The Mets and the Amazin¡¯ Mets Foundation are cultivating the next generation of athletes by investing in youth baseball and softball leagues, and programs that directly support these athletes¡¯ development.
The Junior Mets Baseball Program aims to introduce the game of baseball to local youth at an early age, create access for underserved groups, and develop skills and fundamentals that help foster a love for the game. This program offers no-cost educational clinics, baseball curriculum lessons, and provides equipment and ticket donations to local athletes, helping pave the way for the future of the sport.
The Foundation invests in youth baseball in the following ways: Introduction to the Game, Access to the Game, Skills & Development of the Game.
Introduction to the Game: The Foundation partners with USA Baseball to bring young athletes a unique baseball and softball experience known as Fun At Bat. Through this program, kids learn every aspect of the game while placing an emphasis on character development, active play, and fun.
Access to the Game: Low-income children are six times more likely to quit sports due to overwhelming costs of pay-to-play fees and equipment. To help, the Foundation identifies local little leagues to donate equipment and sponsor uniforms.
Through Sandlot Stars, the Foundation partners with Pitch In For Baseball & Softball to provide new gear for youth teams in New York City, New Jersey, Long Island, Port St. Lucie, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico.
Creating safe, high-quality spaces for young athletes is also our priority. The Foundation collaborated with Mets Ballpark Operations, LandTek, and the New York City Parks Department to identify and renovate local fields. In 2024, the Foundation committed $900,000 to upgrade Flushing Meadows Corona Park Field #11 and Juniper Valley Park Field #1 with new irrigation, drainage, dugouts, and infields.
Our Coach Development Program expands access by equipping local coaches with high-quality training materials, helping them navigate the challenges and rewards of volunteer youth coaching.
Skills & Development of the Game: Mets players, coaches, and alumni participated in Junior Mets programming by leading clinics at Citi Field and in our neighboring communities.