Miami Marlins players shed their locks for charity

MIAMI (WSVN) -- Some Miami Marlins players stepped up to the plate and had their hair shaved off to help some children in need.

The Major League Baseball players received an instant makeover Saturday, as part of the Bald, Brave and Beautiful Project.

Event organizers set up a mock barbershop just before Saturday's game at West Plaza in Marlins Park.

Many Marlins players, like left fielder Logan Morrison, were not afraid to lose their locks for a good cause. "These kids go through way worse things than I could imagine, and I'm very honored and proud to be able to shave my head and help them out anyway I can," Morrison said.

Each shave helps one terminally-ill child.

Marlins closer Heath Bell stressed the importance of the cause. You can always donate money and stuff," he said, "but giving your time and effort really goes a lot further. I think that's why when everything's really bad, you gotta give your time and effort and shave your head every once in a while."

Miami Marlins president David Samson also joined the cause. According to Samson, baseball players have a special connection with their hair, but they will shave it in no time to help children with cancer. Samson said, "I think the kids don't realize the players and their hair, there's something about it, but when it comes to kids, they'll forget vanity, because let's face it. Logan looks terrible, and they'll forget that and realize there's a bigger cause here."

On Thursday, Morrison stopped by Miami Children's Hospital and distributed almost 100 autographed jerseys. He also spoke with several of the children at the hospital.

During his visit, Morrison pitched the event idea to organizers. "You know, all I had to do is ask, and they were more than willing to do it," Morrison said, "and I think it shows how close we are as a team and how good human beings can be."

Miami Children's Hospital CEO Dr. Narendra Kini said, "First of all, we are very honored to be apart of this community. The Marlins players voluntarily doing this thing shows their level of involvement in the community and they care for the children that have had cancer."

The Bald, Brave and Beautiful Project has helped hundreds of sick children, who live by the motto, "Being bald is beautiful." One child said, "I appreciate it a lot. You know, we've been through a lot. It shows that they understand us. It means a lot."

The next big charity event is the Second Annual Miami Children's Hospital 5K Run, which will take place in September.

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