Go Bowling with the PawSox on July 26

The Pawtucket Red Sox are very excited to announce we will once again be hosting a bowling event to raise money for the TOMORROW FUND. The PawSox “Strike Out Cancer” event will be held on Thursday, July 26 from 6:00pm – 9:00pm at EAST PROVIDENCE LANES on 80 Newport Avenue, East Providence, RI 02916.

Click Here to Register Online

For only $25.00 per person you receive, bowling shoes, food, and a chance to bowl with some PawSox Players!! Our live and silent auctions also provide great opportunities to win special Red Sox and PawSox memorabilia, along with other unique prizes.

For those who are unable to attend the event but would still like to show their support, the PawSox are providing the opportunity to sponsor a Tomorrow Fund family with a child who is either currently going through the battle, or has suffered from cancer in the past.

Not only will your sponsorship provide a Tomorrow Fund family with the opportunity to bowl with a PawSox player, but they will also be provided with tickets to a future PawSox game where they can enjoy a night out at McCoy Stadium. For more information on this unique opportunity, please contact Joe Bradlee at jbradlee@pawsox.com or call 401-724-7300.

The net proceeds will benefit THE TOMORROW FUND…the only local nonprofit organization that provides financial and emotional support to children with cancer and their families. So if you would like to bowl and have some fun, then please mail a check, made payable to the PawSox Foundation, and indicate how many people will be bowling and their names!

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

Fresno Grizzlies partner with Poverello House to donate leftover stadium food

FRESNO, Calif. – The Fresno Grizzlies have partnered with Poverello House in Fresno to create and implement a “Zero Waste” policy at Chukchansi Park throughout the 2018 season as it relates to excess and leftover concession food.

Poverello House and their service to the homeless is a natural fit to ensure the Grizzlies are doing their part in being stewards of the Central Valley community and donating food directly to those in need shortly after it’s prepared. The food and beverage operations arm of the Fresno Grizzlies, Professional Sports Catering (PSC), has taken the lead with managing the fulfillment of this partnership.

“Poverello House is only a few blocks away, so we’re glad to help out and make sure all leftover food is donated properly,” says Patrick Day, VP of Operations for PSC. PSC will ensure that recently prepared food is delivered in a sanitary fashion as it relates to transportation and temperature, so it may be re-heated and/or re-packaged to give filling meals to those in need.

“This is a great partnership for us, PSC, and Poverello House,” said Derek Franks, President of the Fresno Grizzlies. “It’s imperative that we create partnerships like this and continue to be a leader in Downtown Fresno. There is no reason to throw out food that can help our neighbors, and it’s a relief knowing that we’re able make someone’s day a little more comfortable, when they know where their next meal is coming from,” Franks continued.

In addition to 68 home game openings for Grizzlies baseball in the spring and summer, Chukchansi Park holds over 100 special events in a calendar year, including professional soccer. There will be several occasions to donate excess food to the hungry.

“We appreciate the support from the Fresno Grizzlies and PSC with the coordination and fulfillment of this partnership,” says Cruz Avila, CEO of Poverello House. “A food donation of this size on 70+ days this year is very impactful for the community and really goes along way with our clients.”

Under the Fresno Grizzlies new ownership, “Fresno Sports and Events,” there is a renewed focus on community initiatives both inside and outside of Chukchansi Park.

#Growlifornia

ABOUT THE FRESNO GRIZZLIES
The Fresno Grizzlies, Triple-A affiliate of the Houston Astros, are a member of the 16-team Pacific Coast League and one of 30 clubs in the world playing the highest level of Minor League Baseball. The team plays at 12,500-seat Chukchansi Park in Downtown Fresno, which is also a year-round community gathering place, hosting myriad other special events beyond Grizzlies’ games, such as concerts, professional soccer and high school sporting events. The Grizzlies will enter the 2018 season – their 21st in Fresno – on the momentum of three consecutive winning seasons, including a PCL and National Championship in 2015. For information on 2018 Fresno Grizzlies season ticket and mini-plans, fans should call the Grizzlies’ ticket office at 559.320.TIXS between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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

Miracle League game, Hoskins statue highlight Saturday

You’ll want to be early for this one.

An eventful Saturday lies ahead at Coca-Cola Park as the IronPigs will host their annual Miracle League game, jersey auction and give away a Rhys Hoskins Bronze statue to the first 3,000 adults (18+) through the gates.

Saturdays are for the bacon, but this one is for so much more. Gates will open at 5 p.m. so fans are able to watch the Miracle League game, which allows kids from the Miracle Leagues of Northampton and Lehigh Counties to swing for the fences on the Coca-Cola Park field before an IronPigs contest. IronPigs players will be on the field to act as “angels” for our Miracle League players before they match up with the Louisville Bats.

During the Pigs’ game (6:35 p.m. first pitch) the Pigs will be wearing special Miracle League jerseys that will be available via an auction presented by Majestic/Fanatics. Details on the auction will be available on gameday.

In addition to all this excitement, the Pigs will give a Rhys Hoskins bronze statue to the first 3,000 adults through the gates. The statue immortalizes Hoskins , who was named the International League MVP and Rookie of the Year in 2017. Hoskins, who joined the Philadelphia Phillies last summer, is one of baseball’s most exciting young players and is batting .364 in 2018.

Here are more details on the remaining games in our opening homestand:

4/15 (1:35 p.m.): Jackie Robinson Day | Jackie Robinson commemorative glass (3,000 adults 18 and over)
4/16 (7:05 p.m.): Youth knit cap (First 1,500 kids 17 and under)
4/17 (7:05 p.m.): Wrestling Night
4/18 (7:05 p.m.): Dance Night | Bacon Cap presented by Hatfield (First 3,000 adults 18 and older)

Check out all of our 2018 promotions, IronPigs promotions schedule.

Tickets for these contests, and any game on our 2018 schedule, are available online at IronPigsBaseball.com, by phone (610) 841-PIGS (7447) or at the Coca-Cola Park ticket windows during regular business hours.

The 2018 IronPigs baseball season is presented by Capital BlueCross.

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

Sunday is Safe Kids Upstate Day

Opening Week presented by TD Bank continues on Sunday at 4:05 PM with the annual Safe Kids Upstate Day at Fluor Field, in partnership with Greenville Health System and Bradshaw Automotive. Safety Patrol members will participate in a pregame parade around the Fluor Field warning track at 3:30 PM, and Safe Kids will be handing out bike helmets to the first 400 children who enter the Fluor Field gates.

Throughout the day, the Drive will be recognizing Safe Kids Upstate’s annual award winners, including their Grand Slam Winner, Volunteers of the Year, the Hero Award, and the Brian Donnelly Lifetime Achievement Award. Children of all ages will also be able to learn more about all aspects of safety “At Home, At Play and On the Way” with concourse exhibits and interactive stations, and following the completion of all stations, children will have a chance to win great prizes.

After the game, be sure to stick around for BlueCross BlueShield Kids Run the Bases!

Purchase tickets for Sunday’s game at the Main Street Box Office, by calling (864) 240-4528, or by CLICKING HERE.

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

San Jose Giants Announce Partnership with Lexus of Steven Creek Benefitting JW House

San Jose, CA– The San Jose Giants announced today their partnership with Lexus of Stevens Creek for the “0 to 60 Play” during the 2018 season. This exciting partnership corresponds with both organization’s goal of being charitable leaders within the community. For every San Jose Giants home stolen base this season, Lexus of Stevens Creek will donate $50 to the JW House-a “home away from home” for families facing medical crisis. Lexus of Stevens Creek has also pledged a minimum of $5,000 to be donated to JW House, regardless of how many bases are stolen.

“The San Jose Giants are thrilled to team up with Lexus of Stevens Creek and JW House for this fun and rewarding promotion,” said Jeff Black, San Jose Giants Director of Marketing.” We commend Lexus of Stevens Creek for their generosity and are grateful for JW House and their continued mission to provide relief for those in need. Let’s all cheer on our Giants this season as they go from “0-60″ and zoom around the bases!”

Lexus of Stevens Creek is located at 3333 Stevens Creek Boulevard and serves nearby Santa Clara, Santa Cruz and Northern California Shoppers. Lexus of Stevens Creek is also the #1 Luxury Dealership in Northern California. For more information, call 408.553.4500 or visit lexusstevenscreek.com.

JW House is located on the campus of Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara Medical Center. JW House welcomes families and individuals from area hospitals into their family for rest and self-care during the day or overnight while their loved one is in the hospital. For more information or to donate visit jwhouse.org.

The San Jose Giants home opener is Thursday, April 12. Tickets are on sale now! Ticket packages for the 2018 season, including single-game tickets and season tickets, are available for purchase at sjgiants.com, over the phone at 408.297.1435 and in-person at the Municipal Stadium Box Office.

Purchase San Jose Giants Tickets

View the 2018 San Jose Giants Schedule

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ABOUT THE SAN JOSE GIANTS

The San Jose Giants are a professional baseball team in the Class A Advanced California League. The team has been an affiliate of the San Francisco Giants since 1988 and has boasted one of the best records in the minor leagues after partnering with the big-league club, going 2,300-1,891 (.548). San Jose has won six California League Championships as a Giants affiliate (2010, 2009, 2007, 2005, 2001 and 1998) and eleven overall. In 30 seasons, the San Jose Giants have graduated 199 Major League players, 143 of whom have played or currently play for the San Francisco Giants. The Giants won back to back league championships in 2009 and 2010 and are also the first team in California League history to have won four titles over a six-year span. Municipal Stadium, the home of the San Jose Giants, first opened in 1942 and has seen over 7 million fans enter through its gates. In 2018, the San Jose Giants look to continue their tradition of playing winning baseball while providing fun, affordable, family-entertainment. To be a part of the 2018 season, please contact the San Jose Giants Box Office at 408.297.1435 or visit us online at sjgiants.com. San Jose Giants baseball in your backyard since 1942, Our Town, Our Team, Our Giants

Providence Personal Injury Attorney, Rob Levine & Associates Partners with MiLB, PawSox, for Third Year, in Rob Levine Kid’s Corner Program

Providence Injury and Disability Attorney Rob Levine continues his partnership with the Pawtucket Red Sox at McCoy Stadium for the 2018 season. The partnership, initiated by Rob Levine himself in the Fall of 2016 after attending a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, is coined the Rob Levine Kids Corner. The program invites children and community organizations focused on youth to attend a game at McCoy Stadium with Levine’s compliments. Rob Levine’s Kids Corner provides 20 tickets to every (approximately 70) home game during the PawSox season.

Kids Corner attendees receive VIP treatment while at McCoy. “We’re giving organizations and kids within our community the opportunity to attend a game, experience this all-American pastime, and create unique memories at McCoy Stadium,” says Levine. “Dozens of community programs have benefited from the Rob Levine Kids Corner, including the Boys and Girls Club, the local YMCA’s, school groups, and nonprofit organizations focused on youth and children. We encourage all community youth groups and programs to get involved so we can give this opportunity to as many children as possible, “Levine further states.

Levine is passionate and devoted to public services not only through his career as an attorney but also as a retired police officer, paramedic, and military police officer. This sponsorship among others, allow Levine and his Team to advocate for the community in which they live, work, and play. Rob Levine’s Kids Corner highlights their mission of helping those in need from a legal capacity as well as giving back to the community in many ways as often as he can.

“Thanks to Rob Levine, we are thrilled to be able to offer the Rob Levine’s Kids Corner and expand our guest list to provide many more individuals and organizations with a first-class experience at McCoy Stadium,” states Rob Crain, Sr VP of Sales and Marketing for the PawSox. “Rob Levine’s generosity and commitment to community, is amazing and we are proud to have him and his Team as our community partner,” Crain further states.

About Rob Levine and Associates

We know him as the Heavy Hitter and in his current occupation as an Attorney, helping individuals who have been hurt in an accident or who are disabled. However, you may not be aware of Rob Levine’s background. From an early age, Rob knew he had a calling. At sixteen, when most kids his age were simply out being kids, he became part of the Glen Rock Volunteer Ambulance Corps, holding a position of EMT (emergency medical technician). He was promoted within a year to Crew Chief. During his nine years of commitment and dedication, he rose through the ranks to become second-in-command of a fifty-person rescue squad. This was the beginning of his call to serve.

The next phase of Rob’s career took him to college for Administration of Justice and to the Rhode Island Army National Guard. There he served three years as a military police officer. After his national service and graduating from college, he took a step toward serving the community. He was hired as a police officer by the Central Falls Police Department. Seeing the many needs of the citizens of Central Falls during his first six months on the force, Rob decided it was time to do more. He began a writing project for a grant and secured sixteen thousand dollars for the department’s first K-9 Drug Enforcement unit. Upon his appointment as the K-9 Officer, he went to California for formal training. In addition to his patrol duty, Rob and his dog were instrumental in fighting the ever-present drug problem in the city.

His police work was not the only thing he was focused on, Rob also concentrated on his personal development. Rob began to attend law school, was learning how to fly helicopters, practicing in a Robison R-22, helicopter. After graduating from law school Rob retired from the police department and began to practice law continuing to help those in need. Rob also continued to feel the need to serve the community as a volunteer and became a Ski Patroller. Not being fully satisfied with his medical background as an emergency medical technician, Rob went back to school to become a paramedic. Rob now works and volunteers his time as a paramedic, riding on an ambulance, trying to make a difference.

His background and focus has always been on helping those in need and giving back to the community in many different capacities as often as he can. Rob Levine and Associates are personal injury attorneys helping individuals who have been hurt in an accident or who are disabled. The firm practices law and services Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut on injury cases. Rob Levine and Associates also handles social security disability and veterans disability cases on a regional and national level as well. Our team is available 24/7 to help you. Contact us for a FREE consultation at 800-742-3940 or visit our website for more information. Our Fee Free Policy ensures that you do not pay unless you win.

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

New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation Announces 2018 Scholarship Contest

The Class-A Short-Season New York-Penn League and its member clubs, including the Williamsport Crosscutters, are proud to announce that the league’s philanthropic arm, the NYPL Charitable Foundation, will once again award over $10,000 in scholarships this summer to deserving high school graduates from the league’s 14 markets.

Now in its tenth year, the 2018 NYPL Scholarship Contest is open to any graduating senior from a public or private high school within the league’s footprint. Any student who has been accepted at a two- or four-year college or university, vocational school, or technical education institution is eligible. Applicants will be judged based on academic performance, volunteer and extracurricular activities, and the impact their local NYPL club and Minor League Baseball have had on their lives.

The scholarship contest will consist of two stages – a local round and a league round. In the local stage, students will apply directly to their local NYPL team, with one applicant chosen by each of the 14 teams to advance to the league/final round. The 14 finalists will then be judged by league representatives. Three applicants will be selected to receive the top prize of a $2,500 scholarship. All other finalists will receive a $250 book award.

“The New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation and our 14 member clubs are pleased to have the opportunity to assist outstanding high school seniors within our league’s footprint for the tenth consecutive season,” said Ben J. Hayes, President of the New York-Penn League. “This program will again recognize those seniors who not only meet and exceed traditional scholarship criteria, but demonstrate the positive community impact and lifelong memories fostered by their local NYPL clubs throughout the year.”

Area high school seniors interested in entering the 2018 Scholarship Contest can obtain the official application using the link below or by visiting the Williamsport crosscutters offices at BB&T Ballpark during regular business hours.

The deadline to submit applications to the nearest NYPL team is June 4, 2018. Each club’s winner, including the three $2,500 scholarship recipients, will be selected in mid-July.

The New York-Penn League and its 14 member clubs created the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation, a 501(c) (3) charitable organization, in 2003. The mission of the Foundation is to provide focus and support for the collective and individual charitable and community efforts of the New York-Penn League, its Clubs, and their staff.

CLICK HERE to download application

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

TicketReturn.Com Field hosts March for Babies

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (April 2, 2018) – The Myrtle Beach Pelicans will host the March of Dimes’ March for Babies beginning at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 21 from TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark.

March for Babies is a walking event that brings together individuals, families, friends and corporate teams to raise money to help the March of Dimes lead the fight for the health of all moms and babies.

Registration for the event starts at 8:30 a.m. at Gate 1 (down the right field line) at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark. The three-mile walk circumvents both the ballpark and Broadway at the Beach, with other festivities set to take place at TicketReturn.Com Field.

The March of Dimes leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies, working in support of moms at every stage from preconception to post-delivery by funding research, programs and education. Money raised from the organization’s March for Babies will be a lifeline for the nearly four million babies born in the United States each year.

For more information about the March for Babies event, contact Coleen Sweatt, Development Manager, at 843-698-0873 or csweatt@marchofdimes.org.

The 2018 season will be the 20th season for the Pelicans franchise and fourth as the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. For tickets visit MyrtleBeachPelicans.com/tickets, call (843) 918-6000, or visit the Pelicans Box Office.

ABOUT THE PELICANS: The Myrtle Beach Pelicans are the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs and play their home games at TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The park has ranked in the top eight in all of Minor League Baseball by Stadium Journey in six of the last seven seasons. The same publication also placed the Pelicans in the Top 100 Stadium Experiences and the best in the Carolina League for six of the past seven seasons as well. In June 2017, TicketReturn.Com Field at Pelicans Ballpark won the 2017 TripAdvisor.com Certificate of Excellence award. The Pelicans have won four Mills Cup Championships, including claims to back-to-back titles in 1999 and 2000, and again in 2015 and 2016. The Pelicans have made 11 postseason appearances behind 13 half-season Southern Division championships, including the first half of the 2015 season, second half of 2016 and first half of 2017. For more information on the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, please contact the Pelicans at (843) 918-6000 or emailing Info@MyrtleBeachPelicans.com.

PawSox Announce Fundraiser with Emerson College to Benefit The Tomorrow Fund

Today Emerson College and the Pawtucket Red Sox have announced a joint project to benefit the Tomorrow Fund.

Department of Communication Studies Professor Cathryn Edelstein’s Nonprofit Fundraising Campaign class is partnering with the PawSox to host a game and activities entitled: “A Paw-fect Day for a Better Tomorrow.” The special game will take place on Sunday, April 22, with festivities starting at 10am. Tickets include breakfast, interactive entertainment, a tour of McCoy Stadium, a ticket to the game, and a $5 credit toward lunch.

“Emerson College students collaborating with the PawSox to benefit The Tomorrow Fund kids with cancer is a win-win-win!” said Professor Edelstein. “This year I’m so pleased we are working to not only raise money for The Tomorrow Fund, but help spread awareness about the incredible assistance they provide for kids with cancer and their families.”

“We are honored to work with these community minded students who are gaining invaluable experience in the world of philanthropy,” said Dr. Charles Steinberg, President of the Pawsox and Director of Sports Communication at Emerson College, “not only do we hope this experience is rewarding for them, we hope it will benefit the Tomorrow Fund- an organization we love deeply and admire so much.”

Up to 75 individuals attending the event can experience what it is like to hit a ball in a professional field, at our Home Run Derby which starts at 10:30am. Those who sign up will have the chance to participate to see who hit a ball the furthest. After purchasing tickets you can sign up for the derby at https://goo.gl/forms/VBZKcUrj3805Wx8n1.

Tickets for students are $15, and General Admission tickets are $25; tickets are on sale now at https://tinyurl.com/ybaynllx.

About the Tomorrow Fund 

The Tomorrow Fund is a non-profit organization located in Rhode Island. It provides daily financial and emotional support to children with cancer and their families who are treated in The Tomorrow Fund Clinic at Hasbro Children’s Hospital in Providence, RI. Kids can come from anywhere in the world. To date, more than 2,000 children and their families have received financial and emotional support from The Tomorrow Fund.

About Hasbro Hospital 

A division of Rhode Island Hospital, Hasbro Children’s Hospital is the region’s premier provider of pediatric clinical care. The hospital offers a broad spectrum of both routine care and specialty programs not available elsewhere. Hasbro Children’s has the only pediatric emergency department, Level 1 Trauma Center, pediatric critical care teams, and 24-hour ambulance in the region. Their approach to pediatric medicine makes parents, who know their children best, an essential part of the care team.

 

 

About Emerson College

Based in Boston, Massachusetts, opposite the historic Boston Common and in the heart of the city’s Theatre District, Emerson College educates individuals who will solve problems and change the world through engaged leadership

 

in communication and the arts, a mission informed by liberal learning. The College has approximately 3,780 undergraduates and 670 graduate students from across the United States and 50 countries. Supported by state of the art facilities and a renowned faculty, students participate in more than 90 student organizations and performance group. Emerson is known for its experiential learning programs at Emerson Los Angeles, located in Hollywood, and at its beautifully restored 14thcentury castle in the Netherlands. Additionally, there are opportunities to study in DC, London, China, the Czech Republic, Spain, Austria, Greece, France, Ireland, Mexico, Cuba, England, and South Africa. The College has an active network of 37,000 alumni who hold leadership positions in communication and the arts.

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

Legends Announce Partnership with UK HealthCare for Sensory Friendly Kits and Days at Whitaker Bank Ballpark

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – The Lexington Legends are proud to announce Sensory Friendly Days on Sunday, May 13 and Monday, June 11, 2018 in partnership with UK HealthCare. Along with special considerations around the ballpark before the games, the Legends will have Friendly Access Sensory Safety Kits provided by Life Is Washable Inc. available throughout the entirety of the season.

On the days of May 13 and June 11, fans with sensory sensitivities and their families will be able to enter the ballpark at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 13 and 5:00 p.m. on Monday, June 11 to take part in pre-game festivities they previously may have had to skip. There will be no loud music or public address announcements made during this time. Legends players will be available for autographs and the Toyota Triple Play Zone will be open, also. Legends mascots, Big L and Pee Wee will be on hand, but will not approach children. Instead, they will allow the children to come up to them for autographs and photographs as desired. When gates open for the public at 12:30 p.m. (Sunday, May 13) and 6:00 p.m. (Monday, June 11), children and their families can make their way to Guest Services to pick up one of the thirty Sensory Safety Kits for the remainder of their time at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

“This new partnership with UK HealthCare opens Legends games to children and adults who normally would not be able to attend due to sensory sensitivities,” said Legends President/CEO Andy Shea. “We always want to strive to make our games as accessible as possible and this is a huge step towards that. Families can come out and enjoy a game utilizing the new Sensory Safety Kits that will be available all season long.”

Included in the Friendly Access Sensory Safety Kits provided by Life is Washable Inc. and sponsored by UK HealthCare, are stickers, a wrist band, ID card, communication card, a sensory toy, anti-glare glasses, earmuffs and tissues. At the end of each night, fans will return the kits to Guest Services so they can be sanitized, restocked, and ready for the next event. With the partnership with UK HealthCare, there are certain items provided that the child can keep after the game.

“We are thrilled to join the Legends’ efforts to provide an opportunity for more of Kentucky’s kids to enjoy America’s favorite pastime. The sensory kits will allow children who would otherwise not be able to attend a baseball game due to loud noises and other environmental factors to enjoy a fun day at the ballpark, making lifelong memories,” said Scottie Day, Interim Chair, UK Department of Pediatrics.

Previously, minor league hockey teams have done similar nights, but the Legends are ensuring that fans can enjoy games for the entirety of the season by utilizing the Friendly Access Sensory Safety Kits. Thirty kits will be stocked in Guest Services to start the 2018 season, as interest and demand dictates, more kits can and will be added to inventory for fan use.

For more information about Sensory Friendly Day, contact Sarah Bosso at sbosso@lexingtonlegends.com or 859-422-7855. The Legends, a Class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and a member of the South Atlantic League, kickoff the 2018 season at Whitaker Bank Ballpark against the Charleston RiverDogs, an affiliate of the New York Yankees, on Opening Day – April 5, 2018. For ticket information, call (859) 422-7867 or visit LexingtonLegends.com.

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

Cougars Rank #6 in Charitable Giving Among All MiLB Teams

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have been ranked #6 among all 160 Minor League Baseball (MiLB) for their charitable giving throughout the 2017 season, per the MiLB Charities Report which was released last week by the league. Collectively, MiLB clubs reported nearly $40 million in cash and in-kind donations, the highest in MiLB Charities history.

“When you find yourself ranked #6 out of #160 that is special, no matter the category,” said Cougars owner Dr. Bob Froehlich. “Then when you realize the category in is charitable giving among all of Minor League Baseball, it becomes so special that no words can describe how proud we are of what our Foundation has meant to Kane County.”

Of the nearly $40 million, the Cougars contributed $949,926 among their various charitable campaigns throughout the season. The Cougars charitable giving is highlighted by many different programs throughout the year including the Al Mueller Memorial Scholarship Fund which awards local college students working to further their education, Paramount Fence Home Runs for Charity program, the Cougars Reading Club, as well as the Cougars Summer Reading Program, the Highland Salutes program supports both active duty military and veterans along with participation in MiLB’s inaugural “Es Divertido Ser Un Fan” initiative that aimed to connect Hispanic/Latino baseball fans with their local teams.

Click here to view the full MiLB Charities Report.

Moving towards the 2018 season, the Cougars are pledging to increase their charitable giving via the new history-making “A Million Smiles Campaign.” Announced on Monday, the Cougars are the first MiLB team to set a charity fundraising goal of this magnitude. Each dollar donated throughout the season will provide a much-needed smile for those in need. Fans are encouraged to participate in the charitable giving campaign throughout the year by purchasing 50/50 raffle tickets with proceeds benefitting various local charities, participating in the Pitch In for Charity promotion on fireworks nights, purchasing a Legacy Brick to be displayed at the main entrance of the ballpark, registering for the 7th Annual Cougars 5K on May 19 or selecting the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. as their favorite charity on AmazonSmiles.

For more information about A Million Smiles campaign, visit www.kccougars.com.

The Cougars 2018 season begins on Thursday, April 5 at 6:30 PM against the Clinton LumberKings. For more information, including the full schedule of theme nights, entertainment acts and giveaways scheduled, visit kccougars.com.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates on tickets and promotions.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 161 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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

Autism Awareness Day Set For April 21

ROCHESTER, NY – The Rochester Red Wings have partnered with Autism Speaks to host an Autism Awareness Day at the ballpark on April 21st when the Red Wings host the Columbus Clippers at 1:05pm.

The Red Wings and Autism Speaks aim to create an environment that will allow families dealing with Autism to enjoy a day at Frontier Field, while also raising awareness for Autism, a disorder that affects 1 in 68 American Children.

Senior Coordinator of Autism Speaks, Jessica Joanis, explained the importance of an event like this. “For the ninth year, Autism Speaks will kick-off World Autism Month in April, and begin a month-long calendar of events and activities in support of the Autism community. Local partnerships such as Autism Awareness Day with the Rochester Red Wings helps us to increase support, understanding and acceptance of people with Autism across the spectrum and throughout the life span. We hope you will join us for the game on Saturday, April 21, as we light the world blue.”

Some components of Autism Awareness Day are as follows:

• Lower volume levels throughout the stadium along with other fan-friendly adjustments
• In-game production will be altered to minimize abrupt sound effects and video board displays
• Fans are asked to refrain from bringing “noise makers” that day
• Limited number of Blue pom-poms will be available at the Autism Speaks table to substitute for noise makers
• A Safe Zone located in the PERCH will be open all game long for children in need of a quiet reprieve from the game.
• Designated Autism Aware Section, reserved exclusively for guests with family members on the Autism spectrum. Tickets available now.

To purchase tickets in an exclusive Autism Aware Section contact: Mike Ewing at (585) 454-1001 ext. 3036 or MEwing@RedWingsBaseball.com.

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Visit www.TicketReturn.com and use the login: Username: Autism18 Password: Speaks

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

Pulaski Yankees bring back Free Youth Outings Program for 2018 season

Pulaski, Va. – The Pulaski Yankees are excited to announce they will once again offer free admission to area youth groups during the 2018 season as part of the Calfee Park Free Youth Outings Program presented by Virginia529 and Shelor Motor Mile Growing the Future.

The program is open to all area youth groups, including sports teams, church groups, school groups, Boy and Girl Scouts, and child care centers. Each child in the group will receive one (1) free General Admission (GA) ticket. Youth group leaders accompanying the group will also receive one (1) free GA ticket. Parents, guardians, and other family members may join the group by purchasing GA tickets at a discounted rate of $5 per ticket.

“The youth in our community are an important part of Calfee Park,” said Pulaski Yankees General Manager Christina Edney. “We are grateful for our partners who help make this program possible, ensuring every child has the opportunity to enjoy a safe, fun, family-friendly event during the summer.”

Last year the Yankees distributed nearly 3,000 tickets through the free youth outings program, which has been in place since the 2015 season.

All youth group outings through the Calfee Park Free Youth Outings Program presented by Virginia529 and Shelor Motor Mile Growing the Future must be booked in advance. Interested groups can contact Yankees’ Assistant General Manager Betsy Haugh by email (bhaugh@pulaskiyankees.net) or by calling (540) 980-1070. For additional information, click here.

The Pulaski Yankees open the 2018 season on the road with a three-game series against the Danville Braves June 19-21. The Yankees will host the Greeneville Reds Friday, June 22 at Calfee Park in their 2018 home opener. Flex tickets and season tickets are available now by calling 540.980.1070. Individual game tickets will go on sale later this spring.

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

FREE YOUTH BASEBALL CLINIC ON SATURDAY, MAY 12

SPRINGDALE, AR – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are excited to partner with Mercy Kids on the eleventh annual FREE Youth Baseball Clinic that will take place at Arvest Ballpark from 2 p.m. until 3:45 p.m. on Saturday, May 12 in advance of that night’s 6:05 p.m. game against the Tulsa Drillers, the Double-A Los Angeles Dodgers.

The Naturals FREE Youth Baseball Clinic presented by Mercy Kids is open to children ages 6-12. Instruction during the clinic will be given by members of the Naturals’ team and coaching staff, which will cover basic fundamentals, including hitting, fielding, pitching, and base running. Following the clinic, an autograph session will occur on the concourse from approximately 3:45 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. before the ballpark is cleared in preparation for the game.

All participants will receive a complimentary 1B/3B Reserved Ticket to the Saturday, May 12 Naturals game at 6:05 p.m., featuring a Mike Moustakas Career Highlights Bobblehead Giveaway. Additional tickets for the game against the Tulsa Drillers will be available at Guest Services and the Arvest Ballpark Box Office, which will be open throughout the clinic. Participants that are attending the Naturals game must exit the ballpark once the clinic ends and re-enter when gates open to the general public for the game at 4:35 p.m. when the giveaway will be available.

There is a registration form titled YOUTH BASEBALL CLINIC BY MERCY KIDS located on the Naturals website, nwanaturals.com, under the TICKETS & PROMOTIONS tab that interested parents can fill out to register their son or daughter for the clinic. The FREE Youth Baseball Clinic is also open to local youth coaches and they can register their team by calling (479) 927-4900. The deadline to register for the event is Friday, May 4 but participants are encouraged to sign up quickly, as previous events have filled to capacity prior to the deadline. Check-in begins at Arvest Ballpark at 1:00pm on the day of the event so we ask that you arrive early as participation is limited to the first 400 children. Participants are asked to only bring their glove and wear proper baseball attire. Please leave all baseball bags in the car or in the seating bowl during the clinic as only a glove is needed while on the field.

The 2018 season of Naturals baseball at Arvest Ballpark will begin when Northwest Arkansas hosts the Corpus Christi Hooks, the Double-A Affiliate of the World Champion Houston Astros, on Thursday, April 5 at 6:25 p.m.

Follow the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on Twitter @NWANaturals all throughout the year by using the hashtags #NaturalPastime and #CrowntoCrown for all of our up-to-date information on the 2018 schedule, tickets, group outings, promotions, roster, and Spring Training information as we prepare for the upcoming 2018 season.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are the Double-A Texas League Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The Naturals play at state-of-the-art Arvest Ballpark in Springdale, Ark. For more information, including statistics, ticket options, and more, please visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

-Naturals-

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

Fort Myers Miracle offer $15,000 in sponsorships to Little League, Cal Ripken organizations in Southwest Florida

The Fort Myers Miracle are donating $15,000 to sponsor 21 youth baseball and softball organizations across Southwest Florida.

The sponsorships will help area leagues pay for much-needed equipment, supplies and operational costs. In Southwest Florida, the spring season for Little League and Cal Ripken seasons began in January and runs through May, with all-star teams forming at season’s end. Some leagues also offer fall ball.

“Youth baseball and softball leagues strive to keep registration costs as low as possible, and many organizations are run entirely by volunteers, from the local governing boards down to coaches, umpires and concession stands,” said Chris Peters, president and general manager of the Fort Myers Miracle. “That’s why it is so important for businesses to take a leadership role in supporting youth sports. Every child deserves a chance to play ball.”

In addition to Little League and Cal Ripken sponsorships and frequent community appearances by players and staff, the Miracle also offer a variety of youth-oriented programs at the ballpark. The Achieva Credit Union Baseball Buddies program recognizes youth teams by allowing children to stand side-by-side with Miracle players during the National Anthem. On Family Sundays, children can play catch on the field before the game and run the bases after the game. At select home games, children can receive free tickets by showing their report cards or coming dressed in their team uniform.

“The Miracle have long been a supporter of youth sports in Southwest Florida, and we gladly welcome their teams and players at the ballpark,” said Jason Hochberg, founder and CEO of SJS Beacon, which owns the Miracle. “We hope to continue our partnership with area youth organizations for many years to come.”

Little League International is a nonprofit organization based in South Williamsport, Penn., and organizes baseball and softball leagues throughout the world. Programs are available for boys and girls ages 4 to 16. Cal Ripken Baseball is a division of the Babe Ruth League and headquartered in Hamilton, N.J. Its leagues are designed for players ages 4 to 12.

The Fort Myers Miracle, the Class-A Advanced Affiliate of the Minnesota Twins, begin the 2018 season on Thursday, April 5 against the Charlotte Stone Crabs. The 140-game regular season schedule runs through Sunday, Sept. 2.

For more information about the Fort Myers Miracle, visit MiracleBaseball.com or call 239-768-4210.

About the Miracle

The Fort Myers Miracle are the Class-A Advanced Affiliate of the Minnesota Twins, and have played home games at Hammond Stadium since 1992. Notable Miracle alumni include Joe Mauer, Miguel Sano, Byron Buxton and Torii Hunter. Follow the Miracle online at MiracleBaseball.com or through its social media channels: Twitter (@MiracleBaseball), Instagram (fortmyersmiracle), Facebook (Fort Myers Miracle) and Snapchat (ftmyersmiracle). Opening Night at Hammond Stadium is Thursday, April 5 against the Charlotte Stone Crabs. For questions or ticket information, call the Miracle at 239-768-4210.

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