Cards offer up 3 items in MLB charity auction
NASHVILLE -- A spot in the Cardinals' summer fantasy camp and a Cardinals Winter Warm-Up VIP package are among the dozens of unique Major League Baseball experiences up for bidding in the fourth annual Winter Meetings charity auction.
With participation from all 30 clubs, MLB Advanced Media and MLB Network, MLB continues to forward its drive to raise awareness and funds for cancer research. The auction, which opened on Monday and runs through 8 p.m. CT on Thursday, has raised nearly $500,000 for that cause over the last three years.
Proceeds from this year's auction will benefit Stand Up to Cancer, as well the families of two baseball writers -- Richard Durrett and Juan C. Rodriguez. Durrett, a former Rangers beat writer, passed away suddenly last year. Rodriguez, who covers the Marlins, is battling a brain tumor.
The Cardinals have contributed three items/experiences to the auction. The club is offering one high bidder the chance to participate in the Cardinals' June 24-26 Fantasy Camp at Busch Stadium. The weekend will feature instruction from Cardinals Hall of Famers, All-Stars and members of the 2006 World Series team, as well as an opportunity to play alongside them in a tournament. Two dinner events with former Cardinals will also highlight the event.
The club is also offering a unique Winter Warm-Up package that includes four tickets to the January 16-18 event, a three-night hotel stay at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch, and several autograph tickets. Bidding for this package, as well as the fantasy camp experience, opened at $500.
The Cardinals have also donated a framed "Thank You" poster autographed by members of the 2015 club to the auction. The poster features thank you messages from general manager John Mozeliak, president Bill DeWitt II and several players. Bidding for this item started at $275.
For more information on the auction and to browse all the items available for bidding, visit auctions.mlb.com.