Fans, Phillies and Asplundh Rally to Strike Out ALS on Lou Gehrig Day and Raise $750,004

June 3, 2024

It was an emotional evening as the Phillies, fans and Asplundh rallied to #StrikeOutALS, raising $750,004 for ALS patient care and research in support of MLB’s Lou Gehrig Day. This amount includes an on-field donation of $350,000 made by the event’s presenting sponsor, Asplundh, in honor of its former Chairman of the Board/CEO Scott Asplundh, who is battling ALS. Monies raised will benefit ALS United Mid-Atlantic and go toward much-needed research, care and services for ALS patients.

Event highlights included an “ALS Lineup of Courage,” with those battling and affected by ALS lined up on the field alongside Phillies players during the national anthem. Participants included Scott Asplundh, ESPN Senior Writer Tim Kurkjian, whose brother, Matt, lost his battle with ALS in September 2023, and MLB Network’s Sarah Langs, one of baseball’s preeminent researchers, who has bravely battled ALS since her diagnosis in 2021. ALS United Mid-Atlantic patients were among those who were also recognized

Another impactful moment for the cause was when several patients battling ALS shared their inspirational stories with players during a private meet and greet in the Phillies Clubhouse before the start of the game.

“Our 40-year mission to strike out ALS remains unwavering as we aim to offer hope and help to the courageous individuals affected by this awful disease,” said Phillies Charities, Inc. President John Weber. “Everything we did tonight, and will continue to do, is in hopes of advancing effective treatments and ultimately the cure for ALS. Thank you to Asplundh, and to all who joined us, to aid ALS United Mid-Atlantic in their efforts.”

The ballpark-wide event was part of the Phillies’ long time efforts to make a difference for those battling this fatal disease. More than $23 million has been raised for the cause since the club’s relationship began in 1984 with ALS United Mid-Atlantic.

“Our hearts go out to all those affected by ALS,” said Asplundh CEO Matt Asplundh. “We are proud to partner with the Phillies and ALS Mid-Atlantic United in honor of Scott Asplundh, our former Chairman of the Board and CEO, who has been living with this dreadful disease.”

Fans also joined efforts by taking part in an online Phillies Charities Auction, a 50/50 Drawing, grab bags with autographed items and a special Theme Night ticket. The club also hosted the recent Phantastic Auction, with part of the proceeds benefitting the cause.

“Thank you to the Philadelphia Phillies and Asplundh for an amazing ALS Awareness Night to strike out ALS,” said Ellyn Phillips, Board Chair Emeritus at ALS United Mid-Atlantic, whose husband Alan succumbed to the disease in 1984 at the age of 36, when their daughter Amy was just 3 years old. “Nothing in sports compares to the Phillies’ 40-year commitment to the ALS cause. The support from the Phillies, their fans and sponsors will help ALS United Mid-Atlantic advance progress in ALS research and provide care for people with ALS right here in our community.”