MLB star Austin Hedges gets engaged after on-field proposal

Cleveland Guardians catcher Austin Hedges marked his team’s 8-4 Major League Baseball victory over the Baltimore Orioles with a memorable on-field proposal to his girlfriend, Lexi Dickinson, who happily accepted.

The romantic gesture followed a game where Hedges had opened the scoring for his side.

The 33-year-old, who has been carrying the engagement ring since early spring training, revealed his desire for the perfect moment.

“I’ve had the ring since early spring training, but was just trying to figure out when the right time was,” Hedges said. “I was going to do it regardless… but I really wanted to win that game to make it extra special.”

Hedges, a popular and respected figure within the Guardians’ clubhouse, saw many of his teammates remain on the field to witness the special occasion, observing from a respectful distance. The catcher admitted to heightened emotions throughout the day.

“I had a lot of nerves today,” he confessed. “I’m always nervous for baseball games, but just trying to stay present, knowing there were some activities after made it harder. It was a special day. A special day to be able to soak it all in.”

The couple began dating in November 2024. Hedges is currently in his 12th Major League Baseball season, with six of those spent with Cleveland.

He boasts a .250 batting average with two RBIs in nine games this season, and the Guardians have maintained an undefeated 8-0 record when he starts behind the plate.

A 2023 World Series champion with the Texas Rangers, Hedges reached 10 years of major league service time on 30 March, having made his debut with San Diego in 2015 and also playing for Pittsburgh in 2023.

Following the proposal, while Ms Dickinson received congratulations from friends and other Guardians spouses, Hedges quickly changed into a stylish maroon suit.

“Now, we’re going to go to dinner and then just have a night to ourselves and enjoy it,” he added, as he looked forward to celebrating their engagement.