GOING TO BAT FOR SMALL BUSINESS PRESENTED BY PNC RETURNS FOR 2025 LAKE COUNTY CAPTAINS SEASON

EASTLAKE, Ohio – March 10, 2025 – The Lake County Captains announced that its “Going to Bat for Small Business” program will return for a second season, in collaboration with PNC Bank.

The initiative is designed to bolster small businesses across Northeast Ohio. Going to Bat for Small Business presented by PNC underscores the commitment of both the Captains and PNC to support the local economy. Three winning businesses will be selected in May to receive a comprehensive hospitality and marketing package valued at over $8,000.

“The ‘Going to Bat for Small Business’ program aligns perfectly with PNC’s goal of supporting local entrepreneurs,” said Pat Pastore, PNC regional president for Cleveland. “Thriving small businesses are the cornerstone of a vibrant local economy and we are excited to team up with the Lake County Captains for another season to help create a stronger Northeast Ohio region by supporting businesses in our own backyard.”

The winning businesses will enjoy a luxury suite for company events, two rookie season ticket packages, and a specialized small business marketing package designed to elevate their brand visibility and engagement within the community.

“The Lake County Captains are ecstatic to bring back this small business program sponsored by PNC Bank,” said Jen Yorko, Captains General Manager. “Last season, we awarded very deserving local businesses in our community more than $8,000 worth of advertising within our ballpark, as well as a platform to elevate their brand with our fans. Going to Bat for Small Business presented by PNC showcases the Lake County Captains and PNC’s appreciation for the small businesses and families in our community.”

Nominations and applications will be accepted through March 31. A committee of local business and community leaders will serve as judges and will select winners based on the positive influence each business has had on its respective community and the expected impact the marketing support will have on each organization. Winners will be announced during an on-field, pre-game ceremony in May.

For more details on the program and to enter, or to nominate a deserving small business, visit captainsbaseball.com.

About PNC Bank:

PNC Bank, National Association, is a member of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC). PNC is one of the largest financial services institutions in the United States, organized around its customers and communities for strong relationships and local delivery of retail and business banking including a full range of lending products; specialized services for corporations and government entities, including corporate banking, real estate finance and asset-based lending; wealth management and asset management. For information about PNC, visit www.pnc.com.

About the Lake County Captains:

The Lake County Captains are the professional High-A Affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians located in Eastlake, Ohio. Our mission is to honor the rich history of our organization while also introducing baseball to a new generation of fans through innovative means. We are committed to supporting our community, sports teams, and each other by demonstrating passion and having fun every day.