JERSEY AUCTION: 'Caps Against Cancer

The Fort Wayne TinCaps are once again partnering with the Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute for ’Caps Against Cancer on Saturday, Aug. 22 (6:35 p.m.) for their game at Parkview Field against the Great Lakes Loons (Dodgers affiliate).

The TinCaps have unveiled their specially designed jerseys for the game, with auction proceeds going to the Parkview Foundation’s Transformative Cancer Care Fund. The auction is live at TinCaps.com/Auction and will run through Aug. 24 at 11:59 p.m.

The ‘Caps have created these special ’Caps Against Cancer jerseys every season since 2018. This year’s blue and green jerseys, with a turtle on the front and “Slow and Steady” on the back atop the uniform number, were inspired by the artwork of Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute (PFCI) patient Kyle Steffe.

Every year, the PFCI invites a past or current patient to submit a unique, hand-drawn design to be used on a t-shirt, as well as the TinCaps’ specialty jerseys. The program was created as a way to honor cancer patients and support the Transformative Cancer Care Fund, which assists patients with care not traditionally covered by health insurance.

Kyle’s design was inspired by a turtle a Parkview nurse set out in the healing garden for patients during their treatments. Patients began to bring in their own turtles as a memento for all of those battling, and the connection grew hospital-wide.

The t-shirt can be bought at the game, online, or in the Parkview Regional Medical Center and Parkview Hospital Randallia gift shops.

“In recent months, we’ve reminded people to consider the large and small ways they show up for the people they love,” said Dr. Alan Yahanda, president, PFCI. “And getting routine cancer screenings is another important way they can show up for their friends and family. By taking care of their own health, they can continue to be there for the people in their lives.

“The TinCaps continue to show up for our patients and the cancer-fighting community in northeast Indiana. We’re so pleased they’ve chosen to highlight Kyle’s wonderful artwork on a ’Caps Against Cancer jersey and dedicate a game to honoring the courage and tenacity of each person who undergoes a cancer journey. It takes all of us showing up for each other – from PFCI’s expert clinical and care teams to the TinCaps and their big-hearted fans and everyone who rallies around cancer patients – to fight this disease.”

At the game, fans will also have a chance to fill out signs with the name of a loved one who has previously or is currently facing a cancer diagnosis. As a symbolic gesture, all will be invited to hold their signs up during an inning break to show their support and solidarity.

Francine’s Friends Mobile Mammography will also be on-site with tours available of their mobile exam vehicle.

“The TinCaps are thrilled to be partnering with Parkview again in 2026 to offer support and encouragement to those battling cancer and their families,” TinCaps Vice President of Marketing and Promotions Michael Limmer said. “We want all those in our community to know that we stand with them and they are not alone."

Earlier today, Johnny TinCap, as well as Fort Wayne TinCaps players and staff, visited patients and staff at Parkview Health, showing support for a battle much larger than the one on the field.

The ‘Caps are home this week, taking on the West Michigan Whitecaps (Detroit Tigers affiliate) for a six-game series at Parkview Field. Friday is STAR WARS™ night with premium ticket packages including a Mystery STAR WARS™ jersey. Tickets are available through TinCaps.com, by calling 260-482-6400, and at the Parkview Field Ticket Office.