Ex-Red Sox Star To Meet Fans At Newington Store Saturday

NEWINGTON, CT — Connecticut native and former Boston Red Sox pitcher Matt Barnes will meet fans in Newington this weekend during an appearance promoting a hemp-derived THC beverage brand.

Barnes is scheduled to appear at Stew Leonard's Wines & Spirits of Newington, 3475 Berlin Turnpike, at noon Saturday, Aug. 22.

The former University of Connecticut standout was a member of the Red Sox team that won the 2018 World Series and was selected as an MLB All-Star in 2021.

Saturday's event is being held in connection with the launch of Hi! People hemp-derived THC seltzers.

The Connecticut-made beverages contain 3 milligrams of hemp-derived THC and 3 milligrams of CBG per can, according to event organizers.

Fans who purchase a designated Matt Barnes Sox Fan Package will be able to meet Barnes, take photos, and have merchandise signed.

The $39.99 package includes a 12-pack of Hi! People seltzers in three flavors: Blueberry Lemon, Grapefruit Blood Orange, and Dragon Fruit Lime.

Organizers said customers purchasing packages online should select Newington as their location and can pick up their purchase at the store during the event.

The event is open to the public. Customers must be 21 or older to purchase the seltzers or fan packages.