Nationals and Baseball Tomorrow Fund inspiring baseball's next generation

Although my baseball-playing days began and ended at a young age, I'll never forget the time my parents handed me my first glove and T-ball bat. While I never lit up the infield or threw a no-no, I'm certain that the beginning of my baseball enthusiasm began the first time I tried on my glove. Whether it's someone like me or a major league player like Ryan Zimmerman, there was a point at which we were both introduced to the game. And now, the Nationals are giving you the chance to inspire the next generation of baseball lovers and athletes this Sunday at Nats Park. Together with the Baseball Tomorrow Fund, the Nats are hosting a baseball equipment drive on June 9. New and used baseballs, softballs, bats, batting gloves, catchers' equipment, youth helmets, bases, baseball pants and cleats will be collected at the Center Field Gates, beginning at 11 a.m. While the first pitch will be thrown at 1:35 p.m., donations will be collected through the third inning. The equipment will be given to the Capitol Hill Little League (CHLL). In addition, the Baseball Tomorrow Fund is giving a $5,000 grant to the CHLL for new equipment. Ian Desmond and Cathy Bradley, director of the Baseball Tomorrow Fund, are scheduled to receive a ceremonial check during a pregame ceremony, according to the Nationals. If you're heading to the park Sunday, consider donating to the program. You may never know the impact that a single glove or baseball could have. For more information, visit BaseballTomorrowFund.com.