More than eight decades after his death, the legacy of baseball legend Lou Gehrig continues to inspire and unite fans across the globe. To commemorate Lou Gehrig Day, MLB Auctions has launched a unique fundraising event to support the Sean M. Healey & AMG Center for ALS, aiming to advance research and improve treatments for the disease famously associated with Gehrig.
Starting June 2, fans will have the opportunity to bid on exclusive Gehrig Day baseball cards. Each MLB team is represented by a special card, featuring a player chosen by MLB writer and researcher Sarah Langs, who is currently battling ALS and will be specially honored by the Phillies on Lou Gehrig Day at Citizens Bank Park.
The selection of players for the cards is deeply meaningful, based on their statistical ties to Gehrig, their support for the ALS community, or their passion for the game of baseball. Highlights of the auction include not only these one-of-a-kind baseball cards but also a "Priceless New York Yankees" experience offered by Mastercard.
ALS, or Lou Gehrig's Disease, is a debilitating neurodegenerative condition that impacts nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and atrophy. This disease affects around 30,000 people in the U.S. and an estimated 500,000 worldwide. It can strike anyone, regardless of age, race, or gender, and currently has no known cure.
By participating in the auction, fans contribute directly to efforts that aim not only to find better treatments but also to enhance the quality of life for those affected by ALS. The event underscores the power of the baseball community in rallying for a cause that transcends the sport.
The players featured on these special Gehrig Day cards include notable names like Mike Trout for the Angels, Yordan Alvarez for the Astros, and Shohei Ohtani for the Dodgers, among others. Each card represents a bridge between the rich history of baseball and the ongoing fight against ALS, making these collectibles significant both for their sentimental value and their potential impact on a crucial health battle.