More than 80 years after his passing, the enduring legacy of baseball icon Lou Gehrig still resonates with fans worldwide. In honor of Lou Gehrig Day, MLB Auctions has initiated a special fundraising event to benefit the Sean M. Healey & AMG Center for ALS, striving to push forward research and enhance treatments for the disease closely associated with Gehrig.
The event kicks off on June 2, inviting fans to bid on unique Gehrig Day baseball cards. Each card showcases a player from every MLB team, selected by MLB writer Sarah Langs, who is currently battling ALS and will be specially recognized by the Phillies on Lou Gehrig Day at Citizens Bank Park.
The player selection for these cards holds profound significance, considering their statistical connections to Gehrig, their advocacy for the ALS community, or their deep-rooted passion for the game of baseball. The auction not only features these exclusive baseball cards but also offers a priceless “New York Yankees” experience courtesy of Mastercard.
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, resulting in muscle weakness and deterioration. This condition impacts approximately 30,000 individuals in the U.S. and an estimated 500,000 globally, displaying its indiscriminate nature across age, race, and gender spectrums with no current cure.
Participation in the auction enables fans to contribute directly to initiatives aimed at not only discovering improved treatments but also elevating the quality of life for those grappling with ALS. The event showcases the unity and influence of the baseball community in advocating for a cause that transcends mere athletics.
Among the distinguished players featured on these exclusive Gehrig Day cards are renowned names such as Mike Trout representing the Angels, Yordan Alvarez for the Astros, and Shohei Ohtani representing the Dodgers, among others. These cards serve as a symbolic link between the extensive heritage of baseball and the ongoing battle against ALS, rendering them as prized collectibles valued for their sentimental significance and their potential to make a difference in a pivotal health crusade.