Atlanta Braves create $1 million relief fund to help ballpark workers

ATLANTA — Major League Baseball isn’t sure when its 2020 season will start as the country deals with the coronavirus pandemic.

With no games expected in the coming weeks, ballpark staffs around the league are concerned about how they will earn money.

The Atlanta Braves are stepping up to help those in their organization.

The Braves and the other 29 MLB teams have each set up $1 million relief funds to assist with financial needs for their stadium workers.

"We are in an uncertain time and want to help our gameday staff who truly make Truist Park feel like home,” said chairman Terry McGuirk in a statement. “Our gameday staff are part of our family and they are the reason for our friendly and welcoming atmosphere. So, in this time of need, we want to do our part and help them.”

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The Braves’ relief fund doesn’t just help out Truist Park staff. It will also go toward stadium workers at their minor league affiliates: Gwinnett Stripers, Mississippi Braves, Rome Braves and Danville Braves.

Spring training staff at CoolToday Field will be paid, too, since the rest of spring training games were canceled.

The plans are still being finalized, but the Braves will reach out directly to the affected staff with more details.

There is also a fan fundraiser. Fans who wish to help out the stadium workers can make a donation at braves.com/give

As for the minor league players, MLB and Minor League Baseball are still discussing their options.

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