More than 80 years have passed since the tragic loss of baseball icon Lou Gehrig, yet his memory lives on, inspiring fans globally. To mark Lou Gehrig Day, MLB Auctions has unveiled a special fundraising initiative in collaboration with the Sean M. Healey & AMG Center for ALS, dedicated to advancing research and treatment for this debilitating disease synonymous with Gehrig.
Beginning on June 2, fans will have the chance to bid on exclusive Gehrig Day baseball cards honoring each MLB team. MLB writer and ALS warrior Sarah Langs played a pivotal role in selecting the players featured on these unique cards. The Phillies will pay a special tribute to Sarah on Lou Gehrig Day at Citizens Bank Park.
The selection of players for these cards is deliberate, highlighting their statistical connections to Gehrig, their support for the ALS community, or their unwavering love for the game of baseball. In addition to the one-of-a-kind baseball cards, the auction includes a priceless New York Yankees experience courtesy of Mastercard.
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a progressive neurological disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, resulting in muscle weakness and degeneration. Currently, ALS impacts approximately 30,000 individuals in the U.S. and an estimated 500,000 worldwide, showing no bias in its targets based on age, race, or gender.
Participating in this auction not only aids in the search for improved treatments but also contributes to enhancing the quality of life for those battling ALS. This event underscores the unity and strength of the baseball community in coming together for a cause that extends beyond the confines of the sport.
The Gehrig Day cards feature prominent players such as Mike Trout representing the Angels, Yordan Alvarez for the Astros, and Shohei Ohtani for the Dodgers, among others. Each card serves as a symbol of the enduring link between baseball’s storied past and the ongoing battle against ALS, making these collectibles invaluable for their sentimental significance and potential impact on the critical fight against this health crisis.
