MORE THAN A GAME – AN EXPERIENCE.
Each summer, top high school athletes entering their junior and senior years from Pennsylvania and Maryland square off in a three-day series with the goal of taking home the championship for their state. Hosted since 2012 at FNB Field, home of the Harrisburg Senators, the Big 26 Baseball Classic is one of the most respected showcases in the region.
Compete like a Pro
From tryouts in the spring to game day in July, the Big 26 offers an inside look at what it means to compete, travel, and perform like a pro. Players live, eat, and travel together throughout the event, forming friendships that last long after the final pitch. The 3-game series features 9-inning, untimed games traditionally played on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday pending weather exceptions.
Get Noticed by College Coaches
Every year, 30 to 40 college programs and scouts from minor and professional leagues attend the tryout sessions that run as a pro-style workout, a final roster pro-style workout, and the series itself to scout the next wave of college-ready talent. If you want to showcase your skills in front of real decision-makers at the D-1, D-11, D-111 and professional levels, this is your opportunity. Past participants include the Pittsburgh Pirates, Penn State University (main & branch campuses), University of Maryland, University of Pittsburgh, Villanova University, Bucknell University, Lehigh University, University of Delaware, Coastal Carolina University, Frostburg State University, UMBC, Elizabethtown College, York College, and many more.
Make a Difference Beyond the Field
The benefits of the Big 26 extend beyond just baseball. Through the Buddy Program, players are paired with individuals ages 5–21 with special needs to participate in a game and other activities throughout the event. It’s an opportunity for players to give back, inspire, form meaningful relationships, and make an impact that lasts far beyond the game.
READY TO COMPETE?
The 2026 event will be held on July 30-August 2 at FNB Field in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. High school athletes from Pennsylvania and Maryland that are graduating in 2027 and 2028 are eligible to participate in tryouts to earn one of the 26 roster spots on each team. The tryout dates have not yet been determined. Please sign up for our e-newsletter and follow us on social media for updates on tryouts and more.
