Toronto Blue Jays infielder Ernie Clement, a Rochester native who grew up playing baseball in western New York, has partnered with Cooperstown’s Brewery Ommegang on a new beer, Upstate Hussle.
A portion of sales from the craft lager will go toward the Challenger Miracle Field of Greater Rochester organization, which provides barrier-free access to inclusive sports for people with developmental, physical or intellectual disabilities.
“Growing up in Rochester, I always valued the community that supported my journey,” Clement said. “Partnering with Brewery Ommegang to create Upstate Hustle brings that hometown pride to life while supporting the incredible work at Challenger Miracle Field. It’s a way to give back to the place that made me who I am today.”
Upstate Hustle, brewed with Nectaron, NY Excelsior and NY Centennial hops, features a light cracker malt note and mellow hop fruitiness. It will be available in Rochester, Cooperstown, Syracuse and Buffalo.
“We are incredibly proud to work with Ernie on the project, as his passion for baseball and his upstate roots align perfectly with our commitment to brewing great beer for New York at Brewery Ommegang,” Ommegang National Accounts Director Randy Scroger said. “Upstate Hustle captures that spirit in a lager that is approachable at 4.2% ABV, crisp and refreshing, and supports our community through our partnership with Challenger Miracle Field.”