Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp

Campout on field highlights Jumbo Shrimp Scout Night

July 9, 2020

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are inviting Scouts to sleep under the stars at 121 Financial Ballpark on Saturday, July 18 for Scout Night presented by Flamingo Lake RV Resort. The event, which begins at 4 p.m. on July 18, allows Scouts to take swings on the field and features stadium game and activity stations, a baseball movie on the video board and an overnight campout on the field.

For just $25, Scouts will receive an on-field campout, 2020 Jumbo Shrimp Scout Patch, one burger, chips and 12 oz. soft drink and five swings from the batter’s box at 121 Financial Ballpark. Of each ticket purchased, $5 will be donated to the Boy Scouts of America North Florida Council.

The Jumbo Shrimp will also provide stadium game and activity stations for Scouts throughout the event, with all Scouts able to enjoy a baseball movie on the high-definition video board prior to the night’s camp out. Check-in for Scout Night is at 3 p.m., with events commencing at 4 p.m. Following the campout, wake up will be at 7 a.m. on Sunday, July 19, with exit by 8 a.m.

Space is extremely limited to register. Fans must register by July 15 by contacting Jumbo Shrimp assistant director, ticket operations Peter Ercey at (904) 374-4548 or [email protected]. There will be no on-site registration for Scout Night.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at 121 Financial Ballpark. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by General Manager Harold Craw. The club added its second Promotional Trophy in three years following the 2019 season. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

Raines Vikings win inaugural High School Heritage Classic

February 13, 2020

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Raines High School Vikings beat the Ribault High School Trojans 8-4 on Thursday to win the inaugural High School Heritage Classic presented by Rubenstein Law Firm, taking the A. Philip Randolph Cup in the exhibition contest at The Home of the Jumbo Shrimp.

“I want to congratulations Raines High School on winning the A. Philip Randolph Cup and Ribault High School on an excellent game,” said Jumbo Shrimp executive vice president/general manager Harold Craw. “The Jumbo Shrimp want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who helped make the High School Heritage Classic such a huge success in kicking off our team’s Centennial Celebration of the Negro Leagues.”

Both teams wore customized Jacksonville Red Caps uniforms to commemorate the Negro American League team that played in Jacksonville from 1938 until 1942. Raines High School won the A. Philip Randolph Cup that honors the legacy of local Civil Rights icon Asa Philip Randolph.

As part of the club’s Centennial Celebration of the Negro Leagues, the Jumbo Shrimp will play as the Red Caps twice this season; Once on May 1 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first-ever Negro League game and again on July 11 as part of the club’s Salute to the Negro Leagues Weekend in which former Negro Leagues players will also be on-hand.

UP NEXT: The Jumbo Shrimp’s 2020 Home Opening Day is Wednesday, April 15 against the Biloxi Shuckers at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Season tickets, mini plans and group outings are on sale now. Visit www.jaxshrimp.com or call 904-358-2846 to secure yours today.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by General Manager Harold Craw. The club added its second Promotional Trophy in three years following the 2019 season. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

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

Jumbo Shrimp to hold food & beverage job fairs Feb. 15 & 19

February 11, 2020

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – With the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp’s 2020 season of Affordable Family Fun on the horizon, the club has set two job fairs in February for 2020 seasonal food and beverage positions at The Home of the Jumbo Shrimp.

The Double-A Southern League affiliate of the Miami Marlins will host job fairs from both 9 a.m.-noon on Saturday, February 15 and 4-7 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19 at The Home of the Jumbo Shrimp.

The Jumbo Shrimp are seeking candidates for:

-Floor Supervisor

-Concessions Stand Manager

-Warehouse Manager

-Suite Attendant

-Concessions Attendant

-Concessions Cooks

-Bartenders

-Bar backs

-Keg Operators

-Warehouse Staff

-Vending Hawkers

-Line Cooks

-Pantry Stewards

-Cashiers

-Operations/Clean Team

Interested applicants may find full position descriptions and an application form at www.jaxshrimp.com. Applicants may bring a completed application to the job fair. All applicants should be prepared to interview at the job fairs and are encouraged to bring a resume and dress appropriately. Potential employees are subject to a background check and drug test.

Parking for the events will be in Lot P and applicants may enter through the main stadium gates at the corner of A Philip Randolph Blvd. and E. Adams St.

Open positions are for seasonal employment, including but not limited to 70 Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp home baseball games, additional stadium events and training.

The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are an equal opportunity employer.

UP NEXT: The Jumbo Shrimp’s 2020 Home Opening Day is Wednesday, April 15 against the Biloxi Shuckers at The Home of the Jumbo Shrimp. Season tickets, mini plans and group outings are on sale now. Visit www.jaxshrimp.com or call 904-358-2846 to secure yours today.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at The Home of the Jumbo Shrimp. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by General Manager Harold Craw. The club added its second Promotional Trophy in three years following the 2019 season. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

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

Jumbo Shrimp open registration for February 20 National Anthem auditions

February 3, 2020

2020 NATIONAL ANTHEM REGISTRATION FORM

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp prepare to open their schedule of 70 home games on April 15, the club is inviting the talent of Northeast Florida to audition to perform the National Anthem before a Jumbo Shrimp home game this season. Individuals and groups can now register for the February 20 National Anthem auditions, to be held at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville.

National Anthem auditions will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 20 – rain or shine – at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Interested individuals and groups may schedule an audition time by completing a registration form emailing it to director of promotions & special events David Ratz at david@jaxshrimp.com or faxing to (904) 358-2845.

Individuals or groups who performed during the 2019 Jumbo Shrimp season are not required to audition if they are interested in performing again in 2020. Such individuals or groups should still complete and email the registration form, indicating a past performance at a Jumbo Shrimp game.

“We always enjoy listening to local individuals and groups perform to have an opportunity to open each Jumbo Shrimp game in the 2020 season,” said Jumbo Shrimp executive vice president/general manager Harold Craw. “Jumbo Shrimp games at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville are community events, and we are excited to build another extraordinary lineup of local talent that will be among the highlights of each night of Affordable Family Fun.”

The Jumbo Shrimp’s full promotional schedule will be announced at a later date. Fans can secure tickets to these great dates by booking a season ticket package, mini plan or group outing – beginning at 24 people – by calling the Jumbo Shrimp’s front office at 904-358-2846.

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

Jumbo Shrimp kick off Negro Leagues Centennial Celebration with High School Heritage Classic

February 3, 2020

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As part of the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp’s salute to Black History Month and the Negro Leagues’ Centennial Celebration, the club is hosting the inaugural High School Heritage Classic exhibition game presented by Rubenstein Law Firm at 11:05 a.m. on Thursday, February 13 between historic Duval County Public Schools rivals William M. Raines High School and Jean Ribault High School at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville.

Raines and Ribault student-athletes will wear customized Jacksonville Red Caps uniforms in a tribute to the Negro Leagues team that resided in Jacksonville from 1938-42. The exhibition contest, coincides with the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum’s commencement of the 100^th anniversary of the founding of the Negro Leagues, will also feature historical references to Negro Leagues players and teams throughout the game. The winning team will earn the inaugural A. Philip Randolph Cup, commemorating the civil rights activist who moved to Jacksonville in 1891.

“I am so proud to bring this one-of-a-kind game to celebrate the rich history of the Negro Leagues in Jacksonville and honoring the many Negro Leagues players who laid the foundation for our entire industry,” said Jumbo Shrimp executive vice president/general manager Harold Craw. “I want to thank the students and faculty of both Raines and Ribault High Schools for kicking off the Jumbo Shrimp’s year-long commitment to commemorate the Centennial Celebration of the Negro Leagues. We encourage all fans to learn about the extraordinary Negro Leagues players who complete the history of the sport we all love.”

Tickets for the High School Heritage Classic are $5 for reserved seats and $10 for 121 Financial Crustacean Corner seats and a limited number of seats in the PNC Home Plate Club. They can be purchased in-person at the Jumbo Shrimp box office at 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd or online by clicking here.

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

Students can win ceremonial first pitch in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. essay contest

January 17, 2020

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – With Black History Month upcoming, the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are asking students what Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have A Dream” speech means to them. The club’s essay contest will reward the winning students with free tickets for their entire class to attend a Jumbo Shrimp regular season game at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville, as well as a classroom visit by either Scampi or Southpaw.

The Jumbo Shrimp’s essay contest is open to all K-12 students in Duval County, Clay County and St. Johns County. Submissions will be divided into three categories (Grades K-5, 6-8 and 9-12, respectively). The contest will begin on Martin Luther King Jr. Day at 9 a.m. on Monday, January 20. All entries should be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, February 21 to win@jaxshrimp.com, and must include the student’s name, age, grade and school.

Following the submission process, each category will have their respective winners notified by email and announced on Friday, February 28.

For any questions regarding the Jumbo Shrimp’s Dr. King “I Have A Dream” speech essay contest, please contact Director of Community Relations Andrea Williams at andrea@jaxshrimp.com.

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

Jumbo Shrimp help package 50,000 meals for Rise Against Hunger

October 17, 2019

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Members of the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp’s front office volunteered at Maxwell House Wednesday to help package 50,000 meals for Rise Against Hunger’s packaging event.

“We are thankful to have been included in such a great event,” said Jumbo Shrimp Director of Community Relations Andrea Williams. “We’re proud to partner with our neighbors at the Maxwell House to be able to do something so impactful! At our very core, we strive to be great community stewards and give back to a community that gives us so much.”

Over two hours, the Jumbo Shrimp packaged meals of 23 essential vitamins and nutrients, vegetables, soy protein and white rice. The event was the first in the offseason for the club’s annual #ShrimpService.

Rise Against Hunger supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to end hunger by 2030. The organization works in four focus areas as its Pathways to End Hunger: Nourishing Lives, Empowering Communities, Responding to Emergencies and Growing the Movement.

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

Jumbo Shrimp initiate A Better Jacksonville Series

March 22, 2019

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jumbo Shrimp are continuing their commitment to serving the city of Jacksonville and its surrounding areas by introducing the club’s new A Better Jacksonville Series. Fans who donate to each of these monthly charitable drives will be entered into a drawing to throw out a ceremonial first pitch prior to the Jumbo Shrimp’s 6:35 p.m. game on Sunday, August 25 at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville.

The Jumbo Shrimp’s A Better Jacksonville Series begins on Friday, April 26 with a greeting card donation drive. During this 7:05 p.m. game on Military Appreciation Night, the club will use donated greeting cards by allowing fans to write to active military.

The Jumbo Shrimp will team with the Jackson Five, the club’s internship program with Andrew Jackson High School, on Monday, May 20 to hold an Education Day Shoe Drive prior to the club’s 11:05 a.m. contest. All shoes donated will be sent to the City Rescue Mission.

Fans will be asked to donate toys on Sunday, June 9 for a 3:05 p.m. game on A Story of Toys Day. All proceeds will benefit One More Child. When the Jumbo Shrimp celebrate Mac & Cheese Day at 3:05 p.m. on Sunday, July 14, all fan non-perishable food donations will benefit Feeding Northeast Florida.

The inaugural A Better Jacksonville Series will wrap up prior to the Jumbo Shrimp’s 6:35 p.m. game on Saturday, August 10 with a school supply donation. Each donation will benefit Duval County Public Schools.

Fans who donated to each of the five monthly drives throughout the 2019 season will be entered into a drawing to throw out a ceremonial first pitch. The winner will toss out that ceremonial first pitch prior to the Jumbo Shrimp’s 6:35 p.m. contest on Sunday, August 25.

UP NEXT: Opening Day for the Jumbo Shrimp in 2019 is Thursday, April 4, against the Jackson Generals at the Baseball Grounds Jacksonville. Season tickets, mini plans, and corporate outings are on sale now. Visit www.jaxshrimp.com or phone 904-358-2846 to secure yours today.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by General Manager Harold Craw. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

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

Jumbo Shrimp to host Family Holiday Event at the Baseball Grounds Dec. 8

November 6, 2018

RSVP HERE I Facebook Event

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp and Fun 4 First Coast Kids invite fans to kick off the Holiday season with our very Shrimpy Christmas event on Saturday, December 8 at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville.

The event will run from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. with Christmas movie classics How the Grinch Stole Christmas and Frosty’s Winter Wonderland being shown on the high-definition video board. Fans can also enjoy free pictures with Santa Claus, face painting and Christmas crafts. There will be s’more for sale, as well as other Christmas treats, and a kid zone on the field with a bouncy house and inflatable slide.

Admission is only $1 per person at the home plate gate or free with one new unwrapped toy, per family, to donate to children in need this holiday season. All toys will be donated to the Florida Baptist Children’s Homes and One More Child. You can learn more about them at http://www.fbchomes.org/our-mission/contact-us/.

Attendees may sit on the field, and the stadium seating bowl will be open for seating. There is stroller- and wheelchair-accessible seating available both on the field and in the stadium seating bowl. Attendees are welcome to bring blankets for seating on the field. However, no chairs will be allowed on the field. No outside food or beverages will be permitted in the stadium.

UP NEXT: Opening Day for the Jumbo Shrimp in 2019 is Thursday, April 4, against the Jackson Generals at the Baseball Grounds Jacksonville. Season tickets, mini plans, and corporate outings are on sale now. Visit www.jaxshrimp.com or phone 904-358-2846 to secure yours today.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy, and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by General Manager Harold Craw. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

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

Jumbo Shrimp receive JAXUSA Industry Leader Award

June 21, 2018

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp received the JAXUSA Partnership Industry Leader Award on at the second quarter JAXUSA Partnership Luncheon on Tuesday, June 12. Team owner Ken Babby accepted the award, which is presented to a company each quarter that has shown outstanding growth and community involvement.

The award winner is selected by the JAXUSA senior leadership team and is based on criteria including continued growth in the region, innovative work and a commitment to the community it serves. JAXUSA recognizes the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp as a key community contributor making a positive economic impact in North Florida.

Since Babby’s Fast Forward Sports Group took ownership of the Southern League franchise in September 2015, the organization has focused on Affordable Family Fun, with notably improved fan areas – adding the Budweiser Tiki Terrace and Hot Corner, expanding the Wheelhouse Lounge, and renovating luxury suites on the BDO Suite Level. The club enhances fan experience, partnering with Community First Credit Union on a new Jumbo Shrimp VISA® Debit Card, with FIS to make the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville the flagship of “Ballparks of the Future,” and with Advanced Disposal to become the Cleanest Ballpark in Minor League Baseball. The ballpark’s non-baseball event lineup has grown to include Family Movie Nights, charity events, an annual craft beer festival and the JAX Chamber Gala. In the community, Jumbo Shrimp staff have done regular volunteer projects, and the organization has partnered with Andrew Jackson High School on a unique Jackson Five Program to introduce high school students to the sports business industry.

“We are humbled and honored by the JAXUSA Partnership Industry Leader Award, which is also a credit to the great partners we have throughout the community,” Babby said. “With their support and the enthusiastic response of our fans, we are further energized in our mission of providing Affordable Family Fun.”

The award follows the Jumbo Shrimp’s recognition in the past year as the Southern League Organization of the Year and Promotional Trophy Winner, General Manager Harold Craw’s selection as Southern League Executive of the Year, as well as the club’s nomination for “Sports Breakthrough of the Year” by Sports Business Journal. The Jumbo Shrimp have been lauded for everything from marketing and social media (the club won “Best Local Twitter Account” by Folio Weekly readers) to concession offerings (Travel Channel’s “Food Paradise featured the club’s Shrimp & Pulled Pork Nachos and Bold City Burger Pie in its Minor League Baseball episode)

The JAXUSA Partnership is a business membership organization focused on regional economic development. JAXUSA facilitates the creation and retention of quality jobs and significant capital investment, resulting in a higher standard of living and better quality of life in Northeast Florida.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy, and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by General Manager Harold Craw. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

Free Chevy Youth Baseball Clinics at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville June 29 & 30

June 15, 2018

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Local Chevrolet dealers are teaming up with the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp to provide an instructional clinic for boys and girls, baseball and softball players of all skill levels between the ages of 6 and 14. Registration is open for two sessions of the 2018 Chevy Youth Baseball Clinic that will take place Friday, June 29, and Saturday, June 30, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville.

Each session is limited to 200 players, and registration is required for each participant online at youthsportsclinics.com. For online registration, select “Market” as “Jacksonville CYB Clinics,” and click “Go!”. Enter the registration code “24389” and click “Submit.” Complete the registration form, starting with parent/guardian information, then adding clinic participant information. In addition to registering before the event, participants are required to present a completed waiver form (available to download here) at the registration table on the day of the clinic.

On the day of the event, check-in will begin one hour prior to each clinic at the Home Plate Gate of the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Participants should wear athletic apparel and bring their own glove, water bottle, and bat if available. Metal cleats will not be allowed; only closed-toed, lace-up athletic shoes and rubber cleats will be permitted. Family members are strongly encouraged to attend the entire clinic and park in lots around the Sports Complex. Clinic organizers recommend bringing a cooler with refreshments, as concessions may not be available. Immediately following the clinic, a snack will be provided for all participants.

Visit youthsportsclinics.com/faq to view a list of FAQs or contact CYB Coordinator, Jen Stoltz at (678) 313-2470 or jstoltz@gmdealerprograms.com.

UP NEXT: The Jumbo Shrimp continue their series with Jackson at 7:05 p.m. Friday. Fans may visit any participating NAPA AutoCare Center to get a FREE general admission ticket (reserved seat upgrade available at the box office) for the game that concludes with NAPA AutoCare Family Fireworks. The Jumbo Shrimp wear red “Bold City” jerseys to support the military on Red Shirt Friday, when fans who wear red can save $1 per ticket at the box office or donate the $1 to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. Friday Night Lites Miller Lite Happy Hour offers $1 12-oz. Miller Lite and $1 off craft beer specials in the Craft Cave by the third-base gates until 7:30 p.m. Awkward Family Photo Night includes a photo booth set up at the Budweiser Tiki Terrace with great props and costumes. The game is presented by 96.1 WEJZ.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are beginning a new era of affordable family fun with the 2017 season presented by Community First Credit Union at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. With a new lineup of ticket and group options, there is a reason for everyone to get part of the action by calling the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visiting www.jaxshrimp.com.

Andrew Jackson students to host ballpark food drive Monday

May 17, 2018

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A group of students from Andrew Jackson High School are using the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp’s annual Education Day game to help those in need in local schools and the Northeast Florida community. The students will host a food drive for Feeding Northeast Florida at the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp’s Education Day game on Monday, May 21, at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville.

Students from the Jackson Five program, which introduces high school students to the sports business industry, will collect non-perishable food items at the third base gate before and during the 11:05 a.m. game. Gates open at 10:00 a.m. Everyone who donates an item at the third base gate will be entered in a drawing for prizes from the Jumbo Shrimp.

“We are so impressed by the effort students at Andrew Jackson High School are making on behalf of those most vulnerable in our community,” said Feeding Northeast Florida President and CEO Frank D. Castillo. “This food drive comes at a perfect time. Without access to the free or reduced school lunch programs, many of the families we serve struggle to feed their children during the summer months. More than 81,000 local kids are considered food insecure, and it is inspiring to see these students at Andrew Jackson stepping up to help their fellow students.”

In its second year after beginning as a unique partnership between the Jumbo Shrimp and Andrew Jackson High School, the Jackson Five program has 10 students who gained hands-on experience during the series of high school games at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville in March and have had mentoring sessions with various departments of the Jumbo Shrimp front office. Students will also be involved in Monday’s game day operations and helped contribute to this press release.

“I am proud of the growth of the Jackson Five Program and the students who show selfless dedication to making an impact for our community,” said Jumbo Shrimp General Manager Harold Craw. “Through the program, students are getting a first-hand look at our organization, and their enthusiasm and ideas energize our staff. We are grateful they chose to share their talents with us.”

UP NEXT: The Jumbo Shrimp open a six-game, five-day homestand with Mobile at 7:05 p.m. Thursday. Gates open at 6 p.m. for Budweiser Thirsty Thursday, with $1 12-oz. and $2 24-oz. beers at select locations, plus $1 sodas at the main concession stands. For National Police Week, Jacksonville Sheriff Mike Williams will throw a ceremonial first pitch, and police vehicles and trucks will be on display at the ballpark. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Bigs with Badges program will attend the game.

ABOUT THE JUMBO SHRIMP: The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp offer affordable family fun at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Their inaugural season garnered the Southern League’s Don Mincher Organization of the Year, Promotional Trophy, and Jimmy Bragan Executive of the Year, won by General Manager Harold Craw. To experience the excitement with the terrific value of ticket and group options, call the Jumbo Shrimp at (904) 358-2846 or visit www.jaxshrimp.com.

Minors teams raise over $300,000 for disaster relief

December 4, 2017

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Minor League Baseball Charities today announced the distribution of over $180,000 in cash to charities assisting with recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma. Minor League Baseball’s 160 teams combined to raise over $300,000 for disaster relief.

The city of Corpus Christi, Texas, and the surrounding communities suffered significant damage during Hurricane Harvey. As a result of Minor League Baseball’s fundraising efforts, the Corpus Christi Hooks, the Double-A affiliate of the Houston Astros, made a significant donation to the Coastal Bend Disaster Recovery Group and will be making donations to Little League programs in Port Aransas, Rockport, Refugio, Aransas Pass and Ingleside to help the leagues repair facilities and purchase equipment that was damaged or lost in the storm.

“We are overwhelmed with gratitude at the generosity of teams across Minor League Baseball as our industry meets the needs of those who have come into harm’s way,” said Corpus Christi Hooks Vice President of Sales and Marketing Andy Steavens. “These funds will help fuel recovery in the Coastal Bend as the calendar turns to 2018. It’s a long process, but we’re pleased and privileged to help and proud to be a part of this region and Minor League Baseball.”

“These donations are another example of the collective power of Minor League Baseball and our 160 teams across the country,” said Courtney Nehls, Assistant Director, Community Engagement, for Minor League Baseball. “In times of need, whether a natural disaster or otherwise, our organization and its teams have proven time and time again that together, our charitable efforts help build stronger communities.”

With the devastating flooding that took place in Houston, Minor League Baseball Charities made a significant donation to the Houston Astros Foundation to assist with its disaster relief projects, and with guidance from the Astros Foundation, made donations to the Houston Police Department’s Blue Santa Program, the Houston Food Bank and the Houston Children’s Charity, which will provide beds and linens to children when they return to their homes.

As Hurricane Irma cut a path across Florida, three Florida State League communities and one Southern League community saw extensive damage, and Minor League Baseball raised over $50,000 for relief assistance in those areas.

The Fort Myers Miracle, the Class-A Advanced affiliate of the Minnesota Twins, split a donation from MiLB Charities between eight worthy organizations in their community: The Harry Chapin Food Bank, Everglades Wonder Gardens, Goodwill, Lee County Schools, Midwest Food Bank, Naples Zoo, New Horizons of Southwest Florida and the Southwest Florida Community Foundation.

The Charlotte Stone Crabs, the Class-A Advanced affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays, donated their portion of the Hurricane Irma relief funds to the United Way of Charlotte County to assist with their continued recovery efforts.

The St. Lucie Mets, the Class-A Advanced affiliate of the New York Mets, split their donation between the Mustard Seed Ministries, SAFER St. Lucie and the United Way of St. Lucie County.

The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, the Double-A affiliate of the Miami Marlins, donated their portion of the Hurricane Irma relief funds to the Trinity Rescue Mission Women and Children’s Center.

In addition to the $180,000 distributed by Minor League Baseball Charities, Minor League Baseball teams made donations totaling over $120,000 directly to relief organizations including the Red Cross, The Salvation Army and United Way Worldwide.

Nearly $75K to Stand Up To Cancer, Smokies top Shrimp, 9-3

July 20, 2017

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp pitchers struck out 13 Tennessee Smokies – each time raising $5,300 from Fifth Third Bank for Stand Up To Cancer – and with 5,898 in attendance meaning another $5,898, the single night raised $74,798, while Tennessee won a 9-3 final Thursday night at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville.

Jumbo Shrimp right-hander Trevor Richards (2-2) fanned nine batters in the first six innings, including a stretch from the second to fourth inning that included seven straight strikeouts – one shy of the Southern League record. Right-hander Tyler Higgins struck out one, and left-hander Victor Payano struck out three. The 13 were two shy of the club’s season high.

Jax Jumbo Shrimp Highlights – July 20, 2017

Tennessee (16-11 second half, 52-44 overall) tallied a first-inning run, after center fielder Trey Martin hit a leadoff double to right field and scored on third baseman Jason Vosler‘s sacrifice fly. Jacksonville (13-14, 43-54) answered in the bottom of the inning against Chicago Cubs rehabbing left-hander Brett Anderson (2-2), as center fielder Kyle Barrett reached on an error by shortstop Carlos Penalver, and left fielder Austin Dean hit an RBI double to left field, reaching third base on left fielder Daniel Spingola‘s error. After right fielder John Norwood walked, first baseman Dustin Geiger hit an RBI single to center field, and catcher Rodrigo Vigil hit a one-out RBI single. Anderson did not allow another run in his six total innings.

Randy Ready Postgame vs. Tennessee 7/20/17

The 3-1 score remained until Spingola’s fifth-inning solo home run to right field. Richards began the seventh inning with a 3-2 lead but allowed an infield single to right fielder Yasiel Balaguert and second baseman David Bote‘s single. Higgins entered, recording one out on a bunt fielder’s choice, before a walk, catcher Cael Brockmeyer‘s game-tying single, pinch-hitter Andrew Ely‘s go-ahead single, and first baseman Ian Rice‘s two-out, bases-loaded walk. Vosler added a two-run single off left-hander Jeff Kinley to make it 7-3. Richards allowed the first four runs, while Higgins allowed three. In the eighth inning, Payano allowed a two-run single to pinch hitter Kevin Cornelius, extending the 9-3 Smokies lead.

UP NEXT: The Jumbo Shrimp continue their series with Tennessee at 7:05 p.m. Friday, when Jacksonville right-hander Joe Gunkel (3-6) is scheduled to face Smokies right-hander Trevor Clifton (5-5). Fans may visit any participating NAPA AutoCare Center to get a FREE general admission ticket for the games, which will be followed by NAPA AutoCare Family Fireworks. The Jumbo Shrimp will wear red “Bold City” jerseys on Red Shirt Friday, and fans who wear red can save $1 per ticket at the box office, or donate the $1 to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. Gates open at 4:30 p.m. for Miller Lite Happy Hour, presented in part by Wild Wing Café, with Miller Lite beer specials in the Craft Cave inside the third-base gate until 7:30 p.m. The Wheelhouse Chef’s Table will include a buffet in the suite-level lounge open to all fans for $12 per plate. The game is presented by WEJZ Lite 96.1.

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

Free Chevy Youth Baseball Instructional Clinics at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville July 21 & 22

June 30, 2017

PRINT DETAILS ON CHEVY YOUTH BASEBALL CLINICS

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Registration is open for two sessions of the 2017 Chevy Youth Baseball Instructional Clinic, offered free compliments of Southern Chevy Dealers. A pair of clinics with Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp players will take place Friday, July 21, and Saturday, July 22, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville.

Each session is limited to 200 players, boys and girls ages 6-14 of all skill levels. Registration is required for each participant online at baseball.youthsportsclinics.com. For online registration, select “Market” as “Jacksonville CYB Clinics,” and enter the password “playball”. Each child is required to RSVP and bring a signed clinic waiver form to the registration table on the day of the clinic.

Participants should wear athletic apparel and bring their own glove, water bottle, and bat if available. Cleats are not allowed on the field. Tennis shoes are acceptable. Family members are strongly encouraged to attend the entire clinic and park in lots around the Sports Complex. Clinic organizers recommend bringing a cooler with refreshments, as concessions may not be available. Immediately following the clinic, a snack will be provided for all participants. Additional information, including detailed location information and itineraries, are available upon completion of registration at baseball.youthsportsclinics.com.

Check-in will begin one hour prior to each clinic; check-in will occur at the Home Plate Gate of the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. For any questions, visit baseball.youthsportsclinics.com to view a list of FAQs or contact CYB Coordinator, Stephanie Villegas at (770) 337-3081 or svillegas@gmdealerprograms.com.

UP NEXT: The Jumbo Shrimp continue their series with Mobile at 5:00 p.m. Friday, when they resume Thursday’s suspended game in the fifth inning, with Mobile leading, 1-0. In the ensuing seven-inning contest, Jacksonville left-hander Mike Kickham (4-4) is scheduled to face BayBears right-hander Osmer Morales (3-2). Fans may visit any participating NAPA AutoCare Center to get a FREE general admission ticket for the games, which will be followed by NAPA AutoCare Family Fireworks. The Jumbo Shrimp will wear red “Bold City” jerseys on Red Shirt Friday, and fans who wear red can save $1 per ticket at the box office, or donate the $1 to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. Gates open at 4:30 p.m. for Miller Lite Happy Hour, presented in part by Wild Wing Café, with Miller Lite beer specials in the Craft Cave inside the third-base gate until 7:30 p.m. The Wheelhouse Chef’s Table will include a buffet in the suite-level lounge open to all fans for $12 per plate. The game is presented by Gator Country 99.9.