Philly Leader

Major League Baseball (MLB) has launched its annual charity auction at the Winter Meetings, with this year's proceeds set to benefit Willie Mays Park in Fairfield, Alabama. The park, named after the legendary baseball player in 1985, has seen better days and requires refurbishment to remain a viable venue for youth baseball.

The online auction began on Monday and will run until Thursday, December 12th at 10 p.m. ET. It offers various experiences for baseball enthusiasts, including interactions with MLB stars like Mike Trout and VIP experiences at ballparks. All items have been donated by MLB clubs, Minor League clubs, the Office of the Commissioner, MLB Network, and the Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum.

April Brown, MLB’s senior vice president of social responsibility, emphasized the ongoing commitment to supporting Willie Mays Park: “We never saw our time there as a one-time engagement for our sport.”

The event follows last June's memorable game between the Giants and Cardinals at Rickwood Field. This historic ballpark was where Willie Mays played his first professional games in 1948 while still in high school.

Cedric Norman, Councilman of District 4 in Fairfield, highlighted the importance of preserving Willie Mays' legacy: “The story of this park isn’t just about Fairfield... It’s about creating a space for the next generation of players and fans.”

Michael Mays, son of Willie Mays, participated in introducing the charity auction during an event in Dallas. He stressed continuing his father's mission to support youth: “My father left me with a simple task: bring as much camaraderie and support to struggling youth as we can."

Former MLB pitcher Jake Peavy also expressed his dedication to renovating areas significant to Mays' history. Peavy stated: “As an Alabama native who is now back in Alabama... I’m honored to stand here and announce this.”

The auction is available on MLB.com/wintermeetingsauction.