The Los Angeles Dodgers announced 1988 World Series hero Kirk Gibson will throw out the ceremonial first pitch on Opening Day at Dodger Stadium. In addition, the club added a Gibson bobblehead to their 2018 promotional and giveaway calendar, which will be distributed March 30.
The honors are connected to the Dodgers and Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) partnering with the Kirk Gibson Foundation during the opening week of the 2018 season to raise money and awareness for Parkinson’s Disease.
LADF will also hold an online auction from April 9-30 for 88 limited-edition, Gibson-autographed bobbleheads and the Dodgers’ game-worn jerseys from the March 30 game, with proceeds benefitting the Kirk Gibson Foundation.
“I’d like to thank the Dodger organization, the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation and Dodger fans for their support of the Kirk Gibson Foundation and Parkinson’s Disease research. We’re going to be able to help a lot of people through the money raised during Opening week,” Gibson said.
“I’m honored to help kick off the Dodgers’ 60th anniversary celebration, and am looking forward to re-living many magical moments at Dodger Stadium on Opening Day and on my bobblehead night.”
Gibson will be on hand for the fundraising efforts, which include the donation of the proceeds of the Opening Day LADF 50-50 raffle and a silent auction. The Dodgers are honoring their 1988 championship team before their season opener against the San Francisco Giants on March 29.
The Kirk Gibson Foundation is committed to raising money and awareness for Parkinson’s Research by promoting collaboration, cooperation and teamwork. Gibson was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2015.
Limited tickets for Opening Day remain available through the purchase of mini plans at Dodgers.com/miniplans. Single-game tickets are still available for the March 30 contest, which will also feature Friday Night Fireworks, at Dodgers.com/promotions.
