Red Sox Foundation Honorary Chairman Tim Wakefield to launch "RBI Opening Day" tomorrow at Jim Rice Field in Roxbury

BOSTON, MA - Honorary Chairman Tim Wakefield will throw out the ceremonial first pitch at the Red Sox Foundation's "RBI Opening Day" tomorrow, Friday, April 18, at noon, at Jim Rice Field in Roxbury. 

RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities) engages inner city teenagers in baseball and softball while teaching healthy choices and life skills. The Red Sox Foundation operates the leagues and provides funding for uniforms, equipment, umpires, and travel to regional tournaments. 

"Our RBI and Rookie League programs provide clean, safe environments for children who might not otherwise have the opportunity to learn the joys of our game," Wakefield said. "Of course, kids also learn teamwork, sportsmanship, and conflict resolution while engaging in a healthy form of exercise. We are so proud that so many children participate."

Last year, more than 2,000 boys and girls participated in the Red Sox Foundation's RBI and Rookie League programs. RBI welcomes teens 13-18 years old, and Rookie League introduces youngsters 5-12 to the game.

"We are helping children play ball for life," Wakefield said, "And this is where it starts."

The 2013 World Series Trophy and Wally the Green Monster will be on hand during tomorrow's ceremony. 

Wakefield, a World Series hero in 2004 and 2007, played for the Red Sox from 1995 through 2011. The right-handed knuckle ball pitcher also won Major League Baseball's Roberto Clemente Award in 2010 for his lifetime of outstanding community service. He was named to his Red Sox Foundation post in 2012.