FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Brandon Crosby Returns to Richmond to Ignite Change in Baseball Community

Richmond, VA – March 4, 2025 – All Richmond Media is excited to announce the return of
Brandon Crosby, a proud Richmond native and former professional baseball player, to the city
that helped shape his career. Crosby is not only rejoining the Richmond Chili Peppers as a
player, but he is also combining forces with his business, The Baseball Collective, and the
mission-driven Kids on First Foundation to make a lasting impact on the local community and
grow diversity in baseball in Richmond.

Crosby, a standout baseball talent who has made his mark in the professional sports world, is
channeling his passion for the game into an effort that will benefit the youth and underserved
communities of Richmond. As part of this partnership, Crosby will help lead baseball camps,
events, and outreach programs designed to engage the next generation of athletes and foster
an inclusive and diverse baseball culture in the area.

“I’m thrilled to return to my hometown and use my platform to give back to the community that
supported me throughout my journey,” said Crosby. “Baseball has shaped my life, and I want to
ensure that kids in Richmond, especially from underserved backgrounds, have the same
opportunities to fall in love with the game, develop their skills, and reach their full potential both
on and off the field.”

In addition to his on-field contributions with the Chili Peppers, Crosby will be working closely
with The Baseball Collective and partnering with the Chesterfield Education Foundation and
business partners Carl Smith, one of the local Richmond Coaches with RBA West and Chazz

Kirkland, a pro player from Chicago. The group is committed to providing scholarships,
mentoring, and educational programs that will create a pathway for young athletes to succeed in
baseball and beyond. Together, they will ensure that underserved communities have access to
quality training and opportunities in the sport.

“Brandon’s passion for enriching the lives of young people through baseball and education is
inspiring,” said Chazz Kirkland, co-founder of The Baseball Collective. “We are proud to
collaborate with him to create programs that break down barriers and open doors for
Richmond’s youth, especially those who may not have had these opportunities otherwise.”
The combined efforts of Crosby, The Baseball Collective, the Kids on First Foundation, and local
organizations like the Chesterfield Education Foundation will focus on driving inclusivity and
diversity in baseball while nurturing a community of passionate athletes. Crosby’s dedication to
engaging the community extends beyond his time with the Chili Peppers, as he will work on a
variety of initiatives, including youth camps, mentorship, and outreach events throughout the
year.

“We believe in the power of sport to bring people together, teach valuable life skills, and create
lasting change,” said Carl Smith, business partner of The Baseball Collective. “This
collaboration is just the beginning of a long-term commitment to making baseball more
accessible and inclusive for all.”

Brandon Crosby’s return to Richmond marks not only his comeback to the diamond but also the
start of an important journey to foster a more inclusive, diverse, and supportive baseball
community. His passion, experience, and commitment to youth development will no doubt leave
a lasting impact on the next generation of players and fans in Richmond.
For more information on Brandon Crosby’s upcoming camps and events, please visit
Kids on First Foundation and Kids on First Foundation on social media.

About Brandon Crosby
Brandon Crosby is a Richmond native and former professional baseball player. A standout on
the field, Crosby has dedicated his career to growing the game of baseball and promoting
diversity in sports. Off the field, Crosby is the founder of The Baseball Collective, a business
focused on creating opportunities for youth and promoting community engagement. He is also a
key partner in the Kids on First Foundation, an initiative designed to increase access to baseball
for underserved youth.

About The Collective
The Baseball Collective is a business founded by Brandon Crosby and Chazz Kirkland, focused
on empowering communities through sports, mentorship, and education. Their mission is to
create opportunities for youth to thrive both in athletics and in life, promoting diversity and
inclusion in every facet of society.

About Kids on First Foundation
The Kids on First Foundation is a non-profit dedicated to growing diversity in baseball that
supports youth development, education, and life skills. The foundation strives to increase
participation in the sport among underrepresented communities, providing resources, training,
and mentorship to young athletes.

Media Contact:
Sherron Cerny
CEO Kids on First Foundation
COO The Baseball Collective
Phone: 804-
Email: Sherry@kidsonfirstfoundation.org
Website:http://www.kidsonfirstfoundation.org
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