On a crisp September evening at American Family Field, the roar of 30,000 fans filled the stadium. But in one corner of the crowd, a different kind of cheer echoed—one not just for baseball, but for friendship. Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Sal Frelick had more than fans in the stands that night; he had friends. Real friends. The kind he made off the field through Best Buddies Wisconsin.

In the right field bleachers, a sea of handmade signs waved proudly in the air—bright colors and bold letters held high by members of Best Buddies Wisconsin, who had come not just to watch a baseball game, but to cheer on their friend.

Sal Frelick, the Brewers’ outfielder, spotted them and waved as he jogged out to his position. He tossed a few balls into the stands, aiming for the signs and the smiles behind them. The crowd around the Best Buddies section erupted in applause, but it was the joy on the faces of the buddies who scored the balls that made the moment unforgettable. It wasn’t just a souvenir—it was a symbol of connection, of being seen and celebrated. That simple gesture—just a wave and a few baseballs—spoke volumes. In that moment, the bleachers in right field felt like the heart of the stadium.

Frelick’s journey with Best Buddies began long before his major league debut. As a student at Lexington High School in Massachusetts, he was drawn to the peer-to-peer program that pairs students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities. Prom nights, red carpets, and laughter-filled events shaped his high school years—and his heart.

Years later, now a rising star in Milwaukee, Frelick felt something missing—that sense of community, of joy, of purpose. So he reached out to the Wisconsin chapter of Best Buddies with a simple message: “I love Best Buddies. I’d love to get involved.” And just like that, he was back—this time as a role model, a friend, and a champion for inclusion.

From tailgate parties to Friendship Walks, Frelick has become a regular presence, bringing smiles and hugs to buddies like Mitch Welk, who proudly recalls their “bro hug” moment. Sal’s compassion and authenticity earned him the Brewers’ nomination for the Roberto Clemente Award, honoring players who exemplify sportsmanship and community service.

For Frelick, baseball is a passion. But Best Buddies? That’s home.