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The upcoming series between the San Diego Padres and the Seattle Mariners will feature a unique prize—the Vedder Cup, crafted by Eddie Vedder, the iconic frontman of Pearl Jam.
In a recent announcement from Major League Baseball (MLB), it was revealed that the Padres and Mariners will battle annually for this prestigious trophy, with proceeds supporting research into Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a debilitating skin condition. This initiative connects Vedder’s personal ties to Seattle and San Diego, as he grew up in San Diego and achieved musical acclaim in Seattle.
The inaugural Vedder Cup will be awarded to the winner of the six-game series between the two teams, which highlights the significance of not just the rivalry on the field but also underscores a charitable cause. The cup includes a guitar personally donated by Vedder, symbolizing his roots and musical heritage.
In a creative promotional message shared on social media, a voiceover emphasized the connection between the two cities, stating, “Both cities have one iconic person in common. Both claim him as their own. Raised in San Diego, reached the pinnacle of success in Seattle: Eddie Vedder.” This serves as a prelude to the teams’ competition, adding an engaging storyline for fans wondering who will capture the initial Vedder Cup.
The series will see the Padres and Mariners clash six times this season, with a prominent event planned in San Diego on May 17 to celebrate the Vedder Cup. The teams will face off three times in San Diego from May 16-18, and a special ticket promotion will be available for the final game in the series on August 27.
Both organizations are committed to supporting the EB Research Partnership, a nonprofit founded by Vedder and his wife, Jill, which aims to find a cure for this skin disorder. The winning team of the Vedder Cup is expected to be honored with a trophy that will be unveiled prior to their first match this season.
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Commenting on the collaboration, Mariners executive Trevor Gooby expressed excitement about the Vedder Cup’s launch. “We are thrilled that we were able to bring the Vedder Cup concept to life in such a fun and impactful way,” he stated in a press release. “Creating and sharing memorable events like this with Mariners fans is extremely gratifying, and I am very thankful for Eddie, his team, EB Research Partnership, and the Padres in sharing the Mariners’ vision and commitment to celebrating and serving the Seattle community.”
Interestingly, despite his deep ties to both cities, Vedder himself is a dedicated fan of the Chicago Cubs, having even penned a song titled “All the Way” in 2008. He is known for his enthusiastic performances of “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” at Wrigley Field, showcasing his allegiance to the Cubs while also supporting the communities he cherishes in Seattle and San Diego.
Source
www.rollingstone.com