Astros’ Verlander to donate paycheques to charity during COVID-19 crisis

Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander waves to fans as he walks back to the dugout after striking out Los Angeles Angels' Kole Calhoun for his 3,000th career strikeout during the fourth inning of a baseball game Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, in Anaheim, Calif. (Mark J. Terrill/AP)

Houston Astros ace Justin Verlander plans to donate his weekly paycheques with the MLB season on hold to different charitable organizations in order to highlight their efforts during the COVID-19 crisis.

“Everyone around the world is affected by this virus, and we hope to contribute to the families and jobs affected, the healthcare workers and first responders on the frontlines and the many others in need of basic necessities, medical supplies and support at home,” Verlander wrote in a post on Instagram on Saturday.

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Recently the @mlb announced they will be continuing to send paychecks to players while the season is suspended. @kateupton and I have decided to donate those funds to a different organization each week so that we can support their efforts and highlight the great work they’re doing during the COVID-19 crisis. Everyone around the world is affected by this virus, and we hope to contribute to the families and jobs affected, the healthcare workers and first responders on the front lines and the many others in need of basic necessities, medical supplies and support at home. As soon as the first paycheck is received we will be highlighting the first organization. We know everyone is impacted by this crisis, but for those who are able, we encourage you to stay home to help flatten the curve and look to those around you who need a helping hand. #covid19 #flattenthecurve

A post shared by Justin Verlander (@justinverlander) on

“We know everyone is impacted by this crisis, but for those who are able, we encourage you to stay home to help flatten the curve and look to those around you who need a helping hand,” added Verlander.

Verlander, 37, won the AL Cy Young Award in 2019 after compiling a 21-6 record with a 2.58 ERA and 300 strikeouts across 223 innings.

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