Texas Rangers Youth Academy athlete Aaliyah Marquez was once again invited to take part in the MLB Develops Trailblazer Series, marking her fourth time participating in the annual initiative which promotes and celebrates youth girls¡¯ involvement in the game of baseball.
This year¡¯s Trailblazer Series was held last weekend at the Jackie Robinson Training Center in Vero Beach, Fl., a historic site that once served as the Spring Training home of the Brooklyn Dodgers.
Nearly 100 standout athletes from across the United States were selected to attend, highlighting the growing reach and influence of the series in providing opportunities for young women to compete in baseball.
The 2025 edition of the Trailblazer Series featured a star-studded lineup of coaches and mentors, including several pioneers in women¡¯s baseball. Among them were Meggie Medilinger, a two-time member of the United States Women¡¯s National Baseball Team (2006, 2008), and Valerie Perez, the current starting shortstop for Team USA.
For Marquez, who has played baseball and softball during her time at the Rangers Youth Academy, the Trailblazer Series provides a unique opportunity to continue growing her skillset in both sports.
The Duncanville native is expected to compete in the Rangers Youth Academy's Nike RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities) baseball program this summer and will also represent the Rangers in the upcoming Jennie Finch Classic in Atlanta this July. The Classic, named after Olympic gold medalist and softball legend Jennie Finch, showcases some of the top softball players from MLB Youth Academies and Jennie Finch programs.
With her consistent presence in both sports and a growing list of accolades, Marquez represents the type of well-rounded, hardworking athlete that the Trailblazer Series was created to support. As she continues to train and compete with the Rangers Youth Academy, her journey stands as an example of the expanding opportunities available to young girls in baseball and softball.
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Texas Rangers Youth Academy athletes take part in Jackie Robinson Day celebration at Globe Life Field
- On the field: As part of Major League Baseball¡¯s annual celebration of Jackie Robinson Day, multiple student-athletes from the Texas Rangers Youth Academy joined the Rangers on the field during the national anthem prior to the team¡¯s game against the Los Angeles Angels at Globe Life Field on April 15, 2025.
- Do it for 42: The club also welcomed a number of city and community leaders to Globe Life Field for the occasion. In addition, all proceeds from the night¡¯s 50/50 raffle benefited the Jackie Robinson Foundation, culminating in a total donation of over $11,000.
Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation opens multiple scholarships benefitting academy athletes
- Young Family Scholarship: Established in 2023 thanks to the generosity of Rangers GM Chris Young and his family¡¯s commitment to the success of our Youth Academy athletes. Two (2) scholarships will be awarded annually to participants at the Texas Rangers Youth Academy, each worth $5,000 per year over four (4) years for a total of $20,000.
- Rangers Nike RBI Scholarship: Established in 2019, two (2) current Rangers Nike RBI league participants who are graduating seniors will receive a one-time payment of $5,000.
- Rudd-Holley Family Scholarship: Established in 2024, thanks to the generosity of the Rudd-Holley family. One (1) scholarship will be awarded annually, worth $5,000 per year over four (4) years for a total of $20,000.
Education and Buckner International programming
The Texas Rangers MLB Youth Academy goes beyond baseball and softball programming to benefit our community. With help from our partner Bucker International, the Academy hosts free education and enrichment courses for athletes and their families throughout the year. Register here for all Youth Academy classes.