Los Angeles Dodgers teammates Kenley Jansen and AJ Pollock, along with broadcaster Orel Hershiser, are among those scheduled to participate in “Champions Unite,” a talent show arranged by the American Lung Association.
The event is set for Thursday, March 25, beginning at 5:30 p.m. PT with a pre-show special. San Diego Padres radio broadcaster Tony Gwynn Jr. and Jake Cronenworth are also among the participants.
“Champions Unite” is being held to support lung health for all, including overcoming coroanvirus (COVID-19), tobacco control, youth anti-vaping and clean air.
In addition to the talent show, the night will see president and CEO of Clean Energy Andrew Littlefair, CVS Health region director Mickey Anderson and Padres executive chair Ron Fowler honored as trailblazers who have contributed significantly to protecting lung health and clean air for all.
Fans who are 21 and over can purchase a champion box for $75. It includes a delivery to your home of classic stadium snacks, masks, swag and a six-pack of varietal beers from AleSmith Brewery — including AleSmith San Diego Pale Ale .394, a beer that pays tribute to the city that Tony Gwynn Sr. loved and his career-high batting average.
Those who simply wish to attend the virtual event, donate to vote during the talent show, gain access to auction items and more can do so by registering at no cost. Various sponsorship opportunities are also available.
It has not been revealed what talents Hershiser, Jansen and Pollock will tap into. Jansen has been learning how to play piano since last year, and he’s also said to be a good cook.
Pollock overcame personal challenges
On top of players needing to abide by strict health and safety protocols last season because of the pandemic, Pollock and his wife Kate tended to a daughter who spent four months in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) after being born prematurely.
The Pollocks welcomed their daughter on March 19, three months premature. AJ and Kate made countless visits to the hospital until being cleared to take Maddi Mae home in July.
“She looks like a normal baby. If I didn’t tell you she was born 24 weeks, you wouldn’t think anything of it,” Pollock said last July.
“Very grateful, she’s pretty cute, so it’s been a lot of fun. We’ve been very lucky to this point and it would be amazing if she keeps continuing and we could share her story with people going through it.”
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