Image Source: ESPN
Braves catcher Drake Baldwin has a simple message for young baseball players: go out, enjoy the game and have fun. That advice was part of a wider collection of lessons shared by more than 15 current and former major leaguers ahead of the 2026 Little League Classic.
The Atlanta Braves and Milwaukee Brewers are scheduled to take part in the annual event in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, where the Little League Baseball World Series is underway. The game gives major league players a chance to reconnect with the sport’s youth roots while inspiring the next generation of athletes.
Braves Star Drake Baldwin Shares a Powerful Message
Baldwin, who plays for Atlanta, focused on the importance of enjoying baseball rather than allowing expectations to take over. His advice was direct: young players should take each day as it comes and appreciate the teammates and people around them.
“Just go out there and have fun,” Baldwin said. “I think that’s the biggest thing, is just take it day by day and enjoy the time with your teammates and the people you’re with.”
His comments reflect a common theme among the players interviewed by ESPN. While professional baseball often centers on statistics, scouting reports, draft rankings and future opportunities, many big leaguers said the most valuable youth baseball memories came from simply playing with friends.
MLB Players Reveal the Advice That Stayed With Them
Several major leaguers described lessons from parents, coaches and mentors that continue to influence their careers.
- Bobby Witt Jr. said young players should work hard, remain humble and keep trying to improve.
- Riley O’Brien highlighted the balance between enjoying baseball and working diligently to reach a higher level.
- Matt McLain remembered his father’s reminder that effort and attitude are the two things players can control.
- Nick Martinez was taught to play as if someone was always watching, believing that consistent effort earns respect.
- CJ Abrams encouraged young athletes to believe in themselves and remain positive despite baseball’s inevitable failures.
- Byron Buxton emphasized the value of being a good teammate, saying positive character can carry a player farther than talent alone.
- Cade Smith urged players to trust the process, take life one day at a time and focus less on outcomes.
The advice shows how much baseball depends on mental strength. Even at the highest level, players fail regularly. Learning how to respond to a strikeout, error or difficult stretch can be just as important as developing a swing or perfecting a pitch.
Surprising Advice for Today’s Young Baseball Players
When asked what guidance they would give children now, the players offered a mix of practical instruction and memorable humor.
Foster Griffin delivered one of the most unusual answers: “Don’t dig holes in the outfield and pay attention.” The playful warning captured the relaxed spirit of Little League, where young players are still learning the game and discovering what they enjoy most.
Brady Singer advised children to identify their strengths and build around them instead of trying to become someone they are not. He also encouraged players to remember that friendships formed in youth sports can last for life.
Chase Burns echoed the message to have fun, explaining that scholarships and the MLB Draft can wait. For young athletes, daily improvement and enjoyment should matter more than constantly thinking about a professional future.
McLain also raised concerns about the pressure placed on children by advanced technology and performance tracking. He questioned whether young players using systems such as Trackman are still participating for fun or are already being pushed toward adult expectations.
Why the Braves’ Little League Classic Message Matters
Other players urged children not to specialize in baseball too early. Bryan Baker said playing multiple sports helped him develop athletic versatility and avoid burnout. Smith offered similar advice, adding that strong grades can help open opportunities for athletes who hope to play at the next level.
Milwaukee pitcher Kyle Harrison encouraged young players to talk with teammates, ask questions and learn from everyone around them. Dodgers pitcher Brock Stewart said children should cherish their Little League and travel ball experiences because players often appreciate those moments more after they are gone.
The Braves-Brewers matchup therefore represents more than a regular-season game. It is also a celebration of youth baseball, teamwork and the joy that first brings players to the diamond. For families and coaches, the message from MLB veterans is clear: development matters, but so do balance, character, education and fun.
The 2026 Little League Classic is set for Sunday at 7 p.m. ET, giving fans another opportunity to see major leaguers celebrate the game’s youngest participants.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 2026 Little League Classic?
The 2026 Little League Classic is an MLB game featuring the Atlanta Braves and Milwaukee Brewers in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, during the Little League Baseball World Series.
What advice did Drake Baldwin give young players?
Drake Baldwin encouraged children to go out, have fun, take things day by day and enjoy time with their teammates.
Why did MLB players recommend playing multiple sports?
Players including Bryan Baker and Cade Smith said multiple sports can build athleticism, improve versatility and reduce the risk of early burnout.
What did Bobby Witt Jr. say about youth baseball?
Bobby Witt Jr. advised young players to work hard, stay humble and continue trying to improve.
