TOPPS’ NEW DEAL WITH CLAYTON KERSHAW GOES BEYOND JUST SIGNING AUTOGRAPHS

Ysponder

Every time Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw signs his autograph, he gets paid a certain amount from Topps.

Every time he strikes out a batter this season, Kershaw’s Challenge gets paid a certain amount, too.

Topps announced the details of its latest new deal in the hobby this week, and it’s one that will benefit the non-profit group that helps children in Los Angeles, Dallas and the Republic of Zambia. For every strikeout the reigning NL Cy Young Award-winner records this season, the charity gets $100 from the card company.

“Topps is an iconic American brand that has brought joy to baseball fans for generations,” Kershaw said. “Ellen and I are so pleased that we have a partnership that helps support Kershaw’s Challenge and delivers exciting product to the fans.”

Kershaw will be an exclusive signer for Topps and also appear on the box for 2014 Topps Baseball Series 2, coming soon.

“We are thrilled to be able to partner with Clayton Kershaw. We continue to collaborate with the premier players in our goal to getting fans closer to the game,” said Clay Luraschi, VP Product Development at Topps, in a prepared release. “We are equally excited to support Kershaw’s Challenge throughout the 2014 season.”

Kershaw made his 2014 debut on Tuesday, striking out nine batters in seven innings of work during an 8-3 win over the Nationals.