a game in 2021
Gift 2 and 3: 2020 Giveaways (One of each of the 2020 Giveaways)

Learn more and donate HERE!

To donate a specific amount, contact Christine in the Ports Front Office at 209-644-1967.

For additional information or questions, contact Jordy Feneck at [email protected]