Why are MLB players using decorated bats this weekend?

Baseball fans, get ready to dive back into the fun and flair of Players’ Weekend! After a four-year break, this beloved event is making its triumphant return, starting this Friday. Players’ Weekend is all about letting the athletes showcase their personalities and passions, with a special focus on connecting with fans and bringing a fresh energy to the game. Think of it as a celebration of everything that makes baseball more than just a sport—it’s a way of life, filled with stories, causes, and memories that go beyond the diamond.

So, when can you catch all the action? It kicks off this Friday and runs through Sunday, with all 30 Major League teams getting in on the fun. Each day has its own unique theme, ensuring there’s something special to look forward to every time you tune in. It’s more than just baseball—it’s a three-day festival of personality, philanthropy, and gratitude, all wrapped up in one exciting weekend.

Let’s break down what each day has in store. Friday is all about fun. Players will be showing off their quirks, friendships, and off-field interests. This is the day to see what really makes these guys tick when they’re not crushing homers or striking out batters. Saturday takes a heartfelt turn with a focus on causes. It’s a day dedicated to the players’ favorite charities and community efforts, giving fans a glimpse of the good they do off the field. Finally, Sunday wraps things up with appreciation, as players take a moment to honor the mentors, coaches, and family members who helped them reach the big leagues.

You might remember the original Players’ Weekend from a few years ago, where we saw players sporting those cool uniforms with nicknames on the back. Who could forget Kyle Seager rocking “Corey’s Brother” before switching back to just “Seager” the next year? Well, this year, the uniforms may not have nicknames, but they will have something just as cool—special hats featuring youthful designs with the players’ numbers on the side. And for those who love to collect, these hats are available in the MLB Shop.

Of course, what’s a celebration without a little extra flair? Players will have the chance to show off customized bats and personalized cleats, adding another layer of creativity to the weekend. Over the years, we’ve seen some truly eye-popping cleat designs, and if past seasons are any indication, we’re in for some colorful and unique bat designs this time around.

Now, for a little bonus excitement: the Little League Classic has been rolled into this year’s Players’ Weekend! This annual event, which started back in 2017, features two MLB teams squaring off at the historic Bowman Field in Williamsport, Pennsylvania—the heart of the Little League World Series. This year, the Yankees and Tigers will make their first appearances in the Classic, playing on Sunday night in front of a crowd filled with Little League players, coaches, and their families.

So, whether you’re tuning in for the fun, the causes, or the nostalgia, Players’ Weekend promises to be a celebration of everything that makes baseball special. With a lineup of national broadcasts on Apple TV+ and FOX, there’s no shortage of ways to catch the action. It’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy a weekend where the stars of the game get to shine in their own unique ways.