By Josh:
I started this series just a few days ago and I am so excited with the response I am getting. Not because teams want to be featured but because the amazing things they are doing will be highlighted.
For years I’ve been around Minor League Baseball and College Wood Bat leagues. For me it is easy to see the impact that teams have in communities but to express it wasn’t something I was entirely sure I could do in writing. However, after getting information from a few teams already I am seeing there is so much that I can say.
Even though I’ve never been to an Erie SeaWolves game (AA affiliate of the Detroit Tigers), It is still easy to see that the SeaWolves are committed to their community. Every year the team donates over $250,000 in goods, services and contributions to the community. In 2015 the team was awarded a Commitment to Erie award for their efforts.
The SeaWolves have even expanded their commitment to give back as they have created a scholarship in honor of Chace Numata, a player who tragically passed away in 2019.
Giving back to the community, while also being involved in growing the game is something I personally care quite a bit about. The SeaWolves, like the PaddleHeads in my first article, are taking steps to grow the game for everyone. Sponsoring both youth baseball and softball programs, hosting clinics throughout the summer and providing free tickets to kids under 12 for Sunday home games.
The SeaWolves are also the lead sponsor for the Miracle League of Erie County. If you haven’t heard of Miracle League programs it is an amazing opportunity for kids and adults with physical and mental disabilities to participate in the game of baseball.
With Minor League teams across the country I could write articles about all the players they have had go onto play in the Major Leagues and make all star teams or win awards and championships, but the real impact of Minor League Baseball is truly the effect it has on the community.
Summer nights at the ball field are where kids dream about their future as a professional baseball player. It is where families go to get out from in front of the tv and enjoy a beautiful evening, maybe even eat a few hot dogs or hamburgers. Ball fields are where new friends are met and relationships can be strengthened.
Minor League teams are a part of the heart of a community. Losing a team doesn’t just hurt the game of baseball but hurts the entire community.
(Side Note: If you are a member of a front office for a minor league team or college summer league team and would like to have your team profiled in this series please let me know. My goal is to profile as many teams as possible this off season and beyond.)