THOMASVILLE, Ga. (WALB) – Atlanta Braves pitcher Hurston Waldrep had his jersey retired Friday night at Thomasville High School, where his number now hangs on the outfield wall alongside two other honored players.
Waldrep’s jersey joins those of Levale Speigner, a former big leaguer, and Levi Knop, who passed away during his senior year.
The Cairo native gave back to the program during the ceremony by hosting a home run derby to raise money for his alma mater. The event raised $13,000 for the Bulldogs baseball program.
Waldrep played at Thomasville before continuing his career at the University of Southern Mississippi and later the University of Florida prior to being drafted by the Braves.
“It just means a lot to me to be around these guys and to be around a baseball atmosphere and just be able to come back and give back, help this program out any way possible,” said Waldrep.
The celebrations continued when head coach Erik McDougald was surprised with recognition for reaching 400 wins.
“You look around and see the people in the stands that are here tonight, yeah it’s baseball, but these are just people supporting their people,” said Erik McDougald. “That’s what I love about this town. It’s just a beautiful place to be.”
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