Smokies join Ty Wright to raise money for Oklahoma

KODAK, Tenn. - The Tennessee Smokies have joined outfielder Ty Wright in his efforts to raise funds for the victims of the tragic events in Oklahoma over the past few days. The team will hold several events throughout the current homestand at Smokies Park with proceeds going to the American Red Cross relief efforts for the Oklahoma tornado victims.

"After watching the coverage of the tornado, it was tragic to see," Wright said. "I played baseball for Oklahoma State for four years and Oklahoma is like a second home to me."

As a way to show their support, the Smokies will use this current homestand that runs through Monday to attempt to raise money by donating $10 for every hit the Smokies collect during the five-game series. The team will also have a special postgame tennis ball toss following Friday night's game. Fans can purchase tennis balls for $1 at each game, and then try and hit targets on the field after the game to win prizes from the Smokies.

Saturday, May 25, the Smokies will hold a memorabilia auction on the concourse, featuring signed memorabilia from the Smokies, the Chicago Cubs, and other Minor and Major League teams with 100% of those proceeds going to disaster relief and the Red Cross. Former Smokies Darwin Barney, Andrew Cashner and Tyler Colvin have all pledged to donate items to the auction.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this tragedy and we hope the money raised during this homestand will help the people from my home state of Oklahoma," Smokies Assistant General Manager Jeff Shoaf said. "We believe our fans will join us in Ty's efforts to help the people devastated a few days ago."

The Smokies will present the American Red Cross a check, on Wright's behalf, for the final amount raised in a ceremony prior to the team's 7:15 game this Monday.