Ballplayers use oversized bats, squishy balls, and have big smiles all around as the kids take swings at the ball and race around the bases. To keep the focus on enjoyment and skill development, we don't keep score, and every player gets to bat in every inning. And the grand finale – the last batter clears the bases with a home run!
Ballplayers learn hitting and fielding fundamentals in a supportive team environment. Players will start their baseball experience hitting off the tee and learning the basics. A great introductory division for those young baseball fans new to the game & ready to learn. Young athletes hit the ball from a batting tee which is height-adjusted for a level swing, batting in order through the line-up for the entire game. Games in this age group are typically held on Nesbit Field 6.
Ballplayers continue to learn to hit and practice fielding fundamentals while enjoying the game. Players will have 3 attempts to hit a coach's pitch, and if unsuccessful, they move to a stationary tee, there are no strikeouts. Score will be kept, and there will be a winner of the game (games may end in a tie).
Rookies Division is fully coach pitch and builds on the basic skills learned in T-ball. Rookies is designed as an introductory season for those moving up from 6U, and for newer players to the game. Players will have the opportunity to hit a flat pitch from 45' from an adult coach pitcher. Players also begin wearing full catcher gear and receive pitches behind the plate. It makes the game safer and improves the playing confidence and ability of all participants.
Players build and refine their fundamental skills while beginning to understand game strategy and teamwork. The Minors division is where the kids begin pitching to each other, advancing on passed balls, stealing bases and really learning the great game of baseball. Played on 46/60 size field, pitching & catching positions become much more pronounced in this division.
The most experienced level of Cal Ripken Baseball, and is played under the Official Baseball Rules. Some local rules are necessary for the development and welfare of this age group. This is the complete baseball experience with runners leading off bases, and pitchers learn to pick off runners. The game is played on a larger infield with a 50-feet pitching distance & 70-feet basepaths.