The Arizona Diamondbacks have dedicated Brad Ziegler Field, the first to be dedicated this year and the first in Prescott. The 34th “Diamonds Back” Field, was presented by APS.
“Last year was one we will never forget and we understand our responsibility to the community and state of Arizona,” said D-backs President and CEO Derrick Hall. “Brad brings leadership to the clubhouse and the bullpen and comes in every day with ideas on how to make our team better, our organization better, and our community better. He is someone who truly cares and we are proud to have his name on this field.”
Hall was among several key D-backs and Prescott officials on hand at the dedication ceremony, including Ziegler and D-backs Broadcaster Jeff Munn, who emceed the dedication ceremony. Arizona Public Service Chairman, President and CEO Don Brandt, Arizona State Senator Steve Pierce, Prescott Mayor Marlin Kuykendall and Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation President Mike Kennedy were also on hand.
“It is our hope that Brad Ziegler Field will make a positive long-term impact on the children, the families, and the community of Prescott, Arizona,” said Brandt. “APS is honored to team up with the D-backs and committed players like Brad Ziegler to make this field a reality.”
Ziegler joined the D-backs in 2011 and has quickly become a key community leader. He heads up his own foundation, Pastime for Patriots, which is a certified 501(c) 3 non-profit foundation that supports servicemen and servicewomen and their families by offering them opportunities to attend Major League Baseball games, providing educationally-based financial assistance to military children and family-friendly activities for military members and their families. Ziegler, whose 2.30 ERA with the D-backs is the lowest in franchise history (minimum 50 games), ahead of J.J. Putz (2.64), Randy Johnson (2.83) and Curt Schilling (3.14), recently recorded a 19-game scoreless streak – 18.1 innings, which is tied for the longest scoreless streak by a reliever this season. His unique throwing style, considered a submarine relief pitcher, helps him be a leader among MLB pitchers in the highest ground ball percentage consistently each season.
“I am honored to have my name on this field with the 19 on the wall in center field and just to be a part of that is really special,” said Ziegler.
Brad Ziegler Field is located at Kuebler Field, 1185 Commerce Drive in Prescott.
Since 2000, the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation has built or refurbished 34 baseball fields representing a community investment of more than $10 million. With support from APS and charitable contributions from D-backs players, the program has allowed children from across the state to play baseball and softball at quality facilities. The fields generally feature new lights, a branded electronic scoreboard, new fencing and backstops, new irrigation and new grass and dirt. Additional support is provided by local contractors and businesses. QCBN
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