SMOKIES PLAYERS AND COACHES TO INSTRUCT YOUTH CLINIC

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies announced that they will host a Youth Clinic, presented by Rocky Top Customz on Sunday, May 7. The Clinic will feature multiple stations on the field where clinic attendees can receive instruction and tips from the 2017 Smokies players and coaching staff.

The Youth Clinic will begin at 12:00 pm with gates opening at 11:30 am. The clinic is free of charge, and each child in uniform participating in the clinic will receive free berm admission to the Smokies game following the event. In addition, discounted meal vouchers will be available for purchase the day of the clinic.

“We love to be able to host events like this each year,” Stated Smokies President and COO Chris Allen. “Getting kids involved in the game of baseball is something we are glad to be a part of. Baseball is a game that we take very seriously, but ultimately baseball is a game, and should be enjoyed by children alike.”

Fans can call 865-286-2300 to receive more details about this year’s Youth Clinic, presented by Rocky Top Customz. The game is set for a 2:00 pm first pitch against the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp on Sunday, as it is the last game of the homestand before the Smokies leave for a road series against the Jackson Generals.

The Smokies continue their home series at Smokies Stadium today on Friday, May 5, 2017 against the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp. The full schedule for this season and information regarding single-game tickets, season tickets, and mini plans can be found online at smokiesbaseball.com, or by calling the Smokies Ticket Office at 865-286-2300.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the ten-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com

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

Marauders Partner with Jake Taraska Foundation

Bradenton, Fla. – The Bradenton Marauders will raise funds and awareness for the battle against cancer on Friday, May 12. The team has partnered with the Jake Taraska Foundation, a Sarasota-based charity helping those afflicted with pediatric cancer. JTF founder Jake Taraska is a pediatric cancer survivor. The Marauders host the Palm Beach Cardinals at 6:30 p.m. Gates open at 4:30 p.m.

The Jake Taraska Foundation is a 501(c)3 non profit organization that is committed to provide hope and smiles to all families who are affected with pediatric cancer. The goal of the foundation is to encourage and uplift the children and the family who are going through pediatric cancer. Every dollar that is donated to the Jake Taraska Foundation goes directly to helping kids and their families. Jake Taraska uses his passion for sports to help children take their minds off of their daily struggles with pediatric cancer. JTF has teamed up with the Bradenton Marauders to raise money and awareness to strike out pediatric cancer.

“Baseball is a game near and dear to my heart,” Taraska said. “I’m excited to partner with the Marauders to continue my life’s mission of helping pediatric cancer patients and their families.”

The Marauders will wear white jerseys with purple sleeves symbolic of the fight against pediatric cancer. The letters and numbers on the jerseys will feature the multi-colored ribbons associated with other various forms of cancer. The jerseys will be available for silent auction to raise money for JTF. Winning bidders will be invited onto the field post-game to receive the jersey and have it autographed by the player or coach that wore it.

“Cancer has affected everyone at some time or another,” Marauders General Manager Rachelle Madrigal said. “We all know someone that has had their life altered or tragically cut short because of cancer. We are proud to be partnering with a local charity that has done such tremendous work for children and their families in the fight against pediatric cancer.”

The LECOM Park box office hours are Tuesday-Friday non-gamedays from 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. On gamedays the box office will be open on weekdays from 11:00 a.m. until the end of the game and on Saturdays from 3:30 until the end of the game. The box office will open two hours prior to Sunday games and 10:30 a.m. games.

For more information about the Bradenton Marauders, please call 941-747-3031, visit www.BradentonMarauders.com, or email MaraudersInfo@pirates.com.

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

Curve expanding partnership with Miracle League of Blair County

CURVE, Pa. – The Altoona Curve, Double-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates, will be expanding their relationship with the Miracle League of Blair County, beginning this summer.

This year, Curve players, staff and mascots will be doing more appearances with the Miracle League of Blair County than any previous year, beginning with the league’s Opening Day on Saturday, May 6.

“The Miracle League is a real gift to our community,” said Tobi Rispoli, Miracle League of Blair County volunteer and board member.” The Curve have always been supportive, including contributions, baseball camps and a presence throughout the year. This year will prove to be even more exciting for the kids and their families.”

Tweet from @Pirates: Thanks to the @AltoonaCurve & all who came out for today’s Miracle League of Blair County Fantasy Camp for Kids. pic.twitter.com/UJk30MDCCP

The Miracle League of Blair County is a charitable organization that provides children and youth with mental and/or physical challenges an opportunity to play baseball as a team member in an organized league, giving them an opportunity to suit up in a uniform, step up to the plate and enjoy the game of baseball in the purest form.

“Working with the Miracle League of Blair County has been truly amazing,” said Curve Director of Community Relations Emily Rosencrants. “The Miracle League of Blair County has always had a great relationship the Curve and we are excited to strengthen the partnership even more this year.”

Curve mascots will be on hand this Saturday to hang out with the Miracle League players between games.

On Saturday, June 10, Curve players will join the Miracle League Curve team for their game against the Orioles. On Saturday, June 24, Curve players will be back for the Pirates Fantasy Camp clinic with all of the Miracle League players.

“Having the Curve players involved is always great, and this year the Pirates are bringing back the Fantasy Camp, which is always one of the best days of the year,” said Rosencrants. “We are looking forward to the 2017 partnership and for the years to come.”

The Curve will also continue their postgame ball launch after weekend home games, where fans can win great prizes with all proceeds benefiting the Miracle League of Blair County.

Tweet from @AltoonaCurve: A great morning helping out at Miracle League of Blair County’s Opening Day! pic.twitter.com/9ze5rRWUFt

“We certainly hope that an increased Curve presence will generate more exposure of the Miracle League so the organization can encourage more families, players and volunteers to sign up for a Miracle League team,” said Rispoli. “The Miracle League is certainly our other ‘Hometown Team!'”

The Miracle League removes the physical barriers that keep children with mental and physical disabilities off the baseball field and lets them experience the joy of America’s favorite pastime. Miracle League teams play on a custom-designed, rubberized turf field that accommodates wheelchairs and other assertive devices while helping to prevent injuries.

For more information on the Miracle League of Blair County, visit PAMiracleLeague.com.

-CURVE-

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

Shorebirds to Support Veterans with 4th of July Game

SALISBURY, Md. — The Delmarva Shorebirds, Class-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, will host a home game this year on the 4th of July. The Shorebirds will host the Lakewood BlueClaws with first pitch scheduled for 6:05 PM. The team will wear special Patriotic jerseys that will be auctioned off during the game with the proceeds benefitting the Department of Maryland VFW Military Assistance Program. This program does many things including bringing wounded warriors from 5 area military hospitals and their families to Ocean City every June for a nice getaway. The program also helps military personnel with housing and financial management.

The Patriotic jerseys that the Shorebirds will wear will resemble an American Flag and will include military camouflage in the design. The auction set for the Patriotic jerseys on Tuesday, July 4th will be ran by Operation We Care. There will be information tables for Operation We Care where fans can give donations and receive more information about their organization.

Operation We Care is a local, all volunteer non-profit organization dedicated to supporting our military and first responders. Operation We Care has been sending care packages & supporting our military, law enforcement, and Fire/EMS departments since 2007.

“Operation We Care is a great organization that helps out the people that work so hard to protect our freedom. We are really excited to partner with them this season,” said Chris Bitters, Shorebirds General Manager. “Come on out to the game on July 4th at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium as we celebrate our country’s independence with baseball, fireworks, and helping out the ones that fought so hard for our freedom.”

The Shorebirds will host the Lakewood Blue Claws, affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, on Tuesday, July 4th with first pitch scheduled for 6:05 PM. Gates will open at 5:00 PM. After the game, the Patriotic jerseys will be awarded to the person with the highest bid and the Shorebirds will host their largest fireworks show of the season. Tickets can be purchased on www.theshorebirds.com, by calling 410-219-3112, or by stopping by the Shorebirds box office.
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The Delmarva Shorebirds are the Class “A” Affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles. The Shorebirds are owned by
7th Inning Stretch, LLC, the same company that owns the Stockton Ports of the California League and the Everett AquaSox of the Northwest League.

The Shorebirds celebrated their 20th season in 2015, and have entertained nearly five million fans since beginning play at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury, Md. in 1996. The team has captured South Atlantic League titles in 1997 and 2000 while successfully hosting the South Atlantic League All-Star Game in 1999 and 2011.

For more information on the Shorebirds, call 410-219-3112 or visit theshorebirds.com.

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

Perdue Farms, Delmarva Shorebirds Launch ‘2017 Perdue Strike Out Hunger Challenge on Delmarva’

SALISBURY, Md. (Monday, April 24, 2017) – As part of a company commitment to fight hunger in our communities, Perdue Farms and the Delmarva Shorebirds announce the launch of the annual season-long “2017 Perdue Strike Out Hunger Challenge on Delmarva” in partnership with the region’s three food banks.

To jumpstart the challenge, the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation – the charitable giving arm of Perdue Farms – has issued a $15,000 challenge grant to the Eastern Shore Branch of the Maryland Food Bank, the Food Bank of Delaware and the Eastern Shore Branch of the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia.

The campaign provides the forum to continue the awareness and community engagement in hunger relief that began with Perdue’s sponsorship of the 2011 South Atlantic League “Perdue Strike Out Hunger All-Star Game promotions. Since then, the Shorebirds, their fans and the food banks have embraced the challenge to provide more than 700 meal equivalents for those in need on Delmarva.

“At Perdue Farms, we believe that in a country as rich as ours, no one should have to go hungry. The Strike Out Hunger Challenge has provided a wonderful forum to raise awareness about those struggling with hunger on Delmarva,” said Kim Nechay, executive director of the Foundation. “We are proud to be part of this unique collaborative partnership for the greater good of the Delmarva community.”

As Jimmy Sweet, assistant general manager of the Delmarva Shorebirds, said, “The Shorebirds look forward to working again with Perdue this season to bring awareness to hunger relief in our communities and improve the quality of life for our neighbors. Since 2011, we have made major strides together to keep hunger top of mind, while generating hundreds of thousands of meals to help the hungry.”

How The ‘Challenge’ Works

The first $10,000 of the Foundation’s challenge grant will be divided equally among the three Delmarva food banks as a challenge to involve the Delmarva community in the regional fight against hunger. Each food bank must raise the equivalent of 10,000 meals in order to claim its share of the $10,000 challenge grant. Any combination of pounds of food collected, funds collected and donated, or volunteer efforts from the Shorebirds’ home opener on Wednesday, April 13, through the final game of the regular season at home on Tuesday, Sept. 4, will count toward each food bank’s challenge goal.

Perdue has also committed to donate $10 for each time a Shorebirds’ pitcher strikes out an opposing batter (up to $5,000). The $5,000 will be split equally between the three food banks.

Shorebirds Plan Promotions To Support Strike Out Hunger

The Shorebirds plan a variety of promotions to generate interest in the Strike Out Hunger Challenge at their 70 home games.

The Shorebirds have designated the season’s 11 Sunday home games as “Strike Out Hunger Sundays.” If fans bring two non-perishable food items to the stadium they can receive an upper reserved ticket to that day’s game for $3. Food collected from the 11 Sunday home games will be distributed equally among the three food banks.

In addition, food donation barrels will be located at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium, making it easy for fans to help by bringing food items to the game or just stopping by the stadium.

If you, or your organization, would like to get involved in the 2017 Perdue Strike Out Hunger Challenge on Delmarva, contact the Delmarva Shorebirds at 410-219-3112 or one of the three participating food banks: Maryland (410) 742-0050, Delaware (302) 424-3301 or Virginia (757) 787-2557.

About Perdue Farms
Perdue Farms is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for everyone we touch through innovative food and agricultural products. Since our beginning on Arthur Perdue’s farm in 1920, to our expansion into agribusiness and the introduction of the PERDUE® brand of chicken and turkey under Frank Perdue, and continuing with our third generation of leadership with Chairman Jim Perdue, we’ve remained family owned and family operated. We are the parent company of Perdue Foods and Perdue AgriBusiness. Through our PERDUE®, PERDUE® SIMPLY SMART®, PERDUE® HARVESTLAND®, COLEMAN PREMIUM® and COLEMAN ORGANIC® food brands; agricultural products and services; and stewardship and corporate responsibility programs, we are working to become the most-trusted name in food and agricultural products. Learn more about Perdue Farms at www.perduefarms.com.

About The Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation
The Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation, the charitable giving arm of Perdue Farms, was established in 1957 by company founder Arthur W. Perdue and is funded through the estates of Arthur W. Perdue and Frank Perdue. As part of our belief in supporting the communities where and with whom we do business, the Foundation provides grants on behalf of Perdue Farms in communities where large numbers of our associates live and work. At Perdue Farms, we believe in responsible food and agriculture.®

Caption: Perdue Farms and the Delmarva Shorebirds joined food bank representatives to launch the 2017 Perdue Strike Out Hunger Challenge on Hunger at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium on Friday, April 14. From left are Charmin Horton, branch manager of the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore, Mike Hooks with the Maryland Food Bank, Chris Bitters, general manager of the Shorebirds, Steve Evans, president of Perdue Foods, and Chad Robinson, Milford branch manager of the Food Bank of Delaware.

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

Strike out hunger with a Food Drive, May 5-7

Did you know an estimated 42 million people in America (one in eight) struggle with hunger? To help raise awareness and inspire action, Fifth Third Bank and the Toledo Mud Hens are teaming up to collect food during the May 5-7 homestand at Fifth Third Field in support of the SeaGate Food Bank of Northwest Ohio.

Fans attending the Mud Hens home games between Friday, May 5 and Sunday, May 7 are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to the ballpark to help Fifth Third reach their goal of donating 1 million meals to the communities it serves in the month of May. Boxes will be readily available at all entrances.

Fifth Third chose the food drive as this year’s bank-wide service project in honor of Fifth Third Day which occurs annually on May 3.

The mission of SeaGate Food Bank is to enhance quality of life in NW Ohio by relentlessly working to eliminate hunger and improve nutrition. Every month, the food bank distributes food to more than 400 food pantries, soup kitchens and programs feeding the hungry in the Toledo region.

Friday, May 5 Toledo vs. Louisville at 7:05 p.m.

GAME TICKET ($12) – BUY TICKETS

What you get:

  •        May 5 Mud Hens game ticket

Saturday, May 6 Toledo vs. Louisville at 7:05 p.m.

GAME TICKET ($12) – BUY TICKETS

What you get:

  •        May 6 Mud Hens game ticket

Sunday, May 7 Toledo vs. Louisville at 2:05 p.m.

GAME TICKET ($12) – BUY TICKETS

What you get:

  •        May 7 Mud Hens game ticket

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

Sea Dogs Partner with Movers for Moms®

Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs have partnered with Movers for Moms® to help moms in need this Mother’s Day.

Movers for Moms® collects essential care and pampering items for women staying in domestic violence shelters. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Portland is collecting items for delivery to Family Crisis Services. Family Crisis Services is a 16-bed emergency shelter and domestic violence resource center.

Fans attending Sea Dogs games on May 8th, May 9th, and May 10th are asked to bring items to the ballpark to be donated to the campaign.

Much needed items include:

  • Full size shampoo/ conditioner
  • Full size body wash/ bar soap
  • Feminine Hygiene Products
  • Full size deodorant/ perfume
  • Hair care/ nail care items
  • Make-up
  • Full size body lotion
  • Dishes/ small appliances
  • Diapers/ wipes/ baby powder
  • Gift Cards
  • Toilet paper/ paper towels
  • Cleaning / home essentials

Your donation to Movers for Moms® helps local mothers in need create a better live for themselves and their families.

Last year the TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Movers for Moms® campaign collected over 285,000 items nationally and delivered items to hundreds of shelters across the United States.

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

Bryant University’s Project Playhouse

The Bryant University Management Association and Wish Kids hosted the 2nd annual Project Playhouse event at Bryant University on Wednesday. Five seriously ill children arrived on campus to be surprised with their very own dream playhouses.

Themes for the playhouses included a surf shack, country store, Lego themed playhouse, Irish cottage, and a PawSox playhouse that will be given away by PawSox mascot, Paws.

The children who received the playhouses are from Burrillville, Warwick, Jamestown, Chepachet, and Newport.

Project Playhouse was created by Bryant University sophomore management students in September 2015, and has the mission of providing dream playhouses to seriously ill children.

PawSox Front Office members were excited support these children and team up with Bryant University on this worthy initiative.

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

ALLERGY, ASTHMA & SINUS CENTER WILL HOST PEANUT FREE NIGHT AT SMOKIES STADIUM

SEVIERVILLE – The Tennessee Smokies have partnered with the Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center to host a Peanut-Free Night at America’s Friendliest Ballpark on Wednesday, May 3 as the Smokies take on the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp. The Peanut-Free Night allow fans with peanut allergies the chance to enjoy the game at Smokies Stadium.

“The Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center is excited to sponsor Peanut Free Night with the Tennessee Smokies for the sixth year in a row,” said Board Certified Allergist, Dr. Bob Overholt. “We are honored to be able to provide a peanut-free environment for all baseball fans, especially those who might not be able to normally attend, and we hope this event will help raise awareness in East Tennessee about food allergies.”

The Smokies will take anything containing peanuts off its concessions menu for the 7:00 p.m. contest. Additionally, the stadium will be cleaned and rinsed to remove as much peanut residue from the seats, concourse and other areas as possible.

“This is a night I look forward to every year,” said Smokies Vice President Jeremy Boler. “This is a night where many children and families with peanut allergies can actually come out and enjoy a Smokies game. I hope this game brings awareness to food allergies and we look forward to hosting Peanut Free Night for many more years to come!”

The Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center and the Tennessee Smokies team up for this event annually to raise awareness about food allergies, and to allow an enjoyable baseball experience for those with peanut allergies specifically.

The Smokies return home to Smokies Stadium on Wednesday, May 3, 2017 against the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp. The full schedule for this season and information regarding single-game tickets, season tickets, and mini plans can be found online at smokiesbaseball.com, or by calling the Smokies Ticket Office at 865-286-2300.

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Members of the ten-team Southern League, Smokies baseball has been entertaining families and fans of America’s national pastime in the East Tennessee region for over 100 years. To learn more about the Tennessee Smokies, visit www.smokiesbaseball.com

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

LIFELINK® OF GEORGIA HONORING AUGUSTA GREENJACKETS

AUGUSTA, GA – (April 25, 2017) –    In recognition of the Augusta GreenJacket’s outstanding support of organ, eye and tissue donation, LifeLink of Georgia has partnered with Donate Life America (DLA) to present the team with a Donate Life Champion award. Donate Life Champion awards are given to well-known athletes, teams and other role models within the sports community who have demonstrated remarkable support for donation and inspire others to give the Gift of Life. Previously awarded Donate Life Champions include the Arizona Diamondbacks, Chris Klug, Family of Paco Rodriguez, Washburn University, Ma’ake Kemoeatu, Detroit Tigers, David Eckstein, New Hampshire Fishercats, Michael Jordan, Memphis Redbirds among many others.

Augusta GreenJackets received this award because they continue to support donation through a yearly Donate Life Night to highlight organ donation and put the spotlight on recipients in the CSRA who are able to enjoy a night at the ballpark because of their transplants, as well as organ donors and their families who make renewed life possible.

“Our team is honored to work with LifeLink of Georgia to educate GreenJackets fans on the importance of organ donation. We are humbled to be recognized as a Donate Life Champion for the commitment our team has to this community,” says Tom Denlinger, General Manager Augusta GreenJackets, “One fan can potentially save and improve the lives of seventy-five people by being an organ and tissue donor. Today, the GreenJackets organization encourages everyone to take action to save lives.”

We each have the opportunity to help make a lifesaving difference for critically ill patients, simply by registering as organ and tissue donors online at www.DonateLifeGeorgia.org or during a driver license transaction while at your local driver license office. Contact LifeLink of Georgia for more information on organ and tissue donation at (800) 544-6667 or visit www.LifeLinkFoundation.org.

Join the GreenJackets and LifeLink of Georgia at Lake Olmstead Stadium on Friday, April 28th as the Greenville Drive (Red Sox) come to town for Donate Life Night with a 7:05pm first pitch. The first 1,000 fans will receive a LifeLink of Georgia Car Flag Giveaway. Fans will have the opportunity to register to become organ donors on the concourse as well as learn more about organ donation throughout the game. Post-game kids can run the bases.

The 29th consecutive season of professional baseball in Augusta is underway. All GreenJackets Ticket Packages, including Full, Half, and Weekend Packages, and single game tickets are on sale now for the 2017 Season. For more information, including pricing and benefits on all plans, visit www.GreenJacketsBaseball.com or contact the GreenJackets Front Office at (706) 922-WINS (9467).

LifeLink of Georgia is a non-profit community service organization dedicated to the recovery of organs and tissues for transplantation. To register as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.DonateLifeGeorgia.org.

Donate Life America is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit alliance of national organizations and state teams across the United States committed to increasing the number of donated organs, eyes and tissue available for transplant to save and heal lives. Learn more at www.DonateLife.net.

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

Promise Kept: C’s unveil new Challenger Baseball Field

(Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium – Vancouver, B.C.) – They say that these are the reasons that you get into a career in baseball. To have a platform where you can make a difference in someone’s life.

Back when the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation was still in its infancy, team president Andy Dunn stepped forward to a number of his staff and showed a field that catered specifically to the needs of children with physical and cognitive challenges. The playing surface was synthetic to help with the wheels of a wheelchair or walker, the dugout had no steps but had doorways that were wider and for the families — well, now they had a field to call their own.

When Andy first sold the idea to the Canadians, no team in Canada had a dedicated field specifically allocated to Challenger Baseball which could have played a factor in the decision to put the pedal to the metal and make this dream a reality.

To build something of this ilk, you couldn’t have been able to finance it alone. Not in Vancouver, not in the heart of Hillcrest’s vibrant community — or at least you would have thought. But it’s amazing to see how a community can come together when the vision is clear and the benefactor are a group of children who simply needed someone to step up.

Donations began coming into the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation from all across the Lower Mainland. Some from longtime fans, others chose to keep their significant donations private. Our partners from across the country also came together as suddenly the likes of Variety – The Children’s Carity, Jays Care, Challenger Baseball and the Vancouver Board of Parks & Recreation all stepped forward and said we will help.

Not only did they help, the funded a majority of the project with Variety – The Children’s Charity offering up an amount that put our fundraising efforts over the top. The Vancouver Park Board delivered on the space which was significant as these bright, young and inspiring children now get to play their summer baseball just steps away from historic Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium. Now fans from both parks can trade roars when a big hit takes place a special moment is highlighted under the warm glow from the afternoon sun.

This was the vision all along. To bring give something to our community to say not only ‘thank you’, but that we ‘believe in you’.

Andy’s vision became our vision and our vision became yours.

We hope this summer before you enter the gates to our hallowed ballpark located at the base of majestic Queen Elizabeth Park that you take a few moments and go sit in the bleachers of what is now known as the Variety Challenger Baseball Field of Dreams. Watch these players play without challenge and understand in the blink of an eye why we made this promise to you.

They say that these are the reasons that you get into a career in baseball.

Yeah, this is definitely one of them.

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

McCoy Charity Softball Game Returns June 4

The LeSean McCoy Foundation and Rochester Red Wings have announced the fourth annual LeSean McCoy Charity Softball Game will be held at Frontier Field on Sunday, June 4 with festivities beginning at 2 p.m.

McCoy and his Buffalo Bills teammates will take on a team of local heroes comprised of police, firefighters and emergency medical technicians. Former NFL players who have participated in this event in the past include Cam Newton, Victor Cruz, DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, Brian Westbrook, Thurman Thomas, Sammy Watkins, Chris Hogan and Tyrod Taylor.

Gates will open at 1 p.m. The Home Run Derby begins at 2 p.m. with the game starting at approximately 3 p.m.

Tickets will go on sale Friday, April 28 at 9:00 a.m. at Frontier Field Ticket Office, online at RedWingsBaseball.com or by calling (585) 423-WING. Tickets are $25 for platinum box, $20 for premium box, $15 for upper box and $10 for reserved. Red Wings Season Seat Holders will have until Thursday, April 27 at 5:00 p.m. to claim their seat location. On Friday, April 28, those seats will be released for sale to the general public.

A limited number of suites will be available for this event. A 16-person suite including food and non-alcoholic beverages will be $750. Fans purchasing these suites can buy additional tickets (up to four) at $25 each. A 10-person suite with the same amenities is $600 and additional tickets (up to two) can be purchased for $25 each.

This year’s softball game will feature live autograph signings, a silent auction and several raffles.

Proceeds from the event will be directed to the LeSean McCoy Foundation to provide educational and resource programs to disadvantaged youth and to raise awareness and funds directly benefitting individuals and families battling Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. LeSean’s grandmother, Maryann Branch, lost her battle with ALS.

Tickets to this charity event are considered a non-refundable donation the LeSean McCoy Foundation. No refunds will be issued due to inclement weather if the event cannot take place.

Media wishing to cover the event must contact Theresa Jones of the LeSean McCoy Foundation at theresa.t1@gmail.com.

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

Go Bowling with the PawSox on June 7th

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 Wednesday, June 7, 2017 from 6:00pm – 9:00pm at EAST PROVIDENCE LANES on 80 Newport Avenue, East Providence, RI 02916.

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.

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!

Please send your donation to:

Pawtucket Red Sox Baseball Club

McCoy Stadium, P.O. Box 2365

Pawtucket, RI 02861.

We look forward to seeing you and to bowling a STRIKE AGAINST CANCER!!

CLICK HERE TO PRINT SIGN-UP FORM

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

Now accepting Scholarship Applications

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (April 10, 2017) – The South Bend Cubs officially published eligibility rules and the application form for $5,000 scholarships dedicated to softball and baseball players in 11 counties surrounding Four Winds Field in downtown South Bend today.

“We make no small plans here at Four Winds Field. Nor should the young athletes in this region who compete in softball and baseball,” commented Andrew T. Berlin, Chmn./Owner of the South Bend Cubs. “These scholarships are a significant way to show our support of future leaders and the game we all love at the same time. They’re not just for current athletes who will go on to play on varsity teams in college. They’re for any high school senior athlete who intends to continue his or her education full time after high school-whether they continue competing at the varsity level or not.”

In 2016, the South Bend Cubs awarded five scholarships worth $5,000 each to high school seniors from Edwardsburg, MI, Bremen, LaPorte, South Bend and Walkerton, IN. Two of the recipients were softball players, three were baseball players.

Applications for the 2017 South Bend Cubs Scholarships will be accepted from April 10 through May 31. Up to five (5) $5,000 scholarships will be granted. A full set of rules, eligibility requirements and an application form can be found online at www.1stsourcebankperformancecenter.com

“We want to make sure people understand two things about these scholarships that are very important,” said Joe Hart, President of the South Bend Cubs. “These are not just baseball scholarships. There are over 1,600 colleges with softball programs in the United States, so we hope to see as many softball applicants as baseball. Also, we want people to know we’re doing our part to help build a new baseball and softball dynasty in this region. That’s what the 1st Source Bank Performance Center here at Four Winds Field is all about-year-round professional pitching, conditioning, fielding and at-bat training with professional instructors. The Chicago Cubs and every amateur player and coach in the region are excited about this facility-it’s one of the best in the country.”

Applications for the 2017 South Bend Cubs Scholarships cannot be made by e-mail or via any type of paid delivery or postal service. All applicants must deliver their applications in person to the 1st Source Bank Performance Center at the corner of South Street and Lafayette Boulevard in downtown South Bend.

About the South Bend Cubs
The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 29 seasons, the team has won five Midwest League titles, most recently in 2005, and has captured 12 division titles. In 2015, the team was named Ballpark Digest‘s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill.

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

NYPL Charitable Foundation Announces 2017 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.

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 ninth year, the 2017 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 ninth 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.”

High school seniors interested in entering the 2017 Scholarship Contest can obtain the official application by visiting the Williamsport Crosscutters offices at BB&T Ballpark. Applications can also be also be downloaded by clicking HERE.

The deadline to submit applications to the nearest NYPL team is June 5, 2017. 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.

For more information on the 2017 NYPL Scholarship Contest, call the Crosscutters at (570) 326-3389.

The Crosscutters 2017 home opener is scheduled for Tuesday, June 20 against the State College Spikes. Season tickets, bonus books and mini-plans are now available by phone at (570) 326-3389, online by clicking HERE or in-person at BB&T Ballpark.

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