The country singers join MLB all-stars Corey Seager, Brent Rooker, Brandon Lowe, and Bryan Reynolds for charity
The Burger Family Foundation – founded by Texas Rangers infielder Jake Burger and his wife Ashlyn – is stepping up to the plate for its next big event: The Lucky Classic, a star-studded celebrity softball game set to take the field in Nashville, on November 16th at First Horizon Park. Turning up the star power, The Lucky Classic is adding country music favorites Russell Dickerson, Ashley Cooke, and Tucker Wetmore to its already stacked roster. These chart-topping artists will join over 20 MLB All-Stars, such as Corey Seager, Brandon Lowe, Brent Rooker, and Bryan Reynolds, for a one-of-a-kind night of music, baseball, and community celebration. And the excitement doesn’t stop there – more big names will be announced soon, promising an unforgettable lineup both on the field and in the spotlight.
“Ashlyn and I couldn’t be more excited to bring The Lucky Classic to Nashville this off-season,” shares Jake. “This city is home for us, and we wanted to create something that blends our two worlds, music and baseball, while giving back to a community we love. The outpouring of support for The Burger Family Foundation and the Down syndrome community has already been incredible, and we can’t wait to see everyone at the ballpark for a day of fun, connection, and unforgettable memories.”
Inspired by their daughter, Penelope, who was diagnosed with Down Syndrome, the Burger Family Foundation started as a dream to make a difference and has turned into a mission to champion inclusion, celebrate abilities, and support families like the Burgers in meaningful ways. Through direct financial assistance, therapy, community, and the healing power of ranch life, The Burger Family Foundation is building spaces that foster hope, purpose, and belonging.
As the only active MLB player with a child with Down Syndrome, Jake kicked off his tenure with the Rangers by changing his jersey number to 21. The infielder is now sporting the number 21 to represent Trisomy 21 and the extra copy of the 21st chromosome that those with Down Syndrome carry. Burger made headlines during spring training when he returned to the field straight from the hospital after Penelope’s successful open heart surgery, when he hit his first home run with his new team, his new number, and Penelope’s hospital band around his wrist.
The Burgers learned early on in Ashlyn’s pregnancy that Penelope would have Down Syndrome and immediately turned to their faith, confident they were given their platforms to tell Penelope’s story and advocate for all children with disabilities. People.com shared the news of the diagnosis and Penelope’s birth announcement.
