Phoenix will once again take center stage for one of the most anticipated philanthropic events in professional sports. The Players Trust, the charitable arm of the Major League Baseball Players Association, has announced a slate of new and returning partnerships with Arizona-based businesses and athlete-owned brands ahead of the fourth annual Playmakers Classic Presented by Fanatics. The event will be held on February 18, 2026.
At its core, the Playmakers Classic is about giving back. This year’s event brings together businesses, nationally recognized athletes, and creative tastemakers for an immersive evening that feels equal parts fundraiser and social gathering. Proceeds benefit the Players Trust’s youth sports and educational initiatives, along with programs that empower communities across the United States and internationally.
Among the partners joining this year’s festivities are Cedar Room Fine Cigars & Lounge of Scottsdale and Scottsdale’s Roxx Vodka, alongside a strong lineup of athlete-founded beverage brands. Guests will have the opportunity to experience tastings from Drew Storen’s Field of Dreams Whiskey, Jon Jay’s Lo Siento Tequila, LPGA golfer Cristie Kerr’s Kerr Cellars Wine, and former MLB star Adrian Gonzalez’s Calidad Beer.
Each activation is designed to highlight the craftsmanship behind the brands while reinforcing the mission of community impact. Sport simulations, auctions, and customizable memorabilia opportunities will add to the energy, while Arizona-based sponsors, including Arizona Foothills Magazine, Visit Phoenix, and Scottsdale realtor Sarina Bergman, help showcase the region’s deep connection.
“The Playmakers Classic brings together players, partners, and fans to make a meaningful impact through the game we love,” Amy Hever, Executive Director of the Players Trust, said. “We’re proud to partner with these player-owned brands, who share our mission to give back and create opportunities.”
That sense of purpose resonates strongly with the athletes involved, particularly those with deep roots in Arizona. LPGA superstar and Arizona resident Cristie Kerr will showcase Kerr Cellars Wine at a pop-up wine bar and participate in a golf competition with players and guests.
“As someone from the region, who’s been fortunate enough to have played on so many of the nearby courses during my career, I’m excited that our Kerr Cellars Wine brand will be part of the upcoming Playmakers Classic,” said Kerr. “I’m a big baseball fan, and have had the opportunity to meet many players during my career, so it’s rewarding for me personally to be able to showcase our collections to those attending, as part of an evening where the goal is to raise funds for youth development programs.”
Beyond tastings and activations, the 2026 Playmakers Classic will also feature a live music performance by The Silent Comedy, the San Diego-based band known for its blend of rock, folk, and Americana influences. Founded in 2006 by brothers Joshua and Jeremiah Zimmerman, the band brings six albums and EPs to its resume and a deep personal connection to baseball.
“Baseball has been a part of our lives for as long as we can remember, and we are honored to perform at the 2026 Playmakers Classic,” Joshua Zimmerman said. “We have been fortunate to have played in Petco Park on many occasions, so to have the opportunity to be a part of this special occasion with so many current and former greats of the game makes this even more special for us.”
Hever noted that the choice of a headline musical act was intentional: “We wanted to have a headline act that we feel will not only resonate with our guests and sponsors, but one that has a strong and personal connection to baseball,” she said. “From the multitude of current and former players expected to be in attendance and exciting baseball-themed giveaways in our auction, to having a musical performance with ties to the sport, we are so excited for this year’s Playmakers Classic.”
Adding to the night’s atmosphere, noted local sports personality and radio host DJ Javin will serve as the evening’s guest disc jockey, keeping the energy high throughout the event.
Last year’s event drew more than 100 players, including Diamondbacks outfielder Corbin Carroll, Guardians outfielder Stephen Kwan, Dodgers second baseman and 2025 World Series hero Miguel Rojas, and Hall of Famer Dave Winfield, who was honored with the inaugural Lifetime Achievement in Philanthropy Award. The Playmakers Classic stands as a reminder that when sports, creativity, and community come together, the results can be both meaningful and memorable. Learn more at trust.mlbplayers.com.
