Marlins host annual Baseball Fantasy Camp for Kids at loanDepot park
The Miami Marlins Foundation welcomed 40 young athletes with physical and intellectual challenges to loanDepot park for its annual Baseball Fantasy Camp for Kids, held on Wednesday, June 18. Participants came from the City of Hialeah and ABA Centers of Florida, gathering for a fun-filled day of baseball on the field.
Hosted in partnership with the Baseball Fantasy Camp for Kids Foundation, this day offers kids a chance to learn the game of baseball and improve their skills in an inclusive and supportive environment. Now a tradition for the Marlins Foundation, the clinic creates an unforgettable experience for children who often face barriers to sports participation. Wearing personalized Marlins jerseys, the participants rotated through skill stations led by Marlins Manager Clayton McCullough and players Anthony Bender, Otto Lopez, and Nick Fortes. Each activity covered fundamental baseball skills, including hitting, base running, fielding, and throwing.
“We got to play baseball and put some smiles on these kids' faces, which brought smiles to ours,” said McCullough. “We have a wonderful opportunity and are very blessed to be in a position where we can give back.
“We want to be a part of this community for a very long time, and to see that helping others and making them smile and have a good time is very special.”
The morning concluded with a home run derby, followed by lunch and time for photos and meet-and-greets. For many participants, the experience offered a rare opportunity to engage with the game in a Major League setting alongside their favorite players.
CEO of ABA Centers Jason Barker emphasized: “The Marlins Baseball Fantasy Camp for Kids is more than just a day on the field; it’s a powerful reminder that every child deserves the chance to dream big, build confidence, and feel part of their community. For children with autism, experiences like this can be transformative, helping them build social connections, motor skills, and cherished memories.
“We’re proud to support events like this that champion inclusion and celebrate the unique strengths of every child across South Florida.”
William Flug, Vice President of Operations for the Baseball Fantasy Camp for Kids Foundation, reflected on the growing impact of this event: “Our goal above all is to make baseball accessible for everyone. Our continued partnership with the Marlins has developed a unique opportunity to give children with intellectual disabilities the chance to connect with this sport we love in a way they will never forget.
“This annual event is a highlight for us, and we are profoundly grateful to the Marlins Organization for making this day possible.”
The annual event reflects the commitment from the Miami Marlins to enrich South Florida through community engagement and making the game of baseball accessible to youth. By showing up and staying involved, players and staff continue to build a culture rooted in giving back and creating special moments for these kids.