TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – Before ace Hurston Waldrep took the field for the Atlanta Braves, he was a stand-out for the Thomasville Bulldogs.
Waldrep was back in the Rose City Friday night, giving back by hosting a home run derby to help raise money for the program, but making sure to sign some autographs and mingle with fans too.
Three former Bulldogs’ numbers will live on the outfield wall, Waldrep’s, as well as former Bulldog Levale Speigner, who also played Major Leauge Baseball, and Levi Knop, who tragically passed away his senior year.
In addition to the players, head coach Erik McDougald was surprised with recognition for reaching 400 wins, a special night and a night coach is thankful for.
“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.”
“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,” added Waldrep.
The home run derby raised over $13,000 for the Thomasville baseball program.
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