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. 

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. 

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.

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.