Making its return after a four-year run from 2017-19, MLB Players' Weekend is back.
All 30 teams will participate in the initiative which is meant to provide players an opportunity to showcase their personalities through various mediums. There are a few logistical changes from the last time the league held Players' Weekend five years ago, but the purpose remains the same.
The initiative's resurgence comes amid a wave of criticism concerning the MLB's ability to market its players. Hopefully, fans will find ways to better connect with their favorite sluggers and slingers this weekend with more focus directed at the men behind the stats.
Here's everything you need to know about MLB Players' Weekend, including why you'll see nicknames, unique bats, and more around the league for the next three days.
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What is MLB Players' Weekend?
Players' Weekend is the MLB's chance to further celebrate its players by allowing them to be themselves, aid their most important charities, and share more about "what makes them tick."
One of the most prominent ways players will be able to do so is by using customized bats and cleats. Though this practice is allowed during the regular season, Players' Weekend marks an occasion specifically to honor the personal stories that may have inspired each individual's gear.
From 2017-19, Players' Weekend also featured special uniforms with players' nicknames or other slogans on the back. While there will be no customized jerseys this year, some teams are bringing back nicknames in other ways. For example, the San Diego Padres plan to announce their lineups all weekend with their roster's aliases.
Rather than special jerseys, players this year will wear special hats with their numbers on the side in a fun, youthful font.
MLB Players' Weekend schedule
This year's Players' Weekend will last three days, from Aug. 16-18. Each day has its own theme that will be displayed through in-stadium game presentations, broadcast enhancements, social media content, and more. Here are the themes for this weekend and what they entail.
Friday: Fun—players will be able to showcase their personalities, friendships, and off-field interests.
Saturday: Causes—players' favorite charity and community efforts will be highlighted.
Sunday: Appreciation—players will have the chance to celebrate the individuals who helped them get to where they are today.
Additionally, Sunday will feature the seventh edition of the MLB Little League Classic between the Yankees and Tigers. Both teams will make their first appearance in the event, set to take place at Muncy Bank Ballpark's Historic Bowman Field in Williamsport, Pa.
The contest will begin at 7:10 p.m. ET as ESPN's Sunday Night Baseball matchup, with players, coaches, and families participating in the 2024 Little League World Series making up the majority of the crowd.
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MLB Players' Weekend customized gear
MLB players are revealing their unique, personalized bats and cleats as Players' Weekend begins. Here's some of the creative gear that will make appearances throughout the next three days.