Eastern Wayne Today

The Wayne State University baseball team held its sixth annual home run derby fundraiser on September 23 at Comerica Park in Detroit. The event raised $55,202 through contributions from 375 donors.

Junior Alfredo Velazquez won the competition by hitting eight home runs in the final round, defeating senior Bennett Hitzelberger, who hit four. The event included several rounds, with participants such as Tony Hatzigeorgiou, Gabe Zeldes, Drew Hill, Drew Dawson, Caleb Sanders, Owen Tuccinardi, Brayden Crowe, Ty Garza, Michael MacLean and Frank Jeney also competing.

"This key event continues to expand every year for our program and community," said head coach Ryan Kelley. "This year's derby offered another indelible downtown Detroit evening! A sincere and genuine thank you to approximately 400 donors who contributed to our student-athletes as they chase for the ultimate success on and off the field this academic calendar year. We are gratified by the number of individual donors, sponsors, families, fans and our tremendous alumni who impacted this experience. Thank you to the Detroit Tigers organization and their specialized departments for providing this distinct opportunity. Thank you to our Wayne State athletics' supportive departments for your exceptional assistance. We look forward to seeing everyone again at Harwell Field next spring!"

Announcers at the event included WSU baseball alumni Reagan Paulina, Ryan Foley and Jake Finkbeiner along with WSU Assistant Athletic Director Mads McKenna.

Young outfield shaggers participated from local youth teams including Indians Baseball Club, Michigan Bulls, Detroit Prospects, Warriors Baseball Club, Precision Patriots, Hawks Gold, Top Tier and Hit Dogs organizations.