VERO BEACH — Two current major league baseball stars and a Dodgers baseball great will make appearances at the Marathon Baseball Fundraiser to benefit the family of Brian Simpson, the Vero Beach resident tragically murdered in November after walking in on his home being burglarized. The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 15 at Bob Summers Field, 3451 Indian River Drive East, Vero Beach.
Boston Red Sox starting catcher, Jarrod Saltalamacchia, and Tampa Bay Rays pitcher, Alex Cobb, will join former major league star relief-pitcher and pitching coach for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Ron Perranoski, at the fundraising event to sign autographs and take pictures.
Baseball enthusiasts are encouraged to bring items they wish to have signed and cameras to take pictures with the baseball stars. Donations to help the Simpson family will be accepted throughout the day, including a Chinese auction featuring items such as restaurant gift certificates, deep sea fishing excursions, airboat rides, golf outings and a baseball signed by Chet Lemon, a member of the 1984 World Champion Detroit Tigers.
The daylong baseball game will feature local baseball players between the ages of 13 and 17 playing as many innings as possible to raise additional money.
A limited number of spots are still available for the marathon game, but pre-registration is required by Jan. 13. A $15 donation will allow a player to participate in three innings. Space permitting, same day registration may be available, but is not guaranteed. Registration, sponsorships and raffle donations forms are available at www.treasurecoasthurricanes.com.
The baseball event is intended not only to help the Simpson family, but to also give the local baseball community an opportunity to honor Brian Simpson’s love and commitment to the sport. On Nov. 17, Simpson walked in on a burglary when he stopped at home before joining his son at a baseball game at a nearby park.
Simpson was shot and killed during the encounter. He is survived by his wife of 19 years, Kristen, and two children, 15-year-old Samantha and 14-year-old Scott, who is a member of several local baseball teams.
For registration information or to sponsor the event, contact Maria Lawson at (772) 633-3956 or visit www.treasurecoasthurricanes.com.
