Newark Bears to honor Jim Leyritz on Beer Pong Night. Yep

Aug 24, 2011, 12:15 PM EDT

Here are the facts as I know them: The Newark Bears (of the Canadian American Association of Professional Baseball) are honoring their departing pitching coach, Jim Leyritz (pictured), on the same date they’ve schedule Beer Pong Night. As you know, Leyritz was convicted of driving under the influence in a crash that killed the other driver in 2007.

But that’s not all. Leyritz and another Bears coach, Ozzie Canseco, will be signing autographs for the kids. Ozzie, one may recall, was busted for DUI in January in Florida.

Plus, the Bears will be donating $2,000 to Mothers Against Drunk Driving that night … which also happens to be “Thirsty Thursday,” in which beer is half price.

(Head explodes).

Bears’ press release:

The Newark Bears are donating $2,000 to MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) as a special farewell to one of their coaches, Jim Leyritz’s (sic). The Bears hope to help draw awareness during the teams (sic) last Thirsty Thursday of the season.

Although a Beer Pong Tournament will be hosted that night, the owners thought by hosting this event with all parties and attractions, it would support the important need of how people can have fun responsibly. (Designated Drivers) $20 includes; admission to the game and beer pong tournament. Winner will receive 50% of proceeds generated from the tournament registrations.

Come for the baseball, stay for the drunken irony.

Meanwhile, at the Newark Bears’ web site: