Midwest League 2019 7
Dear Midwest League Fans:
On behalf of Minor League Baseball and the Midwest League, I want to welcome you to the ballpark
for another exciting season of Minor League Baseball!
The 2019 season will see the opening of new ballparks in Amarillo, Texas; Las Vegas, Nevada; and
Fayetteville, North Carolina, and based on the success of Minor League Baseball’s Hispanic/Latinx
fan engagement initiative, Copa de la Diversión, that program will expand from 33 to 72 teams as
our teams expand their efforts to be more representative of their communities.
While you may see some new logos and team identities this spring and summer, what remains the
same is the quality, affordable family entertainment in a clean and safe environment that is a staple
of Minor League Baseball across the country.
With 20 leagues and more than 250 clubs, Minor League Baseball is where you will find the next
generation of baseball’s brightest stars on their way to the big leagues. You just might be watching
the next Kris Bryant in South Bend tonight, the next Mike Trout in Cedar Rapids or the next Vladimir
Guerrero Jr. in Lansing!
The Midwest League has a long history of clubs making a difference in their communities while also
providing a great product on the field and in the stands. The Midwest League was the most
charitable of our leagues when it comes to giving back to its communities as the 16 clubs made gift
in‐kind contributions of over $6 million in 2018!
Minor League Baseball also remains an integral part of the sports landscape, and of the
communities it represents. Last season, Minor League Baseball’s philanthropic endeavors included
donating over $40.5 million in cash and value in kind contributions to local and national charities.
We are proud to support our National Charity Partners: The ALS Association, the American Cancer
Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters, The BairFind Foundation and Ed Randall’s Fans for the Cure, as well
as other worthy initiatives and causes.
In 2018, a remarkable 40.4 MILLION fans attended Minor League Baseball games and I am certain
that with your continued support, Minor League Baseball will prosper for many years to come. As
stewards and fans of the game, it is our responsibility to build, nurture and protect this great game
for the future generations of fans.
Thank you, again, for your passionate support of Minor League Baseball, and particularly the
Midwest League. I wish you a healthy and enjoyable season of baseball. Let's play ball!
Sincerely,
Pat O'Conner
President & CEO
Minor League Baseball
SIGNAGE
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