Behind the Scenes of MLB Network and Its New Show, Play Ball

If you’re a baseball fan, chances are you’ve watched MLB Network. And if you think the hosts, analysts, and former players on the channel’s shows are having a good time you don’t know the half of it!

Last week, I had the opportunity to tour MLB Network studios in Secaucus, NJ, and see the ins and outs of a truly amazing complex. My tour guide was former MLB all-star and current MLB Network commentator Harold Reynolds. He showed me around and introduced me to some of the other MLB Network stars. We spent some time on the network’s sets, including Studio 42, an awesome replica ballpark featuring replica pieces of some iconic stadiums, like Wrigley’s ivy and Fenway’s Green Monster.

Reynolds and I also talked with me about the new series he’s hosting, Play Ball. The show premieres on April 9 and it’s all about MLB’s Play Ball initiative, which is focused on getting kids excited about baseball. Play Ball helps viewers understand the fundamentals of the game and the core values of the sport while showing them how fun it can be. In the first episode, Reynolds has a fun, off-the-field interview with San Diego Padres star Matt Kemp while also playing pick-up Wiffle ball.

Play Ball is a really important program — for MLB and kids. It was not only created to get kids interested in baseball, but to teach them how to play the game, how to have fun on (and off) the field,  and connect kids with prop players. The Play Ball show on MLB Network touches all the bases and is a great way to bring the message of Play Ball to a wider audience.

You can learn more about Play Ball by checking out this Kid Reporter interview with MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred. And you can get a taste of the Play Ball TV show by checking out the clip below.

(Kid Reporter video by Taylor Ballantine)