#United States #Philadelphia #Sluggball #Ruben Amaro #MLB Alumni

Sluggball: A New Era in Baseball

A groundbreaking transformation in the baseball landscape is on the horizon as Sluggball gears up for its grand debut in 2025. With the intent to revive the passion of former players, Sluggball introduces a unique twist to America's favorite pastime, tapping into nostalgia while offering an exhilarating experience.

Sluggball presents a distinct 4-v-4, situational hitting format that brings an innovative scoring system to the forefront, designed to engage players in competition and foster camaraderie. This exciting revisit to baseball is set to unfold in minor league stadiums and other unique venues across the country, kicking off the initial season with events planned for New Jersey, Ohio, and New York.

The Philadephia-based initiative is co-founded by a group that includes former MLB player and Philadelphia Phillies General Manager Ruben Amaro Jr. alongside his brother, David Amaro. Sluggball has garnered support from prominent collaborators such as the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association (MLBPAA), Victus Sports, and Blast Motion. The expertise of six-time MLB All-Star Kenny Lofton adds to the advisory board's credibility.

Ruben Amaro Jr. shared his excitement about Sluggball, emphasizing its potential to reunite friends, family, and former teammates around their shared love for hitting. He states, "Sluggball is more than a game, it's an experience that brings friends and family together to reignite their love of hitting. We’re thrilled to provide a competitive yet fun atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of baseball."

Sluggball recently hosted a successful invite-only pilot event at Trenton Thunder Ballpark, where six teams with varying levels of baseball experience and ages engaged in four rounds of situational hitting: Pull Side, Up the Middle, Opposite Field, and Around the Horn. The event featured MLB Ambassador Larry Bowa, a Phillies legend who mingled with players and provided a connection to baseball's storied past.

The anticipated schedule for Sluggball's debut season includes:

• - May 10: Trenton Thunder Ballpark, NJ
• - June 14: Huntington Park, Columbus, OH (as part of MLB Playball Weekend)
• - July 13: Eastwood Field, Niles, OH (Mahoning Valley Scrappers)
• - August 24: Trenton Thunder Ballpark, NJ
• - September 13: SIUH Community Park, Staten Island, NY (Staten Island FerryHawks)
• - October 11: Crushers Stadium, Avon, OH (Lake Erie Crushers)

Additional events are likely to join the lineup as interest grows. Interested participants can assemble their teams and register at playsluggball.com. An age requirement of 21 years or older applies to all players.

Kenny Lofton emphasizes that Sluggball allows players to reconnect with the joys of the game, focusing exclusively on hitting without the need for fielding or running. Each team, composed of 6-8 players, brings their pitcher and faces off in 4 v 4 situations, echoing a nostalgic, yet competitive environment. Every team is guaranteed two games across four rounds, and winning teams compete for cash prizes.

Players at Sluggball events will also enjoy club-level food and drink options, exclusive gear, and interactions with MLB alumni, enhancing the experience beyond just gameplay.

Sluggball's development is powered by a team comprising baseball veterans and business leaders dedicated to breathing new life into the sport. The rich blend of backgrounds, including finance, coaching, and marketing, promises a high-quality experience for participants.

In conclusion, Sluggball emerges as not just a game but a celebration of baseball's cherished traditions and the personal connections it fosters. Co-founders Ruben and David Amaro's vision, bolstered by industry support, positions Sluggball to resonate with many former players looking to relive their passion for hitting in a community-oriented atmosphere. Join the dialogue around this revolutionary baseball format at playsluggball.com.