Site last updated: Thursday, April 25, 2024

Log In

Reset Password
MENU
Butler County's great daily newspaper

Solemn start to spring training

Spring training got off to a solemn start as MLB teams wore hats to honor Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, where 17 people were fatally shot nine days ago.

Stoneman Douglas baseball coach Todd Fitz-Gerald and his two sons were guests of the Houston Astros for their spring opener against the Washington Nationals. Members of the school’s baseball and softball teams were guests of the Marlins and mingled on the field with players, coaches and CEO Derek Jeter.

Teams had the option of wearing he caps, which are black with “SD” in block letters, during the games or only during warmups. Both the Astros and Nationals wore them during Friday’s games.

MLB ordered more than 2,500 of the caps from New Era, league spokesman Steven Arrocho said. Many teams will have players sign them, and they will be auctioned to benefit the victims and families affected by the shooting.

Fitz-Gerald said it was a “relief” to get back to the sport he loves and to stop thinking, at least for a moment, about the tragedy that befell his school. Fourteen students and three teachers were killed, and more than a dozen others were wounded. A former student is in custody on 17 counts of murder.

Rays (ss) 6, Pirates 3

Austin Pruitt worked an inning and a third in relief and earned the win, and Edwin Fiero gave up a hit in the ninth and earned the save. Kevin Kiermaier singled to drive in two runs and Brad Miller doubled home two more for the Rays. Austin Meadows doubled twice and singled to drive in two runs for the Pirates.

More in Professional

Subscribe to our Daily Newsletter

* indicates required
TODAY'S PHOTOS