MLB Introduces Annual Tradition in Williamsport, PA
In a move that has captured the attention of baseball fans across the country, Major League Baseball (MLB) established a new tradition in Williamsport, Pennsylvania in 2017. This small town, known for its rich history and love for the game, has now become a must-visit destination for baseball enthusiasts.
The annual event, known as the “MLB Little League Classic,” brings together the best of both worlds – professional baseball players and Little League players. The game is played at the iconic BB&T Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field, which has been home to the Little League World Series since 1959.
But this is not just any regular game. The MLB Little League Classic is a unique experience that allows young players to interact with their idols and learn from the best in the game. It also gives MLB players the opportunity to give back to the community and inspire the next generation of baseball stars.
The first MLB Little League Classic in 2017 was a huge success, with the Pittsburgh Pirates and the St. Louis Cardinals facing off in front of a sold-out crowd of 2,596 Little League players and their families. The game was filled with excitement and energy, as the players were cheered on by their young fans.
MLB in the rolling hills of South Williamsport.
The Seattle Mariners Take the Field at the Little League Classic
The Seattle Mariners are making their debut at the Little League Classic, a highly anticipated event that brings together Major League Baseball and Little League World Series. After a thrilling game against the New York Mets on Saturday, the two teams will travel to Williamsport, Pennsylvania for the eighth edition of this tradition. The game will be nationally televised on ESPN’s “Sunday Night Baseball.”
A Marquee Matchup Between Postseason Contenders
This year’s Little League Classic will feature a marquee matchup between two teams vying for a spot in the postseason. The tradition, which began in 2017 with the Pittsburgh Pirates and St. Louis Cardinals, brings together two MLB teams for a regular-season game in August during the Little League World Series. Unfortunately, last year’s installment was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Seattle Mariners vs. New York Mets
The Seattle Mariners will take on the New York Mets in their first appearance at the Little League Classic. The game will feature a pitching duel between Mariners’ right-hander George Kirby and Mets’ Clay Holmes. The first pitch is set for 4:10 p.m. PDT at Journey Bank Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field.
A Little League Tradition
The Little League Classic is not just about the game, it’s also about the tradition and sportsmanship that comes with it. In 2017, when the Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the St. Louis Cardinals, both teams gathered at home plate for a handshake line, a tradition typically seen in Little League and youth baseball. Since then, MLB teams have continued this tradition, showcasing good sportsmanship in front of the world’s premier Little Leaguers.
Previous Results from MLB’s Little League Classic
Since its inception in 2017, the Little League Classic has featured some exciting matchups. In 2018, the New York Mets defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 8-2, and in 2019, the Chicago Cubs beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 7-1. This year’s game is sure to be just as thrilling.
Major Leaguers Engage with Young Fans
As part of the Little League Classic, players from both the Mariners and Mets will attend Little League World Series games in the morning, showing their commitment to growing the game at the youth level and engaging with young fans. In return, the Little Leaguers will attend the Mariners-Mets game in the evening, giving them a front-row seat to watch their favorite players in action.
A Historic Venue
The game will take place at Historic Bowman Field, which opened in 1926 and is currently home to the Williamsport Crosscutters, a collegiate summer team in the MLB Draft League. The stadium has a capacity of 2,366 and offers a unique experience for players and fans alike.
Washington State’s Dominance in the Northwest Regional Championship
The Bonney Lake-Sumner Little League recently won the Northwest Regional Championship, earning their spot in the Little League World Series. This marks the fifth consecutive year that a team from Washington State has claimed the region, with previous champions including Eastlake Little League, Northeast Seattle Little League, and South Hill Little League.
Mark Your Calendars
The 2025 Little League World Series will take place from August 13-24 at the Little League International Complex in South Williamsport. Don’t miss your chance to see the future stars of baseball in action.
