Wednesday, May 6, 2026

Merck launches LDL-C awareness program with MLB teams

Merck (known as MSD outside the United States and Canada) has announced a US education initiative focused on cardiovascular health. The program, called “Playing with Heart,” brings together nine professional baseball clubs and former players to increase awareness of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, and how it may be linked to heart attack or stroke risk.

The participating clubs are the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Philadelphia Phillies, Atlanta Braves, Houston Astros, St. Louis Cardinals, San Francisco Giants, San Diego Padres, and Los Angeles Angels. Merck names Albert Pujols as the national ambassador. Additional participants listed include Aaron Boone and CC Sabathia (Yankees), Lou Merloni (Red Sox), Charlie Manuel (Phillies), Javy Lopez (Braves), Geoff Blum (Astros), Sierra Kile (Cardinals), Dusty Baker (Giants), Mark Loretta and Jake Peavy (Padres), and Bobby Valentine and Clyde Wright (Angels).

In-stadium efforts planned for the 2026 season

Merck said the program is expected to be activated during the 2026 baseball season, including in-stadium events designed to share information about LDL-C and the role of plaque buildup in arteries. In its announcement, Merck points to estimates that more than 800,000 people in the US experience a heart attack each year.

WomenHeart joins as patient education partner

WomenHeart is also involved as a partner. The patient-centered organization supports adults living with or at risk for heart disease and brings a network of more than 1,000 patient champions, with plans to help extend education into local communities.

Context: ASCVD and plaque buildup

Merck links the campaign to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), where plaque can accumulate in arteries and contribute to narrowing or blockages that may lead to serious cardiovascular events. ASCVD includes conditions such as coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and cerebrovascular disease.