American League Cy Young Award Winner Blake Snell of the Tampa Bay Rays is hosting a fantastic line up of 32 professional baseball players in the inaugural MLBPA ESports Challenge Invitational in Las Vegas on Tuesday, December 11 during baseball’s winter meetings. The invitation-only championship, sponsored by Caesar’s Palace, Scuf Gaming, and TDI Design, will take place at The Wall Gaming Lounge inside the Rio All Suite Hotel and Casino. The finals will consist of 16 two-member teams competing for the MLBPA ESports Challenge series title and prizes.
Confirmed players joining Snell will include: 2018 World Champion Eduardo Rodriguez of the Red Sox, Tom “Flash” Gordon and his son, top prospect Nick Gordon, 2015 #3 overall MLB Draft pick Brendan Rodgers, and the charismatic team of Minnesota relief pitcher Trevor May and Brett Phillips. The favorites for the event from the Major League side are the duo of Mitch Garver and Stephen Gonsalves of the Twins. Kyle Tucker of the Astros and Brett Vertigan look to be contenders as well. From the Minor League side, Sal Giardina and Zach Soria are a force to be reckoned with. A group of young up-and-coming stars expected to compete include former University of Florida standouts and current top prospects Buddy Reed (Padres) and Richie Martin (A’s).
As event producer, Jobu Media Group is working in collaboration both the MLBPA and UMG Media Corp to host this ground-breaking event.
“We are excited to see some of the world’s best baseball players show off their skills in ESports gaming and their passion for this form of competition.” said Evan Kaplan, the MLBPA’s Director of Licensing and Business Development. “We’re excited to team with UMG and Jobu for this inaugural series and to welcome key industry leaders, sponsors, and players into the lounge to enjoy the championship.”
On Monday, December 10th, pro athletes and gamers will gather in the same location for a public fund raiser in support of Boys and Girls Clubs of America and Gamers Outreach. Hosted by Ahman Green, former star running back of the Green Bay Packers, several local Las Vegas pro gamers, athletes and celebrities will play video games from The Wall with children who are hospitalized. This offers the unique opportunity for celebrities and athletes to give back remotely. They will also play with teens from local youth centers as special guests of the event. The public is welcome and can participate with celebrities and athletes. Charitable donations by attendees are encouraged.
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