ST. LOUIS — Lars Nootbaar just raised the stakes for the 2025 MLB season — not with a bat, but with his heart.
In a moment that left reporters speechless and fans inspired, the St. Louis Cardinals outfielder made an emotional and unexpected pledge: If the Cardinals win the World Series this year, he’ll donate 50% of his postseason bonus to help underprivileged children in America.
“There are kids out there struggling every single day,” Nootbaar said during a press conference. “If I’m lucky enough to play on the biggest stage and win it all, I want that moment to mean something beyond baseball.”
The bold promise instantly went viral across social media and was picked up by national sports outlets. Many praised Nootbaar not just for his performance on the field, but for his deep sense of responsibility off of it.
Nootbaar’s commitment shines a light on something bigger than baseball — the power of athletes to drive change. While others focus solely on stats or contracts, Nootbaar is thinking about kids who might never even own a glove, let alone attend a game.
His donation would go toward programs providing meals, education resources, mentorship, and athletic equipment for disadvantaged children across the U.S. And though no one knows how this season will end, Nootbaar’s selfless vow has already made him a champion in the eyes of many.
“Winning is great,” he added, “but if I can use that moment to give kids a better chance in life — that’s a victory that really lasts.”
In a season already packed with pressure and high expectations, Nootbaar’s promise is a reminder that the greatest moments in sports aren’t always measured in runs or rings — but in impact.