Western Wayne Today

The Wayne State University baseball team held its sixth annual home run derby fundraiser on September 23 at Comerica Park in Detroit. Junior Alfredo Velazquez won the event, hitting eight home runs in the championship round against senior Bennett Hitzelberger, who finished with four.

The fundraiser collected $55,202 from 375 donors. Participants competed in several rounds, with Velazquez and Hitzelberger advancing to the finals after strong performances in earlier stages.

Head coach Ryan Kelley commented on the event's continued growth: "This key event continues to expand every year for our program and community," said Kelley. "This year's derby offered another indelible downtown Detroit evening! A sincere and genuine thank you to approximately 400 donors who contributed to our student-athletes as they chase for the ultimate success on and off the field this academic calendar year. We are gratified by the number of individual donors, sponsors, families, fans and our tremendous alumni who impacted this experience. Thank you to the Detroit Tigers organization and their specialized departments for providing this distinct opportunity. Thank you to our Wayne State athletics' supportive departments for your exceptional assistance. We look forward to seeing everyone again at Harwell Field next spring!"

Public address duties were handled by WSU baseball alumni Reagan Paulina, Ryan Foley, Jake Finkbeiner, and Assistant Athletic Director Mads McKenna.

Youth outfield shag participants came from a variety of local baseball organizations including Indians Baseball Club, Michigan Bulls, Detroit Prospects, Warriors Baseball Club, Precision Patriots, Hawks Gold, Top Tier and Hit Dogs.