FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | June 30, 2020 | Salem Red Sox: (540) 389-3333 | [email protected]

Salem Red Sox address cancelled 2020 Minor League Baseball season due COVID-19 pandemic

SALEM, Va. – The Salem Red Sox, along with Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball, and the Carolina League today announced the cancellation of the 2020 season due to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, the Salem Red Sox are actively developing and finalizing arrangements to move forward and address alternate plans and refund options to current ticket holders.

“As an organization our immediate focus is now shifting our efforts to take care of our fans who have purchased tickets for the 2020 season,” said VP of Ticket Sales and Service, Blair Hoke. “Our team has developed contingency plans for all of our fans. Red Sox ticket representatives will be in contact with all account holders in the coming weeks to provide details and guidance during this transition.”

On March 12th, Minor League Baseball – in conjunction with health officials and the Federal Government – had announced a delay to the start of the 2020 season. While Red Sox staff continued to prepare for a rescheduled Opening Night, the complexity of the issues created by the COVID-19 virus were too great to overcome for Minor League Baseball to have its 2020 season.

With the cancellation of the baseball season, following state and federal guidelines, the organization’s focus will pivot to hosting public and private events at Salem Memorial Ballpark this Summer, Fall, and Winter. The Red Sox are developing a special event series featuring an assortment of programing for fans to enjoy as we await the return of baseball in 2021.

“While we are saddened to see the official cancellation of the season, our most important focus remains the health and safety of our fans, staff, and community,” said Allen Lawrence, General Manager. “When baseball returns to Salem Memorial Ballpark, we promise to be ready to deliver affordable, family entertainment fans have counted on for years.”

Lawrence continued, “The Salem Red Sox are so fortunate to have such a devoted fan base and supportive community. During these unique times, our organization has felt an abundance of encouragement and unwavering support as our team and entire baseball community navigate these uncharted waters.”

With Opening Day originally scheduled for April 9th, the Red Sox have switched gears to create unique and fun programs to remain engaged with the community, while following proper COVID-guidelines. Salem Memorial Ballpark is a staple to Salem and the Roanoke Valley and are committed to evolving as restrictions are implemented. Additional information on future events and ongoing programming will be available as they are scheduled.

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The Salem Red Sox are the Advanced-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox and call Salem Memorial Ballpark in Salem, Virginia home. The team was founded in 1968 and purchased by Fenway Sports Management in December of 2007.