Major league baseball meets youth and high school baseball when the Wilton Baseball Association holds its annual fundraiser this Saturday, June 28 — along with a major league star.
This year’s event is a benefit to help fund the Wilton High School varsity baseball field renovation project. Helping make the project a reality is current New York Yankee Oswaldo Cabrera, who will be attending the fundraiser to take pictures, sign autographs and participate in a Q&A session. Ticket holders will also enjoy a full BBQ-style dinner, Gofer ice cream and beer courtesy of Two Roads brewing, as well as have the opportunity to participate in a silent auction.
The Renovation
Wilton Baseball Association President Greg Topalian describes the planned renovation project as the “biggest initiative” the WBA has ever undertaken, and one that is “a long time coming.” The organization’s vision for the new baseball field is one that considers both the player and fan experience.
In an effort to improve spectator visibility from all angles, the WBA plans to replace the chainlink fence at the field with a high mesh netting similar to those found in Major League Baseball stadiums. This will also help catch baseballs which, in the current layout, tend to fly into the surrounding woods. Other plans include installing stadium-style bleachers and a brick lane leading to the diamond, with bricks available for sponsorship.
After several years of planning and seeking approvals, the WBA is ready to make this vision a reality. WBA officials are not asking the town to pay for the project; instead, the entire project, estimated to cost between $150,000 and $175,000, will be funded through the WBA’s reserves, fundraising efforts like the upcoming benefit, and donations.
The Event
Topalian promises an “unbelievably fun” evening, complete with dinner, drinks, ice cream, a wine-tasting, a silent auction, as well as plenty of opportunities to interact with Cabrera. Baseball fans will be excited by the silent auction offerings, which include MLB tickets and signed baseball merchandise, as well as certificates to local restaurants.
“Not only will this event fundraise for the improvement project, but it’s also an opportunity to bring the Wilton baseball community together.” Topalian said.
Of Cabrera, Topalian sings his praises.
“He is unbelievably nice and incredible with children. You’re going to get a real interaction, a conversation, a selfie,” Topalian said.
The fundraiser will take place on Saturday, June 28 at the Wilton YMCA (404 Danbury Rd.). Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and Cabrera will be present from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
In order to ensure an optimal experience for everyone, there is a cap on the number of people who can attend. Topalian suggested reserving a place sooner than later. Tickets prices are $250 for a family of four; $40 for children under 15; and $110 per adult. Children under 15 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
Those interested in purchasing tickets for the upcoming benefit or sponsoring a brick on the new field can do so on the Wilton Baseball Association website.