Baseball fans, rejoice! As the summer heat starts to wane, the diamond at the Peoria Sports Complex is heating up with the return of the Arizona Fall League (AFL) and the Peoria Javelinas for the thrilling 2023 season.
Located at 16101 N. 83rd Ave., the Peoria Sports Complex is set to become the crucible for baseball’s up-and-coming stars. The AFL, every year, stands as a beacon for top prospects eager to sharpen their skills, showcasing their talent alongside and against fellow budding MLB stars. With each Major League team dispatching their seven most promising players, the AFL is less of a league and more of a treasure trove of baseball’s future.
For those new to the world of the AFL, envision it as a glimpse into what the future of MLB holds. It isn’t just about the thrill of the game but the sheer joy of potentially spotting a future All-Star, MVP, or even a Hall of Famer in their formative years. And, given that a significant 60% of AFL players eventually wear the Major League jersey, it’s no hyperbole to state that the future legends of the game are being forged right here.
In its illustrious history, the AFL has birthed 321 All-Stars, 19 MVPs, six Cy Young Award Winners, seven World Series MVPs, and a staggering 99 Silver Sluggers, 88 Gold Gloves, and 30 Rookies of the Year. This year, at the MLB All-Star Game in Seattle, the league’s influence was unmistakable with 36 AFL alumni on the roster. The likes of Pete Alonso, Yordan Alvarez, and Nolan Arenado graced the field, with Elias Diaz snatching the All-Star MVP accolade.
But it’s not just about the grand stage. Closer to home, the Peoria Javelinas have their own roster of legends and stars. The list includes the likes of AFL Hall of Famers Mark Texeira and Todd Helton. Additionally, current sensations like Max Fried, Trent Grisham, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Julio Rodriguez have all, at some point, called Peoria Stadium their home.
With games scheduled from October 2 through November 11, the stage is set for a season of unparalleled baseball action. While most matches will commence at 6:30 p.m., fans are urged to check specific game times, which might vary.
Tickets are expected to go quickly, especially given the affordable pricing and the high-octane action on offer. So, if you’re keen to witness the future MLB stars in their prime, make your way to the Peoria Sports Complex. For more information, visit peoriasportscomplex.com/minor-leagues/arizona-fall-league.
