MLB Expands Draft League Partnership Through 2030

Major League Baseball announced the expansion of its partnership with the Draft League in a Press Release.

What is the Draft League?

The MLB Draft League offers a chance to perform in a door-cracking MLB feeder system. With this ecosystem built, every at-bat, pitch, and play in a Major League Baseball Draft League game will provide an opportunity to further develop a ballplayer’s craft and give exposure to great talent, resources, and connections as they pursue their dreams of reaching Major League Baseball.

This league was formed in 2021 and has already shown effectiveness, having developed over 230 players. Many of these individuals have filled roster spots in MiLB organizations, with 133 drafted and another 103 signings later on through free agency. In addition, over three dozen players have made it to AA or higher, quite a feat for a league still growing out of its infancy stages.

Not much will change initially regarding extending this agreement through 2030. All six present teams, Trenton Thunder, Frederick Keys, State College Spikes, Williamsport Crosscutters, Mahoning Valley Scrappers, and West Virginia Black Bears, will remain in the league. In fact, the upcoming 2024 season will start on June 4th and consist of an 80-game schedule.

With this extension, the MLB Draft League will grow soon, with two more teams set to join its ranks. 

The MLB Draft League President, Sean Campbell, seemed content with the league’s influence. He made it clear that the fans held a special place in his heart, and the league had met pre-draft and post-draft expectations. 

For the rising generation of baseball players aspiring to make it to the big leagues, this move is cause for optimism.