New York Yankees 2019 Spring Training Schedule

Press Release - Minor League Baseball and Satisfi Labs Partner to Enhance Fan Experience

Minor League Baseball and Satisfi Labs Partner to Enhance Fan Experience

Bilingual artificial intelligence solution amplifies league-wide multicultural initiative

ST. PETERSBURG, Florida — Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) today announced a new collaboration with Satisfi Labs, a leading artificial intelligence engagement platform, to create a bilingual customer service AI conversation platform for more than 30 MiLB teams. This unique partnership marks the first time a sports league will communicate with its fans in both English and Spanish by leveraging Satisfi Labs’ AI capabilities.

This new product solution will amplify MiLB’s national multicultural initiative “Es Divertido Ser Un Fan®” (It’s Fun to Be a Fan®”) and its new “Copa de la Diversión™” (“Fun Cup™”) season-long event series specifically designed to embrace the culture and values that resonate most with participating teams’ local U.S. Hispanic/Latino communities. The interface will initially be made available to the participating “Copa” teams to support their respective fan engagement efforts.

The AI platform will operate within individual teams’ Facebook Messenger pages and serve to answer fans’ questions pertaining to aspects of the gameday experience such as ticketing, parking, and other common inquiries surrounding the venue, game, and teams, while providing unique answers based on the users’ locations. The platform’s bilingual capability allows each team to effectively connect and engage with their fans in the language of their choice to provide the right information, at the right place, in real-time.

“Our new partnership with Satisfi Labs reinforces our tech-infused strategy specifically designed to improve the fan experience any time they engage with MiLB,” said David Wright, Minor League Baseball Chief Marketing and Commercial Officer. “This cutting-edge technology will better our ability to understand the fan journey by providing a platform for our teams to engage a more diverse audience and turn data into intelligent action.”

“We’ve developed several unique platforms for brands across entertainment, retail, and sports, but this is the first tool we’ve created that can communicate as efficiently in Spanish as in English. We’re excited to expand our offerings in AI conversation platforms to the Hispanic community and support one of the largest sports leagues in the U.S. in its effort to better connect with all of its fans,” said Don White, CEO and Co-Founder of Satisfi Labs.

MiLB and Satisfi Labs plan to roll out an expanded AI conversation platform and league-wide fan engagement tool for the 2019 season.

New York Yankees Star Aaron Judge Named Topps Card No. 1 for 2018

New York Yankees Star Aaron Judge Named Topps Card No. 1 for 2018

The Annual Topps® Baseball Card Set Arrives January 31

(New York, N.Y., January 29) – New York Yankees star Aaron Judge continues to earn accolades as the reigning American League Rookie of the Year was voted to be Card No. 1 in 2018 Topps® Baseball Series 1 by thousands of fans as revealed exclusively on MLB Network today.

Baseball fans can get the newest Topps Judge card when the Major League Baseball season kicks off with 2018 Topps Baseball Series 1 hitting the stores on January 31. They can also find rookie cards, autograph cards of their favorite players, and an interactive sweepstakes that will last all baseball season with Home Run Challenge.

“Aaron Judge transcended baseball during his record-breaking rookie season,” said David Leiner, Topps Global General Manager. “Fans from across the league were excited to see him play so it comes as no surprise they voted for him to be Card No. 1 for this year’s set. We are thrilled to add him to the list of great players that have been featured on the first card of the year.”

Judge joins players such as Jackie Robinson, Ted Williams, Mike Piazza and Derek Jeter as those who have claimed Card No. 1. Mike Trout and Kris Bryant were voted to the top spot the last two seasons, respectively, through an online vote.

Topps, the exclusive trading card partner of Major League Baseball, provides an experience unlike any other. Baseball fans and collectors can’t replicate the fun they have when opening a pack of cards.

Collecting and trading baseball cards has become a hobby that crosses generations with longtime collectors and newcomers alike getting in on the action.

“Collecting baseball cards is a great family activity from the moment you open a pack to getting your favorite player and then putting them in a binder,” Leiner said. “Baseball cards resonate with fans, which you see at the ballpark with fans asking players to sign their Topps cards or in stores where people get together to share in a special hobby.”

This year’s annual release looks at memorable moments and milestones including Jackie Robinson Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Memorial Day, and special throwback nights depicting unique uniforms worn. Topps is also honoring MLB’s award winners from 2017 with special cards made for the Most Valuable Players, Rookie of the Year award winners, Comeback Player of the Year and more.

Baseball fans can find the newest Topps baseball product in hobby shops, mass retailers and at Topps.com.

Thunder Extend Netting At ARM & HAMMER Park for 2018 Season

Thunder Extend Netting At ARM & HAMMER Park for 2018 Season

The Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, are pleased to announce that the backstop netting at ARM & HAMMER Park has been extended for the 2018 season.

The backstop net at ARM & HAMMER Park will be the first in Minor League Baseball to use the green MLB-exclusive knotless netting. The backstop netting will extend in a triangle shape to the end of the dugout on both sides of the ballpark.

"Following the recommendations of Major League Baseball, we explored many options for how we could comply," said Thunder GM/COO Jeff Hurley. "Fan safety is a top priority for us and we found this netting from C & H Baseball was the perfect balance of safety without affecting sightlines for our fans."

The project has been completed for Opening Day at ARM & HAMMER Park as the franchise prepares for it's 25th season.

"Providing a great ballpark experience includes ensuring the safety of spectators," said Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes. "I applaud Thunder management for taking this step to further protect fans without detracting from their ability to enjoy the game."

C & H Baseball, based in Lakewood Ranch, FL, has produced baseball field equipment, backstop netting, and stadium padding design, production, and installation for over 49 years.

Your Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, will begin the 2018 season, the 25th in franchise history, on Thursday, April 5 when they host the Richmond Flying Squirrels (San Francisco Giants). Season tickets, Pic-A-Plans, Mini Plans and Group Tickets are on sale now at www.TrentonThunder.com and by phone at 609-394-3300.

--THUNDER--

“Curacao Kid” Andruw Jones Signs on for RiverDogs Hot Stove Banquet

“Curacao Kid” Andruw Jones Signs on for RiverDogs Hot Stove Banquet

Braves slugger and ten-time gold glover will be the featured guest at the 14^th annual event

CHARLESTON, S.C. – One of the great all-around players of his generation, a winner of ten consecutive gold gloves, ten straight 20-homer seasons, and a 2005 Silver Slugger Award, former Braves great Andruw Jones will be the featured guest at the Charleston RiverDogs’ 14^th Annual Hot Stove Banquet & Auction presented by Tom McQueeney State Farm on Friday, February 2 at the Charleston Marriott Crystal Ballroom.

The RiverDogs, the Class-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, welcome a former member of the Braves for the eighth time and a former Yankee, also for an eighth instance in the annual event’s history. The Hot Stove Banquet has become one of the most highly anticipated occasions by RiverDogs fans each season.  Past speakers include Bobby Cox, John Smoltz, Tom Glavine, Ryne Sandberg, Wade Boggs, and Goose Gossage in an event that brings baseball fans together to celebrate the magic of America’s pastime.

Jones, a five-time All-Star, will share behind-the-scenes stories, answer questions, and pose for pictures. The event will open with a cocktail hour and silent auction that includes baseball memorabilia from past Hot Stove speakers, collectibles from RiverDogs Director of Fun Bill Murray, vacation packages, and more, beginning at 6pm.

Tom McQueeney State Farm Insurance is the presenting sponsor for the 11th consecutive year. Proceeds from the Hot Stove Banquet benefit The Citadel, College of Charleston and Charleston Southern baseball scholarship funds.

Over an accomplished 17-year big league career, Jones collected over 1,900 hits and slugged 434 home runs while batting .254/.337/.486 with 152 stolen bases. He spent 12 years with Atlanta after signing as an international free agent at age 16 with the Braves out of Willemstad, Curacao in 1993, and finished his career in pinstripes over two seasons with the Yankees.

Inserted as a regular his rookie year in 1996, Jones made his Major League debut as just a 19-year-old, and helped the Braves win a second consecutive NL pennant in his first of ten years in which he both won a gold glove and produced at least 20 homers from 1998-2007. Jones broke out as arguably the game’s biggest young star during his rookie season after Braves GM Mark Schuerholz dealt away Mark Whitten to the Mariners following a World Series title in 1995, confident in the 19-year-old’s ability. Jones was named the top prospect in the South Atlantic League the year prior after leading the Class A circuit in runs scored (104) and stolen bases (56) while batting .277, and being named the Braves’ Minor League Player of the Year.

The “Curacao Kid” played a crucial role in Atlanta’s 1996 run that just fell short, including becoming the youngest player to hit a home run in the October Classic, taking Andy Pettitte deep in his first at-bat of Game One before adding a second inning dinger off Brian Boehringer to etch his name into history as the first player since 1972 to hit home runs in their first two World Series at-bats.

Jones had his best season as a pro in 2005 when he hit .263 with 51 homers that led all of baseball and 128 RBI to earn the Hank Aaron Award as the National League’s top hitter, Silver Slugger accolades, and a second-place finish in the NL MVP race behind Albert Pujols. The 6’1” slugger’s age-28 season was the peak of an impressive tenure in the Majors that included a pair of 40-homer seasons (seven 30 HR seasons), five 100-RBI campaigns, and four years in which he scored at least 100 runs. His ten career gold glove awards in the outfield are bested only by Willie Mays and Roberto Clemente who hold 12 each.

Individual tickets to the Hot Stove Banquet are $75 and can be purchased online at riverdogs.com and rileyparkevents.com. Groups can reserve a table of eight for $600 and a table for ten at $750 by contacting the RiverDogs Special Event Department at (843) 577-DOGS (3647).

RiverDogs season tickets, half-season ticket packages, and flex plans, including options to the Riley Park Club, are now available for the 2018 campaign. The RiverDogs begin the season on April 12 when they host the Kannapolis Intimidators at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, preceded by a weeklong road trip to open the year and an exhibition opener at The Joe on April 3 against Myrtle Beach. Ticket information can be secured by contacting the box office at (843) 577-DOGS (3647) or online at www.riverdogs.com/tickets.

--RIVERDOGS--

Previous Hot Stove Speakers

2017 – Tom Glavine

2016 – Ryne Sandberg

2015 – Goose Gossage & Brett Gardner

2014 – Phil Niekro & Javy Lopez

2013 – Wade Boggs

2012 – John Smoltz

2011 – Bobby Cox

2010 – Dale Murphy

2009 – Gaylord Perry

2008 – Jeff Francoeur

2007 – Tommy John

2006 – Jim Bouton

2005 – Bobby Richardson

Thunder Welcome Nine To New Front Office Positions

Thunder Welcome Nine To New Front Office Positions

Lydia Rios has been promoted to VP, Marketing & Sponsorships

The 25th season of baseball at ARM & HAMMER Park is right around the corner and the Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, are pleased to welcome nine members of the organization to new positions for the 2018 season and beyond.

A lifelong resident of Hamilton Square, NJ, Lydia Rios has been promoted to VP, Marketing & Sponsorships. Rios joined the Thunder prior to the 2015 season and has overseen substantial increases in sponsorship revenue in three seasons leading the department.

"Lydia has been a fantastic addition to our team," said Thunder GM/COO Jeff Hurley. "Her passion and energy for life is infectious to our entire staff. Her always sunny attitude inspires every person on our staff from full-time employees to assistants to interns to game day staff to smile and have fun while working here. Her previous experience working in the marketplace has made her an indispensable leader in our sales efforts."

Within the Corporate Sales Department, Vince Marcucci has been promoted to Director, Corporate & Community Affairs. Marcucci joined the Thunder prior to the 2015 season as a Ticket Sales Account Representative and has since taken the reigns of the team's Community Affairs efforts and sits as the Executive Director of Grand Slam We Care, the team's 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Marcucci is a member of the Princeton Mercer Regional Convention and Visitor Bureau's Steering Committee, serves as the Vice-Chair of the Princeton Regional Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals, a member of the Lower Bucks County Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals Committee and serves on the Board of Directors for Advancing Opportunities. Marcucci was honored by the Princeton Regional Chamber of Commerce as a Champion for Business on October 5, 2017.

In the Creative Services department, the Thunder are pleased to welcome Deanna Lugo and Dylan DeSimine to new positions for the 2018 season. Lugo joined the team prior to the 2016 season as Production Manager and was promoted to Director, Creative Services in July of 2017. As Director, Lugo oversees all production and creative elements of the Thunder entertainment experience as well as the creation of all internal and external marketing materials for the organization. Originally from Ocean City, NJ, Lugo holds a bachelor's degree in Radio/Film/TV from Rowan University. Prior to joining the Thunder, Lugo spent time working for NFL Films in their camera department and NBC Sports Philadelphia as a Studio Technician.

DeSimine joins the Thunder after spending the 2017 season with the Wilmington Blue Rocks (Kansas City Royals, Advanced-A) as Web & Creative Services Assistant and Producer of the Rocks Report, a biweekly show about the team. DeSimine graduated from Rowan University with a Film & Broadcasting degree in 2016, has spent time working with the Production Department at the Philadelphia Eagles and can work a Star Wars reference into almost any coversation he takes part in.

The Thunder are pleased to welcome Jason Smith as Head Groundskeeper after one season working with the Baltimore Orioles Groundscrew. While with the Orioles, Smith worked under former Thunder Groundskeeper, Nicole Sherry, and will embark on his ninth season working in turf management. Smith was raised in Ames, Iowa and graduated from O'Gorman High School in 2004 (Sioux Falls, SD). While in college at the University of Northern Iowa, Smith played baseball and had Tommy John surgery performed by Dr. James Andrews before beginning his career in field and turf management with the Cedar Rapids Kernels (Minnesota Twins, Class-A).

In the Ticket and Group Sales Department, the Thunder are pleased to welcome Freddie Strebeck and Tommy Kay as Ticket Sales Account Representatives and Kevin Brady as Group Sales Account Executive.

Strebeck, a 2017 graduate of West Chester University with a degree in Communications and Journalism, hails from South Brunswick, NJ and joins the full-time staff after spending the 2017 season as a Front Office Intern and Group Sales Coordinator. As a student, he completed a Social Media Marketing internship with the Rams' Athletic Department. Strebeck, an avid sports fan, attended the clinching game of the both the 2008 and 2009 World Series.

Kay joins the Thunder after spending 2017 with the Wilmington Blue Rocks as a Ticket Sales Assistant. Kay hails from Springfield, NJ and graduated from Temple University with a degree in Sport and Recreation Management. While at Temple, Kay completed internships with the Philadelphia Soul and Burlington County Division of Parks.

Brady joined the team as a Ticket Sales Assistant in 2016 and joined the full-time staff as a Ticket Sales Account Representative during the following season. Originally from Stow, Massachusetts, Brady joined the Thunder after serving as an Event Operations Intern for the Philadelphia Union (MLS) and a Game Day Operations Intern for the Philadelphia Soul (Arena Football League) while he completed his degree in Marketing & Management from Penn State Abington in 2015. Brady is an avid New England Patriots fan and much to his disappointment, shares no relation to Tom.

Lauren Cox joined the team as Office Manager in May after graduating from Temple University's Sport and Recreation Management in 2016. Cox comes to the Thunder after completing internships with the Men's and Women's US Open Golf Tournaments and the Lehigh Valley Ironpigs (Philadelphia Philles, Class-AAA) in 2014, and with Comcast Spectacor in 2015 and 2016 in talent acquisition and employee engagement. Originally from East Windsor, NJ, Cox lists her favorite foods as pizza, pierogies and pickles.

Your Thunder, presented by NJM Insurance, will begin the 2018 season, the 25th in franchise history, on Thursday, April 5 when they host the Richmond Flying Squirrels (San Francisco Giants). Season tickets, Pick-A-Plans, Mini Plans and Group Tickets are on sale now at www.TrentonThunder.com and by phone at 609-394-3300.

--THUNDER--

IBWAA SELECTS BELLINGER, JUDGE IN ROOKIE AWARDS VOTE

IBWAA SELECTS BELLINGER, JUDGE IN ROOKIE AWARDS VOTE

 

Los Angeles – The Internet Baseball Writers Association of America (IBWAA) announced the winners in its rookie category Monday, with the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Cody Bellinger winning the 2017 IBWAA National League Rookie of the Year award unanimously, and Aaron Judge, of the New York Yankees, being selected as the 2017 IBWAA American League Rookie winner.

 

Bellinger received 146 first-place votes (100%) and 730 points.

 

Judge received 143 first-place votes (97.95%) and 721 points while being named on 145 of 146 ballots (98.64%). Others receiving first-place votes include Andrew Benintendi (2) and Jordan Montgomery (1).

 

Election results are as follows:

 

NL Rookie:

 

1^st Place:                  Cody Bellinger, Los Angeles Dodgers – 730 points
2^nd Place:                 Paul DeJong, St. Louis Cardinals – 163
3^rd Place :                  Josh Bell, Pittsburgh Pirates – 139

 

AL Rookie:

 

1^st Place:                  Aaron Judge , New York Yankees – 721 points
2^nd Place :                 Andrew Benintendi, Boston Red Sox – 305
3^rd Place:                  Trey Mancini, Baltimore Orioles – 75

 

Ballot tabulations by Brian Wittig & Associates, using the Borda Method.

 

The IBWAA was established July 4, 2009 to organize and promote the growing online baseball media, and to serve as a digital alternative to the Baseball Writers’ Association of America (BBWAA). Voting for full season awards takes place in September of each year, with selections being announced in November. The IBWAA also holds a Hall of Fame election in December of each year, with results being announced the following January.

 
Among others, IBWAA members include Tim Brown, Yahoo! Sports; Craig Calcaterra, NBC Sports Hardball Talk; Bill Chuck, Billy-Ball.com; Derrick Goold, St. Louis Post-Dispatch; Jon Heyman and Jesse Spector, Today’s Knuckleball; Danny Knobler, Bleacher Report; Kevin Kennedy; Kostya Kennedy, Sports Illustrated; Brian Kenny, MLBN; Will Leitch, Sports on Earth; Bruce Markusen, Hardball Times; Ross Newhan; Dayn Perry and Matt Snyder, CBSSports.com; Tom Hoffarth and J.P. Hoornstra Los Angeles Daily News; Pedro Moura, Los Angeles Times; Tracy Ringolsby, MLB.com; Ken Rosenthal, TheAthletic.com; Eno Sarris, FanGraphs; David Schoenfield of ESPN.com; Bill Bowden and Bill Arnold.

 

Association membership is open to any and all Internet baseball writers, with a $75 lifetime fee. Discounts for groups and scholarships are available. Members must be 18 years of age to apply.

For more information please visit www.ibwaa.com.

Contact:

 

Howard Cole
Founding Director, IBWAA
baseballsavvy@aol.com

STATEN ISLAND YANKEES RELEASE 2018 SEASON SCHEDULE

STATEN ISLAND YANKEES RELEASE 2018 SEASON SCHEDULE

Opening Day scheduled for Friday, June 15, against Brooklyn

STATEN ISLAND- The Staten Island Yankees are excited to announce the team's 2018 season schedule. The Baby Bombers kick off another action-packed summer for a 20th season of baseball on Staten Island, and it all begins at Richmond County Bank Ballpark at St. George on Friday, June 15, as cross-bridge rival Brooklyn takes a trip over the Verrazano Bridge.

New for the upcoming season, two of the team’s five Sunday home games (June 17 – Father’s Day and Sept. 2 – Final Regular Season Home Game) will have a 1:30 p.m. first pitch. Also new for 2018, the Staten Island Yankees host a “Businessperson’s Special” with a unique 2 p.m. first pitch on Wednesday, Aug. 22. The Baby Bombers host three Camp Days with two 11 a.m. first pitch dates (Monday, July 16, and Thursday, Aug. 9) and one noon first pitch date (Wednesday, Aug. 1). Standard first pitch times for home games are 4 p.m. on Sundays and 7 p.m. on Monday through Saturday. Gates for Richmond County Bank Ballpark open to fans one hour prior to first pitch.

Along with a few new start times, highlights of the 2018 schedule include games on Father’s Day, Fourth of July, and six home contests against arch-rival Brooklyn.

Fans can reserve season tickets, partial plans and group outings for the 2018 season by contacting a Staten Island Yankees ticket rep at (718) 720-9265 or by email at tickets@siyanks.com. Contact us today to reserve your tickets or for more information about the 2018 season.

The Staten Island Yankees are the Single A-Short Season Affiliate of the New York Yankees and play at the Richmond County Bank Ballpark at St. George. The Staten Island Yankees are six-time New York-Penn League Champions (2000, 2002, 2005, 2006, 2009 and 2011). For more information, visit siyanks.com.

-SIY-

The 2018 Tampa Yankees Schedule is now available

We are 150 Days Away from the 2018 Home Opener!  The 2018 Tampa Yankees Schedule is now available. Print or download it to all of your devices. We look forward to seeing you back at George M. Steinbrenner Field to battle for the 2018 Florida State League Championship! CLICK HERE TO PRINT SCHEDULE CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD SCHEDULE

Minor League Baseball Names 2017 Rawlings Gold Glove Award® Winners

Minor League Baseball Names 2017 Rawlings Gold Glove Award® Winners

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Minor League Baseball and Rawlings Sporting Goods Company, Inc., today announced the nine recipients of the 2017 Rawlings Gold Glove Award® for defensive excellence. The winners at each position were selected from players in the 10 domestic-based, full-season Minor Leagues. Each player will receive his own Rawlings Gold Glove Award, modeled after the iconic award given to Major League Baseball’s top defensive players, during the 2018 season.

“The Rawlings Gold Glove Award® is recognized as baseball’s highest measure of defensive excellence and this year’s nine Minor League Baseball recipients are certainly worthy of this incredible honor,” said Mike Thompson, Executive Vice-President of Marketing for Rawlings. “Our long-standing partnership with Minor League Baseball continues to grow and evolve and we’re proud to share this prestigious award platform with its athletes.”

“This group has emerged as the finest in the field at the Minor League level, and I am pleased to honor these nine recipients with a Rawlings Gold Glove Award®,” said Minor League Baseball President & CEO Pat O’Conner. “On behalf of Minor League Baseball, I congratulate each of them on their outstanding seasons.”

The 2017 Minor League Baseball recipients of the Rawlings Gold Glove Award® are as follows:

1B
Edwin Espinal
Altoona (AA), Indianapolis (AAA)
Pittsburgh

2B
Scott Kingery
Reading (AA), Lehigh Valley (AAA)
Philadelphia

SS
Daniel Castro
Albuquerque (AAA)
Colorado

3B
Ke’Bryan Hayes
Bradenton (A)
Pittsburgh

LF
Tyler Ramirez
Stockton (A), Midland (AA)
Oakland

CF
Jacob Hannemann
Tennessee (AA), Iowa (AAA)
Chicago (NL), Seattle

RF
Max Murphy
Fort Myers (A), Chattanooga (AA)
Minnesota

C
Jose Trevino
Frisco (AA)
Texas

P
Jordan Kipper
Mobile (AA), Bowie (AA), Norfolk (AAA)
Los Angeles (AL), Baltimore

Edwin Espinal posted the only perfect fielding percentage among Minor League first basemen in 2017. Espinal, 23, played 81 games at first base and recorded 698 putouts as an Eastern League All-Star with Double-A Altoona. He was promoted to Triple-A Indianapolis on July 28, finishing the year with 27 errorless games and 208 putouts as the Indians’ first baseman. A native of Mao Valverde, Dominican Republic, Espinal was signed by the Pittsburgh Pirates on May 27, 2011.

Second baseman Scott Kingery recorded a .989 fielding percentage in 113 games, the highest mark among second basemen in Minor League Baseball. The 23-year-old handled 277 total chances in 59 games for Double-A Reading, and 252 more in 54 games for Triple-A Lehigh Valley, helping turn 75 double plays across the two levels. Kingery was selected by the Phillies in the second round of the 2015 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of Arizona.
Albuquerque Isotopes shortstop Daniel Castro led all Minor League Baseball shortstops with a .989 fielding percentage in 96 games. Castro committed just five errors in 435 total chances, had a hand in 63 double plays and finished with 298 assists at shortstop. The 24-year-old from Guaymas, Mexico, signed with Colorado as a minor league free agent on November 21, 2016. He was originally signed by the Atlanta Braves in 2010.

Bradenton Marauders third baseman Ke’Bryan Hayes posted a .974 fielding percentage in 108 games at the hot corner. The 20-year-old committed only eight errors in 307 total chances, recording 245 assists. Hayes was selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the first round of the 2015 First-Year Player Draft out of Concordia Lutheran High School in Tomball, Texas.
Tyler Ramirez played 100 of his 128 defensive games in left field, and did not commit an error in 168 total chances with Class-A Stockton and Double-A Midland, finishing with a 1.000 fielding percentage. The Oakland Athletics selected Ramirez in the seventh round of the 2016 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Center fielder Jacob Hannemann recorded a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage in 106 games, handling 240 total chances. The 26-year-old opened the season with Double-A Tennessee, and was promoted to Triple-A Iowa before the Seattle Mariners claimed him off waivers and brought him to the big leagues in September. Hannemann was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the third round of the 2013 First-Year Player Draft out of Brigham Young University.
Max Murphy did not commit an error in 75 games in right field, nor in his 52 games in center, and recorded 18 outfield assists between Class-A Fort Myers and Double-A Chattanooga. Murphy, 24, secured 150 total chances across 669.2 total innings in right field. The Minnesota native was selected by the Twins in the ninth round of the 2014 First-Year Player Draft out of Bradley University.

Catcher Jose Trevino earned a Rawlings Gold Glove for the second straight season after the 24-year-old finished with a .996 fielding percentage behind the plate. Trevino, 24, allowed just three passed balls while catching 99 games this year for Double-A Frisco. Trevino also limited the running game, throwing out 41.3 percent (33 of 80) of would-be base stealers. Trevino was selected by the Rangers in the sixth round 2014 First-Year Player Draft out of Oral Roberts University.

Pitcher Jordan Kipper posted a perfect fielding percentage while handling 42 total chances in 132.1 innings pitched over 26 appearances (19 starts). The 24-year-old opened the season in Double-A Mobile before a trade on May 6 sent him to the Baltimore Orioles organization, where he appeared in nine games for Double-A Bowie and 12 for Triple-A Norfolk. Kipper was selected by the Los Angeles Angels in the ninth round of the 2014 First-Year Player Draft out of Texas Christian University.

Gleyber Torres signs with Topps

New York Yankees top prospect Gleyber Torres signs with Topps Authentics

The Topps Company has added Gleyber Torres to its Topps Authentics lineup. The New York Yankees' top prospect has signed an exclusive deal for autographed memorabilia with Topps Authentics.

Fans can learn more and order pieces at https://www.topps.com/topps-memorabilia/topps-authentics/athletes/gleyber-torres.html.

Topps Authentics, the memorabilia arm of The Topps Company, will offer signed baseballs and bats by Torres, who is rated in the top three of all MLB prospects, on Topps.com.

“I’m happy to be part of this big family,” said Torres, who has appeared on Topps’ Bowman line of baseball cards. “I’m happy to be here and everything Topps has done for me.”

Look for Torres’ signed memorabilia on Topps.com. 

Topps Authentics is also the exclusive home for signed memorabilia for MLB standouts Carlos Correa, Francisco Lindor, Luis Severino, prospect Mickey Moniak and more.

Minor League Baseball and Joe Torre Safe At Home Foundation Partner to Increase Awareness and Education of Domestic Violence

Minor League Baseball and Joe Torre Safe At Home Foundation Partner to Increase Awareness and Education of Domestic Violence

More than one million fans expected to see campaign in MiLB ballparks from July 17-24

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. and NEW YORK — Minor League Baseball^® (MiLB™) and The Joe Torre Safe At Home Foundation are collaborating to generate awareness about domestic violence and helping to end its destructive cycle. Beginning today, and continuing through July 24, Minor League Baseball teams are educating their fans about this growing epidemic and its lasting effects through in-park videos and public address announcements, as well as online through a social media campaign. Clubs will also provide fans with information on resources available to those who may be victims of domestic violence, specifically children. The effort is coordinated by Minor League Baseball Charities, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to giving back to and enhancing the communities MiLB teams call home.

The partnership with Minor League Baseball marks the first time The Joe Torre Safe At Home Foundation has aligned with a sports property on a league-wide initiative. As part of the awareness campaign, each participating MiLB team will raffle or auction off a Joe Torre autographed baseball to benefit a local organization that supports victims of domestic violence or the Safe At Home Foundation. Fans attending games during the promotional period will also receive a Topps card pack, along with a commemorative card featuring an image of Torre and facts about the Safe At Home Foundation.

The announcement to partner with Minor League Baseball clubs complements The Joe Torre Safe At Home Foundation’s integrated, national advertising campaign launched in April. To amplify its important mission and message, Safe At Home debuted its largest awareness campaign to date, and its first in nearly 12 years, called ‘End the Cycle.’ The Joe Torre Safe At Home Foundation’s mission is educating to end the cycle of domestic violence and save lives by providing intervention and prevention programs via its signature program “Margaret's Place.” As a byproduct of a home where domestic violence was prevalent, Joe, along with his wife, Ali, founded the Safe At Home Foundation in 2002 to reach children who are exposed to violence in their homes, schools and communities.

“I am so grateful to Pat O’Conner and Minor League Baseball for the commitment shown in raising awareness of domestic violence and the Safe At Home Foundation,” said Torre. “With more than 15 million children facing domestic violence every year, these events and partnerships are critical to educating the public, shedding light on the issue, and achieving our goals so that every child feels safe at home.”

“Domestic violence is a sensitive topic that people often don’t want to talk about or bring to the forefront, but we have an obligation to the children affected to do so,” said Pat O’Conner, Minor League Baseball President & CEO. “I’ve known Joe [Torre] for many years, and to be able to support a cause that is so personal to him and his family is very important to me. We consider our ballparks places where people feel safe, and having a forum like Safe At Home to address an otherwise taboo subject is something our clubs are eager to take part in and fully support.”

Minor League Baseball Charities has implemented several initiatives in Minor League Baseball ballparks this season including the ‘Cover Your Bases’ Sun Safety Initiative with the American Cancer Society, the Derrick Hall Pro-State Foundation Father’s Day Initiative and the BairFind Foundation Concourse Sign Project. This August, Minor League Baseball will once again activate the MiLB CommUNITY Initiative, a campaign designed to encourage fans to come together and stand up against discrimination and violence. Additionally, the organization has designated August “MiLB CommUNITY Month.” To learn more about Minor League Baseball Charities and its Charity Partners Program, visit MiLB.com.

For more information on domestic violence and the Safe At Home Foundation, visit www.joetorre.org. If you or someone you know is impacted by domestic violence, help is available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233.

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 2016, Minor League Baseball attracted 41.3 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.

Follow Minor League Baseball on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

About The Joe Torre Safe At Home Foundation 

Reaching more than 12,000 middle and high school students annually in L.A. and metropolitan New York, Safe At Home has reached more than 60,000 students since 2002, through individual and group counseling, school-wide campaigns, peer leadership, and educational opportunities. The Joe Torre Safe At Home Foundation helps young people overcome their fears, heal from trauma, and end the cycle of violence that all too often continues on through generations. For more information, visit www.joetorre.org. Follow the Foundation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 

Four Yankees Named to Double-A’s Eastern League All Star Team

Four Players Named To Eastern League All-Star Team

The Eastern League announced Wednesday that four players, RHP Yefry Ramirez, LHP Justus Sheffield, INF Thairo Estrada and 1B Mike Ford have been named to the Eastern League All-Star Game, taking place on Wednesday July 13 at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium in Manchester, New Hampshire.

2017 marks the second mid-summer classic for Ramirez, in 2015 with the Missoula Osprey (Rookie, Pioneer League) he was named a mid-season All-Star. In his first season at Double-A, Ramirez has gone 7-3 with a 3.48 ERA with 66 strikeouts in 64.2 innings pitched. Ramirez was named the Eastern League Player of the Week for the week ending May 21 and enters play on June 28 ranked tenth in the league in ERA (3.48), tied for second in wins (7), fourth in batting average against (.232), and first in strikeouts per nine innings (9.19) among starting pitchers.

Sheffield earns the honor in his first full season as a member of the Yankees organization. In 14 starts for the Thunder he's compiled a 6-5 record with a 3.28 ERA. Sheffield has twice been named Eastern League Player of the Week and on Sunday, June 18 against the Erie SeaWolves, Sheffield threw his first career shutout. Entering play on June 28, Sheffield's 3.28 ERA ranks seventh in the League and his 69 strikeouts are third highest in the league. 2017 marks the third straight mid-season All-Star award for the left-hander from Tullahoma, Tennessee.

Thairo Estrada has been a staple atop the Thunder lineup and will play in his second All Star game as a professional in July. Estrada's .324 batting average entering play on June 28 ranks him fourth in the Eastern League. In addition to the high batting average, Estrada has been an on-base machine, reaching in 62-of-68 games played this season, in those 62 games he's reached 119 total times (89 hits, 23 walks, 7 hit by pitches).

Ford has been named a mid-season All-Star for the third time in his career following appearances with Charleston in 2014 and with Tampa in 2015. Ford enters play on Wednesday as the Eastern League leader in on-base percentage (.404), and walks (47). In 64 games played with the Thunder, Ford has hit eight home runs and driven in 40 runs with a .277 batting average.

The Thunder continue their series with the Richmond Flying Squirrels tonight at ARM & HAMMER Park at 7pm. For tickets and the latest information on Thunder baseball visit www.TrentonThunder.com.

--THUNDER--