Two special elves carrying a huge holiday delivery on Tuesday stopped by HISD’s Northline Elementary School to the delight of the school’s more than 500 students. 

Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale and Houston Astros star third baseman Alex Bregman teamed up to deliver presents to all 550 students, and to pass on words of encouragement and support.  

“In order to play baseball, you have to do well in school, pass all of your classes, listen to your teachers and work extremely hard,” Bregman said. “And don’t forget to listen to your parents.” 

Bregman, a two-time MLB All-Star, spent more than two hours personally handing out gifts to every student. Students each took home two gifts, which included drones, Baby Alive dolls, and toy chainsaws.  

Northline’s PTO was instrumental in making the surprise happen. A few weeks before Tuesday’s event, a group of moms and teachers from the school, which is located just blocks from the company’s flagship store, approached Gallery Furniture for a donation of water bottles. Inspired by the stories of their students, McIngvale felt he had to do so much more. 

“It makes you think of Christmas,” he said. “This is what it is all about, giving and taking care of these kiddos.” 

Bregman and McIngvale also delivered the gift of inspiration to the students, including fourth-grader Guadalupe Lopez, who shed some tears upon meeting his baseball hero. 

“Thank you for inspiring me; you’re my hero,” Guadalupe said in a video message to Bregman. “Thank you for everything you have done for the Astros and my school.”