09/06/2026
⚾ From Bethlehem Park to Truist Park
Some baseball stories aren’t just about where a player is going. They’re also about where they started.
This weekend, former Bethlehem Little League player Malachi Parris had the incredible opportunity to take part in the 44 Classic presented by Nike at Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves.
The 44 Classic is named in honor of the legendary Hank Aaron and his No. 44 and was created to provide talented young baseball players with opportunities, exposure and experiences within the game.
For us, though, the best part of Malachi’s story started long before Truist Park.
Malachi began playing baseball at Bethlehem when he was 5 years old on the Bethlehem Mets. From a talented young player at BLL to now a sophomore and varsity baseball player at Hermitage High School, it’s been pretty special to watch his baseball journey.
You’ll find Malachi around Bethlehem — working in the concession stand, umpiring games, spending time with former coaches and teammates, or simply enjoying being back at the ballpark. His younger brother Micha plays in our Major Division, still making Bethlehem a family affair for the Parris family.
That’s what makes moments like this so special to us.
We’re incredibly proud of the baseball player Malachi has become, but we’re even prouder of the young man he continues to be. He’s a talented athlete, an outstanding student, a hard worker and, most importantly, a true gentleman.
From a five-year-old Bethlehem player to taking the field at Truist Park, the love of the game has remained the same.
Congratulations, Malachi. Keep working. Keep dreaming. And keep swinging.
We’ll always be proud of all our players and love to be apart of sharing their special moments in all their achievements. Proud to be Bethlehem. 🧡💙⚾
