Opening Day is usually an incredibly exciting time for communities all over the country. Ballparks open their doors to the smell of fresh cut grass, hot dogs and cotton candy. Families enjoy affordable entertainment that features fun, between inning games, great baseball action and post-game fireworks. Friday, April 17 would have been Opening Day for professional baseball in Stanislaus County, with the Modesto Nuts, an affiliate of the Seattle Mariners playing at John Thurman Field. Unfortunately, more important public health issues intervened.

“Baseball will still be here when the COVID-19 pandemic passes. People throughout this community will still need that outlet. Given the circumstances I think it has the potential to come back even stronger than it was before. However, it’s not in anyone’s best interest to be congregating in big groups right now. The health of our community, employees and players is our highest priority,” said Zach Brockman, Modesto Nuts General Manager.

Although the doors to John Thurman Field will be closed on April 17, that doesn’t mean that the community should sit idle. The Modesto Nuts have partnered with Brenda Athletic Clubs to host a very special event. The “Cashew Later Charity 5K” will celebrate what would have been Opening Day, generate much needed funds for families and individuals in need due to COVID-19 and promote health and wellness by asking the community to get up and be active.

“It is our duty as a community venue to do all we can to help those in need. Fitness and Fundraising are synonymous with baseball so why not have a fun active community event that everyone can participate in while still following social distancing standards,” continued Brockman.

The Modesto Nuts encourage all fans to participate in a celebration of health and wellness while still maintaining a safe, six-foot distance. The 5K will take place separately and fans will be able to share their run times via social media. Top runners will also receive swag from the Modesto Nuts and Brenda Athletic Clubs (see Facebook event page for details).

Run a 5K at any point during Opening Weekend (Friday, April 17 through Sunday, April 19) then post a screenshot of your time on social media with the #NutsAboutFitness hashtag. To track your run time download a run tracker app (or similar app of your choosing). Participants are asked to be responsible and keep adequate social distance. See the Facebook event page for details on how you can win prizes.

Donations to the Love Our Neighbors COVID-19 Fund are not required to participate. However, any and all donations would be appreciated. To donate visit Love Our Neighbors.

The Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball team is the Class A-Advanced Affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. For more information visit modestonuts.com or call 209-572-HITS (4487).