The Connecticut Tigers will sign Norwich Police Sergeant Ed Peckham to a one-day honorary contract on Thursday so he can be in uniform on Friday night when the Tigers host their inaugural First Responder Night at Dodd Stadium.

Peckham, who was recently diagnosed with cancer, will officially sign his contract during a noon press conference on Thursday alongside his acting agent, 13-year son E.J. Peckham will then suit up as a member of the Tigers on Friday and take the field for batting practice before serving as an honorary game captain for Connecticut's New York-Penn League game against West Virginia Black Bears at 7 p.m.

"We are extremely honored to sign Ed to a one-day contract as a way of showing our gratitude to him for his commitment to the City of Norwich and its residents" Tigers vice president and general manager Eric Knighton said in a statement released by the team. "Plus, our scouts tell us he has a strong bat and a great glove at first base.

"First Responder Night will be a great night to honor and thank all those that serve us here in the Norwich community and across southeastern Connecticut, which we are proud to call home. We look forward to having Ed as a part of the team."