On Friday, the Arizona Diamondbacks dedicated Brad Ziegler Field, the 34th “Diamonds Back” Field. The field is the first to be dedicated in 2014 and the first in Prescott, Ariz.
Ziegler joined the D-backs in 2011 and heads up his own foundation, Pastime for Patriots, which is a certified 501(c) 3 non-profit foundation that supports servicemen and servicewomen and their families by offering them opportunities to attend Major League Baseball games, providing educationally-based financial assistance to military children and family-friendly activities for military members and their families. Ziegler, whose 2.30 ERA with the D-backs is the lowest in franchise history (min. 50 games) ahead of J.J. Putz (2.64), Randy Johnson (2.83) and Curt Schilling (3.14), recently recorded a 19-game scoreless streak (18.1 innings) which is tied for the longest scoreless streak by a reliever this season. His unique throwing style, considered a submarine relief pitcher, helps him be a leader amongst MLB pitchers in the highest ground ball percentage consistently each season.
“I am honored to have my name on this field with the 19 on the wall in center field and just to be a part of that is really special,” said Ziegler.
Brad Ziegler Field is located at Kuebler Field, 1185 Commerce Drive, Prescott, Ariz.
Since 2000, the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation has built or refurbished 34 baseball fields representing a community investment of more than $10 million. With support from APS, and charitable contributions from D-backs players, the program has allowed children from across the state to play baseball and softball at quality facilities. The fields generally feature new lights, a branded electronic scoreboard, new fencing and backstops, new irrigation and new grass and dirt with additional support provided by local contractors and businesses.
“Last year was one we will never forget and we understand our responsibility to the community and state of Arizona,” said D-backs President & CEO Derrick Hall. “Brad brings leadership to the clubhouse and the bullpen and comes in every day with ideas on how to make our team better, our organization better, and our community better. He is someone who truly cares and we are proud to have his name on this field.”
Hall was among several key D-backs and Prescott officials on hand at the dedication ceremony, including Ziegler and D-backs Broadcaster Jeff Munn, who emceed the dedication ceremony.