Players Trust Names Christian Yelich Most Valuable Philanthropist for August

Brewers slugger awarded $10,000 grant for Heartland Farm Sanctuary and Snooty Giggles Dog Rescue

NEW YORK, August 18 – The Players Trust, the charitable arm of the Major League Baseball Players Association, announced today that Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Christian Yelich is the recipient of the fifth Most Valuable Philanthropist award for the 2026 season. The Players Trust will award a $10,000 grant split between the Heartland Farm Sanctuary and Snooty Giggles Dog Rescue.

Created in 2009, Heartland Farm Sanctuary was Wisconsin’s first farm animal sanctuary. Founder Dana Barre noticed there were many resources available to help abandoned or neglected dogs and cats, but nothing for farm animals who needed help. Over the past 17 years, the organization has rescued hundreds of animals in need and now hosts over 100 farm animals of 13 different species.

Snooty Giggles Dog Rescue is a foundation based in Middle Tennessee that helps needy dogs get a new lease on life. The organization helps dogs of all breeds, ages, and health conditions, whether that means finding them new homes or giving them the best life possible in house. 

“I am extremely excited to be able to help two organizations that help animals in the community,’’ Yelich said. “As someone with a deep love and affinity for animals, this is a truly special opportunity to do my part. I want to thank the Players Trust for this grant. It will be going to places of real need.”

A California native, Yelich broke into the big leagues in 2013 with the Miami Marlins, where he won a Gold Glove and a Silver Slugger award. Since 2017, he has starred in Milwaukee, adding two more Silver Sluggers, three All-Star appearances and an MVP to his resume. He has been active in philanthropy throughout his career, with his annual Home Plate Charity Concert raising funds to support his community in the Milwaukee area.  

“Christian’s dedication to using his platform for good is inspiring and demonstrates the impact players can have within their communities,” said Chris Capuano, Chair of the Players Trust Board of Trustees. “We are proud to honor his commitment and sense of stewardship by naming him Most Valuable Philanthropist for August.”    

The Players Trust’s Most Valuable Philanthropist award will be given six times this season to players who demonstrate an altruistic spirit and positive social impact beyond the diamond. Each winner receives a $10,000 grant from the Players Trust to his chosen charity.  

Now in its 30th year, the Players Trust has supported and amplified players’ philanthropic and community engagement efforts by providing resources that extend their reach and impact. Through this work, players have inspired and positively affected countless individuals and communities across the U.S. and around the world.

About the Players Trust

Established in 1996, the Major League Baseball Players Trust is the charitable arm of the Major League Baseball Players Association. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Players Trust is driven by players and inspired by the game. The Trust provides programs and resources that champion their individual and collective passions toward making a positive impact on the world and inspiring others to do the same. Through signature initiatives, strategic partnerships, and direct support, the Players Trust empowers current and former players to give back to the communities they care about most.

Learn more at www.playerstrust.org.