On Tuesday, Aug. 5, the Rays along with Champs Sports hosted Desmond for a special Rays game experience. Desmond, who is affiliated with the Make-a-Wish Foundation arrived with his family at Tropicana Field over three hours prior to the game. Following with the Tuesday Tradition Rays staff greeted the group and presented Desmond with his very own personalized jersey before leading him to the field where he received VIP treatment, walking on the field just as the players and coaches do -- in 'uniform' through the home dugout.
Desmond accompanied by older brother, younger sister, mom, and grandmother, was greeted by Rays players and coaches. Desmond received autographs and took photos and visited with the Rays during batting practice. Following batting practice the Family enjoyed dinner in the Whitney Bank Club before Desmond took the mound for the game's first pitch!
The only downside to the evening was Desmond's long-time favorite player, Carl Crawford, was not present. Desmond was noticeably upset but enjoyed the rest of the night nonetheless. When Crawford returned the following week and was brought aware of the situation, he had a signed ball and items sent to Desmond while along with Joe Maddon, extended an invite out to Desmond to return to a game with his friends with the opportunity to meet Carl. The Rays and Champs Sports will continue this tradition every Tuesday home game to recognize children and families from both Children's Dream Fund and Make-a-Wish, to grant dreams and wishes alike.
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