Canadians host Indigenous Peoples Night on July 14

VANCOUVER, BC – Nat Bailey Stadium – home of the Vancouver Canadians – sits on the lands of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations. The Canadians, in partnership with Coastal First Nations and Rogers Communications, will pay homage to the people of those lands on Thursday, July 14 when they host their inaugural Indigenous Peoples Night.

The festivities will begin well before first pitch. Traditional music and dance will be performed at the ballpark entrance from 5:45 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. The on-field pregame welcome ceremony will be led by Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations leaders.

In conjunction with the Indian Residential School Survivors Society, 20 residential school survivors and their families have been invited to the game and 20 athletes from the Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council will take the field with the C’s starting lineup as part of the Baseball Buddies program.

All Canadians game day staff will be wearing HstryMkrs “Every Childs Matters” orange t-shirts in solidarity with the theme of the night. The shirts will be available for presale and on site during the game with 100% of the proceeds benefitting residential school survivors. Shirts are available for presale now by clicking here.

The C’s extend their gratitude to Coastal First Nations for their consultation, guidance and support in launching this yearly event.

*Who: *Vancouver Canadians

*What: * Indigenous Peoples Night at The Nat

*Where: *Nat Bailey Stadium (4601 Ontario Street, Vancouver, B.C.)

*When: * Thursday, July 14, 2022, at 7:05 p.m. PDT

Tickets for the event are available now by calling the box office at 604-872-5232 or by clicking here.

Mississippi Braves to honor civil rights icons The “Tougaloo Nine” on Saturday, July 16

PEARL, MS – In conjunction with Minor League Baseball’s initiative “The Nine”, on Saturday, July 16, when the Mississippi Braves take on the Rocket City Trash Pandas at Trustmark Park, the team will be honoring the brave students that made up the historic Tougaloo Nine.

“The M-Braves look forward to recognizing the courageous members of the Tougaloo Nine on this night”, said M-Braves vice-president and general manager Pete Laven. “Their story is vital to the fight for civil rights history in not just our great state but the entire nation. We are honored and humbled that several of the Tougaloo Nine will be present for the game.”

Story of the Tougaloo Nine:

In March 1961, the Tougaloo Nine became the first Mississippi students to stage a sit-in against segregation when they staged a demonstration at the main public library in Jackson. Just over a year earlier, on February 1, 1960, students from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical College launched the sit-in movement with a protest at a Greensboro lunch counter. Students from black colleges across the South followed suit at a variety of public places—lunch counters, libraries, and department stores—that denied service to blacks.

On March 27, 1961, nine members of the Jackson Youth Council of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People—Meredith Coleman Anding Jr., James Cleo Bradford, Alfred Lee Cook, Geraldine Edwards, Janice Jackson, Joseph Jackson Jr., Albert Earl Lassiter, Evelyn Pierce, and Ethel Sawyer—entered Jackson’s main library and began browsing through the card catalog and then sat down to read. When police arrived and asked the students to leave, they refused and were arrested on charges of breach of the peace. Medgar Evers gathered bail for their release, and Jack Harvey Young Sr., a civil rights lawyer, represented the students. They were ultimately convicted, fined one hundred dollars each, and given thirty days in jail, though that part of the sentence was suspended. However, their actions led to the integration of what is now the Jackson Metropolitan Library System, and they have been honored by the college and by the City of Jackson.

On July 16, Mississippi Braves players will wear vintage Tougaloo College baseball jerseys from the 1960s that feature the last name of one of the Tougaloo Nine students on the back.

“Tougaloo College is honored to be a part of this special occasion as the Mississippi Braves pay tribute to the Tougaloo Nine,” said Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Social Justice, Dr. Daphne Chamberlain. Tougaloo College has a rich civil rights history that has been well documented, and the Tougaloo Nine are a significant part of that history. More than sixty years ago, these young people challenged the status quo in their actions to integrate the Jackson Public Library. The Tougaloo Nine inspired and empowered young people across Mississippi to join the fight for freedom. The role the Tougaloo Nine played in effectuating positive social change in Mississippi during one of the most turbulent periods in this state and this nation’s history is a testament to their bravery and commitment to securing human dignity for all people.”

These jerseys will be available for our fans to purchase during the game via silent auction, with proceeds benefitting the Ella Josephine Baker Social Justice Scholarship.

Before the 6:05 pm first pitch will be a pre-game ceremony to include current Tougaloo College baseball players, video tributes before the game, a mobile museum kiosk on the stadium concourse, and appearances by living members and families of the Tougaloo Nine. The evening will conclude with a phenomenal Post-Game Fireworks Show.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit mississippibraves.com, or call 888-BRAVES4.

Polar Park Celebrates Juneteenth, sponsors Black Music Festival

The Worcester Red Sox concluded their six-game series Sunday in an afternoon matinee against the Toledo Mud Hens. In addition to Father’s Day festivities Sunday, Polar Park played host to multiple celebrations of Juneteenth, the commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States on June 19, 1865.

A trio of local musicians, Charles Ketter, Lydia Fortune, and Miss Shirley Johnson, rocked along Summit Street to begin Juneteenth commemoration. Patrons enjoyed spirituals as well as jazz and blues stylings pre-game.

For the Heart of Worcester, fans welcomed Dr. Thomas Doughton, a senior lecturer for interdisciplinary and special studies at The College of the Holy Cross. Doughton was instrumental in the creation of Worcester’s Black History Trail. Alongside Doughton was another influential figure to the trail’s creation: Worcester City Councilor Khrystian King.

The trail encompasses a near 300-year history in Worcester through several landmarks of historical significance across the Heart of the Commonwealth. The display tells the unfiltered stories of those who lived in the city as far back as the 18th Century, and had its first five stops dedicated earlier this month.

Sunday’s Ceremonial First Pitch was delivered by Ernest Floyd, who was honored as the Hometown Hero. Floyd created and serves as executive producer of Unity Radio, 97.9 FM. Unity Radio helps create an avenue through which members of the Worcester community can help one another.

Before the performance of the national anthem, Polar Park raised the Juneteenth flag alongside the American flag, and heard a rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by 15-year-old Liyah McBridge. The Star-Spangled Banner was performed by P.E. James.

Social justice is one of the WooSox Foundation’s four areas of focus. To further strengthen the club’s commitment to supporting the local Black community, the Foundation announced its sponsorship of The Black Music Festival with a $1,500 contribution, which was dedicated before first pitch Sunday.

The festival will be hosted by the Uncommonwealth Group on Saturday, June 25, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Patrons can expect a full day of musical performances, entertainment, food, vendors, and building bridges to the community through music on the Worcester Common.

Sunday’s game was a victory for the WooSox on the back of Ryan Fitzgerald’s 5th inning three-run home run and Connor Seabold’s (5-1, 1.95) quality start.

Sunday concluded with a special Father’s Day Catch on the Field.

Louisville Bats Celebrate Pride on June 23

The Louisville Bats will be partnering with the Louisville Pride Foundation, Queer KY, and Derby City Pride League to host the second-annual Pride Night at Louisville Slugger Field on Thursday, June 23.

The event will be sponsored by UAW Local 862 and fans can purchase tickets and support the fundraiser at the Louisville Bat Online Box Office – Pride Night. A portion of each ticket purchased through this link will go directly to the organizations supporting our community here in Louisville.

The evening will host a bundle of promotions including a Pride Koozie giveaway to the first 500 fans (Sponsored by UAW Local 862), a ceremonial first pitch from Chris Hartman from the Fairness Campaign, and a performance of the national anthem by the Louisville Gay Men’s Chorus.

On top of these activities, Thursday Night Louisville Slugger Field promotions will also be in effect, including Game Time Happy Hour, with $2 beers from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. throughout the ballpark (21 or older only).

Blue Wahoos And Cox Honor Legacy Of Chappie James To End Homestand On Juneteenth 

The Blue Wahoos were unable to sweep their week-long series against the Tennessee Smokies.

But they won the day in other ways Sunday, following a 5-1 loss at Blue Wahoos Stadium on an unforgettable Father’s Day at Blue Wahoos presented by Cox Communications that coincided with Juneteenth, National Freedom Day.

In addition to their title sponsorship of the day’s festivities, Cox Communications provided 100 game tickets, hats, and food to children in the community and the opportunity for the kids to take the field with the Blue Wahoos!
Nino Mendez

Their lone loss in this six-game series with the Smokies still kept the Blue Wahoos on verge of clinching the first-half division race in the Southern League South Division. The other three South Division teams, including nearest chaser Biloxi Shuckers, all lost Sunday as well.

While bats were quieted, the Blue Wahoos still stirred crowd attention among the 4,123 who braved the hot afternoon.

For the first time, the Blue Wahoos wore specialty, all-blue jerseys which included four silver stars in honor of the Gen. Daniel “Chappie” James Jr., who rose from Pensacola to become in 1975 the first African-American four-star general in United States Armed Forces history.

James’ decorated legacy included tours of combat duty in the Korean War and Vietnam War, earning him rarefied placement in U.S. Air Force history prior to his death 1978.

His granddaughter, Britt James, who was attending her brother’s wedding in Washington state, provided a video tribute and local members of the Chappie James Flight Academy and Chappie James Memorial Bridge Foundation were recognized on the field.

Then moments before the National Anthem was played, an 11-year-old boy tossed a ceremonial first pitch to a man who been in a stepdad role. On the baseball were the words, “Let’s Make This Official.”

The two melted in each other’s arms with tears as paperwork was presented for the adoption to become official.

Happy Father’s Day, indeed.

There were also youth league teams across the field in pregame warmups as part of a sponsorship from Cox Communications, who provided 100 game tickets, hats, and food to children in the community. In what might be a team record, 10 different people threw out a first pitch.

The game itself fell in what seemed a familiar comeback scenario to the Blue Wahoos.

After trailing 4-0, they had the first two batters on base in both the seventh and eighth innings. Unlike previous home game, late-inning comebacks, the Blue Wahoos (33-25) could not follow with a big hit to extend a five-game winning streak.

As it turned out, however, win or lose Sunday, the Blue Wahoos position for a playoff-clincher would not have changed. Playing hours earlier, Biloxi fell 7-6 in 10 innings, on the road against the Chattanooga Lookouts, ending Biloxi’s four-game win streak.

The Blue Wahoos will travel to Biloxi on Tuesday to begin a six-game series with the Shuckers (30-31) that will end the first half schedule. The Blue Wahoos need just one win to wrap up first-place in the first half and gain a playoff spot for mid-September.

Because each team in the South Division has played a different number of games, winning percentage is what determines the first half winner.

Cody Mincey delivered a solid start Sunday for the Blue Wahoos, working six innings, giving up all three of his runs in the second inning, but not walking a batter in his outing. He had tough luck in the second when a potential double-play was botched with a wide throw, leading into Cole Roederer’s two run single.

The Blue Wahoos got their lone run in the seventh on Jan Mercado’s two-out single, but managed only six hits against three Smokies pitchers. Cobie Fletcher-Vance went 2-for-3 as the Blue Wahoos’ lone multiple-hit batter.

WHAT’S NEXT?

WHO: Blue Wahoos vs. Biloxi Shuckers

WHEN: Tuesday (June 21) through June 26.

WHERE: MGM Park, Biloxi, Miss.

GAMETIMES: Start times are 6:35 p.m. for games Tuesday through Saturday, then 5:05 p.m. on Sunday (June 26).

TICKETS: www.biloxishuckers.com/tickets.

RADIO: : ESPN-Pensacola (99.1 FM and 1330 AM and WYCT 98.7 HD4).

TV: YurView (check provider) and MILB.tv (streaming) through www.milb.com/live-stream-games with subscription discount using BLUE WAHOOS.

NEXT HOME SERIES: Begins on June 28 vs. the Montgomery Biscuits.

RWJBarnabas Health To Host Pride Night With The Patriots On August 23

Bridgewater, New Jersey – RWJBarnabas Health, the official healthcare provider of the Somerset Patriots, will host Pride Night at TD Bank Ballpark on Tuesday, August 23 for the team’s 7:05 pm game versus the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.

GET TICKETS!

Pride Night is part of a Minor League Baseball (MiLB) nationwide initiative to showcase ballparks as an inclusive and safe environment for everyone. The game will focus on bringing LGBTQ+ members together with their families, friends and organizations to celebrate and highlight the community.

“RWJBarnabas Health is committed to providing a safe and welcoming space where members of the LGBTQ+ community can receive the medical care they need and are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve,” said Trina Parks, Corporate Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, RWJBarnabas Health. “We are proud to partner with the Somerset Patriots to promote greater awareness of resources available to the LGBTQ+ community to promote their health and wellness.”

The event will feature the Babs Siperstein PROUD Center at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset and the PROUD Gender Center of New Jersey at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, which provide comprehensive health care services for the LGBTQ+ community, including primary care services, hormone therapy, gender affirmation surgery, behavioral health services and support groups.

Fans in attendance will be able to visit displays on the concourse to get information and engage with organizations involved in inclusion and working closely with members of the LGBTQ+ community.

The Patriots and RWJBarnabas Health will be fundraising for LGBTQ+ organizations at the ballpark through a 50/50 raffle held on site.

The Team Store will have special pride t-shirts and apparel available for purchase at the ballpark and online at somersetpatriots.com.

“We are excited to host Pride Night at the ballpark with our great partners at RWJBarnabas Health,” said Patriots President/General Manager Patrick McVerry. “Since we opened in 1999, we have always looked at our home as a safe and accessible environment for everyone in our community. It’s something that we take great pride in and look to make it a special night for our LGBTQ+ fans enjoying a game again or for the very first time.”

Tickets for Pride Night can be purchased at TD Bank Ballpark, by phone at (908) 252-0700, or by visiting somersetpatriots.com.

About the Somerset Patriots
The Somerset Patriots are the New York Yankees Double-A Affiliate and develop today’s top minor league talent into the pinstriped superstars of tomorrow for MLB’s winningest team. The Patriots compete in the Double-A Northeast League and play their home games at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ, where fans of all ages and levels of baseball fandom get to enjoy the unique experience that is minor league baseball.

To learn more, visit: _**www.somersetpatriots.com_**

Trash Pandas Explore Negro League History

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.

Yard Goats to Host HBCU/Negro League Celebration Three-Day Event 

“LEVELING the PLAYING FIELD” June 15th-17th

(Hartford, CT) The Hartford Yard Goats Baseball Club, the Double-A Eastern League affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, announced it will be hosting a three-day event called LEVELING the PLAYING FIELD from June 15th through June 17th in Hartford. The events will take place at the South End Boys & Girls Club, Hooker Live and Dunkin’ Donuts Park. The three-day event is presented by the Hartford Yard Goats Foundation, and Charter Oak Family Health Center.

In 2021, the Yard Goats celebrated the 100th Anniversary of the Negro Baseball Leagues through music, dance, exhibitions, presentations and more. This year, the Yard Goats are excited to highlight the history and experience of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Both the Negro Leagues and Black Colleges were formed as a result of racial discrimination, and on the premise of providing equal opportunities for Black students and baseball players.

Events Schedule:

Day 1: WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15**th* *(5:00 PM)**

Location: SOUTH END BOYS & GIRLS CLUB (129-131 Ledyard Street, Hartford)

“LEGEND BEHIND THE PLATE” -THE JOSH GIBSON STORY

* -Documentary & talk back with Sean Gibson (great grandson of Josh Gibson)*

* -Doors open at 5:00 and program begins at 5:45*

Day 2: THURSDAY, JUNE 16**th* *(5:00 PM-7:00 PM)**

Location: HOOKER LIVE (1 Sequassen Street, Hartford)

AN UNFILTERED PANEL DISCUSSION AROUND RACIAL AND GENDER EQUITY

* -Moderated by Jay Williams, President & CEO of The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving*

-Panel includes: Sean Gibson (President of Josh Gibson Foundation), Mary-Jane Foster (President & CEO of Interval House), Tony Womack (former MLB All-Star & World Series Champion), Cheryl Sharp (Civil Rights Attorney/Deputy Director of CHRO), JP Blandin (Head Coach of Delaware State University Baseball)

Day 3: FRIDAY, JUNE 17 (4:00 PM)

PRE-GAME BLOCK PARTY

Location: Heaven Skate Park

YARD GOATS GAME

Location: Dunkin’ Donuts Park

Virginia State Trojans Marching Band, Live DJ Wrexx & Big Regg, Greek Strolls, Steppers, Dancers, Youth Marching Bands from across Connecticut, Painting & More

The first-place Yard Goats return home for a six-game homestand tonight (7:05 PM) against the Akron RubberDucks. Tickets for all games are available on the Yard Goats website (yardgoatsbaseball.com), or over the phone or in person at the Click-It-Or-Ticket Box office.

Drive Honor Black Spinners

On Friday, June 10th, the Greenville Drive will honor the successful Black Spinners team from the early 1900’s. This night is important not only to the Drive, but to the Greenville Community. With the opening of Unity Park, it’s important to honor The Black Spinners, Sterling High School, and the Negro League All-Stars that all once played at Mayberry Field and meant a lot to this community.

They will take the field sporting “throwback-style” uniforms to showcase the Black Spinners team look to the modern day Greenville community.

During the pre-game ceremonies, the Drive will recognize Frank White, the only remaining living Black Spinners player, as well as family members of former Black Spinners players. John Whiteside, a former shortstop at Sterling High School, will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Throughout the game, vignettes will run on the DriveVision video board, telling the story of the Black Spinners, Sterling High School, and the Negro League All-Stars.

We look forward to telling and honoring the stories of historic baseball teams from our very own community!

Homestand On Deck: Indians to Honor History of Negro Leagues in Indianapolis 

Richard “King Tut” King, Oscar Charleston and Connie Morgan each played prominent roles with the Indianapolis Clowns. (Photo by Negro Leagues Baseball Museum)

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indianapolis Indians begin a six-game series with the Columbus Clippers, Triple-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians, next Tuesday, June 7 at Victory Field. Friday Fireworks (June 10), Negro Leagues Night (June 11) and Sunday Characters with PJ Masks™ (June 12) highlight the promotions for Indy’s fifth homestand of the season.

Tuesday, June 7 – Tuesday Dollar Menu presented by Eisenberg
Load up on your favorite ballpark snacks with hot dogs, peanuts, potato chips, Cracker Jack and popcorn all available for just $1 each.

IUPUI Men’s Head Soccer Coach Sid Van Druenen will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Gates open at 6 PM with first pitch at 7:05 PM.

Wednesday, June 8 – Wednesday Day Game presented by Elements Financial
Leave the office early and enjoy a Wednesday Day Game at Victory Field.

Gates open at 12:30 PM for the 1:35 PM start.

Thursday, June 9 – Thirsty Thursday™ presented by Sun King Brewery, Circle City Night, Bark in the Park presented by Noah’s Animal Hospital and PetSuites, Eli the Bat Dog presented by Sit Means Sit
The best drink specials happen on Thirsty Thursday™ at Victory Field. Quench your thirst with $2 Pepsi fountain drinks, $3 domestic drafts and $5 premium and craft drafts. DJ Ryan Watson will perform pregame on the home dugout, and on the field, the Indians will represent the 317 for the second Circle City Night of the season by wearing Circle City jerseys.

Exclusive to Circle City Nights, the Indians partnered with local retailer, The Shop Indy, to bring fans the Circle City t-shirt collection. These limited-edition shirts are only available to fans who purchase a special t-shirt package. The Indians also partnered with Penn & Beech – Indy’s local candle company – to bring four baseball-inspired scents into fans’ own homes.

The third game of the series also features the third of six Bark in the Park games for the season. Bring your four-legged fan to the ballpark and enjoy the game from the right and center field lawn. Fans must purchase the dog ticket package in advance, which guarantees one (1) giveaway item for the pup. Dog ticket packages are limited. Fans also get the opportunity to watch Eli the Bat Dog retrieve players’ bats during the first three innings of the game.

Special ceremonial first pitches will be thrown by Butler University Head Football Coach Mike Uremovich and the University of Indianapolis women’s lacrosse Division II national championship team along with first pitches fetched by Butler Blue IV and Grady the Greyhound.

Gates open at 6 PM with first pitch at 7:05 PM.

Friday, June 10 – Friday Fireworks presented by FOX59
Stick around after the final out and enjoy a spectacular postgame fireworks show.

Gates open at 6 PM ahead of the 7:05 PM first pitch.

Saturday, June 11 – Negro Leagues Night presented by Indiana Civil Rights Commission
The Indians pay tribute to the rich history of the Negro Leagues in Indianapolis through a partnership with the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. The Indianapolis Clowns featured some of the greatest Black ballplayers of all time, including Hall of Famer Hank Aaron and the first three women signed to professional baseball contracts in the Negro Leagues – Toni Stone, Connie Morgan and Mamie “Peanut” Johnson. Indy native Oscar Charleston, another Negro Leagues legend and Hall of Famer, managed the Clowns in the early 1950s.

On the field, the Indians will wear Clowns specialty jerseys that will be auctioned off to benefit Indianapolis Indians Charities. The jersey auction begins at 10 AM ET on June 11 and concludes at the end of the seventh inning. Fans may place their bids by texting VICTORY to 79230.

Prior to the game, former Ben Davis High School football star and current Cincinnati Bengals running back Chris Evans will throw out a ceremonial first pitch.

Gates open at 6 PM, and the game gets underway at 7:05 PM.

Sunday, June 12 – Sunday Characters with PJ Masks™ presented by MHS, Kids Eat Free Sunday presented by Aquafina and Meijer, Knot Hole Kids Club Sunglasses Giveaway presented by Riley Children’s Health

Characters from the popular TV show PJ Masks™ make their way to Victory Field for the series finale. Visit the Center Field Plaza before and during the game for a chance to meet and take photos with Catboy, Owlette and Gekko.

Every Sunday, all children 14 and under receive a free hot dog, bag of chips and bottle of water with price of admission. In addition, the first 500 Knot Hole Kids Club members will receive one pair of sunglasses at the Standings & Lineup Board behind Section 108. This is the first opportunity for KHKC members to receive the June giveaway item. KHKC members may also run the bases after the game.

Gates open at 12:30 PM before first pitch at 1:35 PM.

Single-game tickets are available along with season tickets, mini plans, group and premium reservations. For more on the Indians, visit IndyIndians.com or contact the Victory Field Box Office at (317) 269-3545 or [email protected].

Local Black Owned Businesses Will Be Featured At Five Games This Season

ASHEVILLE- The Asheville Tourists in conjunction with the Western NC Black Business Expo are proud to announce Black Business Nights Presented by UScellular.

During five designated nights during the 2022 season five local Black-owned Businesses will be able to showcase their products or professional services on the concourse during Asheville Tourists Games. The first featured game is this Saturday, May 28. The remaining four games are scheduled for June 15, June 29, July 26, and August 12.

This Saturday’s game at McCormick Field will feature the following local Black-owned Businesses: HOTWORX, The Plug Chiropractic, Makeba Loving Hands, Rita Lee & Associates, and Upstate Essential Solutions, LLC.

The initiative is part of Minor League Baseballs “The Nine” outreach platform. Prior to the 2022 season Minor League Baseball launched “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport, provide new opportunities for youth baseball and softball participation, further diversify the business of baseball, and embrace millions of passionate fans throughout MiLB’s 120 communities nationwide.

It is named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946

The Western NC Black Business Expo is a creation of the Western NC Minority Business Association. The WNCMBA is a non-profit organization created to advocate and promote the development of minority-owned businesses in Western North Carolina through networking events, workshops, and annual business expos.

Tickets for this Saturday’s game are on sale at TouristsTickets.com and will feature the ZOOperstars entertainment.

Fireflies Launch Baseball Legends Creativity Contest

   

COLUMBIA, SC – The Columbia Fireflies announced today that they are launching a Baseball Legends Creativity Contest for children from kindergarten to 12th grade. The Baseball Legends Creativity Contest encourages children to learn more about local baseball legend Larry Doby and the impact he had on the game of baseball. Based on what they learned about Larry Doby, kids will then creatively express how Doby’s story has encouraged them to overcome challenges they may face in their own lives. Three contest winners, one from each age bracket, will be selected and recognized in-game during Negro League Weekend Friday, June 17.

The creative expression can take any form; including but not limited to essays, poems, spoken word, paintings or drawings. Submissions must answer the following prompt: “What challenges did Larry Doby face throughout his life and baseball career, how did he overcome those challenges, and how has he influenced you to overcome the challenges you may face in your life?”

Larry Doby is best-known for breaking the American League color barrier with the Cleveland Indians a few months after Jackie Robinson broke the National League color barrier with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Doby was also the second black manager of any Major League club, after Frank Robinson accomplished the task a few years before him.

If that weren’t enough trailblazing, Doby also broke the ABL color barrier. The ABL was a precursor to the NBA. Despite the hardships Doby was placed under, he became one of the most decorated baseball players of all time. He was the first black player to homer in the World Series. He became a seven-time MLB All-Star with five-100 RBI and eight-20 HR seasons, which helped prompt his spot in Cooperstown. The infielder was inducted in the MLB Hall of Fame in 1998, five years before his death.

Children participating will be broken into three groups based on grade level: Kindergarten – 5th grade, 6th grade – 8th grade, and 9th grade – 12th grade. One winner will be selected from each group.

Children looking to participate in the contest must register online. After registration, completed creative expressions must be emailed to Devin Johnson at [email protected] by 5:00pm EST Wednesday, June 8. Larry Doby educational resources can also be found online.

 

BlueClaws Baseball Is For Everyone – Team to Host Third Pride Night on June 3rd

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws baseball is for everyone! That continues to be the team’s message as the BlueClaws prepare for their third Pride Night, to be held on Friday, June 3rd. Pride Night at ShoreTown Ballpark is presented by Coca-Cola.

The BlueClaws held their first Pride Night, presented by Coca-Cola, in 2019 in front of a capacity, sold-out crowd, and despite pandemic-restrictions, held another successful event in 2021.

“We consider ourselves to be a very open and inclusive organization and proud member of the community,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “We want to show the LGBT community that they are, and always will be, welcome at BlueClaws games!”

“It seems so simple–players should be judged on their athletic ability–not by who they love or how they identify. Unfortunately, the sports world can often be the deepest, darkest place in the closet. That’s why Garden State Equality is proud to partner with the Jersey Shore BlueClaws on their annual Pride Night–an evening that sends a message of positivity to LGBTQ people and their families,” said Christian Fuscarino, executive director of Garden State Equality. You have to imagine how inspiring it is for all those young kids sitting in the stands—who might be gay or transgender—when they look up and see their home team saying: ‘It’s okay to be who you are. We support you.’ That’s life changing.”

Pride Night includes a BlueClaws Pride Night cap giveaway for the first 1,500 fans that will be handed out beginning when the gates open at 6:00 pm. Fans are encouraged to stay for post-game fireworks.

Order Tickets: Order tickets online by clicking here.

The BlueClaws will also be wearing special jerseys that will be auctioned off during the game.

“BlueClaws games are about a fun night out with your friends, family, and colleagues. It’s about relaxing, laughing, and having a great time together. This notion has nothing to do with sexual orientation, race, gender, or economic status. It’s a universal notion of affordable, wholesome entertainment. It’s nice to be able to celebrate that with the community.”

Food specials that night include Rainbow Layer Cake in ShoreTown Soft Serve with drink specials available in the Sand Bar and Blue Wave Bar.

Additional resources will be made available for fans at the game. Those interested in attending the night or partnering with the BlueClaws are encouraged to email [email protected].

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws-

MGM Park To Host Gulf Coast Diamond Classic on May 21

The Biloxi Shuckers and BCSG 360 announced today they will host the Gulf Coast Diamond Classic on Saturday, May 21, 2022 at MGM Park. The Gulf Coast Diamond Classic will feature HBCUs Jackson State University (Jackson, MS) and Mississippi Valley State University (Itta Bena, MS).

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE.

The contest will begin at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday. The gates at MGM Park will open one hour prior to game start time.

Fans have three ticket options for the Gulf Coast Diamond Classic:

  • Adult Ticket – $20 includes entry for game.
  • Youth Ticket – $10 includes entry for game.
  • Premium Ticket – $30 includes entry for game and premium seating access.

When purchasing tickets, unless buying premium tickets, select ‘BERM’ for your ticket option. For the Gulf Coast Diamond Classic, these will allow you to sit anywhere in the seating bowl that is not in the premium section.

Jackson State University will serve as the away team for the game and Mississippi Valley State University will be the home team.

ABOUT THE BILOXI SHUCKERS:

The Biloxi Shuckers are the Double-A Affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. The Shuckers are members of the Southern League and play at MGM Park in Biloxi, Mississippi. For more information please visit biloxishuckers.comand follow us on Twitter @biloxishuckers and at facebook.com/biloxishuckers.

Community-Focused Nights Added to Cannon Ballers Schedule

 

(KANNAPOLIS, N.C.) – Community initiatives have remained a core focus for the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers and today the team announced a variety of additional highlights for the 2022 season.

This Saturday, April 23rd, the Ballers will host their inaugural HBCU Night at Atrium Health Ballpark. The night will highlight the impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities and feature a live pregame performance by the Livingstone College Marching Blue Thunder. High school students will also have the opportunity to meet with admissions representatives from Johnson C. Smith University, Winston-Salem State University, and many others.

The Cannon Ballers also announced their first ever Pride Night taking place on Wednesday, July 6th. Celebrating inclusion and support for members of the LGBTQ+ community, Pride Night will include in-game programming highlighted by Salisbury Pride, as well as live performances from the Charlotte Pride Band, One Voice Chorus, and Courtney Lynn & Quinn. Merchandise featuring the team’s rainbow-colored logo will also be available in the Cannon City Supply Co. Team Store.

On Friday, August 26th, the Cannon Ballers will host Women in Sports Night at Atrium Health Ballpark. The night will welcome special guest appearances from female athletes, coaches, front office, and media members that have made a profound impact within the sports industry. On the following day, Saturday, August 27th, the team will host their 2nd annual Starry Night benefiting the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. As part of a special on-field postgame ceremony, the team, players, and all in attendance will light up the ballpark with colored lanterns in support of finding a cure for childhood brain tumors.

The 2022 season also features a variety of theme nights focused on additional community groups such as Boy Scout Night (June 10th), Girl Scout Night (July 22nd), and Faith Night (June 24th). Celebrating heroes who serve our communities throughout the year, the Cannon Ballers will be hosting a special Armed Forces Night (May 21st) and First Responders Night (August 9th).

Group, season, and individual game tickets are currently available at the F&M Box Office, online at kcballers.com, or by phone at 704-932-3267. Fans are also encouraged to follow the Cannon Ballers social media pages and sign up to become an email “Insider” to receive exclusive team updates, promotions, and ticketing information to their inbox.