Whyle brothers seek donations of baseball gear

Three Hastings brothers are teaming up to help boys and girls in Hastings who want to play baseball but can’t afford their own gear. They are calling their effort Operation Sandlot.

The drive is being organized by Carson Whyle, Decker Whyle and Jacoby Whyle in cooperation with Green Mill, Schoolhouse Scoop and Raider Nation Little League Baseball. It is planned for 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, July 28, at the Green Mill in Hastings.

The three boys were talking with their mother, Michele, about positive things they could do in their community, and that’s when the idea for the equipment drive surfaced.

“It feels good to do this,” 12-year-old Decker Whyle said.

“We just want to help people, just for something nice to do,” 15-year-old Carson Whyle said.

“I wanted the people who don’t have equipment to have some so they can play baseball, too,” 8-year-old Jacoby Whyle said. “I play baseball, and it’s my most favorite sport.”

Carson Whyle said that it the drive goes well this year, they will consider making it an annual effort.

Those who donate gear will get a coupon for Green Mill and Schoolhouse Scoop is offering a free cone for those who donate.

The gear will be distributed to those children and families who indicate a need when they register to play. Items sought are gloves, youth bats, catcher’s equipment, bags and cleats in good condition.

Tags: sports, hastings, minnesota, spiral, local