Casson Gillaspy will attend the Trailblazers baseball series in Florida from April 10-13.
Local student and exceptional baseball player Casson Gillaspy has been invited to the 2025 MLB Trailblazers series for 12-13 year old girls.
The series runs April 10-13. This is the second time Gillaspy, 13, has enjoyed the honor.
Only 96 girls are selected in the U.S. and Canada.
In 2017, USA Baseball and Major League Baseball (MLB) launched a new baseball event for girls built around Jackie Robinson Day in celebration of baseball’s quintessential “trailblazer.”
Officials said the objective of the event is to provide playing, development and educational opportunities to girls who play baseball.
Casson is the daughter of Stephanie Fosse Gillaspy and YHS baseball coach, James Gillaspy.
“MLB and USA Baseball fully pay for her trip including flight and hotel room on site at the Jackie Robinson Training Facility in Vero Beach, Fla.,” said mom Stephanie.
The teen will work with the coaches and players of the US Women’s National Baseball Team.
Gillaspy literally grew up on the baseball field watching her brothers Evan and Brendan and uncle Jarret play baseball, her mom explained.
“Casson started playing baseball at five years old. She has played ever since.”
Gillaspy played baseball because softball wasn’t an option locally until a couple of years ago. At that point, Gillaspy’s ability was higher and more competitive than what softball could offer.
Following the unexpected passing three years ago of brother Brendan, after whom the Brendan Gillaspy Youth Foundation is named, Casson took baseball more seriously, Stephanie said.
“She started with Ball Girls Baseball in 2022 at the Baseball for All Nationals in Phoenix,” her mother said. “And she started playing with Ohana Baseball out of Fresno.”
On Ohana, the Oak Creek Intermediate student is the only girl on the team.
Gillaspy typically plays pitcher, third base, first base and catcher. She has played with Ball Girls in Arizona, Nevada, Kentucky, New York, Florida and Arizona. This summer she will play in Branson, Mo., and Reno, Nev.
Watch the Gazette for an update on Gillaspy’s experience when she returns from the series.
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