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Mariners extend blood drive at T-Mobile Park through end of May

SEATTLE — The Seattle Mariners and Bloodworks Northwest have extended the special blood drive at T-Mobile Park through the end of May.

The blood drive began Monday at 8 a.m. and was previously set to run through Sunday, May 2.

Only scheduled appointments are allowed in accordance with current social distancing guidelines.

>> FDA loosens restrictions on blood donations amid coronavirus outbreak

The Mariners said they decided to extend the blood drive after all of the 555 donor appointment available between Monday and May 2 were filled. The extension will now allow for 880 more donations. Click here to sign up.

The team said every donor will receive two tickets to an upcoming Mariners game. Major League Baseball postponed the start of its season last month due to the coronavirus pandemic and has yet to announce when the season will start.

“This is an unprecedented time, but when there is a crisis, our community always comes together,” said former Mariners All-Star catcher and Mariners Hall of Famer Dan Wilson. “Giving blood is something we all can do to help to meet a critical need during this national emergency.”

Donors are encouraged to wear their Mariners gear and are reminded that bags are not allowed inside the park. There will be free parking on the Parking Plaza -- located adjacent to the Mariners Garage located on the corner of Edgar Martinez Drive and Occidental Street.

“We’re excited to be partnering with the Seattle Mariners to keep the blood shelves stocked,” said Bloodworks Northwest President & CEO Curt Bailey. “Our community is counting on the best fans in baseball to look after our friends, family, and neighbors by donating blood.”

Bloodworks has posted information addressing questions and concerns for blood donors here.