Hall of Famer Trevor Hoffman Returns as the Game’s Honorary Chairman
The prestigious DICK’S Perfect Game All-American Classic is making a triumphant return to San Diego’s Petco Park in 2025, marking a significant milestone in youth baseball. This homecoming, scheduled for August 17, 2025, brings the nation’s premier amateur baseball showcase back to its spiritual home after a three-year stint in Phoenix.
A Legacy of Excellence in Youth Baseball
The 23rd annual event represents more than just a game—it’s a launching pad for baseball’s next generation of stars. Perfect Game, the world’s largest youth baseball and softball platform, has consistently delivered on its promise to showcase the top 60 high school talents from across North America.
Impact on Professional Baseball
The Classic’s track record speaks for itself:
- 850 MLB Draft selections from past participants
- 293 first-round picks (including 10 first overall selections)
- 305 former players have reached the major leagues
- 5 MVP award winners
- 11 Rookie of the Year recipients
- 22 Gold Glove winners
Hall of Fame Leadership
Trevor Hoffman, MLB Hall of Famer and Padres executive, returns as Honorary Chairman, a role he held from 2011-2021. His involvement brings invaluable experience and perspective to the event. In an exclusive interview, Hoffman shared his insights on what makes the Classic special.
Hoffman’s Vision for Young Athletes
“What a thrill it is for Perfect Game and the Padres to bring the All-American Classic back to Petco Park,” Hoffman remarked. “The Classic is something young baseball players work hard to be a part of, and we couldn’t be more excited to showcase the best of the best in America’s finest city.”
On developing future talent, Hoffman emphasizes:
- The importance of humility in success
- Staying true to oneself rather than trying to stand out
- Embracing the big-league environment experience
- The value of genuine character development
Perfect Game’s Evolution and Innovation
Rob Ponger, Perfect Game CEO, provided insight into the organization’s growth and future direction. The platform has evolved into the largest amateur baseball media entity globally, with impressive statistics:
- 37 million video plays across PGTV platforms in 2024
- 13 million unique users
- Coverage of 38 events and 97 total games in the previous year
- Plans for expanded live event coverage in 2025
Technology and Player Development
Perfect Game is embracing the future through:
- Advanced analytics integration
- Emerging technological advancements
- Enhanced media coverage
- Comprehensive player development tools
Beyond the Game: Supporting Young Athletes
The Classic weekend features multiple components:
- PG All-Star Game (showcasing 2027 and 2028 class talent)
- Launch Hydrate Home Run Challenge
- Awards banquet at Eve
- Parent symposiums covering:
- Financial literacy
- Physical health
- NIL opportunities
- Mental health support
Health and Wellness Initiatives
Perfect Game has partnered with ArmCare.com to provide:
- Advanced strength test assessments
- Injury prevention data
- Comprehensive health monitoring
- Player wellness support
The San Diego Connection
The return to Petco Park represents more than a venue change—it’s a homecoming to the Classic’s longest-tenured location. The event previously hosted 14 memorable editions in San Diego between 2006 and 2021.
Notable Alumni
The Classic has launched the careers of numerous MLB stars:
- Bryce Harper
- Gunnar Henderson
- Bobby Witt Jr.
- Gerrit Cole
- Freddie Freeman
- Francisco Lindor
- Zack Wheeler
Looking to the Future
Perfect Game continues to innovate and expand its impact on youth baseball through:
- Enhanced media coverage via PerfectGame.TV
- Free PGTV app access
- Community engagement initiatives
- Advanced player development programs
Conclusion
The 2025 DICK’S Perfect Game All-American Classic represents the pinnacle of amateur baseball achievement. As the event returns to San Diego, it carries forward its tradition of excellence while embracing new technologies and approaches to player development. With Hall of Fame guidance, cutting-edge analytics, and comprehensive support systems, the Classic continues to shape the future of baseball, one player at a time.
Stay tuned to PerfectGame.org and PG’s social media channels for updates on rosters, coaches, schedules, and special guests for the 2025 Classic.
Media contact:
Greg Casterioto / Gcasterioto@perfectgame.org / (267) 246-5709
