Drake Baldwin’s incredible journey to Major League Baseball will reach another milestone this night when he starts at catcher for the National League in the 2026 MLB All-Star Game at Citizens Bank Park. While the honor represents one of the biggest achievements of his young career, the occasion carries even greater meaning because his mother, Bridgette Baldwin, will be there to experience it with him.
More than 20 years ago, Bridgette enrolled a lively 3-year-old Baldwin in T-ball in Madison, Wisconsin. On Tuesday, she’ll watch him take the field alongside the game’s biggest stars in his first All-Star appearance.
“She was with me in January for the Rookie of the Year dinner,” Baldwin said. “I’m sure it will feel similar. It’s just a reminder that everything she did has paid off. This is something I never thought I’d get to, and I know I wouldn’t get there without her.”
The reigning National League Rookie of the Year has enjoyed a rapid ascent since making his major league debut with Atlanta. Baldwin quickly emerged as one of baseball’s most promising young catchers, earning recognition for his defensive skills, pitch-calling and consistent production at the plate. His all-around performance ultimately earned him the starting catcher role for the National League in his first All-Star Game.
Baldwin Emerges as a Cornerstone for the Braves
Baldwin has played a major role in Atlanta’s success this season, bringing reliability behind the plate while continuing to establish himself as one of the league’s top young catchers. His development has been especially important as the Braves worked through injuries and remained in the National League playoff race.
Not long ago, however, Baldwin never imagined reaching baseball’s biggest midsummer stage.
“I thought that was super cool,” Baldwin said of playing in the 2021 Northwoods League All-Star Game while at Missouri State. “I thought that was like the coolest thing I’ll do, and obviously, this is a whole different level.”
His path from Missouri State to Atlanta has surpassed nearly every expectation. After the Braves selected him in the third round of the 2022 MLB Draft, Baldwin steadily worked his way through the organization’s minor league system before establishing himself as one of the franchise’s key building blocks.
Now, with his mother watching from the stands, Baldwin will take his place among the sport’s brightest stars, completing a remarkable journey that began years ago on a T-ball field in Wisconsin.