While the White Sox concluded their road trip in Detroit last Wednesday, a lively atmosphere overtook Guaranteed Rate Field back on the South Side thanks to the first annual Guaranteed Rate Foundation Home Run Derby. The event was put together as a way to help the Guaranteed Rate Foundation raise money for those affected by domestic violence, homelessness, medical emergencies, natural disasters, and the unexpected loss of loved ones. 60 participants comprised 15 teams of four people, with each team making a $5,000 donation to the Guaranteed Rate Foundation. For their generous donations, they got to partake in an actual Home Run Derby on the White Sox home turf.
After checking in, teams had access to the visitor’s locker room to prepare for the event. Upon taking the field, they were greeted by none other than White Sox legend and Guaranteed Rate ambassador Frank Thomas, who knows a thing or two about Home Run Derbies himself. The Big Hurt took photos with the participants and even offered some advice on how to approach the contest.
The participants warmed up by taking batting practice in the cages behind the White Sox dugout, and then it was time for the main event. As the players approached the plate, they were greeted with an introduction by White Sox public-address announcer Gene Honda followed by their walk-up song of choice, all while their name and photo appeared on the scoreboard.
Each batter was allotted ten outs, with each swing not resulting in a home run counting as an out. Baseballs that hit the warning track or flew over the fence were counted as home runs. While the home runs were occasional, each participant enjoyed taking in the experience of stepping into the batter’s box at Guaranteed Rate Field.
Several college and high school players were able to show off their skills by launching pitches to the track and over the wall. In addition to these talented individuals, there were also a few celebrity spottings, as actor John Cusack and former Chicago Blackhawks Chris Chelios and Reid Simpson all took part in the event.
Overall, the event was a wonderful way to raise money for a worthwhile cause that also allowed these generous individuals to experience a White Sox-themed dream. But don’t take it from me — let the people who helped make the first annual Guaranteed Rate Foundation Home Run Derby a reality tell you all about their experiences.
