Seattle Mariners Win Inaugural Vedder Cup MLB Series Trophy

Major League Baseball has officially introduced the Vedder Cup, a trophy contest between the Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres, inspired and designed by Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder, who has personal ties to both cities. The trophy is a custom Fender Telecaster guitar modeled after Vedder's 1963 instrument, featuring hand-drawn artwork, logos of both teams, and references to Vedder's music career and charitable efforts. Vedder played the guitar for about an hour before it was presented, aiming to imbue it with 'spiritual energy,' and he wants the instrument to be actively played by team members rather than simply displayed. The Vedder Cup also raises awareness and funds for the EB Research Partnership, a nonprofit co-founded by Vedder and his wife that supports research on the rare skin condition epidermolysis bullosa. The Mariners won the inaugural Vedder Cup series in 2025 and will hold the guitar trophy until the next series, which continues the friendly rivalry rooted in both teams’ histories and Vedder’s connections. This unique blending of music, sports, and philanthropy reflects Vedder’s influence beyond rock and roll, fostering a meaningful MLB rivalry with a charitable mission.