Perfect Game, recognized as the leading platform for youth and high school baseball and softball, proudly revealed its investment team, notably comprising 21 past and present MLB stars. Among the distinguished members are Hall of Famer Trevor Hoffman, and notable figures such as Mo Vaughn, Salvador Perez, and Alfonso Soriano, alongside Perfect Game Commissioner and Chicago White Sox executive, Dennis Gilbert.
Rick Thurman, Chairman of Perfect Game, expressed enthusiasm about enhancing the organization with diverse expertise from the major leagues, highlighting the group’s historical success and invaluable qualities they bring to the sport beyond statistics, including leadership and a commitment to excellence.
Rob Ponger, CEO of Perfect Game, emphasized the investors’ active involvement in nurturing future talents, demonstrating their commitment not just financially, but in personally contributing to the development of aspiring athletes both on and off the field.
The investor roster is as follows:
- Trevor Hoffman: Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2018, celebrated for his 601 career saves.
- Mo Vaughn: AL MVP in 1995, known for his power hitting with 328 home runs.
- Salvador Perez: Renowned for his leadership with the Kansas City Royals, including eight All-Star selections.
- Alfonso Soriano: Achieved a rare 40 home runs and 40 stolen bases in one season.
- Tim Lincecum: Back-to-back Cy Young Award winner and strikeout leader.
- Tom Gordon, known as “Flash,” had a distinguished 21-year career as both a starter and reliever.
- Ryan Klesko: Contributed to the Atlanta Braves’ 1995 World Series win.
- Charlie Manuel: The winningest manager in Phillies history, leading them to a 2008 World Series championship.
- Hunter Pence: Known for his role in two World Series championships with the San Francisco Giants.
- Yasmani Grandal: Led MLB catchers in home runs over a four-year span.
- Miguel Rojas: A consistent infield presence over a decade in the majors.
- Denard Span: Led the National League in hits in 2014.
- Scott Erickson: A workhorse pitcher, leading in innings pitched in 1998.
- Jose Contreras: A key part of the 2005 World Series champion Chicago White Sox.
- Francisco Cervelli: Celebrated for his defensive prowess behind the plate.
- Brian Fuentes: A closer who led the AL in saves in 2009.
- Mark Guthrie: Pitched in over 700 games, including a World Series win in 1991.
- Aubrey Huff: Two-time World Series champion with a strong batting record.
- Rougned Odor: Known for his power hitting with the Texas Rangers.
- Gregory Polanco: Led NL right fielders in assists in 2015.
- Reid Brignac: A versatile infielder with a lengthy major league career.
- Dennis Gilbert: Serves as Perfect Game’s Commissioner and has a significant background in baseball management and philanthropy.
This group, collectively, brings a wealth of experience and accolades, including 44 All-Star selections and various other honors, underscoring their substantial influence and commitment to nurturing the next generation of baseball talent through their involvement with Perfect Game.