During this year’s edition of the Little League Classic, it was revealed that the Phillies will be playing in next season’s game. The Phils will take on their division rivals, the Washington Nationals. The game will take place in the middle of August, when the Little League World Series is typically held.
America’s Pasttime
The Little League World Series has been a long-standing tradition all across the World for decades. Growing up playing baseball or softball is something that hundreds of thousands of people from across the globe share in common.
While Little League isn’t the only organization that youth baseball exists in, it is one of the more popular leagues. MLB stars from all around the world grew up playing in Little League, and some players even performed in Williamsport in the World Series.
Little League Classic
A tradition that started in 2017, the Little League classic is a game between two MLB teams, played in a stadium in Williamsport. The stadium is a regulation MLB park, but its dimensions are a little unique. The stadium very much has a minor league feel.
There are no stands in the outfield and only the kids playing in the tournament and their families can attend the game. The Phillies got a chance to play in 2018, in a game in which they played the New York Mets. They will join the Pirates as teams that have gotten to play in the game twice.
A look at the Phillies 2023
The Phillies should be entering the game next season with playoff aspirations. As 2022 unwinds, the Phillies look to secure their first postseason appearance since 2011.
The Washington Nationals will be in the exact opposite position of the Phillies next season. After trading Juan Soto and Josh Bell this season, the Nationals are in complete rebuild mode. The club will most likely be very bad next year, and the Phillies should hopefully make quick work of Washington.
Sharing the Spotlight
National TV games have become very normal for Philadelphia in recent seasons. Since signing Bryce Harper, the Phillies have been featured on Sunday Night Baseball, FOX Sports Saturdays, and many others. Players like Harper, Nick Castellanos, Kyle Schwarber, Zack Wheeler, and the rest of the crew make for a very entertaining watch.
Hopefully, the Phillies can impress the little leaguers and their fans next year during the Little League Classic. The entire day is memorable and an overall amazing experience for everyone involved. This game is one of the things that Major League Baseball absolutely knocks out of the park and I look forward to watching it next season.
Photo Credit: AP Photo/Matt Rourke
