Mariettta, Georgia (Cobb County)
Tyler Tolve (6-4-3, KSU, and Sprayberry High School alum and Braves prospect) remembers his junior year of high school when his father was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. “It was a tough time for the family,” Tyler recalls. “My dad went through a year of treatment, both chemo and radiation, and spent two weeks in the ICU after a procedure. But, thank God, that is all behind him now.” Tyler and his dad celebrate each year in September that he is in remission.
A combination of a great fundraiser in memory of former 6-4-3 player, Carson Rozsman, and wanting to honor his father and uncle, who had leukemia, drove Tyler to recreate the celebrity home run derby Crushin’ for a Cause set for this Sunday (Jan. 28). The derby will raise funds for two important charities - The 6-4-3 Foundation and SagerStrong Foundation. Tyler’s father remembers Craig Sager fondly and the fight he went through battling leukemia, so he thought of the SagerStrong Foundation when Tyler was putting the 2024 event together. The 6-4-3 Foundation is the charitable arm of the 6-4-3 organization where Tyler played travel baseball from a young age to his high school graduation.
“As a professional athlete, you have a platform to be heard that is different than as an amateur… it’s an opportunity to do something special and give back to the game and the baseball community that has given to me all these years, ” said Tyler. When asked about how hard it’s was locking in other celebrity hitters for the event, Tyler said it had been simpler than he originally thought it would be. “I thought I would receive more pushback from my athlete friends but quite the opposite occurred. They have been awesome!” Tyler shared. “This is such an amazing group of professional players…so willing to give of their time to do this in the offseason. I can’t wait for the event!"
Born and raised in Marietta, Tyler is the oldest of three brothers. Growing up watching the Atlanta Braves, he shared that it is a dream come true to play for your favorite team and get to know many of the players. “To grow up in the area and give back to those who poured into me, it is a perfect fit for the event,” Tyler added.
The Crushin' for a Cause Celebrity HR Derby this Sunday January 28, 2024, will have three rounds. Fans are invited to come out and watch the event, bid on items in a silent auction, enjoy great food trucks on site, get autographs from the players, and more! #643cares #643foundation #sagerstrong
What: Crushin' for a Cause 2024 Celebrity Home Run Derby
When: January 28, 2024 @ 2:45PM (Opening Ceremonies)
Where: Aviation Sports Complex, 455 Aviation Road, Marietta, GA 30060
Come see 6-4-3 alum and Braves prospect Tyler Tolve and players from the Astros, Braves, Cardinals, Dodgers, Rangers, and Tigers organizations, among others, compete in a 3-round Home Run Derby! Proceeds benefit The 6-4-3 Foundation's scholarship programs and SagerStrong Foundation's blood cancer research initiatives.
Gates open at 1:30PM. Opening Ceremonies begin at 2:45PM. Home Run Derby follows at 3:00PM.
Reserve your tickets today! Limited quantities available.
