MLB, UEPA and the Detroit Tigers Foundation Honor victims of Santo Domingo nightclub tragedy with $125,000 donation to Dominican Red Cross
SANTO DOMINGO, D.R. – Major League Baseball, UEPA and the Detroit Tigers Foundation presented a $125,000 check to the Cruz Roja Dominicana (Dominican Red Cross) during a pregame ceremony before Game One of the historic exhibition series between the Dominican Republic National Team and the Detroit Tigers. The donation, organized under the MLB Together social responsibility platform, serves as a tribute to the victims of the April 8, 2025, tragedy at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo. This series marks the first time in history that the Dominican National Team has hosted a Major League Club for exhibition games within the country.
Just moments before the first pitch of this historic exhibition, a special on-field ceremony was held to facilitate the donation to the Dominican Red Cross. The check was presented by Baseball Commissioner Robert D. Manfred, Jr., Fernando Queipo of UEPA, Chris Ilitch (Chairman and CEO of the Detroit Tigers) and Nelson Cruz (General Manager of the DR National Team and MLB Special Advisor). Accepting the donation on behalf of the nation’s relief efforts was Dr. Miguel Sanz, President of the Dominican Red Cross.
“Major League Baseball is honored to stand with the people of the Dominican Republic as we remember those lost in last year’s tragedy,” said April Brown, Senior Vice President of Social Responsibility, Major League Baseball. “Baseball has an unparalleled ability to bring people together, and through this historic series, we aim to provide a meaningful platform for both remembrance and renewal. We are proud to support the Dominican Red Cross and remain deeply committed to the community that has contributed so much to the soul of our game.”
The realization of this historic event was made possible through the dedicated leadership of the President of the Dominican Republic, Luis Abinader, and the tireless advocacy of Nelson Cruz. Their shared vision to bring Major League Baseball back to the island in a meaningful way provided the foundation for this tribute. Cruz, serving as a vital bridge between the league and his home country, worked in close coordination with the President’s office and MLB to ensure these games served not only as a world-class showcase but as a primary vehicle for national healing and charitable support.
“The Dominican Republic plays a meaningful role in our franchise’s story, shaping our Club through the talent, passion and spirit of the many players and staff who have called it home,” said Chris Ilitch, Chairman and CEO, Detroit Tigers. “The Detroit Tigers Foundation is proud to partner with Major League Baseball on a donation that reflects our deep gratitude for those enduring ties and our commitment to supporting communities that have long been part of the Tigers family. We’re honored to stand with the Dominican Republic and to give back to a place that has given so much to baseball.”
The Cruz Roja Dominicana (Dominican Red Cross) serves as the nation’s primary humanitarian auxiliary, providing critical emergency response, disaster management and community health services. Beyond its role in immediate crisis intervention, the organization manages a vital national network of blood banks and provides essential ambulance services across the country. In the wake of major tragedies, the Red Cross focuses on long-term recovery efforts, including psychological support for survivors, financial assistance for displaced families and the restoration of community infrastructure to ensure lasting resilience.
While the series is rooted in honoring those lost, it also represents a landmark moment for the sport in the Caribbean. For the first time, the DR National Team competes on home soil against a Major League franchise, providing a unique stage for both reflection and national pride as the team prepares for the upcoming 2026 World Baseball Classic.
For more information about MLB Together and its community efforts, visit MLBTogether.com.