Riders Foundation raising funds for Boys & Girls Club of Collin County Bus Fund

FRISCO, Texas (May 11, 2018) – The Frisco RoughRiders Foundation has announced a season-long, multi-faceted initiative to raise funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County Bus Fund. The foundation’s goal is to help purchase a 72-passenger bus to aid the organization’s mission.

“With the addition of at least one new full-size bus in each club in Frisco, McKinney and Plano, we will be able to add over 300 new members, impacting these young lives with great programs in a safe, nurturing environment, where we concentrate on academic success, character and leadership as well as health and life skills,” said Mike Simpson, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County. “New buses are the vehicles to great futures for more kids.”

A portion of the proceeds from following events will be earmarked for the Bus Fund:

* Riders Classic golf tournament (July 10)

* RoughRiders Baseball Academy (all summer)

* RoughRiders Foundation in-game fundraisers

* Riders 50/50 Raffle (Wednesday-Sunday raffles)

* Auctioned autographed items and sports memorabilia

“It’s important for the Frisco RoughRiders to make memories for our community in and out of the stadium,” said Breon Dennis, Executive Director of the RoughRiders Foundation. “The 72-passenger bus will let children at the club know that the future is now and we support them. I hope the entire North Texas community will join in this campaign to make a difference together.”

To participate in the fundraising efforts, join us at Dr Pepper Ballpark all season. Tickets are available online at RidersBaseball.com, by phone at (972) 731-9200 or at the Dr Pepper Ballpark box office.

About the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County has been meeting the needs of children in Collin County and North Texas for 50 years since 1968. BGCCC’s mission is to “Enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens“. The organization currently serves over 9,300 children each year through its after-school, summer and outreach programs.

BGCCC serves 71 schools in Collin County and has 21 buses and vehicles which must transport the children to the Clubs. The organization has branches in McKinney, Plano and Frisco and currently operates an on-site school program at Shepton High School in Plano.

Visit the BGCCC website at: http://www.bgccc.org

About the RoughRiders Foundation

The mission of the RoughRiders Foundation is to enhance the community we serve through charitable contributions, grants, and programming initiatives. The RoughRiders Foundation supports programs and organizations in our community that motivate and reward children and families in the areas of education, good health and community services activities.

For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders Foundation, contact Breon Dennis at breon@ridersbaseball.com or at community@ridersbaseball.com.

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play their games at beautiful Dr Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, Texas. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance in each of the last 13 seasons (2005-2017). In August 2014, the RoughRiders were purchased by an ownership group led by Chuck Greenberg. Since then, the new ownership group, together with the City of Frisco, has spearheaded numerous major franchise enhancements, investing over $8 million in a wide array of facility upgrades and improvements, including a state-of-the-art HD video board, sound system, Bull Moose Saloon, InTouch Grille, Riders Outpost Team Store and the world’s largest water feature in a sports facility, the massive Choctaw Lazy River. These enhancements earned the Riders and the City of Frisco Ballpark Digest’s prestigious “Best Ballpark Renovation” award for two consecutive years (2015 and 2016). More than 140 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball, including All-Stars Chris Davis, Adrian Gonzalez, Ian Kinsler and Neftali Feliz, as well as current Rangers stars Elvis Andrus, Rougned Odor and Nomar Mazara. For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders and Dr Pepper Ballpark, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact Ryan Rouillard at RRouillard@RidersBaseball.com.

NATURALS ANNOUNCE ARKANSAS CHILDREN’S NORTHWEST FAN DAYS

ACNW Fan Days will be on Friday, May 11; Friday, May 25; Friday, June 29; and Friday, August 10. (NWA Naturals)

SPRINGDALE, Ark – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are excited to announce Arkansas Children’s Northwest (ACNW) Fan Days, a series of four special games during the 2018 season that will bring together Naturals players and fans with ACNW patients and families. Sponsored by J.B. Hunt Transport, Inc., ACNW Fan Days will be on Friday, May 11; Friday, May 25; Friday, June 29; and Friday, August 10.

During each game, the Naturals will host the first-ever ACNW Fan Waves, an effort to show support and encouragement for those at ACNW.

At the conclusion of the first inning, the Naturals organization, team mascots, and J.B. Hunt employees will lead the crowd in a friendly wave toward the hospital. Players and coaches from each team will emerge from the dugouts to tip their caps and wave as well. Patients and families at Arkansas Children’s Northwest will be gathered to view the ballpark and wave back toward the crowd.

Follow the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on Facebook and Twitter @NWANaturals all throughout the year by using the hashtag #NaturalPastime and #CrowntoCrown for all of our up-to-date information on the 2018 season of Naturals baseball.

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.

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Donate to Cardinals Food Drive & Get $1 Tickets on April 24!

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The Springfield Cardinals are excited to partner with Ozarks Food Harvest to host the 2018 Cardinals Food Drive.

Running right now through the Tuesday, April 24 game at Hammons Field, the Cardinals are seeking donations of non-perishable food items. All fans that donate may purchase a discounted $1 ticket to the April 24 game for each item donated! First Pitch on Tuesday, April 24 is 6:30pm with gates opening at 5:30pm.

Tuesday is also a Great Southern Bank $1 Dog Day! The combination of helping your southwest Missouri community, $1 tickets to the Cardinals and $1 dogs may seem too good to be true. But it’s not!

All non-perishable food items donated through the Food Drive will benefit the Ozarks Food Harvest, serving more than 200 non-profit organizations across 28 Ozarks counties.

The Ozarks Food Harvest’s most needed items include:

– Tuna, salmon and other canned meats
– Peanut butter
– Beans, soups and stews
– Boxed meals, rice and pasta
– Canned veggies and fruit
– Cereal

To donate, please bring your non-perishable food items to the Cardinals Front Office at Hammons Field, located at 955 E. Trafficway, or the Box Office. The Front Office is open from 9am – 5pm, Monday – Friday. For more information, call the Front Office at (417) 863-0395.

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.

Riders invite fans to Spring EGGstravaganza on March 24 at Dr Pepper Ballpark

The Frisco RoughRiders, the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, are hosting the third annual Spring EGGstravaganza at Dr Pepper Ballpark on Saturday, March 24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This special free event is open to the public and highlighted by an Easter egg hunt in the outfield starting at 11:20 a.m. for all kids 12-and-under.

FRISCO, Texas (March 9, 2018) – The Frisco RoughRiders, the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, are hosting the second annual Spring EGGstravaganza at Dr Pepper Ballpark on Saturday, March 24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This special free event is open to the public and highlighted by an Easter egg hunt in the outfield starting at 11:20 a.m. for all kids 12-and-under.

In addition to the Easter egg hunt, there will be coloring and spring crafts, airbrush artists and a bounce house. Both the Primrose Schools and Riders Playgrounds will be open during the event. There will also be appearances from RoughRiders mascots Deuce, Daisy, Ted E Bear, Bull Moose and Brooks.

The club encourages fans to bring gloves and baseballs to the park to play catch on the field after the Easter egg hunt. Kids also have an opportunity to run around the bases, just like their favorite RoughRiders players!

Select food and drinks will be available for $1, including candy, Cracker Jack, hot dogs, kettle chips, nachos, popcorn, beer, coffee, hot chocolate, water, and Dr Pepper products.

Doors open early for Founders season ticket members at 9 a.m. for the first opportunity to pick up tickets for the 2018 season. Season ticket holders will have exclusive access to Dr Pepper Ballpark to pick up tickets, interact with Riders staff and sit down for brunch. Starting at 11 a.m., season ticket members will have the opportunity to take advantage of all the festivities at Dr Pepper Ballpark.

Fans interested in purchasing single-game tickets to Opening Day on April 5, any of the Deep Ellum Party @ The Yard dates, or any of the 70 games during the regular season are encouraged to speak with a sales representative at Guest Services or visit the Box Office during the event. Tickets are also available at RidersBaseball.com and (972) 731-9200.

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play their games at beautiful Dr Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, Texas. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance in each of the last 13 seasons (2005-2017). In August 2014, the RoughRiders were purchased by an ownership group led by Chuck Greenberg. Since then, the new ownership group, together with the City of Frisco, has spearheaded numerous major franchise enhancements, investing over $8 million in a wide array of facility upgrades and improvements, including a state-of-the-art HD video board, sound system, Bull Moose Saloon, InTouch Grille, Riders Outpost Team Store and the world’s largest water feature in a sports facility, the massive Choctaw Lazy River. These enhancements earned the Riders and the City of Frisco Ballpark Digest’s prestigious “Best Ballpark Renovation” award for two consecutive years (2015 and 2016). More than 140 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball, including All-Stars Chris Davis, Adrian Gonzalez, Ian Kinsler and Nelson Cruz , as well as current Rangers stars Elvis Andrus, Rougned Odor  and Nomar Mazara . For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders and Dr Pepper Ballpark, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact Art Garcia at AGarcia@RidersBaseball.com or Ryan Rouillard at RRouillard@RidersBaseball.com.

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

Hooks Direct Harvey Funds to Area Youth

CORPUS CHRISTI – The Corpus Christi Hooks plan to distribute $113,000 to Little League and youth programs in Rockport, Port Aransas, Refugio, Ingleside, and Aransas Pass.

The resources, generated by the team’s #CoastalBendStrong campaign and Minor League Baseball, will aid the funding of scholarships which cover entry fees and uniform expenses. Monies are also earmarked for new scoreboards and a spring break camp hosted by the Port Aransas Parks and Recreation Department.

In addition to cash donations at Whataburger Field, money was raised online at YouCaring.com/CoastalBendStrong.

The Hooks designated a portion of the proceeds from their final homestand of 2017 for Hurricane Harvey relief. During the Labor Day weekend series, fans were offered free parking and “Pay What You Can” seating. Hooks players dedicated their season-long home run dollar earnings to the recovery effort. An autographed Corpus Christi game-worn jersey auction, and the sale of Coastal Bend Strong t-shirts contributed to the initiative.

Ainsworth Trucking also assisted in the collection of critical supplies.

The Akron RubberDucks, Biloxi Shuckers, Lansing Lugnuts and Fort Wayne TinCaps joined the relief effort by sending clothes, toiletries, and other essential items.

“It’s overwhelming when you look at what our neighbors and Minor League Baseball have done to help those greatly affected by the storm,” Hooks general manager Wes Weigle said. “Now is the time to put those funds to good use. We want to lend a hand in making sure kids, who’ve had their world turned upside down, take the field this spring and summer.”

During the offseason, Hooks front-office staffers volunteered in Aransas Pass, Port Aransas, and Rockport, clearing downed trees and debris.

Teams across Minor League Baseball rallied to raise over $300,000 in the aftermath of Harvey and Hurricane Irma. Funds went to the Coastal Bend Disaster Recovery Group and other relief organizations, including the Red Cross, Salvation Army, and United Way Worldwide.

This announcement also coincides with the launch of the Hooks’ Community Leaders Program. The club is currently seeking to team with corporate partners and civic leaders to support local youth sports initiatives.

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

Need a Fundraiser? Try Ours!

CORPUS CHRISTI – The 2018 Kleberg Bank College Classic, featuring Mississippi State, University of California-Santa Barbara, Nicholls and host Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, is February 23-24-25 at Whataburger Field.

If your club, association, or organization has fundraising needs, we can help.

Your group can sell 2018 Kleberg Bank College Classic tickets and retain half the proceeds!

Including tax, daily adult tickets are $10.83, $5.41 for children 4-12.

To start your Kleberg Bank College Classic fundraiser, contact Zach Kaddatz of the Corpus Christi Hooks at 361-561-HOOK (4665). You can also e-mail him at zkaddatz@cchooks.com

∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙

2018 Kleberg Bank College Classic Schedule

Friday, February 23
Mississippi State vs. UC Santa Barbara, 2 p.m.
Nicholls State vs. Islanders, 6 p.m.

Saturday, February 24
Nicholls State vs. Mississippi State, 2 p.m.
UC Santa Barbara vs. Islanders, 6 p.m.

Sunday, February 25
UC Santa Barbara vs. Nicholls State, 11 a.m.
Mississippi State vs. Islanders, 3 p.m.

Click Here to read more on the 2018 KBCC field.

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

RockHounds to Donate to Big Brothers Big Sisters on Giving Tuesday

MIDLAND, Texas – The Midland RockHounds announced today that, in partnership with BUSH’S® Beans, they will provide a donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters – Midland as part of #GivingTuesday, a global day of giving fueled by the power of social media and collaboration, on Tuesday, Nov. 28.

Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving and the widely-recognized shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday, #GivingTuesday kicks off the charitable season, when many focus on their holiday and end-of-year giving. Since its inaugural year in 2012, #GivingTuesday has become a movement that celebrates and supports generosity and philanthropy.

This past season, B.J. Boyd was named the BUSH’S Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the 2017 Texas League All-Star Game in Frisco, Texas, after collecting three hits and three RBI in a 10-3 win for the South division. As an extension of this award, BUSH’S and the RockHounds will provide a $1,000 donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters – Midland.

“This generous donation by BUSH’S shows their commitment to the communities and great nonprofit organizations within Minor League Baseball cities,” said Monty Hopper, General Manager of the Midland RockHounds. “We thank BUSH’S for their donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters – Midland. This donation further strengthens the tie between Minor League Baseball, its member teams, sponsors and local communities.”

BUSH’S Beans sponsored 11 All-Star Game MVP awards throughout Minor League Baseball this summer. BUSH’S is making a donation to a local charitable organization chosen by each MVP Award winner’s home club.

“One of the things that attracted BUSH’S to Minor League Baseball is how the clubs and their local communities support each other,” said Mike Morris, Senior Brand Manager at Bush Brothers & Company. “We are proud to recognize the contributions of each BUSH’S MVP Award winner by giving back to his team’s local charity.”

Minor League Baseball unveiled a multi-year, strategic partnership with BUSH’S Beans last December, making it the “Official Beans of Minor League Baseball,” and a “Preferred Partner” of a number of MiLB teams, beginning in 2017. Bush Brothers & Company is the recognized brand leader in beans. The partnership was activated across a range of touch-points this year, including in-ballpark celebrations such as National Baked Bean Month in July and the integration of a variety of BUSH’S Beans products in teams’ concessions.

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About the Midland RockHounds

The Midland RockHounds have been bringing the best fun and family entertainment to West Texas since 1972. A member of the eight-team, Double-A Texas League, the franchise began as an affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, the Los Angeles Angels and since 1999, the Oakland A’s.

The RockHounds have won five outright Texas League titles since 2005, including four-straight from 2014-2017. The organization has also received the John H. Johnson President’s Award in 2007, the highest award for a franchise and in 2016, the team won the Larry McPhail Award in recognition for the organization’s outstanding promotional efforts.

About Minor League Baseball

Minor League Baseball, headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida, is the governing body for all professional baseball teams in the United States, Canada and the Dominican Republic that are affiliated with Major League Baseball® clubs through their farm systems. Fans are coming out in unprecedented numbers to this one-of-a-kind experience that can only be found at Minor League Baseball ballparks. In 2017, Minor League Baseball attracted 41.8 million fans to its ballparks to see the future stars of the sport hone their skills. From the electricity in the stands to the excitement on the field, Minor League Baseball has provided affordable family-friendly entertainment to people of all ages since its founding in 1901. For more information, visit www.MiLB.com.

About BUSH’S® Beans

BUSH’S® is all about friends & family, and a certain Secret Family Recipe. When you enjoy our beans (doesn’t matter if they’re baked beans, chili beans, black beans, pinto beans…well, you get the picture), you can trust that they’re the very best. Because we wouldn’t serve your family anything less. Since we got our start more than 100 years ago in Chestnut Hill, Tenn., BUSH’S® has always maintained that quality is the best policy. We pursue excellence and exceptional taste in our beans, sauces and everything we do. That’s why, from mouthwatering Baked Beans & Chili Beans to satisfying bean recipes, you’re cooking up the best with BUSH’S BEST®. For more information, visit www.bushbeans.com.

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

Custom Hooks Surfboard Up for Auction!

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

CORPUS CHRISTI – A custom Corpus Christi Hooks/Nolan Ryan surfboard – one of three in existence – will be auctioned off by the Texas Surf Museum during its Third Annual Surftoberfest this weekend.

The board is presently owned by Ryan-Sanders Baseball/Entertainment COO JJ Gottsch, who’s donating the Robert August creation as part of Surftoberfest’s Port Aransas Education Foundation fundraiser.

Gottsch was the first Hooks president from the club’s 2003 inception through the 2008 season.

“Brad Lomax has been a great friend to me personally, the Hooks, and the community at-large for a number of years,” Gottsch said. “When I heard that he had Robert (August) coming to the event this year, and that the funds were going to help hurricane relief efforts, I immediately thought of the board and how it could hopefully help those efforts. It will be a truly unique gift for any Robert August, Nolan Ryan, or Corpus Christi Hooks enthusiast.”

To bid online for the Robert August surfboard, click here from midnight, Thursday, October 5, until 8:30 CDT on Saturday night, October 7.

August will personally autograph the board for the winner.

The board’s design was produced in a special collaboration between August, his son Sam, Reid Ryan, Reese Ryan, and Gottsch. A second Hooks/Ryan WIR “What I Ride” (9.2) surfboard is currently displayed at the museum. Unique features include a classic blue/white design incorporating the Hooks’ primary logo in various elements, plus Nolan Ryan’s iconic “34” logo.

Robert August (born 1945) is an American surfer and surfboard shaper, most famous as one of the subjects of Bruce Brown’s 1966 surf documentary “The Endless Summer” with friend Mike Hynson. The film follows the two pursuing their hobby world-wide during the California off-season, meeting other surfers and discussing surf culture. August picked up surfing in the 1950s, when the sport’s popularity had just begun. His father, Blackie August, was also a noted surfer. Robert’s enthusiasm for and involvement in “The Endless Summer” influenced the sport’s growth for decades to come. His surfboards are sold under the Robert August Surfboards brand. He continues to travel the world promoting surfing, and in 1994 was involved in the shooting of “The Endless Summer II,” in which surfers Pat O’Connell and Robert “Wingnut” Weaver retrace the places visited by August and Hynson 30 years earlier.

Nolan Ryan – Elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility, Nolan Ryan was inducted on July 25, 1999, on 98.79 percent of eligible ballots, the second-highest figure in history. He is the only player to have his uniform number retired by three different teams, the Los Angeles Angels (#30) and Houston Astros (#34) joining the Texas Rangers (#34). Ryan compiled a 324-292 record and 3.19 earned run average over 807 appearances in an unprecedented 27 seasons with the New York Mets (1966; 1968-71), California Angels (1972-79), Astros (1980-88), and Rangers (1989-93). The all-time leader in strikeouts (5,714) and no-hitters (7), Ryan has owned or shared 53 Major League records. An eight-time All-Star, he also threw 12 one-hitters, tying Bob Feller for the most ever, and owns two of the top four single-season strikeout totals in Major League history, including an all-time best 383 with the 1973 Angels.

Ryan is executive advisor to Houston Astros owner Jim Crane.

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

Halloween with the Hooks

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

CORPUS CHRISTI – The Fourth Annual Halloween with the Hooks Celebration, presented by Ashley HomeStore, is scheduled for Thursday, October 26.

Whataburger Field gates open at 6 p.m. that evening, and entertainment runs until 9.

“This is a wonderful community event, and we can’t wait to see many of our friends back at the ballpark,” Hooks President Ken Schrom said. “We’ll have a number of sponsors and non-profits giving candy away to the kids and there will be numerous fun activities for young families.”

Among the various activities on Stripes Diamond and in the Driscoll Health Plan Kids Zone:

  • Bounce House
  • Corn Hole
  • Playground
  • Obstacle Course
  • Rockwall
  • Trampoline

Kieschnick’s Korner will be the site of additional child-centered games and contests.

Guests can also enjoy a costume contest and Halloween-themed videos; selections this year come from the Scooby-Doo and Peanuts archives.

Admission to Halloween with the Hooks is free. Guests are encouraged to donate a canned food item for the Coastal Bend Food Bank.

Corpus Christi’s Ashley HomeStore is located at 5001 S. Padre Island Drive, or go to ashleyfurniturehomestore.com

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

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Missing Children Found After Being Featured on ONEOK Field Sign

The Tulsa Drillers are pleased to announce that five of the missing children seen on signage at ONEOK Field this season have been located and returned home safely.

Eight different children were featured this year on The BairFind Foundation signage located on the first base concourse between Drill Bits and the main concession stands. Last year, three of the four kids featured were successfully located after their faces were shown on the sign at Drillers games.

The foundation confirmed that Alexis Bridges, Patrik Morrow, Neydy Amador-Lara, Stacie Dubbs, and Jesika Mosby had all been found and safely returned to their homes in Tulsa and the surrounding area.

The BairFind Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to finding missing children, placed more than 1,000 photos of missing kids in 151 MiLB ballparks this past season. Over 385 of those children featured were safely found. Of those successfully returned home, 31 of the kids shown in the ballparks in the Texas League were safely located. All 151 participating teams had at least one featured child who was found and returned home this summer.

“We are thrilled to have seen more than double the number of kids found from last year to this year while expanding the search in even more ballparks,” said BairFind Foundation Director, Dennis Bair.

The search continues for Tory Ashley and Kaitlyn Hicks from Tulsa, and Paige Moore from Broken Arrow, the three remaining children seen on the BairFind Foundation’s poster this season. Fans wishing to support or learn more about the work of The BairFind Foundation can visit their website at www.bairfind.org.

The Foundation would like to highlight the fact that the top proven method to locating missing children is to have as many eyes as possible looking. If you or someone you know has any information on the whereabouts of a missing child, please call 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or visit www.missingkids.com to report the information.

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

NATURALS FUNDRAISING PROGRAM SETS NEW RECORDS IN 2017

SPRINGDALE, Ark – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are proud to announce that the popular Naturals Ticket Fundraising Program enjoyed a record year in 2017 by establishing new highs in participating groups, tickets sold, and total money raised.

During the 2017 regular season and playoffs, which consisted of 70 home games, the Naturals partnered with 171 groups that included but were not limited to High School Baseball teams, school and musical groups, churches, and non-profits. The new mark of 171 organizations was 46 more than the previous record of 125 groups set during the 2016 season at Arvest Ballpark.

The increase in participating groups caused an increase in tickets sold and the amount of money raised. In 2017, 33,653 tickets were sold by participating groups as part of the fundraising program. The increase of 4,483 tickets sold over 2016 led to an increase in the money raised as a combined amount of $132,557 went back to the participating organizations this year. The amount raised of $132,557 set a new record, which broke the existing record of $119,217 set during the previous season.

Fundraising dates are currently available for the 2018 season of Naturals baseball. Additional information on the Naturals Ticket Fundraising Program can be found on our website at www.nwanaturals.com under the Groups & Events tab or by emailing us at groups@nwanaturals.com. To check on date availability or if you have any questions about any of the group or fundraising programs offered by the Naturals, please call us at (479) 927-4900 or visit our Administrative Offices located at Arvest Ballpark.

The Naturals Ticket Fundraising Program continues to grow in popularity and will be available to groups on a first-come, first-served basis. The program is designed to offer groups the chance to invite families and supporters of their respective cause to come out to a game, have fun, and keep a large portion of the ticket sales. Depending on the final number of attendees, the participating group will get to keep anywhere from 25%-50% of the organization’s ticket sales. As an incentive and a reward, the Naturals offer prizes to top sellers of groups and they include tours, autographs, game tickets, and First Pitch opportunities.

Non-profit groups seeking more exposure for their organization can inquire about the Community Partner Program that offers free marketing exposure for participating groups to go along with the standard benefits of the ticket fundraising program.

Follow the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on Facebook and Twitter @NWANaturals all throughout the year by using the hashtag #NaturalPastime and #CrowntoCrown for all of our up-to-date information on the upcoming 2018 season of Naturals baseball.

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.

RoughRiders raise more than $30,000 for Hurricane Harvey relief

FRISCO, Texas (Sept. 6, 2017) – The Frisco RoughRiders Foundation raised $30,856 for Hurricane Harvey relief throughout the team’s final homestand of the regular season, which ended Sept. 4. The proceeds will be donated to the American Red Cross.

“The outpouring of support for those impacted by Hurricane Harvey over the last week is truly inspiring,” RoughRiders Chief Operating Officer Scott Burchett said. “We’re so proud to witness the tremendous generosity of RoughRiders fans and their unwavering assistance for our neighbors along the southeast Texas coast.”

The RoughRiders, the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, employed several fundraising efforts during the seven-game homestand, including 10 percent from all sales at the Riders Outpost team store, proceeds from special Pass the Boot activities during games, cash donations at the RoughRiders Foundation table and auctions of RoughRiders items.

Riders Outpost also has limited edition “Texas Tough” T-Shirts available both in store and online for a minimum $10 donation to the American Red Cross’ Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. More than 1,000 t-shirts have been ordered and will continue to be available at roughriders.milbstore.com through Friday, Sept. 8.

Fans can visit www.redcross.org/donate/cm/friscorr-pub for more information and to continue to donate. Donations through the American Red Cross are welcome by texting HARVEY to 90999.

About the RoughRiders Foundation

The mission of the RoughRiders Foundation is to enhance the community we serve through charitable contributions, grants, and programming initiatives. The RoughRiders Foundation supports programs and organizations in our community that motivate and reward children and families in the areas of education, good health and community services activities.

For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders Foundation, contact Breon Dennis at breon@ridersbaseball.com or at community@ridersbaseball.com.

About the RoughRiders

The Frisco RoughRiders are the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers and play their games at beautiful Dr Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, Texas. The team was founded in 2003 and has finished first among all Double-A franchises in attendance in each of the last 12 seasons (2005-2016). In August 2014, the RoughRiders were purchased by an ownership group led by Chuck Greenberg. The new ownership group, together with the city of Frisco, has spearheaded numerous major franchise improvements over the past two seasons, investing nearly $8 million in a wide array of facility upgrades and improvements, including a new state-of-the-art HD video board, sound system, Bull Moose Saloon, InTouch Grille, Riders Outpost Team Store and the newest and biggest creation, the 174-foot Choctaw Lazy River. The upgrades made prior to the 2015 season earned the Riders and the City of Frisco “Best Ballpark Renovation” of 2015 by Ballpark Digest. The same publication also honored the Choctaw Lazy River as the best ballpark improvement over $1 million for the 2016 season. More than 140 former RoughRiders players have gone on to play Major League Baseball, including All-Stars Chris Davis, Adrian Gonzalez, Ian Kinsler and Nelson Cruz, as well as current Rangers stars Elvis Andrus, Rougned Odor and Nomar Mazara. For more information on the Frisco RoughRiders and Dr Pepper Ballpark, please visit RidersBaseball.com or contact Art Garcia at AGarcia@RidersBaseball.com or Ryan Rouillard at RRouillard@RidersBaseball.com.

Hooks Homestand: Hurricane Harvey Relief

CORPUS CHRISTI – When Hooks Baseball returns to Whataburger Field for four games this Labor Day Weekend, Coastal Bend residents have an opportunity to provide financial assistance and critical supplies to those affected by Hurricane Harvey in the Coastal Bend.

Hooks VP/GM Michael Wood announced Wednesday that a portion of the weekend’s proceeds from all ballpark points-of-sale, including retail, concessions, the Whataburger store, Rudy’s Prize Wheel, and the Driscoll Health Plan Kids Zone will go for Hurricane Harvey relief.

In addition, $5 from the sale of every ticket $6 or more goes to the relief effort.

“Our hope is that this weekend’s games offer a respite for those whose lives have been disrupted by such great calamity,” Wood said. “It’s a way for all of us to give back to the Coastal Bend as people work to get back on their feet and rebuild their communities.”

To promote affordability for citizens of affected areas, the Hooks are offering FREE PARKING and “Pay What You Can” seating in Corner Box Reserved sections of the ballpark, based on availability. There is also a grass Berm accommodation when Corner Box seat inventory is exhausted.

To submit an online contribution to our #CoastalBendStrong initiative, go to YouCaring.com/CoastalBendStrong

All proceeds go directly to affected Coastal Bend areas.

The Hooks and San Antonio Missions meet September 2, 3, and 4, at 7:05, 4:05, and 4:05, respectively. Gates open at 5:35, 3:05, and 3:05. Sunday features a doubleheader.

Additional Fundraising

Autographed Corpus Christi Game-Worn Jersey Auction: The Hooks will wear their road gray “Corpus Christi” jersey set during the San Antonio series. Submit your bids online Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Go to cchooks.com beginning Saturday.

Cash Donations: You can provide cash donations to the effort all homestand long by simply contributing at the 5-gallon water bottle at Section 119.

Home Run Dollars: Hooks players have agreed to dedicate their season-long home run dollar take to the effort, so be sure to stuff your dollars into the bait bucket when it’s passed your way after a Corpus Christi home run.

Critical Supply Donations

Ainsworth Trucking is providing a trailer for supplies on the ballpark’s west-side service drive. Donations can be made from 10 a.m. until the end of each game. Please bring:

‣bottled water

‣non-perishable food items

‣baby food & formula

‣diapers

‣toiletries

‣toilet paper

‣blankets

‣dried pet food

‣animal crates

Earlier this week, the Astros announced the following hurricane relief efforts:

*Jim Crane, the Astros Ownership group and the Astros Foundation pledged to donate $4.0 million to the hurricane relief efforts.

*Proceeds from the Share2Care 50/50 raffle for the remainder of the season will be donated to the American Red Cross, Houston relief efforts targeting hurricane victims.

*Fans wishing to assist in the Hurricane Harvey relief efforts can now visit YouCaring.com/AstrosHarvey to donate. Proceeds will benefit the Astros Foundation’s hurricane relief efforts.

*Additionally, Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association announced that those parties will jointly donate $1.0 million to various relief efforts for the damage throughout the state of Texas created by Hurricane Harvey, including to the American Red Cross.

*The Ballpark of the Palm Beaches, the Spring Training home of the Astros in West Palm Beach, Florida, is also assisting the hurricane relief efforts. They have teamed up with Crane Worldwide to get needed supplies to Houston. The staff at The Ballpark of the Palm Beaches is accepting donations for the hurricane victims. Crane Worldwide will provide the transportation of the collected items from Florida to Houston. Items can be dropped off at 5444 Haverhill Road, West Palm Beach, Florida 33407, through Wednesday, September 6.

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

Five August Promotions Added to Impact Community

Bear Up on Missouri State Bears Night – Saturday, August 19

The Cardinals are excited to “Bear Up” this year and are excited to host Missouri State Bears Night on Saturday, August 19 to help get everyone ready for the fall sports schedule.

As part of Missouri State Bears Night, the Cardinals are going to show their MSU support by wearing Missouri State Bears Specialty Cardinals Jerseys during that night’s game against the Corpus Christi Hooks. Not only a first-time co-branded and game-worn collectible item, the specialty jerseys will be auctioned off during the game to benefit the Foundation for Springfield Public Schools.

Cardinals and Bears fans can also show their Springfield sports pride with the Missouri State Bears Theme Ticket. Rescheduled from the rained out game on April 29, the Cardinals and Bears Theme Ticket includes one seat to the 6:10pm game on August 19 and a co-branded Cardinals cap with the Bears logo on the back, all for only $15.

For more information on Missouri State Bears Night at Hammons Field on Saturday, August 19, call the Cardinals Front Office at (417) 863-0395.

Click here to order your Missouri State Bears Theme Ticket right now.

Get Four Free Tickets with Cardinals Kids Fun & Fit Day, presented by Anthem – Saturday, August 19

In an effort to promote the fun of a fit and healthy lifestyle among young Cardinals fans throughout the Ozarks, the Springfield Cardinals are excited to partner with Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield to present the Cardinals Kids Fun & Fit Day on Saturday, August 19.

Cardinals Kids Fun & Fit Day, presented by Anthem, will run from 9 – 11am on Saturday, August 19. All kids are welcome to come to Hammons Field during that time to participate in a fun fitness course on the field.

All kids that complete the fitness course will receive four free tickets to their choice of one game from a list of select 2017 Regular Season games. All kids that participate will also receive a complimentary Springfield Cardinals Cap and more.

There is no charge for kids to participate in the Cardinals Kids Fun & Fit Day on Saturday, August 19. For more information, call the Cardinals Front Office at (417) 863-0395.

St. Louis Cardinals Ticket Voucher Giveaway & Matt Gifford Day – Sunday, August 20

To celebrate the contributions and impacts that former Springfield Cardinals Vice President / General Manager Matt Gifford made at the ballpark and throughout the community, the Springfield Cardinals are excited to host Matt Gifford Day on Sunday, August 20.

The first Vice President / General Manager in team history, Matt guided the Springfield Cardinals to 12 and a half years of excellence on and off the field before being promoted by the St. Louis Cardinals to Vice President of Stadium Operations at Busch Stadium on June 20, 2017.

The Sunday, August 20 game will also feature an added giveaway to the Promotional Schedule – the St. Louis Cardinals 2018 Ticket Voucher Giveaway (2,000), giving fans the opportunity to see Matt at Busch Stadium next year.

With so many relationships developed throughout the years, Sunday, August 20 will celebrate Matt and give fans the chance to wish him luck in his new role at Busch Stadium. Leading up to Matt Gifford Day, fans are welcome to sign a “Thank You, Matt” banner at the ballpark during every game throughout the August 15 – 20 Homestand. Then on Sunday, August 20, the 2:10pm game will be preceded by special ceremonies at Hammons Field to recognize Matt’s contributions to the Springfield community.

For more information on Matt Gifford Day at Hammons Field, call the Cardinals Front Office at (417) 863-0395.

Family 4-Pack is back for Sunday, August 20

After great response in July, the Cardinals are excited to bring back the Family 4-Pack for the Sunday, August 20 game, providing a new way for families to make memories at Hammons Field.

Available right now for the Sunday, August 20 game, the Family 4-Pack includes:

-4 Seats for the Sunday, August 20 game
-4 Hot Dogs
-4 Cardinals Caps
-4 Sodas
-All for just $44!

Add-ons to the 4-Pack are just $11 for those with more than four fans in their families. Family 4-Packs for Sunday, August 20 are available right now by clicking the link below or calling the Ticket Office at (417) 863-2143. Sunday, August 20 is also Matt Gifford Day with the St. Louis Cardinals 2018 Ticket Voucher Giveaway for 2,000 fans. That Sunday is also a Hiland Dairy Ice Cream Sunday with free ice cream for kids before the game and Kids Run the Bases after the game. First Pitch is 2:10pm with gates opening at 1:10pm.

Click here to order your Family 4-Pack for Sunday, August 20 right now.

Newborns in Need Baby Supplies and Diaper Drive – Sunday, August 27

For their third charitable drive of the month, the Springfield Cardinals are excited to partner with Newborns in Need to host the Baby Supplies and Diaper Drive at Hammons Field.

Running right now through the Sunday, August 27 game at Hammons Field, the Cardinals are seeking donations of new baby supplies and diapers. All fans that donate from the list of needed baby supplies below may purchase a discounted $1 ticket to the August 27 game for each item donated.

Below is a list of needed baby supplies for the Newborns in Need Drive:

-Diapers
-Pacifiers
-Bottles
-Baby Lotion
-Baby Shampoo
-Baby Wash
-70-80 count Baby Wipes
-Baby Socks
-Newborn or Preemie sized Onesies
-Baby Board Books

To donate, please bring your new baby supplies from the above list to the Cardinals Ticket Office at Gate 1 at Hammons Field. The Ticket Office is open from 9am – 5pm, Monday – Friday, and from 9am through the game on gamedays.

First Pitch on Sunday, August 27 is 2:10pm with gates opening at 1:10pm. That Sunday is also a Hiland Dairy Ice Cream Sunday with free ice cream for kids before the game. All kids can then run the bases after the game.

For more information, call the Front Office at (417) 863-0395 or visit SpringfieldCardinals.com.

1987 National League Championship Replica Rings, Charlie Brown Bobbleheads, Friday Night Fireworks and more during August 15 – 20 Homestand

The Cardinals kick off the road trip in San Antonio at 7:05pm on Tuesday night. Catch all the action live on Jock 98.7 FM and SpringfieldCardinals.com, and tune in 15 minutes early for the Coyote’s Sports Cafe Pregame Show.

Springfield then returns home for the next fun-filled homestand from Tuesday, August 15 – Sunday, August 20. Don’t miss any of the upcoming fun, including:

-Tuesday, August 15, 6:30pm – Great Southern Bank $1 Dog Day. Gates open at 5:30pm.

-Wednesday, August 16, 6:30pm – Wednesday Night Baseball vs. San Antonio Missions. Gates open at 5:30pm.

-Thursday, August 17, 7:10pm – St. Louis Cardinals Replica 1987 National League Championship Ring Giveaway (2,000) and Klement’s “Buck a Brat” Night. Gates open at 6:10pm.

-Friday, August 18, 7:10pm – AM Pyrotechnics Friday Night Fireworks highlighting 20th Anniversary of 1997 Hits. Gates open at 6:10pm.

-Saturday, August 19, 6:10pm – St. Louis Cardinals Charlie Brown & Peanuts 50th Anniversary Bobblehead Giveaway (2,000). Gates open at 5:10pm.

-Sunday, August 20, 2:10pm – Matt Gifford Day with the St. Louis Cardinals 2018 Ticket Voucher Giveaway (2,000), Hiland Dairy Ice Cream Sunday and Kids Run the Bases. Gates open at 1:10pm.

For information about becoming a Season Ticket Holder, organizing a Group Outing, booking a Birthday Party or ordering Individual Game Tickets right now, call the Front Office at (417) 863-2143 or visit SpringfieldCardinals.com.

Click here for the complete 2017 Promotional Schedule and to order your tickets right now.

Escape to Cardinals Baseball!

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