Get ready for a legendary weekend that will make baseball fans' hearts race! The ninth annual Hot Springs Baseball Weekend is back, and it’s bigger than ever, bringing together six MLB icons, including three Hall of Famers, for an unforgettable celebration of America’s favorite pastime. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: this year’s lineup includes both fan-favorite veterans and newcomers who are stepping onto the Hot Springs stage for the very first time.
From August 7-8 at the Hot Springs Convention Center, baseball enthusiasts will have the chance to hear firsthand stories from the greats, interact with their heroes, and dive into the largest baseball card show in the region. And this is the part most people miss: the event is completely free and open to the public, making it a must-attend for anyone who bleeds baseball.
Steve Arrison, CEO of Visit Hot Springs and the mastermind behind this annual tribute to the city’s rich baseball history, shared his excitement in a recent announcement. “We’re thrilled to welcome back some of our most beloved guests and introduce a few Hall of Famers who are joining us for the first time,” Arrison said. “It’s a testament to Hot Springs’ legacy as the birthplace of modern MLB Spring Training.”
Among the legends gracing the event are Fred McGriff and Jack Morris, making their Baseball Weekend debut. They’ll be joined by returning favorites Goose Gossage, Dale Murphy, Bill ‘Spaceman’ Lee, and Al Hrabosky, each bringing their unique stories and personalities to the table.
But here’s where it gets controversial: this year’s schedule includes a panel titled “If I Were Major League Baseball Commissioner for a Day”, featuring Gossage and Lee—two of baseball’s most outspoken and colorful figures. What changes would they make? Would they shake up the game as we know it? This is one discussion you won’t want to miss.
Let’s dive into what makes these players so iconic. Fred McGriff, a five-time All-Star and 1995 World Series champion with the Atlanta Braves, boasts an impressive career with 2,490 hits, a .284 batting average, and 493 home runs. Jack Morris, a four-time World Series winner, is remembered for his legendary Game 7 performance in the 1991 Series, where he pitched a complete game shutout. His 515 consecutive starts remain a record that’s hard to imagine being broken.
Bill ‘Spaceman’ Lee is as much a character as he is a pitcher. Known for his unfiltered comments and eccentric personality—like threatening to bite an umpire’s ear during the 1975 World Series—Lee’s antics have cemented his place in baseball lore. Al Hrabosky, the “Mad Hungarian,” is a fan favorite and Cardinals Hall of Famer who’s been a staple of Baseball Weekend, missing only last year due to family commitments.
Goose Gossage, standing at 6’3” and throwing 100 mph fastballs, was a force to be reckoned with on the mound. Former teammate Bob Watson once said, “He’s all arms and legs, and he doesn’t look at you. I’d rather face someone who throws 100 and looks at me than be behind Gossage.” Dale Murphy, one of the most beloved Braves players ever, is a seven-time All-Star, two-time MVP, and one of only five Braves to have his number retired. From 1981 to 1990, he dominated offensive categories, leading the league in home runs, RBIs, and more.
This event isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s a chance to debate, celebrate, and connect with the game we love. Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: With legends like these sharing their insights, what changes would you make if you were MLB Commissioner for a day? Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments—agree or disagree, we want to hear your take!
