West Coast Wellness: Padres, Angels, and D’Backs Host PLAY Campaign Events
ANAHEIM – August 5th: Angels’ athletic training staff takes photo after PLAY Campaign event on August 5th.
The Professional Baseball Athletic Trainers Society (PBATS) continued its 2025 PLAY Campaign tour with a week of impactful events across three Major League ballparks—Petco Park in San Diego, Angel Stadium in Anaheim, and Chase Field in Phoenix. With the support of local athletic training staffs, youth-focused nonprofit partners, and the generous backing of the Henry Schein Cares Foundation, the PLAY Campaign once again delivered an engaging and meaningful experience for kids centered around health, activity, and smart decision-making.
Padres Host Youth Event at Petco Park – August 2
The week began on August 2 as the San Diego Padres welcomed a group of local youth to Petco Park for a day of movement, mentorship, and education. The event was led by Head Athletic Trainer Mark Rogow, alongside Assistant Athletic Trainers Ricky Huerta, Ben Fraser, and Maritza Castro, who guided kids through baseball-style warmups, dynamic drills, and injury prevention exercises.
In a unique and hands-on addition to the day, Rhina Paredes led a CPR training demonstration, helping teach lifesaving skills in an accessible and age-appropriate way. Kids were encouraged to participate and understand the basics of emergency response—a vital skill that goes beyond the ballfield.
Educational partners added depth to the day’s programming. Representatives from Song for Charlie—including Ed Ternan, Gina Malagold, and Renee Cuevas—spoke to participants about the dangers of fake pills and the importance of staying informed and cautious about what they put in their bodies. Their message centered on awareness, peer support, and taking personal responsibility for health choices.
The Taylor Hooton Foundation also addressed the group, sharing stories and statistics related to performance-enhancing drug abuse. Their presentation emphasized the importance of fair play, body confidence, and building success through hard work rather than shortcuts.
Angels Continue the Campaign in Anaheim – August 4
Two days later, the Los Angeles Angels hosted their PLAY Campaign event at Angel Stadium, welcoming kids from Anaheim and greater Los Angeles. Head Athletic Trainer Mike Frostad, along with Matt Biancuzzuo and Eric Munson, led a high-energy morning filled with movement-based learning. Young participants rotated through stations designed to teach the same pre-game prep used by Angels players—stretching, agility drills, and mobility exercises.
The educational sessions once again played a central role. Renee Cuevas of Song for Charlie spoke to the group about the importance of making thoughtful, informed choices when it comes to health and wellness, encouraging kids to lean on trusted adults and avoid risky behavior.
Meanwhile, the Taylor Hooton Foundation returned to deliver its signature message on the dangers of performance-enhancing substances. Through personal stories and athlete-focused education, their team underscored that strength, success, and confidence come from within—and from doing things the right way.
Diamondbacks Wrap Up the Week at Chase Field – August 5
The week concluded in Phoenix on August 5, where the Arizona Diamondbacks welcomed kids to Chase Field for their annual PLAY Campaign event. The day was led by Head Athletic Trainer Ryan DiPanfilo, supported by Max Exposito and Junko Yazawa, who shared their professional knowledge with a group of eager and energetic youth participants.
The on-field portion of the event featured fun, baseball-inspired drills and movement activities that gave kids a taste of what it’s like to train like a Major Leaguer. DiPanfilo and his team emphasized the importance of body awareness, injury prevention, and daily habits that support long-term wellness.
Renee Cuevas, representing Song for Charlie, also addressed the group, reinforcing the message that taking care of yourself goes beyond the physical—it includes the choices you make, the people you trust, and the information you rely on.
A Shared Commitment to Health and Education
This week’s events were made possible by the unwavering commitment of athletic trainers across Major League Baseball, who continue to lead by example in promoting health, safety, and smart choices to young people.
PBATS also thanks the Henry Schein Cares Foundation, whose generous support provides essential resources and makes it possible to bring PLAY Campaign events to communities across the country. Their role in this week’s success cannot be overstated.
Together with partners at Song for Charlie and the Taylor Hooton Foundation, PBATS is proud to continue delivering life-changing experiences for kids—reminding them that health, character, and integrity matter, both on and off the field. As the 2025 PLAY Campaign continues, that mission remains at the heart of every stop.
For more information about the PLAY Campaign, visit https://pbats.com/play/.