The Washington Nationals Philanthropies, the official arm of the Washington Nationals Baseball Club, hosted its annual signature fundraising event on Tuesday, honoring former D.C. Mayor Anthony Williams.
Williams was honored with its annual Power of Baseball Award. The event was held at The Anthem at The Wharf.
The Power of Baseball Award, presented by The Annette M. and Theodore N. Lerner Family Foundation, is Washington Nationals Philanthropies’ most illustrious award and recognizes an individual, corporation, organization or local group that embodies the positive character and level of achievement exemplified throughout the game of baseball.
“As we begin the 20th season of Washington Nationals baseball, it is my privilege to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of Mayor Williams,” said Marla Lerner Tannenbaum, founding board chair of Washington Nationals Philanthropies and principal owner of the Washington Nationals. “His vision for Washington, D.C., his exemplary leadership, and his unwavering belief in the power of baseball make him the undeniable choice for this year’s Award.”
Williams, who served as the District’s mayor from 1999-2007, is widely credited with bringing professional baseball back to the city. The team’s Youth Baseball Academy, located in Southeast, is a byproduct of the Washington Nationals taking root in the District.
Williams will also be honored during the Washington Nationals’ home opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Monday when he throws out the ceremonial first pitch. Afterward, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser will give the call to “play ball.”