St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Adam Wainwright was present outside the Glynn County courthouse where the Ahmaud Arbery murder trial is being held to help pass out food to the crowd who had gathered to support Arbery’s family. The courthouse is located in Wainwright’s hometown of Brunswick, Georgia.
Apart from being an MLB all-star and World Series Champion pitcher, Wainwright is well known for his faith and philanthropic community engagement. In 2020, Wainwright was given the Roberto Clemente Award by the MLB, an annual honor that goes to the MLB player who “best exemplifies the game of baseball, sportsmanship, community involvement and the individual’s contribution to his team.”
According to Sports Spectrum, Wainwright, who is 40, grew up in Brunswick and attended a high school that is located just a few blocks from the courthouse. Wainwright now lives with his wife and four daughters in nearby St. Simons.
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In a video posted by reporter Alex Presha, Wainwright can be seen serving community members and making conversation, discussing shared community connections with one woman.
Ahmaud Arbery was murdered in February 2020, and the footage of the shooting sparked civil unrest and calls for racial justice around the nation. Later, Arbery’s murder was classified as a hate crime, and the three men involved in Arbery’s killing were arrested and charged.
Racial tension has also marked the trial, with one defendant’s lawyer requesting that no more “black pastors” be allowed into the courtroom gallery, motivating over 100 clergy to gather outside the courthouse to pray over the trial.
Amid these tensions, Wainwright appeared ready to serve on Thursday, blending in with the other volunteers passing out food in a buffet line.
“Adam Wainwright’s kindness is something we should all strive to emulate,” tweeted sports reporter Corey Miller.
Cardinals Network host Tom Ackerman commended Wainwright, expressing that there was nothing surprising about his presence outside the courthouse. “That’s Waino. Always finding a way to give back,” he tweeted.
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Former NFL player and outspoken Christian advocate for racial reconciliation Benjamin Watson also chimed in to thank Wainwright, calling Wainwright one “of the most genuine and humble people I know. Truly cares about empathizing with others while sharing the love of Christ in tangible ways. Well done brother.”
Wainwright is an outspoken Christian himself, even inviting fans to join him in his Bible reading plan.
