BREAKING NEWS: Seattle Mariners Star Infielder J. P. Crawford has shocked the Major League Baseball (MLB) world with a selfless act that transcends the game of (MLB). Upon signing his MLB contract, Infielder J. P. Crawford made the bold and compassionate decision to donate his entire $105 million signing bonus to…see more.

In a stunning and unprecedented move that has sent shockwaves throughout Major League Baseball and beyond, Seattle Mariners star infielder J.P. Crawford has donated his entire $105 million signing bonus to a sweeping philanthropic initiative aimed at uplifting underserved communities across the United States.

Crawford, known for his leadership on and off the field, announced today that the full amount of his bonus will go directly to The Homegrown Foundation, a nonprofit he quietly founded earlier this year. The foundation’s mission: to invest in youth education, community sports programs, mental health resources, and affordable housing in cities that have historically lacked access to these critical services.

> “Baseball has given me everything,” Crawford said at a press conference held outside T-Mobile Park. “But I’ve never forgotten where I came from. I want to use this blessing not just to play a game I love, but to change lives. This isn’t just a donation — it’s a movement.”

A Historic Act of Giving

While professional athletes have long been involved in charitable work, the scale and immediacy of Crawford’s donation is virtually unheard of in American sports. Experts in sports philanthropy say the decision sets a new standard for player-led impact.

This is bigger than baseball,” said MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred. “J.P. Crawford is showing the world what it means to be a leader — not just on the diamond, but in our communities.”

The Homegrown Foundation’s First Projects

The $105 million will be initially directed toward:

Building 15 state-of-the-art community centers in cities including Philadelphia, Oakland, Detroit, and Crawford’s hometown of Long Beach, California.

Expanding mental health access for youth athletes, particularly in marginalized communities.

Funding over 1,000 college scholarships for underrepresented students pursuing careers in education, sports management, or social work.

Revitalizing public baseball fields to provide safe, accessible places for children to play and develop.

Reaction from the Baseball World

Crawford’s Mariners teammates expressed awe and admiration.

“J.P. plays with heart, and now he’s proving he lives with it too,” said teammate Julio Rodríguez. “This is going to inspire not just us, but kids everywhere.”

Veteran players, legends, and analysts have flooded social media with praise, some calling it the most generous act in MLB history.

As the 2025 season rolls on, J.P. Crawford has already made it clear: his legacy will go far beyond gold gloves and All-Star selections. With this bold act of generosity, he has proven that greatness in sports can—and should—be matched by greatness of spirit.