.jpg)
On Deck: A Look Ahead with Pirates GM Ben Cherington
Event Sponsors
.jpg)
.jpg)
(1)(1).jpg)
(1)(1).png)
Date and Time
Monday Feb 9, 2026
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM EST
Location
IMG Academy Golf Club
4350 El Conquistador Pkwy
Bradenton, FL 34210
Fees/Admission
$50 Manatee Chamber and MYP Members NOTE: Walk-ins (without a reservation) may not be able to be accommodated due to event and catering logistics.
$100 Non-Members
$240 Reserved half table of four with priority seating together
$280 Reserved half table of five with priority seating together
$475 Reserved table of eight with priority seating
$2,500 Annual Corporate Sponsorship that includes two seats at each event as well as significant promotional exposure throughout the year via Chamber
Cancellations after February 2 must still be paid as guarantees will have been made on your behalf with our event venue/caterer. Thank you for your understanding.
Contact Information
Karla Fernandez, (941)748- 4842 ext.235
Send Email
Description
The long-standing tradition of baseball and Bradenton goes together like balls and strikes – or maybe like peanuts and Cracker Jacks! Join us on Monday, February 9th for our Manatee Chamber Headliners Luncheon as Pittsburgh Pirates General Manager Ben Cherington gives us the inside scoop on all thing's baseball, including the upcoming Spring Training season and how the team’s offseason strategy builds towards opening day.
Even if you are not a die-hard baseball fan, the economic and philanthropic impact of the Pirates – and Bradenton Marauders – has made a big difference in our region for many decades. The organization is an integral part of Manatee County, having called the Bradenton area their southern home since 1969. They give back to the community and are deeply involved in non-profit and business efforts. USA Today dubbed LECOM Park "the definition of ballpark intimacy" and the "Fenway of spring parks."
Ben Cherington began serving as the general manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates in November 2019. He previously served as vice president of baseball operations for the Toronto Blue Jays and was the executive vice president and general manager of the Boston Red Sox from 2011 to 2015. He holds his undergraduate degree from Amherst College and has a master's degree in Sport Management from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
You don’t have to know what ERA, WHIP, RBI, or OPS mean to appreciate that “America’s favorite pastime” continues to occupy a special place - symbolizing tradition, community, and the spirit of sports in America. Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about the Pittsburgh Pirates’ special place in the Bradenton Area, how the team is preparing for the MLB season, and meet executive staff from the organization.
