MLB Stars Help Clean Miami Beach Ahead of 2026 Classic

Baseball legends traded their gloves for garbage bags this week, joining hands with everyday volunteers to protect one of Florida's most beloved beaches.

Major League Baseball organized a cleanup event at Sandy's Beach in Miami Beach on Monday, bringing together 100 volunteers ahead of the 2026 World Baseball Classic final. Former stars Kenny Lofton, Scott Kazmir, Jason Kendall, and three other retired players didn't just show up for photos. They handed out cleanup supplies and spent the afternoon picking up trash alongside community members.

The league partnered with Clean Miami Beach, a local organization focused on removing single-use plastics and harmful pollutants from natural habitats. Executive director Sophie Ringel says the collaboration opens doors to reach new audiences who might never have considered joining a beach cleanup before.

"We can raise awareness together on a different level here," Ringel explained. "Through a partnership like this, we might reach new people who might want to join us for future cleanups and help us make a difference in our city."

The Ripple Effect

This beach cleanup represents just one wave in a much larger ocean of community service. MLB Commissioner announced in January that the league pledges to complete 250,000 volunteer hours across all clubs, employees, fans, and players throughout 2026. The initiative celebrates America's 250th birthday by giving back to communities nationwide.

April Brown, MLB's senior vice president of social responsibility, says every cleanup counts toward that quarter-million hour goal. Anyone can visit MLBtogether.com/250 to find opportunities to contribute their own time.

The timing couldn't be more perfect. Miami Beach hosts the World Baseball Classic final, and the cleanup ensures families can enjoy pristine beaches for years to come. Clean Miami Beach regularly partners with the Miami Marlins, but this event expanded their reach significantly.

Monday's picture-perfect weather reminded everyone why protecting these spaces matters so much. Ringel and her team regularly spot turtles, dolphins, and fish in the waters they work to protect. Knowing that MLB players and everyday volunteers share their commitment to preserving wildlife habitats energizes their ongoing mission.

The event embodies the "Together" in MLB Together, bringing partners, clubs, players, and community members side by side for meaningful environmental work. These volunteer hours will leave Miami Beach cleaner while inspiring others to protect the natural spaces they love.