In Partnership with Chabad Lubavitch of Indiana and JCC Indianapolis
On September 12, 2024, the Indianapolis Indians hosted the first annual Jewish Community Night at Victory Field, recognizing central Indiana's Jewish community. Jewish baseball facts appeared on video boards, while Klezmer, Israeli pop, and other Jewish music played during inning breaks. Representatives from Chabad Lubavitch of Indiana and JCC Indianapolis participated, with comedian Jared Freid throwing the first pitch and later joining broadcasters Howard Kellman and Jack McMullen for a TV/radio interview.
Before the game, two representatives from the Indianapolis Jewish community threw out ceremonial first pitches: Dr. Alexander Kor, a local podiatrist and son of Holocaust survivor Eva Kor, and Senior Rabbi Avi Grossbaum of Chabad Lubavitch of Indiana. Cantor Melissa Cohen of Congregation Beth-El Zedeck and her daughter, Sadie Cohen, performed the national anthem prior to first pitch.
Throughout the game, fans could visit tables in the Center Field Plaza to learn about Jewish culture, with representatives from CANDLES Holocaust Museum and JCC Indianapolis on hand to share information. New this year, we highlighted the history of Jewish players who have played for the Indianapolis Indians during inning breaks. You can learn more about these players below: