CARSON CITY-Area residents have a chance to hear from one of baseball's greats next month. One of the few career .300 hitters in baseball, Dustin Pedroia of the Boston Red Sox, will speak at the 2010 Western Nevada College Wildcats Athletics fund-raiser on Saturday, Jan. 16. The annual fund-raising event is at the Peppermill Resort Spa Casino in Reno.
Although he's only been in the big leagues for four years, Pedroia has earned all of baseball's most prestigious awards. The second baseman was American League Rookie of the year in 2007 and MVP in 2008. His fielding skills have earned him a Golden Glove Award and a place on the All-Star Team. Pedroia's hitting led to a Silver Slugger Award for best offensive player at his position in the league.
Tickets cost $75 until December 31, and $100 afterward. Tables of 10 are available for $750 until December 31, and $1,000 afterward. The event benefits the WNC baseball and softball programs.
The event includes a three-course prime rib dinner, hosted beer/wine, and live music. There will be live and silent auctions, and no-host cocktails. Master of ceremonies is Bryan Samudio, KRNV Channel 4 (NBC) news/sports anchor.
Pedroia is regarded as an excellent team player with exceptional baseball instincts, and promises to provide insights on what it is like to win the World Series.
Once a symbol of years of struggle and frustration, the Red Sox have been enjoying a view from the top after winning the 2007 World Series, the second time in four seasons.
Co-chairs of the event are Steve Lewis and Robin Williamson of the WNC Foundation, which sponsors the event. A portion of the proceeds will also benefit Galena High School baseball.
