López among Marlins Triple Play 5K participants
It might be the offseason, but Marlins right-hander Pablo López found himself back at loanDepot park on Saturday morning.
López, along with more than 300 others, participated in the Marlins' Triple Play 5K presented by UHealth. The family-friendly event teamed up the Miami Marlins Foundation with UHealth to raise funds for the following causes:
- Alzheimer’s research
- Parkinson’s research
- ALS research
- Mental health
- Stroke awareness
Before the race, Marlins chief operating officer Caroline O’Connor presented a $50,000 donation to UHealth Department of Neurology Dr. Jose Romano.
The hybrid course began outside the first-base entrance, continued inside the ballpark's main concourse, went around the surrounding neighborhood and culminated at home plate. Spectators cheered on from the first-base seating bowl, while Kimmy B from 93.9 DJ Laz Morning Show served as the emcee.
Also on hand were Minor League rehabbing players Eliezer Rodriguez, Miguel Rodriguez, Jesus E. Sanchez, Delvis Alegre and Danny Gonzalez. Former Marlin and Bally Sports Florida broadcaster Gaby Sanchez, his wife and daughters took part. His middle child, Autumn, finished with the fourth-fastest time among all women.
The Marlins also had a special guest in Gus Riley, who was joined by seven of his family members and friends. Riley, a baseball-loving student at Coral Gables High School, suffered a brain aneurysm three years ago. Saturday marked his first race since the incident.
Following the 3.1 miles, there was a postgame party on the West Plaza with free drinks from Bacardi, Michelob Ultra, Line 39 Wines, Ghost and Pepsi.