Western Wayne Today

Wayne State University’s baseball program will hold its sixth annual Home Run Derby Fundraiser at Comerica Park, home of the Detroit Tigers, on Tuesday, September 23. The event is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m., and admission is free for all attendees through Meijer Gate D.

The fundraiser features teams with designated hitters who will attempt to hit as many home runs as possible within a 60-second time frame. For every additional $25 pledged, teams receive two extra seconds to bat. Organizers note that "every second counts" in the competition.

All funds raised from the event will support Wayne State University’s baseball team by helping address team priorities. Teams that raise the most money and hit the most home runs will receive special rewards. Supporters are encouraged to donate online or contact Carter Lotz, WSU athletics Development Director, via email or phone for alternative donation methods.

In previous years, the event has generated significant support: over $132,000 in total donations since its inception. In recent years alone, it raised $16,979 in 2020; $20,255 in 2021; $18,661 in 2022; more than $32,000 in 2023; and $44,969 last fall.

A full list of participating players includes Tony Hatzigeorgiou, Carson Tehan, Kavan White, Cooper Clark, Ethan Getting; Gabe Zeldes, Gabe Nazelli, Luke O'Keefe, Matt Mareno; Alfredo Velazquez, Jack Saputo, Nick Sandiha, Adam Thuss; Drew Hill, Rocco Cardinale, Rhett Roeser, Landon Ide; Drew Dawson, Brady Blakita, Braylon Laroo, Coy Plummer; Caleb Sanders, TJ McAllister, Zach Warner, Philip Miller; Owen Tuccinardi, Oscar Pace, Gavin Nash and Nick Baker; Bennett Hitzelberger , Bryce Simpson , Macio Miller , Will DeMasse ; Logan Van Sicklen , Carter Cline , Brayden Crowe , Steven Whitted ; Ty Garza , Will Lowery , Joel Mator , Evan Langlois . Alumni participants include Michael MacLean and Frank Jeney.

Ernie Harwell’s phrase “It’s looooooong gone!” was cited in connection with the event.