Gavin Frazier will take his place in the outfield this week in a rare opportunity to experience the big leagues.

The 11-year-old, described as hardworking, dedicated and athletic by his parents and baseball coach, will play at the 2025 All American Games baseball tournament in Florida.

After tryouts in Missouri, Gavin was one of 13 athletes selected to represent the Midwest region. 

For him, baseball isn’t just about winning, but the work you put in before the game, he said.

“You try your hardest and put in effort, and try your best,” he said. “Plus, I get to have fun with my friends.”

His mom, Kaylia Frazier, said she had no doubts he would make the team. 

“I’m ecstatic and proud,” she said. “He always gives it his all. He’s a coachable kid. He’s dedicated.”

His family will do what it takes to allow him to achieve his goals, including the lengthy travel, she said. 

“If this is your goal, then I’m going to take every opportunity to get him there,” she said. “This trip is just one step closer to showing you that hard work is going to get you where you want to be.”

Gavin has been playing baseball since he was 6. He joined a team after playing catch with his dad, he said.

Gavin has played outfield most of his baseball career. He likes playing outfield because you’re in on the action, he said.

“It’s a fun sport,” he said. “I’ve played a lot of outfield. You get balls hit out to you.”

Gavin plays outfield for teams in Eudora and Ottawa, practicing a minimum of three times a week for up to two hours each practice. He also plays basketball and football, he said.

“I play on two teams because I want to put in the extra work,” he said.

One of Gavin’s teams won three games in their age division’s World Series tournament this month. He was also named MVP at a tournament in 2023.

Although baseball keeps him busy, Frazier said it doesn’t make Gavin any less committed to the sport.

“He’s busy year-round. Even though he’s a multi-athlete, his main priority is baseball,” Frazier said. “His goal is to be an MLB player.”

If he does go to Major League Baseball, Gavin said he doesn’t care what team it is, as long as he’s playing baseball.

Ottawa Raptors coach Jason Beers has coached Gavin for three years. Along with having a great throwing arm, Gavin has a good baseball IQ, he said. 

“He makes some fantastic plays, stuff you’d see on ESPN,” he said. “If he puts in the effort, anything can happen. Gavin’s a good kid, and he always works hard.”

After making the All American team, Gavin started selling baked goods to raise money for the trip to Florida. He said he is most excited to meet his tournament teammates and coach. He raised $1,400 for the trip, he said. 

“Don’t let anybody tell you you can’t do something,” he said.

Beers said he is excited to see what Gavin will do in the future as an athlete. 

“Gavin is a special player,” Beers said. “I hope he has fun there and does big things.”

Reach reporter Maya Smith at [email protected].