PHOENIX — In honor of Children Cancer Awareness Day around Major League Baseball, the Arizona Diamondbacks wore cleats during Sunday’s game against the Boston Red Sox designed by patients from Phoenix Children’s.
Diamondbacks players visited the hospital a couple weeks ago with gear for the kids to get creative with. The cleats have unique patterns and drawings, along with messages such as “too goated” in Blaze Alexander’s case or “strike 3 loser” for Corbin Burnes.
The game-worn cleats are up for auction online with proceeds going toward cancer research.
“Today is a great day for us to recognize those that are fighting the fight every single day,” Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said. “A very dear friend of mine’s niece is battling leukemia. She doesn’t deserve that. We’re there to support her and love her the best way that we know how. I think that should be the theme today.
“We’re all gonna be wearing sneakers today that were designed by some of the children over at PCH. We’re gonna sell those at auction, try and raise some money. Let’s go ahead and find a way to do our part to find a cure.”
In addition, the Diamondbacks donated $100,000 to PCH.
September has been Child Cancer Awareness Month since 2012 to raise awareness and funding for research and treatment. Major league teams wore gold ribbons on their uniforms on Sunday.
