If you’ve ever been to the Little League World Series, you’ve probably seen it — kids eagerly swapping pins like they’re baseball cards, each one hoping to score something rare or shiny. But where did this tradition start? And why are Little League pins such a big deal?
A Quick Look Back: Where Little League All Began
Little League Baseball was founded in 1939 in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. World War II temporarily slowed its growth, as many dads (aka potential coaches and organizers) were away. But by 1947, things took off — the first Little League World Series brought together 11 teams from Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and the hometown team, Maynard Midget League, took home the win.
That first championship game drew 2,500 fans and got national newspaper coverage. From there, the series became the heartbeat of youth baseball in America.
Little League Pins That Build Community
Baseball trading pins aren’t just collectibles — they’re conversation starters, memory makers, and community builders. They’ve become as much a part of the Little League experience as hot dogs, team cheers, and muddy cleats.
Designing custom pins for your team gives players a fun way to bond with each other and with kids from across the country. Pin trading is a sport of its own at games, especially as the World Series approaches. Everyone’s on the hunt for the coolest, most unique designs — and the rare ones? They’re like gold.
More Than Just Fun: A Symbol of Team Pride
Pins are more than just fun to trade — they’re a keepsake, a way to remember a season of hard work, teamwork, and growth. Add jersey numbers or a nod to your coach, and you’ve got something that celebrates your team and every player on it.
Even as the game evolves, pins remain a timeless part of the tradition.
“More than half (58%) of children who participate in sports played their primary sport through community-based programming in Fall 2022… That’s a jump from 38% in Fall 2021.”
– Youth Sports Parent Survey
Don’t Forget the Extras
Want your team’s pins to really stand out? Go for enhancements! Options like glitter enamel, danglers, translucent finishes, and bobbleheads take a basic pin and make it unforgettable.
Designing is easier than you think — just fill out a simple form with your team’s info (mascot, colors, state, etc.), and a pin designer can bring it to life.
Going Global: Little League Pins Go International
Since 1957, when Monterrey, Mexico became the first international team to win the LLWS, foreign teams have been part of the action. Though international participation was briefly banned in 1975 due to Taiwan’s dominance, the outcry was loud enough that it was reversed the following year. Today, the title game features the U.S. winner facing off against the international champ — making the Little League World Series a truly global event.
Lights, Camera, Baseball
Baseball participation has surged in recent years, especially post-COVID. And thanks to big broadcast deals, more people are watching than ever.
ABC has aired the LLWS title game since 1962. ESPN joined the mix in 1982, and by 2013, they were airing every game — including regional finals — across their family of networks. While some coverage drew criticism for focusing too much on players’ emotional reactions, child psychologists defended it, saying it helped normalize healthy expressions of disappointment.
Fun Fact: Some Big Leaguers Started Here
Ever heard of Boog Powell, Todd Frazier, or Jason Varitek? Yep — they all played in the Little League World Series before making it to the majors. So next time you see a kid proudly wearing or trading their pin, just imagine the story it might one day tell.
Want to design a pin for your team?