The MLB ID Tour Hits Seattle: A Game Changer for Young Athletes

Seattle recently hosted a historic event for aspiring baseball players—the MLB ID Tour. This nationwide initiative by Major League Baseball scouts and identifies talented student-athletes in the high school graduating class on 2028/2029, and for the first time, the tour made its way to the Pacific Northwest. The tour rolled into the Mariners Training Center in the Columbia City neighborhood of Seattle. 

A Platform for Hidden Talent

David James, MLB’s VP of Baseball & Softball Development, highlighted the tour’s purpose: “We host multiple events annually, searching for talent.” The tour offers young athletes a chance to be seen, evaluated, and considered for future tournaments and development programs.

For players like Jaheim Washington, the event was more than just another tryout. “There’s not a lot of representation of color in baseball. It was great to be around others who look like me,” he shared. The tour provided a space for athletes to showcase their skills while connecting with a community that understands their journey.

A Long-Awaited Opportunity for Seattle

The tour’s arrival in Seattle was a milestone driven by years of advocacy. Bookie Gates, founder of Baseball Beyond Borders, emphasized its importance: “I always knew the Northwest needed this. We have student-athletes with the skill, knowledge, and ability to play at a high level.” The Mariners Care Foundation also played a pivotal role in bringing the MLB ID Tour to the Emerald City. 

Beyond talent identification, the tour is about creating opportunities. Joseph Townsend, Director of Baseball Operations for Baseball Beyond Borders, stressed its mission of inclusivity: “We want to make sure that no matter where you come from, you have the same opportunities.”

More Than Just Baseball

For many, the MLB ID Tour represents hope and possibility. “This platform gives them the ability to dream,” Gates said. Visibility in events like this can open doors to college programs and professional careers.

Seattle Mariners' 2020 Rookie of the Year Kyle Lewis spoke with the young athletes via phone and offered valuable advice: “Appreciate good mentors, ask questions, and learn as much as you can.” His words underscored the importance of guidance both on and off the field.

A Lasting Impact

The MLB ID Tour’s stop in Seattle was a landmark moment—one that celebrated talent, diversity, and the power of opportunity. It gave young athletes a platform to shine and set the stage for future generations to follow their baseball dreams. With momentum building, Seattle’s baseball community is ready for what comes next.