Lou Gehrig Day

During Spring Training 2024, Paul Goldschmidt was announced as the 2023 Lou Gehrig Memorial Award recipient. The Award is presented annually by the Phi Delta Theta International Fraternity to a Major League Baseball Player who best exemplifies the spirit and character of Gehrig both on and off the field. Paul will be presented the Award by Phi Delta Theta members John Mozeliak, Cardinals President of Baseball Operations and John Ceriotti, who is living with ALS on June 11 when the team recognizes Lou Gehrig Day.

Goldschmidt is the 7th Cardinals player to receive the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award. Past Cardinals recipients are Albert Pujols (2009), Mark McGwire (1999), Ozzie Smith (1989), Lou Brock (1977), Ken Boyer (1964) and Stan Musial (1957).

On June 2, teams across Major League Baseball will recognize the 4th Annual Lou Gehrig Day. June 2 was selected because it was the date Gehrig became the Yankees’ starting first baseman. It is also the date that Gehrig passed away from ALS. The date is meant to raise awareness and funds to support continued research of research for ALS. Individuals living with ALS and the families and friends who support them are also recognized.

The Cardinals will celebrate Lou Gehrig Day at home on June 11 and highlights will include:

• A pregame ceremony honoring Paul Goldschmidt as the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award Recipient
• A pregame ceremony recognizing the ALS Association and the Muscular Dystrophy Association
• Fans can purchase tickets to the game through a special ticket offer with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the ALS Association.
• Fans can stop by the ALS Association booth in Ford Plaza from the time gates open until an hour into the game to learn more about ALS and how they can support research and those living with ALS

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), more commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks nerve cells and pathways in the brain and spinal cord. When these cells die, voluntary muscle control and movement dies with them. Patients in the later stages of the disease are totally paralyzed, yet in most cases, their minds remain sharp and alert.

An estimated 20,000 people in the United States may be living with ALS. The average life expectancy of a person with ALS is two to five years from time of diagnosis. Although there is no cure for ALS, with recent advances in research and improved medical care, many patients are living longer, more productive lives.

The ALS Association is the largest philanthropic funder of ALS research in the world. The Association funds global research collaborations, assists people with ALS and their families through its nationwide network of care and certified clinical care centers, and advocates for better public policies for people with ALS. The ALS Association is working to make ALS a livable disease while urgently searching for new treatments and a cure. For more information about The ALS Association, visit als.org.

Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is the #1 voluntary health organization in the United States for people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related neuromuscular diseases. For over 70 years, MDA has led the way in accelerating research, advancing care, and advocating for the support of our families. MDA's mission is to empower the people we serve to live longer, more independent lives. To learn more visit mda.org.