Cleveland, OH – Cleveland Guardians Charities today announced the 12 teams participating in PlayBall! CLE for the 2022 season. PlayBall! CLE is an initiative of Cleveland Guardians Charities that provides financial support & educational resources strictly to underserved baseball, softball and adaptive organizations throughout Northeast Ohio. Northeast Ohio’s own Cleveland-Cliffs has signed on as the presenting partner of PlayBall! CLE.

Leagues are eligible to receive grants after making a commitment to providing access and opportunity for youth of all ages regardless of backgrounds, demographics and accessibility needs.

New for the 2022 season, Guardians players Josh Naylor, José Ramírez, Franmil Reyes and Myles Straw will serve as Guardians Youth Baseball & Softball Player Ambassadors with a goal of connecting and supporting the diverse group of young athletes involved in PlayBall! CLE Leagues.  

“Even if I had never progressed to where I am today, I will never forget the friendships, mentoring, and other positive experiences baseball has given me,” said Cleveland Guardians outfielder Myles Straw. “It makes me happy to potentially create those type of memories for the youth in our city.” 

This partnership between Cleveland Guardians Charities and local youth leagues involves an astounding list of benefits to increase representation and growth of baseball and softball in marginalized communities. Through this program, Cleveland Guardians Charities provides exclusive access to the Guardians brand with limited use of team logos and recognition on the Cleveland Guardians website and social media platforms. Leagues will have the opportunity to enjoy unmatched educational programing in conjunction with MLB- and club-affiliated partners such as MOJO, USA Baseball and the Positive Coaching Alliance. Additionally, Play Ball! CLE Leagues will be invited to Progressive Field home games and exclusive events. Celebratory visits will be made throughout each of the league's seasons from Guardians personnel, mascots, and Youth Baseball & Softball Ambassadors.

2022 PlayBall! CLE Affiliate Leagues:

T-Ball, Baseball and Softball Leagues:

B Buzz Baseball League

Baseball Heritage Museum/BHM Buckeyes

Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio

Maple Heights Boys League

Near West Recreation

OBALL

Tri-League Little League

West Denison Baseball Leagues, Inc. 

Adaptive Leagues:

Achievement Centers for Children

Empower Sports

Miracle League of Lake County