Major League Baseball has awarded college scholarships, each valued at $5,000 per year, to 12 incoming college freshmen who are alumni of the Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) program – the baseball and softball initiative administered by MLB to serve youth, particularly those from underserved communities.

The recipients are receiving the grants through the “RBI for RBI” Scholarship Fund, created in 2008 to provide financial support for college-bound student-athletes based on academic record, leadership qualities, participation in school and community activities, and financial need. Since its inception, the “RBI for RBI” Scholarship Fund has awarded more than 150 college scholarships to RBI participants from more than 40 programs.

“The young people who play baseball and softball in the RBI program are not only great athletes, but they are also terrific students who are active in their communities,” said Tony Reagins, Chief Baseball Development Officer at Major League Baseball. “MLB is proud to help with this level of financial assistance to these 12 worthy recipients as they pursue their academic and career goals.”

The “RBI for RBI “scholarships provide each recipient the opportunity to pursue any field of study at a two-year college, four-year college, university or vocational school in the United States or Puerto Rico. The scholarships may be renewed for up to three years or until the award recipient has earned his or her training certificate, associate degree or bachelor’s degree.