Chris Bassitt of the Blue Jays is bringing back the charity drive for a second season

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Fans will have more reason to root for the Blue Jays this season whenever Chris Bassitt takes the mound.

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Ten thousand more reasons, actually.

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Bassitt and wife Jessica announced Wednesday that every time the Jays win a game Bassitt plays, they will donate $10,000 to support the RBI Summer Edition program in the Jays Care Foundation.

Last year, the Bassitts Pitch In RBI raised a total of C$279,818 for the Summer Edition, with the Bassitts generously donating $265,668.

Additional funds were raised through donations from 106 Blue Jays fans, thanks to Chris and Jessica's leadership.

The community-based initiative is already off to a strong start, with the Jays beating the opening pitcher Seattle Mariners on Tuesday night.

According to a press release from the team, RBI Summer Edition is a free, developmental sports program designed as an adjunct to summer school to improve the mental and physical health of children in under-resourced communities in Toronto.

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This year, it has expanded by 40%, with more than 2,800 students from 14 schools across the GTA participating in the program, which includes baseball practices, co-ed games and art programs.

“It was really inspiring to see the kids in action last summer and see how they embraced the sport and their sense of belonging and pride,” said Chris and Jessica Bassitt.

“We've always believed strongly in giving back and helping make a difference in the lives of others, and as we continue to raise our family in Toronto, helping kids through sports is a great connection.

“Jays Care is doing great work and we are proud to be a part of it.”

Bassitt's next start is Monday against the New York Yankees at Rogers Center. He will no doubt be looking to keep some momentum going after his home debut for 2024.

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