On Tuesday, Arizona Diamondbacks star Corbin Carroll delighted members of the D-backs’ Nike RBI youth baseball and softball programs by presenting them with City Connect jerseys and exclusive gear. The youth teams arrived at Chase Field ready for batting practice and to watch the D-backs play, only to be surprised with the new equipment as they prepared to compete at the upcoming RBI West tournament in Seattle.
Overview of the D-backs’ Nike RBI Program
The D-backs Nike RBI initiative serves as a no-cost youth outreach program for children aged 5 to 18. According to the organization, the program aims to boost participation and enthusiasm for baseball and softball, promote academic success, and emphasize teamwork among its participants.
The mission behind Nike RBI is to reintroduce and rebuild interest in baseball and softball among underserved youth, in collaboration with local Boys & Girls Clubs. The Diamondbacks further explain that their two Nike RBI All-Star teams are chosen through the D-backs Baseball Academy’s summer league, which is supported by the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation. This league offers opportunities for young athletes from underrepresented communities to experience playing on Major League Baseball fields and compete at higher levels.
Many of these players are experiencing milestones such as playing on a big-league field for the first time, traveling by plane, and enjoying first-class accommodations during their trips.
Corbin Carroll Shares His Thoughts on Supporting RBI Youth
Carroll discussed what the RBI program means to him and the importance of providing chances for youth to grow both on and off the field. He said,
“It’s providing opportunities. … This game just teaches you a lot, and so regardless of whether they’re going to play at the next level or not, they’re learning life lessons that are going to last them forever,”
—Corbin Carroll, Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder.
He added optimism about the rising talent within the program, noting,
“But at the same time, this year, it’s been pretty cool how many of them are going to continue on. It sounds like we’ve got 12 athletes on the boys’ side that are going to be playing at local JUCOs here. To see, just even in those first couple years, the growth in that regard and the quality of player that’s being developed is really inspiring, and just makes me excited for what can come in the future.”
—Corbin Carroll, Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder.
Carroll also emphasized the mutual benefits of his involvement, stating,
“The D-backs do a really good job of being involved in the community and just trying to do my part in that. … As much as I’m trying to commit some acts of service and give to them, I feel like I get just as much back, and that’s really where that smile comes from.”
—Corbin Carroll, Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder.
Community Impact and Future Prospects
This gesture not only boosts morale for the youth teams as they head into a competitive season but also underscores the Arizona Diamondbacks’ ongoing investment in community engagement. With programs like Nike RBI, assisted by the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation and implemented through the Baseball Academy, the club fosters both athletic and personal growth for young players from underserved areas. The upcoming trip to Seattle for the RBI West tournament represents both a culmination of effort and a stepping stone for these athletes as they gain invaluable experience on larger stages.
Corbin Carroll’s hands-on involvement exemplifies how professional athletes can inspire and contribute to youth development beyond the field. His enthusiasm and hope for the program’s future encourage these young athletes to dream bigger, while the Diamondbacks continue to build strong community ties.