The Little League World Series gives young baseball players their first real taste of the big stage.Every August, talented kids from all over the globe compete for a true world championship and make memories that will last a lifetime. For most of these kids, playing in Williamsport, Pa., is the absolute peak of their baseball journey. But for a select few, it is just the beginning.A handful of these young players eventually reach the MLB and go on to have amazing careers. Some have gone on to win MVP awards, while others have captured World Series titles, made All-Star teams or reached huge milestones. Their success proves that early childhood talent can turn into true greatness if you put in the hard work over the years.MORE: 9 best current baseball announcersIt is incredibly rare to experience both. Most Little League stars never make it to the professional level, and most MLB superstars never played in Williamsport. Because it is so difficult to reach the highest level of both youth and professional baseball, the players on this list are truly unique. They all stepped onto the Little League stage long before they made their mark in the big leagues.This years LLWS runs Aug. 19-30 at Howard J. Lamade Stadium in Williamsport. The ABC/ESPN networks will carry the games.This ranking looks at the eight best MLB careers by players who got their start at the LLWS.8. Michael ConfortoChicago Cubs designated hitter Michael Conforto (20) rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run against the Detroit Tigers during the fifth inning at Wrigley Field. Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn ImagesLLWS appearance: 2004 (Redmond North LL, Redmond, Wash.)MLB stats (through mid-2026): 188 home runs, 580 RBIs, .244 batting averageMichael Conforto has built a long and reliable MLB career around his power at the plate. After playing in the 2004 LLWS, he became an important player early in his career with the New York Mets.His biggest individual honor came with an All-Star selection in 2017. Since then, he has remained a productive hitter with steady home run numbers.Conforto is one of just three players to appear in the LLWS, the College World Series (Oregon State) and the MLB World Series. What makes him truly one-of-a-kind is that he is the only player in baseball history to record an RBI in all three. Though he didnt win the World Series as a rookie with the New York Mets in 2015, Conforto received a ring as a member of the 2025 Los Angeles Dodgers. He didnt play in the postseason, but appeared in 138 regular-season games with the Dodgers.7. Todd FrazierCincinnati Reds third baseman Todd Frazier throws to first base for an out during the third inning during the Major League Baseball game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Milwaukee Brewers. Credit: USA TODAY Network via Reuters ConnectLLWS appearance: 1998 (Toms River American LL, Toms River, N.J.)MLB stats: 218 home runs, 640 RBIs, .241 batting averageTodd Frazier became a hometown hero before reaching the majors. During the 1998 LLWS, he hit a home run and recorded the final out as Toms River won the championship.Years later, he turned that early success into a strong 11-season MLB career. Fans knew him as The ToddFather, and he became one of baseballs most popular power hitters.His resume includes All-Star selections in 2014 and 2015. Frazier also won the 2015 MLB Home Run Derby after an unforgettable performance that thrilled the home crowd in Cincinnati.6. Jason BayLLWS appearance: 1990 (Trail LL, British Columbia, Canada)MLB stats: 222 home runs, 754 RBIs, .266 batting averageJason Bay represented Canada in the 1990 LLWS. That early appearance was only the beginning of a successful baseball journey.He won the National League Rookie of the Year Award in 2004 after making an immediate impact in the majors. Soon after, Bay developed into one of the leagues most dependable sluggers.Three All-Star selections and a Silver Slugger followed during his career. While playing for the Pittsburgh Pirates and Boston Red Sox, he regularly produced 30-home run seasons and became one of the best Canadian-born players in MLB history.MORE: MLB team nicknames ranked by coolness and history5. Lance LynnLos Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Lance Lynn against the Arizona Diamondbacks during game three of the NLDS for the 2023 MLB playoffs at Chase Field. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY SportsLLWS appearance: 1999 (Brownsburg LL, Brownsburg, Ind.)MLB stats: 143-99, 3.74 ERA, 2,015 strikeoutsLance Lynn stands out as the most accomplished pitcher to come from the LLWS. His career has been built on durability and consistency over more than a decade.He captured a World Series title with the St. Louis Cardinals during his rookie season in 2011. Along the way, Lynn earned All-Star selections in 2012 and 2021.Another major milestone came when he passed 2,000 career strikeouts. That achievement placed him among the games most successful starting pitchers of his era.4. Jason VaritekBoston Red Sox game planning and run prevention coach Jason Varitek (33) stands in the dugout before the game between the Baltimore Orioles and the Boston Red Sox at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Credit: James A. Pittman-Imagn ImagesLLWS appearance: 1984 (Altamonte Springs National LL, Altamonte Springs, Fla.)MLB stats: 193 home runs, 757 RBIs, .256 batting averageJason Variteks value went far beyond his numbers. After appearing in the 1984 LLWS and advancing to the championship game, he built a remarkable career with the Boston Red Sox.Like Conforto, Varitek is one of those players to appear in the LLWS, the College World Series (Georgia Tech) and the MLB World Series. His MLB career reached even greater heights because of his intangible qualities.He spent all 15 seasons with Boston and served as the teams captain. During that time, he helped the Red Sox win historic 2004 and 2007 World Series titles. His career also included three All-Star selections, one Gold Glove and one Silver Slugger.3. Cody BellingerNew York Yankees left fielder Cody Bellinger (35) follows through on an RBI single against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the first inning at Yankee Stadium. Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn ImagesLLWS appearance: 2007 (Chandler National LL, Chandler, Ariz.)MLB stats (through mid-2026): 236 home runs, 748 RBIs, .260 batting average, 34.3 career WARCody Bellinger owns one of the strongest award collections among active players who reached the LLWS.He won the National League Rookie of the Year Award in 2017 before taking another huge step in 2019. That season, Bellinger claimed the NL MVP Award after hitting 47 home runs. He also earned a Gold Glove and a Silver Slugger.His career includes three All-Star selections, a NLCS MVP Award, and a World Series championship with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2020. Those accomplishments place him among the highest on this list.2. Boog PowellBoog Powell speaks during the Frank Robinson ceremony before the game between the Baltimore Orioles and the New York Yankees at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports via Imagn ImagesLLWS appearance: 1954 (Orange LL, Lakeland, Fla.)MLB stats: 339 home runs, 1,187 RBIs, .266 batting averageBoog Powell reached the LLWS as a pitcher in 1954. Once he reached the majors, he became one of baseballs best power-hitting first basemen.His greatest season came in 1970 when he was named American League MVP. Powell also played a major role in the Baltimore Orioles golden era.Two World Series championships, won in 1966 and 1970, highlight his team success. Along with that, he earned four All-Star selections and finished his career with 339 home runs over 17 outstanding seasons.MORE: 10 MLB stars and their educational degrees1. Gary SheffieldNew York Mets outfielder Gary Sheffield against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports via Imagn ImagesLLWS appearance: 1980 (Belmont Heights LL, Tampa, Fla.)MLB stats: 509 home runs, 1,676 RBIs, .292 batting average, 60.5 career WARGary Sheffield sits comfortably at the top of this ranking. His journey began with Belmont Heights during the 1980 LLWS, where he helped his team reach the championship game.Everything that followed made him the greatest MLB player to come through the LLWS. Across 22 seasons, Sheffield became one of the most feared hitters in baseball.He joined the exclusive 500-home run club. His career also featured a batting title, five Silver Sluggers and nine All-Star selections. Sheffield added a World Series championship with the Florida Marlins in 1997, completing one of the finest careers ever produced by a LLWS alumnus.

We are now just 30 days, one month, from the start of the 2026 Kentucky football season, and excitement is ramping up for the new era. As we count down the days, we are also taking a look at the players who make up the roster. Today, we are getting to know No. 30, Grant Grayton.Grayton is a 6'2, 185 lb defensive back out of Laurel, Maryland. As a recruit in the 2025 class, he was rated three stars by 247Sports and ranked as the No. 1,277 overall prospect in their composite rankings. He had several scholarship offers, but in the end chose the Wildcats over Minnesota.Many freshmen redshirt their first year, but Grayton jumped into the action right away. He played in nine games last season, including a few starts, and recorded 16 tackles, 3 passes defended, and had his first career interception against the Georgia Bulldogs.Heading into this season, Grayton will likely be a big part of the defense. Though he isn't expected start, he will likely be the primary backup at the cornerback spot. His length gives him and advantage, and the experience he gained last year will prove to be valuable. Expect to see plenty of him on the field in 2026.This article originally appeared on UK Wildcats Wire: Get to know the Kentucky football roster: No. 30 Grant Grayton

Barcelona will need to pay 60-70 million for Man City midfield general following Real Madrid snubAs reported just a while ago, Manchester City midfielder Rodri has chosen Barcelona as his preferred destination, despite being heavily linked with Real Madrid in recent weeks.The news, initially broken by Jijantes FC, has now also been confirmed by Fabrice Hawkins of RMC Sport.The 30-year-old, who was recently crowned world champion with Spain, has informed Real Madrid of his decision and his desire to join the Catalan club. Manchester City have also been made aware of the players wishes, paving the way for negotiations between the two clubs.Manchester City open to a saleRodri has one year remaining on his contract at Manchester City, and the Premier League giants would have preferred to keep him for another season.Rodri has said no to Barcelona. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)However, the club are prepared to respect the midfielders wishes in recognition of everything he has contributed during his time at the Etihad. Rodri played a pivotal role in Citys 2023 Champions League triumph and went on to win the Ballon dOr in 2024.Manchester City are hoping to receive around 80 million for Rodri. However, as per the report, they could be willing to accept an offer between 60 million and 70 million from Barcelona, with whom they continue to maintain a good relationship despite Pep Guardiolas departure.De Jongs injury changed plansAs per the report, Barcelonas hierarchy have been working quietly on the deal for several weeks, with the serious knee ligament injury suffered by Frenkie de Jong during the World Cup acting as the catalyst for their interest.Coming to the Spotify Camp Nou. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)The Dutchman will be out for a period of four to five months, prompting Hansi Flick, Deco & co. to explore the market for a midfield signing.Rodri, given his contract situation and world-class quality, quickly emerged as a target, and despite having had to face stiff competition from Real Madrid, the Catalans have now pulled ahead in the race.The main question now is whether Barcelona can afford a deal of that magnitude for the Spanish international, while accommodating his salary while staying in La Ligas Financial Fair Play limit will also be a challenge.

Rodri makes major transfer decision between Barcelona and Real MadridManchester City appear braced for formal transfer interest from Barcelona for Rodri.The Spain international captain has reportedly selected Camp Nou as his preferred destination this summer.Real Madrid have been informed of that choice, and hold pessimism over their chances.Manchester City and Spains Rodri appears to have selected FC Barcelona as his preferred destination in the ongoing summer transfer window.Rodri chooses Barcelona over Real MadridNow, according to RMC Sports Fabrice Hawkins, Rodri has chosen FC Barcelona as his preferred next destination, with those at Real Madrid having now been informed of such a decision and desire.From the side of Manchester City, the Premier League club are also said to have been informed of the update surrounding their star midfielder, which will therefore trigger negotiations between those at the Etihad Stadium and Barcelona.Manchester City reportedly hope to receive 80 million for Rodri but could accept an offer between 60 million and 70 million from Barcelona, with whom relations are said to be good.This is a developing story. More to follow.

ThePhiladelphia Phillies conclude a series against the Washington Nationals on Aug. 6 at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.Here's what you need to know about today's games:What time do thePhilliesplay today?The Phillies face the Nationals at 6:05 p.m.Who are the starting pitchers for today's Phillies game?Left-hander Cristopher Sanchez (14-4, 2.61) will start for the Phillies. Right-hander Miles Mikolas (3-8, 5.67 ERA) will start for the Nationals.What channel is thePhilliesgame on today?The game will be broadcast on NBCSP. The radio broadcast will be on 94WIP and WDEL 101.7 FM/1150 AM.How can I livestream thePhillies' game?If you live in the Philadelphia television market, NBCSP will stream the game onnbcsportsphiladelphia.comand the NBCSP app. NBCSP is also available onFuboTV,Hulu,PeacockandYouTube TV.Watch the Phillies on FuboThe game will also be available onPHILLIES.TVto those with streaming packages. You can also stream the radio broadcasts with MLB Audio.How can I watch the Phillies on Peacock?You will need a subscription to watch Phillies games on Peacock. Subscriptions that include live sports start at $10.99 per month.The Phillies have one more game scheduled for NBC and Peacock:Sept. 6: Atlanta Braves at Philadelphia Phillies, 3 p.m.How can I watch thePhillieson Apple TV+?When the Philliesare on Apple TV+ this season you'll need a subscription if you want to watch it.A monthly subscription to Apple TV+ is $12.99. However, Apple TV+ offers a free trialwith the requirement of an email or Apple ID.The Phillies don't have any August games scheduled for Apple TV+. Apple has not announced its September schedule.How can I watch thePhillieson Netflix?The Phillies will be on Netflix once this season and you willneed a subscriptionto watch the game. Streaming plans start at $7.99 per month.The Phillies "Field of Dreams" game between them and the Minnesota Twins at 7:30 p.m., on Aug. 13 at the "Field of Dreams" movie site in Dyersville, Iowa will be broadcast on Netflix.What's the Phillies' 2026 schedule?To see the the Phillies' 2026 schedule,click here.How can I get Phillies single-game tickets?The Phillies are selling tickets to all home games on theteam's website.You can also get tickets by using the button below:Get Phillies tickets at Citizens Bank ParkThis article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: What channel is Phillies-Nationals on Thursday? How to watch, stream

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