COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) and Major League Baseball (MLB) today announced a new multi-year sponsorship aimed at educating fans across the United States on cancer awareness, prevention, detection, and treatment. The James is teaming up with America’s national pastime to bring further attention to a disease that directly impacts more than 1.76 million Americans annually. Launched in conjunction with MLB, this extensive cancer awareness campaign will span numerous platforms to spread awareness about the groundbreaking cancer research and the individualized, compassionate care delivered at The James. With 1 in 3 women and 1 in 2 men diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, MLB and The James will continue to elevate the conversation around cancer research, prevention and treatment. Central to this joint effort is a series of branded public service announcements (PSAs) created by MLB and The James to inform the public about cancer risk, screening and treatment advances. To launch the partnership, The James will become the presenting sponsor of “MLB Comebacks,” a must-see 360˚ highlight franchise that will spotlight the League’s come-from-behind wins throughout the season. The James will also develop plans for on-site cancer screenings and educational initiatives beginning in 2021 at key MLB events, such as the MLB All-Star Game and World Series. “As a nationally ranked cancer hospital for more than two decades and the third largest cancer hospital in the United States, we are excited to work with Major League Baseball to share our expertise in cancer prevention, detection and treatment.  At The James, no cancer is routine, and we are committed to providing individualized patient-centered care to each of our patients in our pursuit of a cancer-free world,” says William Farrar, MD, CEO of The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute. “At the heart of this partnership is a desire to extend baseball’s reach to educate our fans in pursuit of saving lives,” said Melanie LeGrande, MLB’s Vice President of Social Responsibility, Community Affairs. “The James is a leader in cancer research, treatment and prevention programs, and we are grateful for the opportunity for them to join our sport’s ongoing commitment to supporting the fight against this disease.” “We are committed to creating a cancer-free world through strong laboratory, translational and clinical research that ultimately leads to more effective treatments at our patients’ bedside. Public health education around risk factors for cancer, steps to reduce risk and the importance of having timely, scientifically-validated cancer screening tests is also critical for reducing the burden of cancer on our community,” says Raphael Pollock, MD, PhD, director of The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center About The James The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute strives to create a cancer-free world by integrating scientific research with excellence in education and patient-centered care, a strategy that leads to better methods of prevention, detection and treatment. Ohio State is one of only 51 National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers and one of only a few centers funded by the NCI to conduct both phase I and phase II clinical trials on novel anticancer drugs sponsored by the NCI. As the cancer program’s 356-bed adult patient-care component, The James is one of the top cancer hospitals in the nation as ranked by U.S. News & World Report and has achieved Magnet® designation, the highest honor an organization can receive for quality patient care and professional nursing practice. With 21 floors and more than 1.1 million square feet, The James is a transformational facility that fosters collaboration and integration of cancer research and clinical cancer care. About Major League Baseball Major League Baseball (MLB) is the most historic professional sports league in the United States and consists of 30 member clubs in the U.S. and Canada, representing the highest level of professional baseball. Major League Baseball is the best-attended sport in North America, and since 2004, MLB has enjoyed its best-attended seasons in the history of the game. Led by Commissioner Robert D. Manfred, Jr., MLB currently features record levels of labor peace, competitive balance and industry revenues, as well as the most comprehensive drug-testing program in American professional sports. MLB remains committed to making an impact in the communities of the U.S., Canada and throughout the world, perpetuating the sport’s larger role in society and permeating every facet of baseball’s business, marketing and community relations endeavors. With the continued success of MLB Network and MLB digital platforms, MLB continues to find innovative ways for its fans to enjoy America’s National Pastime and a truly global game. For more information on Major League Baseball, visit www.MLB.com Media Contact: Amanda Harper OSUCCC – James Media Relations 614-685-5420 amanda.harper2@osumc.edu