Officials from the University of Illinois at Chicago are preparing to officially unveil the school's new baseball stadium this week.
Festivities are planned for Thursday at the $10 million Curtis Granderson Stadium, named for the New York Mets outfielder and three-time Major League Baseball all-star.
"UIC has played an integral role in shaping who I am as an athlete and as a person, so I’m confident that this facility will have a tremendous impact on our community," Granderson said in a statement on the school's website. "I’ve learned many important lessons growing up in Chicago, both in the classroom and on the baseball field, so it’s a privilege to now help provide those same opportunities."
Granderson's gift of $5 million toward the stadium is the largest gift in UIC athletics history.
UIC officials said the venue will be the new home for the university's Flames baseball team, and will be used by more than 38 Chicago youth organizations.
After an afternoon grand opening event, Granderson is expected to throw out the first pitch to kick off opening weekend -- a three-game series against Wright State.
