The St. Louis Cardinals and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department are teaming up together with the American Red Cross for the 5th annual blood drive in honor or local area first responders. Cardinals’ fans, first responders, and the St. Louis community are invited to donate on Thursday, February 26, from 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. at Busch Stadium, Cunningham Corner, 700 Clark St., in St. Louis (Gate 4).
This year’s drive is dedicated to SLMPD Officer Malik Baker who tragically passed away in September of 2025. In addition to being a dedicated public servant, Officer Baker was a familiar face around Busch Stadium working to ensure the safety of ballpark guests as part of the Cardinals secondary police detail. This drive provides the community with a way to honor his life and service, and to show support for all area first responders.
“Officer Malik Baker served the City of St. Louis with dedication and heart, and this blood drive is a meaningful way to honor his legacy,” said Chief Robert Tracy. “We are grateful to the American Red Cross and St. Louis Cardinals for standing with our first responders and strengthening our community.”
“This blood drive is one way of honoring fallen SLMPD officer Malik Baker, who proudly served both our community and the Cardinals organization as a member of our gameday security detail,” said Cardinals Security Director Michelle Spahn. “By coming together to donate blood, we not only remember his service and sacrifice, but also show our gratitude and support for all local first responders who put themselves in harm’s way every day.”
As a thank you, everyone who attempts to donate will receive a receive a Marty Pass which is redeemable for 2 tickets to a 2026 Cardinals game with restrictions and a $20 e-gift card to your choice of merchant. More details at rcblood.org/heart.
How to donate blood
Simply download the Red Cross Blood Donor App or visit RedCrossBlood.org, and enter sponsor code: SAVINGLIVES, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
