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Travel Baseball: The Ultimate Guide for Parents and Players

Table of Contents

What is travel baseball, what to look for in a travel baseball team, travel baseball vs. little league, travel baseball pros and cons , criticisms and controversy, is travel baseball worth it.

For many families, the transition from Little League to travel baseball comes with stress, anxiety and questions about what to look for in a team and what to expect from the experience — not to mention the question of whether making the switch from a more laid-back rec ball program to a more competitive (and expensive) travel club is the right decision in the first place.

In this post, we’re going to go over everything you need to know about getting started with youth travel baseball. We’ll help you answer the questions above and determine whether travel baseball is a good fit for your son or daughter. 

If you have a softball player in the family, you may also want to check out our article “ What to Look For in a Travel Softball Team ,” which covers some of the same information from a softball perspective and dives deep into my personal experience as an elite-level amateur player and college recruiting prospect.

Table of Contents :

• How to Choose a Travel Baseball Team
• Travel Baseball Pros and Cons
• Is Travel Baseball Worth It?  

First, it’s important to understand what a travel baseball team is and how travel baseball is organized. 

There are tens of thousands of travel baseball teams around the country, and their popularity has exploded over the past two decades. As recently as the 1990s, travel baseball was a niche experience limited mostly to elite players in baseball-rich areas like Texas and California. Today, participation is seen by many as a near necessity for talented players to develop their skills and hone their game against the best competition they can find. 

Whereas Little League is the dominant organization when it comes to recreational youth baseball, there are multiple organizations throughout the country that host hundreds of travel tournaments each year. Some of the biggest and most popular are USSSA (United States Speciality Sports Association), AAU (Amateur Athletic Union), Triple Crown Sports , and Perfect Game . Travel baseball teams often participate in tournaments organized by more than one of those organizations. 

A team can be started by anyone. Many are formed by parents, but many others are formed by high school and former college coaches. Depending on their organizational goals, some programs have just one team that participates in one age bracket (such as 10 and under), while some are run like businesses and have teams that compete in every age group. 

Some huge organizations, such as California Baseball Academy (CBA), even have multiple teams within the same age group, located in multiple cities. CBA has teams not only in California, but also in Nevada, Texas, Utah and the southeast. High-level programs like that are often known for attracting top talent, for training recruits into elite players, and for feeding those players into nearby colleges and universities. 

Travel Baseball Competition Structure

Virtually all travel baseball games are played on weekends in a tournament format. Those tournaments can theoretically be held anywhere, but are frequently held at multi-field facilities in easily-accessible travel hubs. For example, many Florida tournaments are held in Orlando because it’s in the relative center of the state, it has plenty of hotel rooms, and it’s home to many great baseball facilities. The farther you live away from such a hub, the more you should expect to travel. 

Most tournaments begin with pool play, meaning that teams are guaranteed a number of games before heading into single elimination. A team can expect to play anywhere from three to eight games over the course of a two-day or three-day tournament, depending on how they perform.

There is no set number of tournaments a team must participate in. Each team decides which tournaments to enter on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration factors such as age level, skill level, and cost. In general, two tournaments per month can be seen as about average, although higher-level teams may play more frequently. 

Most organizations run regional and national championships, which are invite-only. For example, USSSA hosts “qualifier” tournaments, where the winner of the championship game (and sometimes the runner up) can earn a bid to the USSSA national tournament.

Additionally, beginning at age 14, some teams start participating in “college exposure tournaments,” where college scouts come from across the country to watch and evaluate prospects. These tournaments are typically more expensive than regular tournaments, and are often farther away.

How to Join a Travel Baseball Team

If you’ve decided to join a travel baseball team and aren’t sure where to find one, there are a number of resources available. 

It may go without saying, but word-of-mouth can be a valuable first reference point. If you’re thinking about switching to travel baseball, chances are that you already know someone in your area who has made the jump. If so, don’t be afraid to ask them questions about the team and their experience. It’s a big commitment — both in terms of time and finances — so it’s important to make sure you find the right club for your son or daughter.

In addition to word of mouth, many organizations offer a list of active teams on their website. For example, USSSA has a tool that lets you filter teams by age level, skill level, and location . There are also many state-based forums and Facebook groups where coaches post their team’s tryouts (and positions needed). As an example, here are Facebook groups for travel baseball teams in Florida and Michigan ⁠— you can find similar groups for every state. 

Another good option is FieldLevel.com , which (like the USSSA site) allows you to filter teams by state and level. While not every team is listed on that website, it does include over 4,000 clubs.

Here are eight things to think about when evaluating teams. These factors will make a big difference when it comes to your overall experience, so take the time to think about them, and don’t be afraid to ask questions of parents and coaches.

1. Coaching  

A coaching staff can make or break a team. How coaches manage players, keep the game fun, instill the fundamentals, and focus on development — not only as athletes, but as young men and women — is extremely important. 

Some travel baseball teams have parents or grandparents serving as the head coach. While that can be fine, it’s important to make sure those coaches don’t make keeping their own child on the field a priority. Before committing to a team, spend some time researching it by watching a practice and talking to current and/or former players and parents. 

What’s the coaching style? Do they have high expectations but still encourage and love their players? Or, on the other hand, are they screaming at players when they make a mistake? 

Additionally, are players treated equitably, or do some get preferential treatment based on their relationship to the coach or their financial contribution to the team?

Ideally, your child will be a part of that team and organization for consecutive years, rather than bouncing from team to team. As such, determining whether the coaching staff is a good fit is a crucial first step.

2. Cost  

For many parents, this is the most terrifying aspect of travel baseball.

Just how much of a toll is this going to take on your bank account? The specific answer varies, but the typical range of cost for participating in travel baseball is between $500 and $2,500 per year. 

That said, you can end up spending a lot more than that. Back in 2011, CBS News reported that one Georgia family paid $4,000 per year for their 9-year-old son’s travel team. You can imagine that older players in elite programs that travel all over the country can spend even more over the course of a season.

Typically, the more intensely focused a program is on developing its players for college baseball, the more money the program is going to cost. On the other hand, teams that are playing more for the fun of it — those looking for just a little more structure and competition than offered by Little League — won’t put as much of a dent in your wallet.

There are a number of specific factors that go into how much it costs to be on a team:

• Where you live . If you live in a baseball hub, like Texas or California, you won’t have to travel as far to get to tournaments. Many teams from rural areas regularly drive across multiple states (or sometimes even fly) to tournaments. As such, where you live will likely be the single biggest variable in your overall travel baseball cost.
• Whether you have to buy your own equipment . Some teams are sponsored by equipment companies like Easton and Rawlings and have their bats, gloves and cleats provided either for free or at a reduced cost. Obviously, this can be a huge savings. Also, keep in mind that (unfortunately) equipment is often viewed as a status symbol in travel baseball. If your child joins a team where every other player has multiple bats and position-specific gloves, he or she is going to press you for similar gear.
• Whether you have to rent facilities . Some teams practice exclusively at public fields. Others have little or no access to such facilities and have to rent fields and/or indoor space (especially for winter workouts). This can have a huge impact on the overall cost of participation.
• Whether or not coaches are paid . Some teams — typically the more competitive ones — pay their coaches small stipends and/or cover their cost of travel. On one hand, this tends to lead to better coaching. On the other hand, families are the ones who will ultimately foot that bill.
• How competitive the team is . Higher-level tournaments typically have higher fees. Lower-level tournaments, operated on a more sub-regional basis, are usually much less expensive to enter. If cost is a concern, make sure you know what types of tournaments the team usually enters over the course of the season. 

3. Location  

As stated earlier, location is a key factor in deciding which travel team to play for. If you’re fortunate enough to live in California, Florida or Texas, you’re going to have a lot of opportunities to play with and against high-level competition right in your backyard. 

But outside of those states, it’s a little bit tougher, and you have to decide how committed you are to playing at the highest possible level. 

For example, if you live in a medium-sized town outside of a major baseball hub, chances are you have at least a couple of travel ball options. However, the odds are that those options are not the absolute cream of the crop when it comes to coaching and competitiveness. In order to play for the absolute “best” team possible, you might have to commute from your mid-sized town to the nearest major city. 

So you’ll be faced with the following choice: play on a lower level team that’s closer to home, or drive a hundred miles or more for twice-weekly practices? It may sound crazy, but many families do just that. 

Why would they commit so much time and money to their son or daughter’s athletic pursuits? It comes down to goals. Better teams often provide better coaching and more opportunities for exposure to college and professional scouts. 

What’s the team’s mission? Is the focus on fun, player development, college exposure, or a mix of all there? Teams can have many different goals and missions, and there’s no right or wrong approach.

However, it is possible that a team’s mission does not align with your values and goals, and you need to think about this before committing, as a compatibility mismatch can lead to coach-parent and coach-player tension. 

5. Organization

Consider the reputation of the organization you’re evaluating. When you join a team, you and your son or daughter will essentially be endorsing everything the program stands for. If they’re known for dirty play or being disrespectful to the game, you’ll be associated with that. 

And believe it or not, the baseball world is a small and surprisingly tight-knit community. College coaches tend to know which programs produce bad apples — and they avoid them. In fact, many college coaches will completely write off an entire organization that has a reputation for not playing the game the right way or for having disrespectful players.

6. Playing Time

There’s an important balance between getting enough playing time and being challenged. Before committing, ask the coaching staff what kind of playing time your child can expect — including at what position. 

If there are two returning shortstops, he or she most likely won’t be playing there and might have to learn another position. That’s not a bad thing: college coaches want players that are versatile, and many players change positions as they get older and their bodies develop. 

Still, it’s helpful to know what to expect ahead of time. Getting game reps is important from a development perspective, but also just from a fun perspective: no kid wants to consistently travel to a tournament only to sit on the bench for most of the weekend. 

7. Skill Level

Be realistic about your child’s skill level, and pay attention to the level of competition around him or her at tryouts (i.e., the skill levels of the other players). If your kid has the fight and desire to compete for a spot (like they’ll have to do if they make it to college ball), then putting them on a team where they’ll be challenged is the best option. 

But if he or she is there to have fun and make friends, with no burning desire to be constantly improving, then choosing a travel team that’s more low-key will be the better call.

8. What You’re Giving Up

Travel baseball tournaments are on weekends, and players often have to sacrifice certain things that are part of a normal childhood. 

Is your son or daughter willing to miss out on things like birthdays, sleepovers and school dances, because most of their time is spent doing homework, traveling to and from games and practices, practicing on their own (possibly including private lessons), and spending nearly every summer weekend at the ballpark?

And are they willing to sacrifice the material things that matter to kids — things like clothes, video games, new smartphones, etc. — because so much money is being spent on baseball? 

As I wrote in THV’s guide to travel softball , my family made major sacrifices to support my athletic pursuits. 

For some, their love of the game is so great that giving up these things is a no-brainer. For others, they may regret missing out on these social activities. And that’s perfectly fine! Just be honest with each other and talk about the true costs of travel baseball — because it’s not just the sticker price.

There are some important similarities and differences between competitive travel baseball and recreational baseball. Both can teach many valuable life skills, such as work ethic, good sportsmanship, teamwork and bouncing back from failure. But they are very different when it comes to time commitment and competitiveness.

The Little League schedule usually runs from the late spring through early summer, with teams practicing twice per week and playing two games per week. The total number of games per season varies, but it usually ranges from 10 to 20. It’s a local program, which means travel is either limited or non-existent. In general, Little League coaches are parents.

Little League can be a great place for kids as young as 4-years-old to start playing the game. They’ll learn the rules and the absolute basics of hitting, pitching and fielding in a fun an easy-going environment (except for the occasional parent that takes their coaching position overboard). 

Overall, Little League fits the classic stereotype of youth baseball: kids having fun playing the greatest game in the world, without much pressure or focus on player development. 

Back in the day, Little League would feed into middle school and high school programs, which carried the bulk of the weight when it came to getting payers ready for college and the pros. But today, the reality is that it’s almost impossible to get the coaching and skill development you need by participating only Little league or other rec ball programs. 

That’s especially true when it comes to the gap between “Majors” Little League (12-and-under) and high school. Few middle schools still have baseball programs, and those programs that do exist tend not to be very good. Likewise, while Little League offers both a Junior division (12-14) and a Senior division (14-16), those leagues tend to pale in comparison to the coaching and competition offered by travel ball. 

So, if your son or daughter is serious about playing baseball at a high level, it’s especially important to focus on the transition to travel ball at around the age of 11 or 12.

There are positives and negatives when it comes to travel baseball. Here are a few of each.

• Better competition : Players are more serious about the game and more driven to improve. This higher level of competition will help push your son or daughter to improve their own skills.
• Better coaching : Travel baseball coaches tend to be better qualified, more knowledgeable, and better-connected. At the highest levels of travel ball, teams often employ former professional coaches.
• More exposure : Aside from high school baseball, travel ball is the primary means of exposure to college coaches and pro scouts. Plus, travel teams often attend showcase tournaments and camps.
• More games played : Travel teams play significantly more games per year than rec ball teams.
• Facilitates travel : Sometimes seen as an ancillary benefit, the travel itself can be a valuable and eye-opening experience for players. Many kids don’t have an opportunity to travel out of their own area or state, and travel baseball can provide that. 
• Encourages character development : Because travel teams are more serious, there’s a greater emphasis put on things like being on time, demonstrating maximum effort, and having a good attitude.  
• Cost : Travel baseball is expensive — sometimes absurdly so. Families often spend around $2,500 per year, but the costs can be even higher. 
• Time commitment : Even a moderately competitive travel team can consume an entire summer’s worth of weekends. 
• Ultra-competitive : On most travel teams, there’s a balance between player development and winning. What you won’t often find is an “everybody plays” approach. For the most part, the best players will play the most, which makes for a highly-competitive environment. 
• Tougher workouts : This can be a pro or a con, depending on the player’s perspective and goals. Tougher workouts can lead to better outcomes, but they can also be mentally and physically taxing if the player isn’t fully invested.
• Lack of diversity : Because travel baseball is expensive, it has often been criticized for a lack of socioeconomic and racial diversity. 

Travel baseball provides many benefits and can be a valuable opportunity for players who are serious about the game and committed to playing at the highest possible level. However, it’s not without its share of criticism and controversy. 

In an essay titled “ Left Out ,” MLB superstar Andrew McCutchen wrote about how kids like him, who grow up in low-income families, are often excluded from travel baseball and thus systematically disadvantaged when it comes to development and exposure: 

“When you’re a kid from a low-income family who has talent, how do you get recognized? Now, you have to pay thousands of dollars for the chance to be noticed in showcase tournaments in big cities. My parents loved me, but they had to work hard to put food on the table, and there wasn’t much left over. They didn’t have the option of skipping a shift to take me to a tournament over the weekend. […] That’s the challenge for families today. It’s not about the $100 bat. It’s about the $100-a-night motel room and the $30 gas money and the $300 tournament fee. 

[…] If you’re a poor kid with raw ability, it’s not enough.”

McCutchen was lucky: an AAU coach “discovered” him at the age of 13 and covered his travel ball expenses. But most kids from similar situations aren’t so fortunate. 

Why is this important for you, the parent of a child thinking about joining a travel team? 

On one hand, it’s important to be aware of how the systems we participate in affect our society. But on a much more specific level, you should know that your child will be entering a largely homogenous environment.

On top of that, kids from lower-income families can often feel out of place in travel ball — especially if they don’t come to the ballpark with the latest, top-quality gear like their teammates. This social dynamic can have a powerful impact on your child’s experience. 

Additionally, travel baseball means that both your family and your child will be spending less time within your own community.

There’s been a lot written in recent years about how travel baseball may be contributing to the erosion of communities , because it pulls families out of local baseball programs that once served as important civic institutions.

This is evidenced by the sharply declining participation in Little League. In the organization’s Southeast Region (a hotbed for a travel baseball), the number of Little League players has plunged by nearly 50% since 2007 . 

So we’ve come to the biggest question: Is travel ball worth it?

If you want to improve your skills and have the best chance to play in college or the pros, travel baseball is the way to go. But remember: there is a range of cost and time commitment within travel baseball. Your son or daughter doesn’t necessarily have to opt for the most expensive travel team in order to be sufficiently challenged (and later on, to get noticed by college coaches). 

Your goal in evaluating teams should be to find the right balance of: 

• Financial commitment 
• Time commitment
• Intangible sacrifices (school events, community involvement, etc.) 
• Baseball goals

After reading this article, you should have a very solid understanding of what Little League and travel baseball have in common, their differences, and what you should be looking for in a club. 

Remember, this is your child’s choice to. Help them see the pros and cons of each option. And although we stated it earlier, we cannot stress this enough: you cannot dictate your son or daughter’s commitment to the game of baseball. It’s up to them. So, support them in whatever capacity they want to participate. If you do, they’ll never regret or forget the amazing experiences, friends, and lessons learned playing this great game.

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Alexa Peterson

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Travel Baseball Uncovered: A Guide For Parents And Players

Let’s talk about baseball—travel baseball, to be exact.

For many, moving from the Little League to travel baseball feels like catching a curveball. After all, it’s more than just a pace change; it’s about trading Saturday afternoon matches on a grassy field for serious club competitions that come with a higher price tag.

You might be thinking, “Is this the right play for my little slugger?” or “How do I even go about choosing a team?”

Well, here’s our chance at bat. We’ll walk you through everything youth travel baseball has to offer, including answering these questions and more.

Table of Contents

What is Travel Baseball [Explained]

Travel baseball is just what it sounds like. It’s when youth teams have to travel in order to have their games and tournaments. This is usually the next step after traditional recreational or Little League. 

Since the level of competition is much higher, it can help them develop their skills.

But preparation comes at a cost—literally. And all that time on the road can take up your schedule very quickly. But despite all that extra work, they’ll get an exciting adventure out of it. Now, they’ll face off against teams from different cities, states, and sometimes even countries.

The love for Travel Baseball is Growing Fast.

In recent years, travel baseball gained an exponential amount of popularity and saw thousands of teams pop up across the country. 

Before the 90s, it was a relatively niche experience only limited to players nestled in regions like Texas and California.

Nowadays, participation is considered necessary for young players wanting to sharpen their skills and go up against some really tough competition.

Instead of focusing on the local leagues like recreational youth baseball does, travel ball operates under various organizations, hosting hundreds of tournaments each year. 

Some big names include USSSA (United States Specialty Sports Association), AAU (Amateur Athletic Union), Triple Crown Sports , and Perfect Game . 

The ambitious goal for any team is to face off against as many different teams as possible to gain experience and test their skills.

Everyone can create a travel baseball team. It doesn’t matter if you’re a parent, high school teacher, or someone who coaches college kids.

The highlight of the season is the travel baseball tournament. Bringing together talented teams from different parts of the world to compete. 

This lets players show their skills to a bigger audience, including scouts and college coaches. These tournaments are organized by many institutions and happen locally, regionally, or even nationally.

There’s nothing cooler than the USSSA World Series, though. Every year, it’s hosted by the United States Specialty Sports Association. 

You’ll find talent from all over America coming here to fight for that top spot. But another epic tournament is the Triple Crown Summer Nationals, where they hold it at Myrtle Beach 

in South Carolina. It attracts teams from everywhere and is known for great competition and vacation vibes.

A unique little competition is held in Cooperstown, New York, known as the Cooperstown Dreams Park Tournament. 

Cooperstown, known as baseball’s birthplace, offers a unique week-long stay in baseball-style barracks. You can visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

These intense and challenging tournaments bring out some of the most talented players young kids have to offer. It’s also a great way to boost your young player’s confidence in playing on those big stages!

Different Levels Of Travel Teams And Their Requirements

It’s not just one level fit all for travel baseball teams. They’re organized into various levels based on skill, experience, and commitment from players. 

Imagine putting someone who only knows how to throw with moderate force into a contest against someone who does it with full force.

The team you choose for yourself should align with your skill level, how much free time you have, and your developmental needs as a player. Here’s an overview of different levels:

1. Local Travel Teams : For beginners starting their journey through travel baseball. The games they play are mostly local or within a close driving distance. Practices only happen a few times a week, and games during the weekend.

2. Regional Travel Teams : For players with more experience and higher skill levels. They go on trips for games and tournaments that will require overnight stays at places. Commitment level is higher, with practices being more frequent along with a longer season.

3. Showcase Travel Teams : The big leagues of young kid baseball players. These teams are made up of highly skilled people who are very serious about baseball. They have college scouts and recruiters present their games. This includes going to different states for showcase tournaments. 

You’ll need to be extremely committed to even think about trying out for this team, and their practices are rigorous and frequent, lasting all year round!

Benefits of Playing in a Travel Baseball Team 

A lot of benefits come from playing travel baseball. 

The biggest one? It can help players get to their goals. It’s not just about playing a game, especially when you want to make it big. It’s actually an experience that provides lifelong skills that can be applied everywhere else.

Competition in recreational leagues is nothing compared to this. It’s way higher. This allows players to grow new and old skills at a faster rate. 

There’s also an intense training schedule that demands discipline, resilience, and focus. These qualities go beyond just sports.

Participating in high-profile tournaments also gets the attention of other coaches and scouts. Which makes it easier for them to open doors for scholarships and professional contracts.

Traveling away from home just for games might seem like a drag, but it builds responsibility and maturity. It is a demanding journey for sure, but very rewarding.

Did MLB Players Play Travel Baseball?

Definitely! A lot of Major League Baseball (MLB) players used travel baseball as their starting point, too. It gives them all the exposure they need, honing skills at such a young age along with fierce competition.

Take Bryce Harper , for example. He’s one of the biggest names in MLB today. His journey started back when he was a child playing for the Southern Nevada Bulldogs 14U travel team. The opportunity came up where he could go against older players who were more experienced than him. This experience helped shape his professional career.

Albert Pujols also played travel baseball when he was younger on his team called Fort Osage Indians Travel Team before sailing into the Hall of Fame.

Clayton Kershaw ? Yeah, him too! Another name you hear often in MLB didn’t start there either — he played for the Dallas Tigers Travel Team where he developed early on gaining crucial skills and discipline that are instrumental in his success today.

How to Find a Travel Baseball Team in Your Region? 

If you’re a young baseball player who wants to take their skills to the next level, then joining a travel team is a great opportunity. If you are a parent and want to make your child the next MLB star, then travel baseball teams are a great place to start with. 

These teams play across the country and allow players to show their talents against top-tier competition. But how do you find one of these teams? 

Here’s a guide on how you can join a travel baseball team in the USA.

Check your local youth baseball organization.

Your first step should be checking with your local youth baseball organization. Chances are they have travel teams that play in leagues and tournaments outside of the regular season. If they don’t, then it’s likely they know someone who does.

Drop by showcases and camps.

In-person events like showcases and camps are great places to meet coaches and scouts from travel baseball teams. They’re designed specifically so players can showcase their skills and get noticed by recruiters.

The internet holds many answers, including finding a travel baseball team. Websites like USSSA Baseball, Perfect Game USA, and Travel Ball Select list lots of travel baseball teams based on state, age group, and skill level — all at a click away.

Talk to other parents and players.

If you want first-hand experience, then talk to other parents or players who have been through this process before. They can give useful insight into which teams are reputable, well-run, and competitive.

For example, if you live in Texas, then one option could be the Texas Bombers Baseball Club — an organization that has multiple teams at different age levels and is known for developing young talent. You can learn more about them by visiting their website or attending one of their tryouts.

How to Find the Perfect Travel Baseball Team? 

Identify the skill level and commitment of the player.

First thing first, you need to figure out how committed your child is to the sport and their skill level.  If he is naturally gifted athlete then you should help him to follow his dream. 

Research Local and Regional Teams

Begin by looking at teams that are close by. These teams usually have varying levels of skill and serve as great entry points for most players. 

You can check their websites and social media pages to learn more about them such as philosophy, coaches, players, and game schedule.

Attend Local Games and Practices 

Sitting in on local games and practices allows you to get a firsthand look at how they run things. You’ll be able to see their coaching style, how they interact with the players, and the overall team dynamic. With this insight, it’ll be easier to make a decision.

Speak with Coaches and Parents

While observing is good, it isn’t enough. Take some time out of your day or week to speak with coaches. 

This allows you to gain an understanding of their training methods, the expectations they have for your child, and the goals they want them to reach. It’s also good practice to talk to other parents so you can get a general idea of what people think about the team.

Consider Logistics

Logistical factors are important, too, so don’t forget about them. Make sure that the team’s practice location is suitable for you and your family’s schedule since it may be far away from where you currently live or work. 

The game schedule should be looked at as well because there could be conflicts in dates that would keep you from attending games.

Tryouts & Evaluations

Most teams hold tryouts or evaluations for people who are interested in joining. If this is offered, take advantage of it because it gives your child the chance to showcase their skills and for you to see if the team would be a good fit. 

A player’s evaluation is also helpful because it gives you insight into how strong the team itself is.

Travel Baseball Season Preparations 

Preparations before the pre-season.

Before the baseball season starts, you’ll want to make sure that your child is mentally and physically ready for the long days ahead. 

So, let’s start with an off-season workout routine to help build strength and agility. But don’t forget about eating well and getting enough sleep. Plus, practicing regularly can take their fielding, pitching, and hitting skills way up.

During the season

Once the season starts, it’s important to stay fit and perform at your best. You’ll want to communicate with their coach to keep track of your child’s progress as well as any areas they need improvement in. 

Another thing you should do is show up to their games and practices. It helps you stay in tune with how the team is performing and also supports your child. And finally, always keep their lines of communication open, whether it’s about pressure or their anxiety.

Post-Season

After a long season, it’s important to take a break. Reflect on the games you had together. Acknowledge all the good things they did but also focus on areas they can improve in. 

Give them some downtime so they can rest and recover. Even though they’re chilling around, don’t let them become bums — physical activity is still important for them during this time.

Travel Baseball vs. Little League

Both types of baseball have their own unique experience and benefits that come along with it. The choice of which one to put your kid into mostly depends on what they want out of it.

For example, travel baseball is more competitive. It attracts players who are committed to sports no matter what and are willing to travel around just for a game against top talent in various regions. Not only does this provide intense competition but also high-level coaching.

It does require a lot of time, as seasons are much longer than in little leagues with more games and practices.

If you want your child exposed more, then this would be a good option, as you can see from Bryce Harper, Albert Pujols, and Clayton Kershaw.

Now, little league baseball is less demanding. It’s generally more focused on the community and not so much on traveling and time. 

It’s actually a great option for kids who still love the sport but aren’t ready to commit to such a demanding schedule. They focus on learning fundamental skills, enjoying the game, and fostering a sense of community.

You can learn more here: Travel Baseball Vs Little League

The Cost of Playing Travel Baseball

If your kid has a future in baseball, you might want to consider enrolling them in travel baseball. The only problem is that this option is much more expensive than local leagues. 

Local leagues tend to have low costs because they don’t do as much traveling as travel teams have to do. On top of paying for the actual games themselves, there’s also the top-of-the-line coaching and amazing facilities that the team needs to cover. 

You’ll be hit with fees like equipment, uniform, tournament, travel (like gas and airfare), and a team fee.

The team fee alone can include things like league fees, practice facility rentals, and salaries for the coaches. 

And let’s not forget about any extra training or lessons they need in order to take their skills up a notch.

It’s always good to ask the people organizing the league what you’re paying for specifically because then maybe it won’t seem so bad (it probably will still seem bad, though). 

But it really does come down to where you live. 

Depending on that, it could cost you anywhere from $1,500-$3,000 per season. And if you’re on one of those elite teams competing at national tournaments, then I’m sorry, but it’ll probably cost way more.

Find Out How To Choose A Coach

A good coach doesn’t just teach how to play sports but also builds discipline and confidence, along with fostering a love for the game. Here are some tips on picking a coach:

Experience And Certification : A coach should always have some kind of experience coaching youth sports, but having proof that they passed some coaching program can give you peace of mind, knowing they know what they’re doing.

Coaching Style : Every coach is different and will treat their athletes differently, too. Some will be very intense in trying to push their players, while others are more relaxed yet inspiring. Pick what works best with your child’s personality.

Communication Skills : A good coach knows how to explain things in a way that’s easy for their athletes to understand. They should also be great at talking to you and other parents.

Focus On Development : It’s better for your kid to improve their skills rather than just win all the time. Look for coaches that will work with them on that.

Reputation : Finally, look into what other people say about the coach. Not only other players but parents, too. It doesn’t hurt to ask around or even watch them during practice if you can. 

Things to Know About Uniforms and Equipment in Travel Baseball

Uniforms and equipment are a necessary investment in travel baseball. It can be beyond what you expect from Little League. Here’s a quick rundown of what your child might need:

Uniforms : Most travel baseball teams have their own custom jerseys that come with pants, caps, belts, and socks. Some teams may even have home and away uniforms, so check with the manager first.

Gloves/Mitts : Get your child a good quality glove or mitt that suits the position they play. For example, catchers and first basemen have their own special mitts, while outfielders use bigger gloves compared to infielders. Check out the Best Youth Infield Gloves 

Bats : Bat rules can get very specific, depending on the league. Before you buy one, make sure you understand what kind is allowed. Also, consider their height, weight, and hitting strength when selecting the right bat size . 

You can check out my list of Best Youth Baseball Bats

Helmets : No matter how old or young your child is, they need a batting helmet. Some leagues even require faceguards as well. Check out the Best Youth Baseball Helmet

Cleats : Running on grass and dirt requires traction, which is why cleats are used in baseball. However, be aware that some leagues don’t allow metal spikes, so again, you should always check if there are any shoe restrictions.

Protective gear : Depending on the position they’re playing at, your kid may need extra protection such as shin guards for their legs or a chest protector for their torso

What is a good age range for travel baseball?

Travel baseball typically starts around 7 or 8 years old and goes through high school. However, the age that you can join may differ depending on the league or team.

How much does it cost to play travel baseball? 

The price of playing travel baseball could be greatly different depending on things like where you live, what team you’re on, and at what level you play. You’ll have to pay for league fees, uniforms, equipment, and even the costs of traveling and staying in other cities for away games.

How often would we need to practice? 

Usually, travel teams practice more often than recreational ones. It’s common for them to meet several times each week. But it will depend on the time and dedication your child’s coach expects.

How far do they have to go? 

Again, that’ll depend on what league your child signs up for. Some teams only need to go a couple of miles, while others will have to cross city lines.

Can my child also play another sport? 

It all depends on how much time both sports require. Understandably, travel baseball takes up quite a bit of time and energy, so consider if they have enough for both.

Overall Worth of Travel Baseball 

Traveling with a baseball team is no joke. For players and families alike, it’s considered a big commitment that takes up lots of time, money, and energy. 

And while it opens up new opportunities, the best reward for joining one is amazing! The skills learned, and knowledge gained from playing at higher levels is priceless. 

Plus, it builds character, helping to teach important lessons like teamwork, dedication, success handling, and, most importantly, failure handling. And let’s not forget about the friendships built along the way from spending hours with teammates in different places across the country. 

Even though some costs and sacrifices come with this commitment, most families say joining a traveling baseball team was totally worth every bit of it. 

Just remember, the end goal is to love the sport and grow as a person.

Hello everyone. My name is  Jason Butler, and I live in California, America. I was a professional AAA Minor League Baseball player.  I lost my chance of playing MLB for injury issues, but I did not lose my love for baseball. I attended the coaching training program and am now working as a coach in a small school in San Diego. 

I always love to share my experience and knowledge if that can help you. Play baseball, and stay fit. 

• (417) 464-6333
• [email protected]

Here at Ballparks of America , we love travel baseball. And we’re not alone. Over the last 20 years, youth travel baseball has become increasingly popular. Take the All-American Wood Bat Classic as an example. During the first year of the tournament, in 2000, around a dozen teams signed up to play. In 2014, nearly 100 teams attended the tournament . 

Joining a travel baseball team has lots of advantages. Kids can become better ballplayers, make friends, and get to experience travel. However, it’s also a large financial and time commitment. And there’s a lot that goes into joining a team. 

To help you understand the world of travel baseball, our team has put together a guide that covers the following topics. 

What is travel baseball?

How to join a travel baseball team, how to choose a travel baseball team, how to start your own travel baseball team, what are the benefits of travel baseball, what is the downside of travel baseball, how do travel baseball tournaments work, how much does it cost to play travel baseball, how many games are played in a season, what to expect at travel baseball tryouts.

Also referred to as elite, club, select, and premier, travel baseball is an organized form of baseball characterized by competitive play and—you guessed it—travel. It is often seen as an intermediary step between Little League and high school baseball play. Travel baseball has also increasingly become the standard for elite youth players hoping to continue their baseball career in college or on a professional level. The typical age requirements vary by the organization but can range from 6 to 18 years old. 

Unlike Little League, which typically has weekly, local games, travel baseball mostly consists of weekend tournament play. However, there are some leagues that cater specifically to elite baseball teams. 

There is no singular governing organization in travel baseball. Rather, there are several organizations and facilities that host tournaments with varying criteria. Some of the dominating travel baseball organizations include Triple Crown Sports , Perfect Game , Untied States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA), and Amateur Athletic Union (AAU). 

As we mentioned above, competitive play is a defining characteristic of travel ball. Travel baseball teams do not have open registration, but instead, players are required to try out for a travel team. Therefore, a team could be made up of players from all over the state, region, and—in some cases—the country. Typically only the most competitive teams have players from all over the country.

So you’ve decided travel baseball is something you want to pursue for yourself or your child. Now what? There are two ways to play travel baseball, join a team or start your own team . 

There are several ways to find a travel baseball team. Start with a simple Google search, “travel baseball teams near me.” Another good option is to check out the large organizations listed above. You can also look on Facebook for travel baseball teams. Don’t forget to search for the alternative names (select baseball, elite baseball, club baseball, premier baseball, etc). Finally, you can check out FieldLevel . FieldLevel is a website that lets you search over 105,000 travel teams by location, age level, and skill level. Once you find a team you’re interested in joining, you’ll need to try out. Coaches typically hold tryouts in March, around the time local schools have spring break. 

Depending on where you live and how far you’re willing to travel, there could be several teams to choose from. When faced with a decision of which team to join, there are several factors to take into consideration.

Cost can vary from team to team, depending on how much and how far the team travels. Be sure that the team you choose fits within your budget.

As coaches will have a large impact on the development of a player, you want to be sure to work with coaches that have the right skills, knowledge, and experience. You also want to make sure the coach won’t play favorites with players. This can especially be a concern if the coach has a child on the team.

Although travel baseball tends to be competitive by nature, there are varying levels of competitiveness within the field. If a player is very serious about their development, they’ll want to be playing with teammates and against teams that are performing at a high level. And the opposite is true as well. If a player is not as serious, they might be frustrated playing on a highly-competitive team.

It doesn’t matter how competitive a team is if a player doesn’t get playing time. Travel ball teams typically have 13 players on them. It’s not advantageous to be the 13th best player on a team, because you won’t get very much (if any) playing time. And playing time is important for development and exposure.

One of the main reasons players sign up for travel ball is to eventually go on to play baseball at college or in the pros. Therefore, you want a team that has a strong development program and practices regularly.

Different teams travel different amounts, and it’s important that the amount fits in with the player’s schedule and the player’s family’s schedule.

If your goal as a player is to play in college or go pro, then it’s important to get adequate exposure. To do this, your team needs to play in the right tournaments where scouts will have the opportunity to see you play.

• Find a mentor
• Recruit players
• Hold tryouts
• Determine a budget
• Find a space to play
• Register your team with the travel baseball organizations

Tougher Competition

Travel baseball allows kids to play with and against the best players in the area, state, or—in some cases—the country. This can drastically improve their game.

Travel Opportunities

Getting to visit locations like Branson, Missouri for a vacation and baseball experience is a one-of-a-kind opportunity. Families can experience a traveling together and enjoying competitive baseball at the same time.

More Exposure

For those hoping to play baseball in college, travel baseball offers more exposure opportunities. Tournaments are a great way to get noticed by a scout or college coach.

Better Player Development

Travel baseball teams often provide better player development than recreational teams. Compared to rec teams, travel coaches tend to be more experienced, better connected, and more serious. Some of the most competitive teams actually employ former professional coaches.

More Playing Opportunities

Select baseball teams play a lot more games a year than an average rec team.

What are the downsides of travel baseball?

Possible injuries.

Some critics have argued that the increase in elbow injuries among major-league players may be caused by youth travel baseball.  

Compared to Little League teams, travel baseball is quite a bit more expensive. 

Lacks Diversity

Due to the cost, travel baseball tends to exclude players in lower socioeconomic brackets. 

Large Time Commitment

When it comes to travel baseball, the time commitment is significant. During the season, be prepared to give up quite a few weekends. 

Highly Competitive

The goals of travel baseball are to develop players and win games. Sometimes the focus on winning can overshadow player development. Typically, the best players will get the majority of the playing time.

How do select baseball tournaments work?

Each team chooses how many and which tournaments they will participate in every year. Tournaments are typically held on weekends and can take place all over the country. There are also week-long tournaments held during the summer. Teams choose which tournaments to play in based on a variety of factors—distance, cost, age level, potential exposure, and skill level. 

Depending on how well they play, a team can expect to play between three and eight games during a tournament. Tournaments usually start with pool-play, where teams are guaranteed to play a certain number of games. If they do well, they then get to play more games which are single elimination. 

According to USA Today , on average travel baseball costs families $3,700 per year. However, some families pay upwards of $8,000 per year. These numbers include fees, equipment , training , and travel. 

Traveling to weekend tournaments versus weeklong tournaments, like what Ballparks of America hosts, can also have an effect on costs as well. Food, hotels , gas and more are additional factors when deciding where to go with your travel baseball team.

How many travel baseball games are played in a season?

It can vary, but during the summer seasons, players typically play between 50-60 games.

Although every tryout will progress differently, tryouts typically adhere to the following structure.

To start, either a coach or a team captain will lead you through a warm-up. It’s important to warm up properly so you don’t injure yourself during the tryout.

Next, you’ll most likely be asked to do a 60-yard dash. One of the things coaches are looking for is to see which prospects are athletic and fast. You might be asked to run it more than once.

Then, you’ll have a chance to warm up your arms by playing catch.

The next set of drills will focus on position-specific skills. For example, if you’re an infielder, you might be asked to go to shortstop to ground balls. If you’re a pitcher, you’ll be throwing in the bullpen.

You’ll take turns hitting. You’ll only get a few chances to show off your batting skills, so you want to make this count.

In some cases, tryouts may end after batting practice. However, some tryouts end with a scrimmage.

Tips for travel baseball tryouts

It’s important to make a good first impression. Showing up on time demonstrates that you’re reliable. You also want to make sure you’ve dressed appropriately and have all the necessary equipment. And, right when you get there, go up and introduce yourself to the coach.

Beyond just looking for talented players, coaches are also looking for athletes who can help lead the team. Stand out as a leader by helping organize drills and cheering on your potential teammates.

Whether you’re huddling up with the coach or heading out to your position, put some pep in your step. Coaches like to see that you are taking tryouts seriously and putting in the effort. Try to make sure you’re one of the first players to get where you’re supposed to be.

You might not realize it, but the coaches are watching prospects the entire practice, so don’t slack off. Even when you’re playing catch, you want to be sure to put your best foot forward.

Arm strength is one of the things coaches will be looking for. So, no matter what position you play, when you’re in the specific skills portion of the tryout, make sure to throw the ball hard and fast. If you can, start a training program a few weeks before tryouts. 

Arm strength is one of the things coaches will be looking for. So, no matter what position you play, when you’re in the specific skills portion of the tryout, make sure to throw the ball hard and fast.

Don’t try to get too fancy with batting practice. Instead, try hit line drives and keep them in the middle of the field.

It can be tempting to try and play the way you think the coaches want you to play. But don’t. If you do, you won’t be at your best and you’ll end up making silly mistakes. Instead, wait for your moment and seize the opportunity.

Yes, coaches are looking for talented players. But they’re also looking for players with potential who can be coached. Show that you’re coachable for listening to advice and implementing it. And it can’t hurt to ask questions that show you’re open to feedback.

Ballparks of America offers premier facilities for travel baseball tournaments

We live and breathe travel ball at Ballparks of America, and we can’t wait for the season to start. Sign up for one of our tournaments today and take advantage of our amazing facilities, dedicated staff, tons of amenities, and fun local things to do. Give us a call or contact us online today. We can’t wait to hear from you! 

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Travel Baseball: The Ultimate Resource for Parents, Coaches, and Players

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Step up to the plate and join the world of travel baseball—a high-stakes, competitive journey where players, parents, and coaches all swing for the fences in pursuit of their baseball dreams.

Travel baseball is a highly competitive form of youth baseball that involves teams traveling to different locations to compete in tournaments against other skilled players. It is a level above school baseball, allowing talented players to showcase their skills and potentially catch the attention of college recruiters or professional coaches. Travel baseball teams are typically organized by age level, providing opportunities for players from middle school through high school to participate. Being part of a travel baseball team requires a significant time commitment, both in terms of practice (if your team has it) and attending games and tournaments. It offers players the chance to improve their skills, gain valuable playing time, and experience the thrill of competing against other top-notch teams. Travel baseball also often includes showcase tournaments, where players can demonstrate their abilities to scouts and coaches. Overall, travel baseball provides young athletes with a platform to develop their skills, gain exposure, and potentially earn college scholarships or pursue a career in baseball.

Table of contents

Key takeaways, travel baseball competition structure, how to join a travel baseball team, assembling teams versus developing teams, parent/team dynamics and politics, organization, playing time, skill level, focus on advancement to next level, what you’re giving up, travel baseball vs. rec baseball (little league, cal ripken), travel baseball vs school baseball (middle school, high school), youth travel baseball vs showcase travel baseball, perfect game, baseball youth, criticisms and controversy, is travel baseball worth it.

• Travel baseball is a competitive and intense environment that allows young athletes to continuously improve their skills and compete against talented players. It offers opportunities for skill development, personal growth, and the potential for college scholarships and professional opportunities.
• The frequency of practices and games varies among travel baseball teams, with regular practices during the week and games on weekends. Some teams also participate in showcase tournaments and events, which may require additional time commitments.
• Travel baseball teams cater to a range of age levels, starting from around 8u and going up to the high school level. Each age level has different skill development goals and competition levels.

Many travel baseball teams have professional coaches or coaches with extensive experience in the sport. These coaches provide specialized training, guidance, and mentorship to help players reach their full potential.

• Participating in travel baseball requires financial and time investments, with costs including tournament fees, equipment, and travel expenses. While it can be expensive, the potential benefits and opportunities make it worthwhile for dedicated parents and athletes.

As a dedicated travel baseball parent or coach , it’s important to understand the structure of travel baseball tournaments to support your child’s journey and maximize their opportunities. Travel baseball competitions typically involve tournaments that bring together teams from various regions to compete against one another.

The format of these tournaments often includes pool play followed by single elimination rounds. In pool play, teams are grouped into pools and play multiple games against the other teams in their pool. The purpose of pool play is to determine seeding for the single elimination rounds.

Once pool play is completed, teams advance to the single elimination rounds, where the games become more intense and every game matters. Teams compete against each other in a knockout tournament format, with the winner moving on to the next round and the loser being eliminated from the tournament.

Regional and national championships are often the pinnacle of travel baseball competitions. Regional championships bring together top teams from a specific region to compete for a chance to advance to the national championships. National championships showcase the best travel baseball teams from across the country, where teams compete for the title of national champions.

To simplify the tournament process and ensure fair competition, travel baseball tournaments often utilize the DivLevel classification system. This system categorizes teams based on their skill level, ensuring that teams are matched up against opponents of similar abilities. This not only creates a more level playing field but also provides an opportunity for teams to compete against similarly skilled teams and further develop their skills.

Understanding the structure of travel baseball competitions, from the format of tournaments to the DivLevel classification system, allows parents and coaches to navigate the journey with their young athletes and make the most of the opportunities presented by these competitions.

Ready to join a travel team? Let’s break it down into simple steps so you can confidently navigate this process.

Begin your search by reaching out to other parents, coaches, and even your child’s school baseball team. Word-of-mouth is a great way to discover travel baseball teams in your area. Additionally, check out organization websites, forums, and Facebook groups for team listings and tryout information.

Once you’ve identified potential teams, attending their tryouts is crucial. This gives coaches an opportunity to assess your child’s skill level and determine if they are a good fit for the team. Please encourage your child to give their best effort and showcase their abilities during tryouts.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions at tryouts. It’s often a good idea to ask the same questions at each tryout so you can have notes for comparison for step 4.

When evaluating different travel baseball teams, consider factors like cost, coaching quality, competitiveness, playing time, skill development programs, and exposure opportunities. Each family may prioritize these factors differently, so find the team that aligns best with your goals and values.

After attending tryouts and considering the various factors, take some time to evaluate your options. Please consult with your child and consider their feelings and goals. Once you’ve gathered all the necessary information, make a decision that feels right for your family.

Remember, joining a travel baseball team is an exciting opportunity for your child’s growth and development. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect team that will nurture your child’s talent and provide them with unforgettable experiences. Good luck on this incredible journey!

What to Look For in a Travel Baseball Team

When it comes to choosing the right travel baseball team for your child, there are several factors to consider. As a dedicated parent, you want to ensure that your child receives the best training, exposure, and opportunities in baseball. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to navigate the competitive world of travel baseball. In this article, we will dive into what you should look for in a travel baseball team. From coaching quality and competitiveness to skill development programs and exposure opportunities, we’ll guide you on how to find the perfect fit for your child’s baseball journey. So let’s explore the key factors that will help your child thrive and excel in the exciting world of travel baseball.

When it comes to travel ball, there are two main approaches to forming teams: assembling teams and developing teams.

Assembling teams involves selecting players based on their current skill level and position needs, while developing teams focus on nurturing players’ skills and helping them improve over time.

Assembling teams is often seen as a way to quickly build a competitive team. Coaches select players based on their existing talent, with the aim of creating a team that can perform at a high level right away. For these teams, winning is not only the primary goal; it’s often the only goal. For some parents and players, there is a some social status they derive from being on these “elite” teams. At the same time, coaches for these teams often overlook players with untapped potential and could benefit from further development. Players are often seen as interchangeable pieces rather than growing, developing, maturing young men.

On the other hand, developing teams takes a more long-term approach. Coaches prioritize nurturing players’ skills and helping them improve over time. This approach recognizes that player development is a gradual process and focuses on providing opportunities for players to grow and learn. While developing teams may not achieve instant success, it can lead to the creation of well-rounded players who have a solid foundation of skills and a deeper understanding of the game. In the long run, these teams overtake their “assembled” counterparts, especially as the players transition to a full-sized baseball diamond.

Here’s a comparison of the benefits and drawbacks of each approach:

While each approach has its merits, it ultimately depends on the goals and priorities of the team and the individual players. Assembling teams may be beneficial in situations where immediate success and social clout are the main goals while developing teams can provide a more holistic and long-term approach to player development.

Coaching is a vital component of travel baseball teams, playing a crucial role in player development, instilling fundamental skills, and fostering a positive team environment. The coaching staff has a direct impact on the growth and success of young athletes, both on and off the field.

A great coach goes beyond just teaching the mechanics of the game. They understand the importance of nurturing talent, building confidence, and instilling a love for the sport. Their coaching style should be supportive, motivating, and individualized, allowing each player to reach their full potential.

In addition to player development, coaches also play a key role in creating a positive team environment. They set the tone for teamwork, sportsmanship, and respect. A strong team dynamic is essential for success in travel baseball, as players must learn to work together towards a common goal.

When evaluating coaches for your child’s travel baseball team, there are several key factors to consider. Look for coaches who prioritize player development, have a clear coaching style that aligns with your child’s needs, and treat all players fairly and equitably. It’s important to ensure that the coaching staff creates an inclusive and supportive atmosphere where all players feel valued and included.

Choosing the right coaching staff is essential for your child’s growth and enjoyment in travel baseball. By prioritizing player development, fostering a positive team environment, and evaluating coaches with key factors in mind, you can ensure that your child has the best possible experience on their journey in travel baseball.

Playing Experience vs Coaching Experience

When considering a travel baseball team, both playing experience and coaching experience are crucial factors to take into account.

Playing experience provides valuable insights and a deep understanding of the game. Players who have had significant playing experience have been through the ups and downs of the game, faced different opponents, and have a strong grasp of the nuances and strategies involved. This experience translates into a higher skill level, as they have developed the physical and mental abilities needed to perform at a competitive level.

On the other hand, coaching experience is equally important. Coaches with experience have the ability to provide guidance, instruction, and mentorship to players. They understand the intricacies of player development and know how to tailor their coaching approach to the individual needs of each player. Coaching experience brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success, enabling coaches to help players reach their full potential.

While playing experience is valuable, it doesn’t necessarily mean that someone can effectively teach others or coach younger players. Coaching requires a different skill set, including the ability to communicate effectively, break down complex concepts into digestible information, and adapt coaching methods to meet the players on their level.

A balance between playing experience and coaching experience within a travel baseball team is ideal. Players benefit from the guidance and instruction of experienced coaches who have a deep understanding of the game, while coaches can draw upon their playing experience to relate to and connect with the players. This balance ensures that players receive both the technical and strategic knowledge needed to excel on the field, as well as the support and mentorship necessary for their overall development as athletes and individuals.

As a dedicated travel baseball parent, it’s important to understand the dynamics and politics that exist within a travel baseball team. Being aware of these dynamics will help you navigate the team environment and ensure a positive experience for both you and your child.

Parent involvement is a crucial aspect of travel baseball, but it’s essential to find a balance. While it’s natural to want to be involved in your child’s baseball journey, it’s important to respect the roles and responsibilities of the coaches. Clear communication is key in establishing boundaries and understanding each person’s role within the team.

Team dynamics can sometimes be challenging, with different personalities and expectations coming together. However, fostering a sense of respect and teamwork is vital. Encourage your child to be a supportive teammate and lead by example yourself. Emphasize the importance of treating others with kindness and respect, both on and off the field.

Conflicts may arise within the team, but it’s important to address them promptly and effectively. Open and honest communication is crucial in resolving conflicts. Encourage your child to express their concerns and help them understand the importance of active listening and empathy. Collaborate with coaches and other parents to find solutions that benefit the team as a whole.

Creating a positive team environment requires effort from everyone involved. By fostering clear communication, respect, and teamwork, you can help create a supportive and harmonious atmosphere within the travel baseball team. Remember that your child’s experience is shaped not only by their performance on the field but also by the relationships they form and the lessons they learn from being part of a team.

When it comes to travel baseball, there are several factors that contribute to the overall cost of participation. These factors can vary depending on location, equipment requirements, facility rental, and tournament competitiveness. It’s important for parents to be aware of these factors to make informed decisions about their investment in their child’s baseball journey.

1. Location: The cost of travel baseball can vary depending on where you live. In areas where baseball is more popular, you may have access to more competitive teams and tournaments, but that can also come with a higher price tag.

2. Equipment: Baseball equipment can be expensive, and as your child progresses through different age levels, they may require more specialized gear. This can include gloves, bats, helmets, cleats, and other protective equipment.

3. Facility Rental: Travel baseball often requires the use of indoor facilities for practices and training. The cost of renting these facilities can add up, especially if you’re competing for limited space during peak seasons.

4. Coaching: Hiring experienced and knowledgeable coaches is an important investment in your child’s development as a baseball player. Coaches may charge fees for their services, and the higher their level of expertise, the more expensive their coaching fees may be.

5. Tournament Competitiveness: Participating in high-level tournaments often involves additional expenses such as travel, accommodations, and tournament fees. The more competitive the tournament, the greater the cost.

It’s essential for parents to carefully consider these factors when budgeting for their child’s participation in travel baseball. By understanding the potential costs involved, parents can make informed decisions and ensure that their child has the resources and support they need to thrive in the competitive world of travel baseball.

When it comes to choosing a travel baseball team, location plays a crucial role in determining the opportunities available to young athletes. While certain states like California, Florida, and Texas are known as major baseball hubs, providing a wealth of high-level competition in close proximity, families living outside of these states need to consider a few factors.

Firstly, commuting becomes an important consideration. It may be necessary to travel to nearby major cities or regions with better coaching and more competitive teams. This can involve a significant time commitment for both players and their families, but it can also provide access to a higher caliber of coaching and competition.

Proximity to practice fields and facilities is also essential. Travel baseball often requires the use of indoor facilities for practices and training. Living close to these facilities can make it easier to attend regular practices and take advantage of additional training opportunities.

In summary, while living in California, Florida, or Texas can offer abundant opportunities for high-level competition in baseball, families living outside of these states need to evaluate their options carefully. Commuting to major cities and ensuring proximity to practice fields and facilities are important considerations to find the best fit for their young athletes.

Mission is a powerful word. It represents the guiding purpose and direction of a travel baseball team. Understanding a team’s mission and how it aligns with individual values and goals is crucial for both parents and players.

When choosing a travel baseball team, it’s essential to ensure that its mission aligns with the players’ and their families’ aspirations and expectations. This compatibility fosters a harmonious and fulfilling experience for everyone involved. It ensures that everyone is working towards a common goal and shares the same values.

However, tensions can arise if there is a mismatch between the team’s mission and the expectations of the coach, parents, and players. These tensions can manifest as coach-parent or coach-player conflicts. Ultimately, this can impact the overall team dynamic and hinder personal and team growth.

Parents and players should have open and honest conversations with the coach to ensure that their values, goals, and expectations are in line with the team’s mission. This communication can help manage potential tensions and create a supportive and nurturing environment for players to thrive.

Choosing a travel baseball team goes beyond evaluating skill level and competitive opportunities. It requires a careful consideration of the team’s mission and how it aligns with the values and goals of the individuals involved. By doing so, parents and players can set themselves up for a successful and fulfilling journey in travel baseball.

When evaluating the organization of a travel baseball team, several key factors must be considered. One of the most important is the team’s reputation. Reputation can significantly impact your association with the program and even affect your child’s opportunities in the future.

Joining a team known for dirty play or disrespectful behavior can have serious consequences. Not only does it reflect poorly on your child and their character, but it also affects their development as a player. Playing alongside individuals who engage in dirty play or disrespectful behavior can hinder your child’s growth and create a negative environment for them to thrive.

Additionally, the travel baseball community is small and tight-knit. College coaches and scouts pay attention to reputations and will often avoid programs with a negative reputation. Being associated with a team known for dirty play or disrespectful behavior can limit your child’s exposure and opportunities for college scholarships and professional prospects.

It’s important to note that the size of an organization does not necessarily determine its success. While larger organizations may have many players who go on to play in college or the pros, it’s crucial to consider the percentage of players who achieve these outcomes. Many kids play in these organizations, so the percentage of success is relatively small.

Ultimately, when evaluating a travel baseball team’s organization, reputation should be a significant factor to consider. It can impact your child’s development, opportunities, and future prospects in the sport.

Playing time is a crucial aspect of travel baseball that can greatly impact a player’s development and enjoyment of the sport. It is important for parents to understand the importance of playing time and how it can contribute to their child’s growth as a baseball player.

Before committing to a travel baseball team, parents should have open and honest conversations with the coaching staff about the expected playing time and positions. This allows parents to gauge the team’s approach to player development and ensure that their child will have ample playing opportunities.

It is worth noting that assembled teams, which are often formed based on tryouts and selecting the most talented players, tend to lock kids into specific positions. On the other hand, developed teams often prioritize versatility and allow players to learn and play multiple positions. This flexibility not only expands a player’s skill set but also increases their value to the team.

Learning multiple positions benefits the individual player and enhances team dynamics. Versatile players can easily adapt to different game situations and provide strategic advantages for their team.

While getting game reps is important for skill development and overall enjoyment, it is equally important to recognize that practice reps are the most crucial for long-term skill development. Coaches should provide a balanced mix of game time and practice time to ensure that players have the opportunity to refine their skills and improve their performance on the field.

In conclusion, playing time in travel baseball is essential for a player’s development and enjoyment of the sport. Parents should have open communication with coaching staff about playing time expectations and positions. Additionally, encouraging players to learn multiple positions can enhance their versatility and overall value to the team. Finally, understanding the balance between game reps and practice reps is vital for long-term skill development.

As a dedicated travel baseball parent, one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a travel baseball team for your child is evaluating their skill level. It’s crucial to assess where your child stands in terms of their baseball abilities to ensure they are placed in the right environment for growth and development.

Evaluating skill level allows you to find a team that aligns with your child’s abilities and goals. Children who excel in baseball and are looking for a challenging and competitive environment should consider teams that prioritize skill development, intense competition, and showcase opportunities. These teams often have rigorous tryouts that attract talented players and provide a platform for high-level competition.

On the other hand, if your child prioritizes fun, friendship, and a more relaxed approach to the game, you may want to consider a more low-key team. These teams often focus on providing a supportive and nurturing environment where players can enjoy the game without the intense pressure to win.

Ultimately, the skill level of the team should match your child’s abilities and aspirations. It’s important to find the right balance between challenge and enjoyment for optimal growth and development. By evaluating your child’s skill level and considering the level of competition during tryouts, you can ensure they are placed in a team that suits their needs and provides a positive and enriching experience.

As a dedicated travel baseball parent, one of the primary goals is to see our child advance to the next level of baseball, whether it be college ball or even professional baseball. Travel baseball teams play a crucial role in providing the necessary opportunities and resources for this advancement.

These teams not only focus on the development of players’ skills but also provide them with exposure to scouts and college recruiters. The competitive nature of travel baseball allows players to showcase their abilities in high-level tournaments and showcase events, where they can catch the attention of those who can potentially propel their careers forward.

Additionally, travel baseball teams often have connections within the baseball community, including coaches, trainers, and other players. These connections can provide valuable insights, guidance, and even potential opportunities for player development. Being part of a well-established travel team can open doors and connect players with the right people who can help them excel in their baseball journey.

When choosing a travel team, it is essential to align with an organization that shares your child’s goals and aspirations. Some larger organizations may have teams that exist only to fund their top-tier teams, leaving less opportunity for player development and advancement. Evaluating the track record of the organization and understanding their commitment to player growth is crucial in making an informed decision.

However, it’s important to remember that success in the baseball world cannot solely be measured by the number of players who make it to the next level. Many talented players participate in bigger organizations across the country, but the percentage of those who actually reach college or professional baseball is relatively small compared to the overall number of players in these organizations. Therefore, it’s important not to solely rely on these statistics as a measure of an organization’s success.

In the pursuit of advancement to the next level, travel baseball provides an environment where players can develop their skills, gain exposure, and build connections within the baseball community. By choosing the right team and maintaining a focus on growth and aspirations, the journey toward college ball or professional baseball becomes more attainable.

As a parent involved in the world of travel baseball, it’s important to understand the sacrifices that players and their families make in pursuit of their dreams. Travel baseball demands a significant time commitment, often resulting in players missing out on social activities that are an integral part of their childhood.

Imagine the disappointment of not being able to attend a friend’s birthday party or a school dance because of a crucial game or tournament. These are the moments that create lasting memories and build relationships, yet travel baseball often requires players to prioritize their commitment to the team above all else.

Financially, the cost of travel baseball can also be significant. Families may need to make tough choices and sacrifice material things in order to provide their child with the opportunities and experiences that travel baseball offers. Clothes, video games, new smartphones – these may need to take a backseat to the expenses associated with tournament fees, equipment, and travel costs.

While the sacrifices can be challenging, it’s important to remember that they are not made in vain. Travel baseball provides a unique path for skill development, exposure to higher-level competition, and the potential for college scholarships and professional opportunities. However, it’s essential to find a balance and ensure that players also have time for other important aspects of their lives, such as academics, friendships, and personal growth.

By understanding the sacrifices involved and finding ways to maintain a balanced approach, players and their families can make the most of their travel baseball experience while still cherishing the moments and connections that make life rich and fulfilling.

As a travel baseball parent or coach, it’s important to understand the main differences between travel baseball and recreational baseball, such as Little League and Cal Ripken. These differences can greatly impact your child’s experience, skill development, and overall growth in the sport.

When it comes to time commitment, travel baseball tends to require a higher level of dedication. Travel teams often have more frequent practices and longer game schedules, as they often participate in tournaments and showcase events that require additional travel. On the other hand, recreational baseball leagues like Little League and Cal Ripken typically have a shorter season, with fewer practices and games.

In terms of competitiveness, travel baseball is generally more intense. Travel teams are often made up of talented players who are selected through tryouts and may have a higher skill level compared to recreational leagues. The competition level in travel baseball is also higher, as teams often compete against other travel teams from different regions. Recreational baseball leagues, on the other hand, focus more on fun and participation, with a wider range of skill levels among players.

Player development is another significant difference between travel baseball and recreational baseball. In travel baseball, there is often a greater emphasis on individual skill development and specialized coaching. Travel teams may have access to professional coaches who can provide advanced training and guidance. In recreational baseball, player development is typically led by parent-coaches who may have limited baseball knowledge or experience.

Here’s a table summarizing the main differences between travel baseball and recreational baseball:

In conclusion, travel baseball and recreational baseball offer contrasting experiences for young athletes. While travel baseball requires a higher time commitment and offers a more competitive environment with greater player development opportunities, recreational baseball focuses on fun and participation with limited travel and coaching resources. Understanding these differences can help parents and coaches make informed decisions for their child’s baseball journey.

As a dedicated travel baseball parent or coach, you understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with nurturing a young athlete’s talent. When it comes to choosing between travel baseball and school baseball (middle school, high school), there are key differences to consider.

Competition: Travel baseball teams are known for their high level of competition. These teams often consist of talented players who have gone through tryouts and have a higher skill level compared to school teams. In contrast, school baseball programs may offer limited competition and opportunities to face off against teams from other regions.

Skill Development: Travel baseball places a strong emphasis on individual skill development. Players have access to professional coaches and specialized training, which can help them reach their full potential. School baseball, on the other hand, may have limited coaching resources and a broader focus on team play rather than individual development.

Coaching Quality: Travel baseball brings together some of the best coaches in the sport. These experienced professionals can provide advanced training methods, personalized guidance, and a wealth of knowledge. In contrast, school baseball programs may rely on volunteer coaches who may have limited baseball knowledge or experience.

Middle School Programs: One notable difference is the lack of middle school baseball programs. While travel baseball offers opportunities for players as young as 8u, middle school often becomes a gap year in terms of baseball development. This gap can have an impact on a player’s skill progression and overall exposure to the sport.

To summarize, travel baseball offers a higher level of competition, specialized skill development, and access to professional coaching. School baseball, particularly at the middle school and high school level, may have limited competition and coaching quality. When it comes to nurturing your child’s talent, travel baseball can provide a more comprehensive and focused approach to their growth as a player.

Here’s a table comparing travel baseball and school baseball:

As a dedicated travel baseball parent or coach, it’s important to understand the key differences between Youth Travel Baseball and Showcase Travel Baseball. Both types of travel baseball offer unique experiences and opportunities for young athletes, but they cater to different goals and skill levels.

Youth Travel Baseball is typically designed to provide a well-rounded experience for players of all skill levels. These teams focus on competition, skill development, and player exposure. Youth Travel Baseball tournaments may feature a mix of local and regional teams, allowing players to face a variety of opponents and gain valuable game experience. Skill development is a priority, and players have access to coaching and training resources to help them improve their game. These tournaments often follow a round-robin or pool play format, giving players plenty of playing time and opportunities to showcase their skills.

On the other hand, Showcase Travel Baseball is geared towards high-level players who are looking for maximum exposure to college recruiters and professional scouts. These teams are comprised of elite players with advanced skills and a strong desire to play at the college or professional level. Showcase tournaments attract top talent from across the country and provide a platform for players to showcase their skills in front of college coaches and professional scouts. The tournament format for Showcase Travel Baseball often includes single-elimination games or games that follow the Perfect Game format, maximizing the level of competition and intensity.

Here’s a comparison of the key differences between Youth Travel Baseball and Showcase Travel Baseball:

Top travel tournament organizations for Youth Travel Baseball include USSSA Baseball and Arlington Travel Baseball.

Top travel tournament organizations for Showcase Travel Baseball include Cougar Travel Baseball and Total Baseball Travel Team.

In conclusion, Youth Travel Baseball offers a well-rounded experience for players of all skill levels, focusing on competition, skill development, and player exposure. Showcase Travel Baseball, on the other hand, caters to high-level players seeking maximum exposure to college recruiters and professional scouts. Understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions and provide the best opportunities for your young athlete’s growth and success.

Travel Tournament Organizations

Travel Tournament Organizations: Nurturing Talent and Providing Opportunities for Growth

In the world of travel baseball, finding the right tournament organization can make all the difference in nurturing your child’s talent and providing them with the opportunities they need to grow and succeed. These organizations are the gateways to regional and national tournaments, where players can showcase their skills, gain exposure, and potentially secure college scholarships. Two prominent travel tournament organizations that stand out are USSSA Baseball and Arlington Travel Baseball. USSSA Baseball offers a summer season filled with competitive games and a mix of skill levels, providing an ideal platform for players to develop their abilities and face diverse opponents. Meanwhile, Arlington Travel Baseball focuses on age-level competitions, ensuring that players are grouped with others who are at a similar skill level so that they can learn, grow, and compete at their optimum potential. By aligning your child with the right travel tournament organization, you can set them on a path towards success in the world of baseball.

Perfect Game is one of the leading travel tournament organizations in the travel baseball community, and its significance cannot be understated. Participating in Perfect Game tournaments provides numerous benefits and features that help young athletes thrive and reach their full potential in the competitive world of travel baseball.

One of the main benefits of participating in Perfect Game tournaments is the exposure it offers young athletes. Perfect Game attracts scouts, college recruiters, and coaches from all levels of baseball, increasing the chances of talented players being seen and noticed. This exposure can lead to opportunities for college scholarships or even professional contracts.

Another significant aspect of Perfect Game tournaments is the high level of competition. These tournaments attract some of the most talented players and teams from around the country, providing a challenging and thrilling environment for young athletes to test their skills. The opportunity to compete against top-notch competition helps players develop their skills and gain valuable experience.

Perfect Game tournaments also offer showcase opportunities, where players can showcase their abilities in front of a wide audience. These showcases allow athletes to display their skills in various aspects of the game, such as hitting, pitching, and fielding. This exposure can help athletes gain recognition and enhance their chances of being recruited or scouted.

In addition to these benefits, Perfect Game tournaments provide a well-organized and professional experience for players and their families. From top-notch facilities and excellent officiating to comprehensive game statistics and player profiles, Perfect Game ensures a high-quality tournament experience.

Overall, participating in Perfect Game tournaments is highly advantageous for young athletes looking to excel in travel baseball. The exposure, competition, showcase opportunities, and professional experience it offers are invaluable for their development and advancement in the sport.

As a dedicated travel baseball parent or coach, you are likely familiar with the acronym USSSA, which stands for United States Specialty Sports Association. USSSA plays a significant role in the world of travel baseball tournaments and teams.

USSSA was founded in 1968 with the purpose of organizing and governing various sports, including baseball. Over the years, USSSA has established itself as a reputable organization, known for its commitment to providing high-quality tournaments and experiences for young athletes.

When it comes to travel baseball, USSSA is responsible for organizing and sanctioning tournaments at various levels, offering teams the opportunity to compete against one another and showcase their skills. These tournaments attract talented players and teams from across the country, creating a highly competitive environment for young athletes to test their abilities.

One of the most prestigious events organized by USSSA is the USSSA World Series. This tournament brings together the top teams from different regions, allowing them to compete for the title of champion. The USSSA World Series is a highly anticipated event in the travel baseball community and serves as a platform for young athletes to demonstrate their talent on a national stage.

As a parent or coach involved in travel baseball, being aware of USSSA and its role in organizing and governing tournaments can provide valuable opportunities for your child or team. Participating in USSSA-sanctioned events, including the USSSA World Series, allows young athletes to gain exposure, showcase their skills, and compete against top-tier competition. So keep an eye out for USSSA tournaments and embrace the opportunity to be part of the exciting world of travel baseball.

As a passionate sports enthusiast and a parent myself, I understand the dedication and sacrifices that come with being involved in your child’s travel baseball journey. Today, I want to introduce you to an organization that has been making waves in the world of travel baseball – Play Top Gun Sports.

Play Top Gun Sports http://playtopgunsports.com is a renowned travel baseball organization that is dedicated to providing exceptional programs and tournaments for young athletes. They understand the importance of skill development and offer a range of programs tailored to different age levels and skill sets. From their youth travel teams to their elite player development programs, Play Top Gun Sports caters to a wide range of athletes.

One of the notable features of Play Top Gun Sports is their showcase tournaments. These tournaments attract some of the most talented players from across the country, offering them the opportunity to showcase their skills in front of college coaches and scouts. This exposure can open doors to college scholarships and even professional opportunities.

While participating in Play Top Gun Sports events can bring immense benefits, it’s important to consider the drawbacks as well. The competition level can be extremely high, and the time commitment required for travel and practice may be significant. It’s crucial to strike a balance between pursuing the dream and maintaining a well-rounded life for your child.

All in all, Play Top Gun Sports is a top-tier travel baseball organization that offers exceptional programs and tournaments for young athletes. By participating in their events, your child can gain valuable experiences, exposure, and opportunities to excel in the sport they love. So, lace up those cleats, grab your glove, and get ready to soar to new heights with Play Top Gun Sports.

As a dedicated travel baseball parent, one of the most exciting aspects of the sport is the opportunity for youth prospects to showcase their talent and potential. These young athletes hold a special place in the world of travel baseball, as they serve as the foundation for identifying and nurturing talented players at a young age.

Travel baseball organizations and college recruiters understand the immense value of youth prospects. These young players demonstrate promising skills and show potential for future success. They receive special attention and are carefully scouted and evaluated.

Scouting for youth prospects involves observing their performance in games and tournaments, evaluating their technical skills, athleticism, and game intelligence. The goal is to identify players who possess exceptional talent and the ability to excel at higher levels of play.

For college recruiters, youth prospects can be a valuable pipeline for identifying talented players to fill their rosters. These young athletes, through their commitment and dedication to the sport, have the potential to earn college scholarships and advance their baseball careers to the next level.

The journey of a youth prospect in travel baseball is both thrilling and challenging. These young athletes not only have the chance to showcase their skills but also to receive guidance and mentorship from professional coaches. This support helps them refine their abilities and develop their potential to the fullest.

For travel baseball parents, witnessing their child as a youth prospect brings a mix of excitement, hope, and anticipation. They understand the significant role these young athletes play in shaping their child’s baseball journey and the potential opportunities that lie ahead.

In the world of travel baseball, youth prospects are the foundation for identifying and nurturing talented players. They are scouted, evaluated, and provided with opportunities for advancement to higher levels of play. For parents, the dream of their child earning a college scholarship and excelling in the sport becomes even closer to reality through the promising path of a youth prospect.

In addition to Perfect Game and USSSA, there are several other popular travel tournament organizations in the travel baseball community. Two significant organizations worth mentioning are Impact Baseball and Dynamic Baseball.

Impact Baseball is a prominent travel tournament organization that has been conducting high-quality tournaments and showcases for over 15 years. They provide opportunities for talented baseball players to showcase their skills and compete against top-level competition. Impact Baseball events attract college recruiters and professional scouts, giving players valuable exposure.

Dynamic Baseball is another well-known organization that focuses on providing competitive tournaments and showcases for youth baseball players. They offer events for various age groups, allowing players to compete against teams from different regions. Dynamic Baseball events are highly regarded for their organization, high level of competition, and professional atmosphere.

These travel tournament organizations, including Top Gun and SoftballConnected.com, play a significant role in the travel baseball community. They provide a platform for talented players to showcase their skills, gain exposure, and compete against top-level competition. The significance of these organizations lies in their ability to connect players with college recruiters and professional scouts, ultimately helping players advance their baseball careers.

Travel Baseball Pros and Cons

Welcome to the world of travel baseball, where young athletes have the opportunity to compete against top-level teams, showcase their skills, and aim for college scholarships or even professional careers. As a dedicated parent or coach, you understand that travel baseball comes with its own set of advantages and challenges. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of travel baseball, diving deep into the emotional journeys, sacrifices made, and the joy of watching young athletes grow. We will also provide actionable advice on nurturing talent, maintaining a balanced life on the road, and the importance of fostering both physical and emotional growth in young athletes. So, let’s lace up our cleats and embark on this journey together!

Pros of Travel Baseball

Travel baseball offers a multitude of advantages for young players looking to take their skills to the next level. One of the biggest benefits is the opportunity to face better competition. In travel baseball, players compete against other talented athletes who are also dedicated to the sport. This heightened level of competition pushes players to improve their skills and performance.

Additionally, travel baseball provides access to professional coaches who possess the knowledge and experience needed to guide players on their baseball journey. These coaches can provide valuable insights and training techniques that can elevate a player’s game.

Another advantage of travel baseball is the increased exposure it provides. By participating in showcase tournaments and playing against top-tier teams, young players have the opportunity to catch the attention of college scouts and potentially earn scholarships. This level of exposure can open doors for future opportunities in college ball and beyond.

Furthermore, travel baseball offers more playing opportunities for young athletes. With a higher number of games played, players can gain valuable experience and refine their skills in various game situations. This allows them to develop a well-rounded game that can translate to success on the diamond.

Lastly, travel baseball facilitates travel, allowing players to compete in different locations and experience new environments. This not only enhances their overall baseball experience but also exposes them to different cultures and fosters personal growth.

Overall, travel baseball provides young players with better competition, expert coaching, increased exposure, more playing opportunities, and a chance to explore new places. It is an invaluable platform for their development as athletes and as individuals.

Travel Opportunities

As a travel baseball parent, you understand the dedication and commitment it takes to support your child’s baseball dreams. While the travel aspect may seem like an additional challenge, it actually provides a unique opportunity for both vacation and an immersive baseball experience.

Travel baseball teams often have the chance to visit different locations and participate in tournaments and showcase events. This allows young athletes to not only play the sport they love but also explore new places and cultures. From picturesque destinations like Branson, Missouri to vibrant cities across the country, each trip becomes an adventure both on and off the field.

Furthermore, travel baseball offers more playing opportunities compared to average recreational teams. With a higher number of games and tournaments, young athletes can gain valuable experience and develop their skills in various game situations. This level of competition and exposure can significantly contribute to their growth as players.

While there may be financial and time commitments associated with travel baseball, it’s essential to evaluate its worth based on your child’s goals and aspirations. Consider the investment in terms of the opportunities it provides for skill development, recognition, and potential college scholarships. Additionally, weigh the intangible sacrifices and the joy of supporting your child’s passion.

In conclusion, travel opportunities in travel baseball not only offer a unique vacation experience but also provide young athletes with more playing opportunities and a chance to explore new locations. Evaluate the worth of travel baseball based on its financial commitment, time commitment, and the potential benefits it can bring to your child’s baseball journey.

More Exposure

Travel baseball provides young players with unparalleled exposure opportunities for those who aspire to play baseball in college. Through various tournaments and showcase events, players have the chance to showcase their skills in front of scouts and college coaches who are actively seeking talented athletes for their programs.

These tournaments serve as a platform for players to catch the attention of college recruiters and increase their chances of securing a college scholarship. By competing against other talented players and performing well in high-pressure situations, players can demonstrate their abilities and stand out among their peers.

In addition to the competitive nature of these tournaments, travel baseball also offers the advantage of playing more games and recording videos for player showcases. With a higher number of games, players get additional opportunities to fine-tune their skills and gain valuable game experience. Moreover, recording these games allows players to create highlight reels that can be shared with college coaches and further enhance their recruitment potential.

Furthermore, travel baseball teams often have access to experienced and knowledgeable coaches who can provide top-notch player development. These coaches have the expertise to identify areas for improvement and help players refine their skills. With improved player development, players can increase their playing opportunities and significantly enhance their chances of getting noticed by college coaches.

Overall, travel baseball not only provides more exposure opportunities but also offers the chance for players to play more games and receive quality coaching. These advantages greatly enhance a player’s chances of getting recognized by scouts and college coaches, making travel baseball an invaluable investment for young athletes with aspirations of playing college baseball.

Better Player Development with the Right Coaches

As a travel baseball parent, I understand the importance of having the right coaches for better player development in travel baseball teams. The coaches play a crucial role in shaping and honing the skills of young athletes, and their influence can have a lasting impact on a player’s growth and success.

Experienced coaches bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. They understand the game at a deeper level and can effectively convey their insights to the players. With their guidance, players can learn advanced techniques, strategies, and game situations that can elevate their performance on the field.

Well-connected coaches also offer significant advantages. Their networks within the baseball community can open doors for players, providing them with exposure to college recruiters and professional scouts. These connections can lead to opportunities for players to showcase their skills in front of decision-makers who can shape their future in the sport.

In some competitive teams, former professional coaches are employed, which adds an extra layer of value. These coaches bring firsthand experience of the highest level of play, giving players a unique perspective and insights into what it takes to succeed at the college or professional level. Their mentorship can help players develop the necessary skills, mindset, and work ethic needed to excel in their baseball journey.

In conclusion, having the right coaches in travel baseball teams is crucial for better player development. Their experience, expertise, and connections can significantly impact a player’s growth, exposure, and opportunities in the sport. So, as travel baseball parents, it’s important for us to seek out teams with experienced and well-connected coaches to ensure our children’s development is nurtured in the best possible way.

More Playing Opportunities

Travel baseball provides more playing opportunities compared to recreational teams for several reasons. Firstly, select baseball teams typically have a longer season that extends beyond the regular recreational season. While recreational teams may only play during the summer months, select teams often have a summer season followed by fall and even winter training and tournament opportunities. This extended season allows players to get more game time and develop their skills further.

In addition to a longer season, select baseball teams typically participate in a larger number of games per year compared to recreational teams. Recreational teams may have only a few games per week, whereas select teams often have multiple games and tournaments every month. This higher frequency of games provides players with more opportunities to showcase their skills, develop their game sense, and gain valuable experience on the field.

Furthermore, travel baseball teams offer players more exposure opportunities for those hoping to play in college. These teams often participate in showcase tournaments and events where college recruiters and scouts are in attendance. This exposure can significantly increase a player’s chances of being noticed by college programs and potentially earning a scholarship.

Overall, travel baseball provides more playing opportunities through an extended season, a higher number of games, and increased exposure opportunities. This allows players to maximize their potential, gain valuable experience, and increase their chances of playing at the college level.

As much as travel baseball can offer countless benefits and opportunities for young athletes, it’s important to acknowledge the potential cons that come with this competitive and demanding sport. The first aspect to consider is the cost. Travel baseball often requires a significant financial investment, including registration fees, travel expenses, equipment costs, and additional fees for tournaments and showcases. This financial burden can strain families and limit access to the sport for some talented players.

Another downside is the time commitment. Travel baseball teams typically have a rigorous schedule that includes frequent practices, weekend tournaments, and sometimes even travel to different states. This can create a significant time commitment for both players and their families, impacting other aspects of their lives such as school, social activities, and family time.

The high level of competitiveness in travel baseball can also be challenging for young athletes. The pressure to perform at a high level consistently can lead to added stress and anxiety. Additionally, the workouts and training regimens in travel baseball are often more intense and demanding than those in recreational leagues, which can be physically and mentally exhausting for young players.

Lastly, it’s important to address the lack of diversity in some travel baseball programs. While many teams strive for inclusivity, certain communities may have limited access to travel baseball due to financial constraints or lack of resources. This lack of diversity can limit opportunities for talented players from diverse backgrounds.

Although travel baseball offers numerous benefits, it’s crucial to consider these potential drawbacks to make an informed decision. Finding a balance between the positives and negatives is key to ensuring a fulfilling and rewarding experience for young athletes in their baseball journey.

Travel baseball can be an expensive endeavor for both players and their families. The costs associated with participating in travel baseball can add up quickly, and it’s important to be aware of these expenses when considering joining a team.

One major expense in travel baseball is the equipment requirements. Players are often required to have top-of-the-line gear, including bats, gloves, helmets, and cleats. These high-quality items can come with a hefty price tag, especially as players grow and need larger sizes or upgrade to more advanced equipment.

Facility rentals are another cost to consider. Travel baseball teams often practice in indoor facilities or rent out fields for games and tournaments. These rental fees can vary depending on the location and the demand for the facilities.

Coach payment is also a factor in the overall cost of travel baseball. Many teams hire professional coaches or former college or professional players to provide expert training and guidance. These coaches often require payment for their services, adding to the expenses associated with the team.

The range of costs involved in joining a travel baseball team can vary widely. On the lower end, families can expect to pay several hundred dollars for registration fees, uniform costs, and tournament entry fees. However, for higher-level teams or tournaments, the costs can easily reach several thousand dollars.

It’s important to keep in mind that these costs may not include additional expenses for higher-level tournaments, such as travel and accommodation costs. Families should budget accordingly and be prepared for these potential additional expenses.

In conclusion, travel baseball can be an expensive commitment, with costs including equipment requirements, facility rentals, and coach payment. Families should be aware of these expenses and budget accordingly to ensure they can afford to participate in this competitive and rewarding sport.

Lacks Diversity

Large time commitment.

As a parent or coach involved in travel baseball, it’s important to understand the significant time commitment required for this level of competitive play. Travel baseball is not just a seasonal activity; it requires a year-round dedication to training, practicing, and participating in games and tournaments.

One of the primary time commitments in travel baseball is the weekend games. These games often take place on Saturdays and Sundays, which means sacrificing personal time and family events. Additionally, practices are typically scheduled during the weekdays to ensure players are continually developing their skills and staying in top form.

In Arlington Travel Baseball, the time commitment for 8-14U players is particularly rigorous. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive year-round experience, with practices and games scheduled throughout the year. Players are expected to attend regular practices, which focus on individual skill development as well as team strategy and dynamics.

For 13U and 14U players, the time commitment increases as they prepare for high school baseball. These programs are specifically designed to hone players’ skills and prepare them for the increased competitive level of high school play. The focus is on refining fundamental techniques, strengthening teamwork, and enhancing overall game awareness.

In summary, travel baseball demands a large time commitment from players and their families. It involves weekend games, year-round training, and a dedication to continuous improvement. The programs offered by Arlington Travel Baseball, including the 13U and 14U programs, aim to provide a comprehensive experience that prepares players for success at the high school level and beyond.

Highly Competitive

In the world of travel baseball, the competition is fierce. Parents and coaches alike understand that the primary goals revolve around player development and winning games. It’s an environment where talented players come together, striving to become the best versions of themselves while also aiming to secure victories for their teams.

However, sometimes the intense focus on winning can overshadow the aspect of player development. In order to secure those wins, coaches may lean towards playing their best players more frequently, resulting in those players receiving the majority of the playing time. This dynamic can create a sense of imbalance among the team, with some players feeling like they are left on the sidelines without enough opportunity to grow and develop their skills.

While winning is undeniably an essential part of the game, it’s crucial to strike a balance. The highly competitive nature of travel baseball should not override the importance of player development. Every young athlete deserves the chance to hone their skills, learn from their mistakes, and gain invaluable experience on the field.

So, as parents and coaches, let’s remember that while winning games is gratifying, fostering the growth and potential of each player is equally significant. By prioritizing player development alongside the desire to win, we can create an environment that not only produces formidable teams but also nurtures the individual talents of every young athlete. This approach ensures that the competitive nature of travel baseball remains fruitful for players at all skill levels.

As a dedicated parent in the world of travel baseball, one term that often comes up in discussions and whispers is “Daddy Ball.” This concept refers to the perceived favoritism shown by coaches towards their own child or children. While it’s natural for coaches to want the best for their own family, Daddy Ball can have significant implications for the development and dynamics of a team.

One consequence of Daddy Ball is the potential for reduced playing time for non-coach’s children. In an effort to secure wins, coaches may lean towards playing their own children more frequently, leaving other players feeling like they don’t have a fair chance to showcase their skills and contribute to the team’s success.

Another consequence is the impact on team selection. When coaches prioritize their own children over equally talented players, it can create a sense of unfairness among the team. This can lead to resentment, decreased motivation, and a lack of cohesion within the group.

Beyond the immediate effects, Daddy Ball can have long-term implications for a young athlete’s development. Players who are consistently overlooked in favor of coaches’ children may lose confidence and become discouraged, hindering their growth and potential in the sport.

In order to create a positive and fair environment, it is crucial for coaches to be mindful of the pitfalls of Daddy Ball. By prioritizing the overall growth and development of all players, coaches can foster a team dynamic that is built on trust, fair play, and equal opportunities for everyone involved. This approach not only enhances each player’s experience but also contributes to the success and longevity of the team as a whole.

Players Jumping from Team to Team

As a dedicated travel baseball parent or coach, you understand the immense commitment and investment required for your child to excel in the sport. But what happens when players start jumping from one travel baseball team to another? Let’s explore the reasons, consequences, and potential challenges of this phenomenon.

One reason players may choose to jump teams is the desire for better player development opportunities. They may feel that their current team is not providing the coaching, training, or exposure needed to take their skills to the next level. However, constantly changing teams can have a detrimental impact on player development. It becomes difficult to establish consistency in coaching styles, training methodologies, and team systems, hindering the player’s ability to progress effectively.

Another consequence of jumping teams is the impact on team dynamics. Building strong relationships and trust within a team is crucial for success on and off the field. Constantly changing teams makes it challenging to establish these bonds, which can lead to a lack of cohesion and teamwork. It also disrupts the team’s chemistry and stability, affecting overall performance and the ability to develop strong relationships with teammates.

Moreover, players who frequently jump teams may face limited playing opportunities. Coaches prioritize players who have been with the team longer and may not offer equal opportunities to newcomers. This lack of consistent playing time can hinder a player’s growth and confidence, affecting their overall experience in travel baseball.

In conclusion, while jumping teams may initially seem like a solution for better opportunities, it can have long-lasting consequences on player development, team dynamics, and the overall experience in travel baseball. It’s important to consider the potential challenges and drawbacks before making such a decision. Building a strong foundation with a team, committing to the development process, and fostering positive relationships with teammates can ultimately lead to greater growth and success in the sport.

Criticisms and Controversy Surrounding Travel Baseball:

– Financial Burden: One of the main criticisms of travel baseball is the exorbitant cost associated with participation. The high fees for tournaments, equipment, travel, and coaching can create a significant financial burden for families. This has sparked debates about the accessibility and inclusivity of the sport, as low-income families may not have the means to afford these expenses.

– Lack of Diversity: Another issue that has been raised is the lack of diversity in travel baseball. The high costs and intense competition can limit opportunities for children from marginalized communities to participate. This lack of diversity not only affects the representation of different backgrounds within the sport but also limits the overall talent pool and potential for growth.

– Negative Impact on Local Baseball Programs: The rise of travel baseball has had a negative impact on local baseball programs and community leagues. As more talented players gravitate towards travel teams, local programs may struggle to attract and retain players. This leads to a decline in participation and resources for these programs, ultimately weakening the overall baseball infrastructure in communities.

– Declining Participation in Little League: The growth of travel baseball has also been linked to a decline in participation in Little League. With more specialized and competitive options available, children may choose to pursue travel baseball at a younger age, bypassing the traditional Little League experience. This decline has raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of community-based baseball programs.

It is important to acknowledge and address these criticisms and controversies surrounding travel baseball. By working towards creating more accessible and diverse opportunities, supporting local programs, and finding ways to balance the benefits of travel baseball with the wellbeing of the broader baseball community, we can strive for a more inclusive and sustainable future for the sport.

1. The Worth of Travel Baseball:

– Skill Development: Travel baseball provides an environment for young athletes to continuously improve their skills and excel in the sport.

– College and Professional Opportunities: Participating in travel baseball increases the chances of catching the attention of college recruiters and potentially earning athletic scholarships or even professional opportunities.

– Exposure to Better Competition: Travel baseball exposes players to highly competitive teams, challenging them to elevate their game and grow as athletes.

– Networking and Connections: Being part of a travel baseball team allows players and their families to connect with other talented individuals and build a network within the baseball community.

– Personal Growth: The intense nature of travel baseball teaches important life skills such as discipline, teamwork, resilience, and time management.

2. The Drawbacks of Travel Baseball:

– High Costs: Participating in travel baseball can be expensive, considering the fees for tournaments, equipment, travel, and coaching.

– Time Commitment: Travel baseball requires a significant time commitment, with practices, games, and tournaments often taking up weekends and evenings.

– Lack of Diversity: The high costs and intense competition in travel baseball may limit opportunities for children from marginalized communities to participate, resulting in a lack of diversity within the sport.

– Intense Competition: Travel baseball is highly competitive, and the pressure to perform at a high level can be stressful for both players and parents.

When evaluating the worth of travel baseball, it is essential to consider individual goals, financial commitment, time commitment, and aspirations in the sport. While travel baseball offers numerous benefits, it is crucial to weigh them against the potential drawbacks and personal circumstances to determine if it aligns with one’s values and ambitions. Ultimately, the decision to participate in travel baseball should be based on what brings joy and fulfillment to both players and their families.

FAQs About Travel Baseball

1. How much does travel baseball cost?

Travel baseball can be expensive, with costs including tournament fees, equipment, travel expenses, and coaching. The total amount spent will vary depending on the team and level of competition.

2. What skill level is required for travel baseball?

Travel baseball teams typically recruit players based on their skill level and potential. While some teams may have tryouts and strict selection criteria, others may be more inclusive and focus on player development.

3. How does travel baseball help with player development?

Travel baseball provides an environment where players can continuously improve their skills and compete against highly competitive teams. The intense nature of travel baseball challenges players to elevate their game and develop both physically and mentally.

4. How often do travel baseball teams practice and play games?

The frequency of practices and games varies among travel baseball teams. Generally, teams have regular practices during the week and play games on weekends. Some teams also participate in showcase tournaments and events that may require additional time commitments.

5. Is travel baseball suitable for all age levels?

Travel baseball teams typically cater to a range of age levels, starting from around 8u and going up to the high school level. Each age level may have different skill development goals and competition levels.

6. Can travel baseball lead to college scholarships?

Participating in travel baseball increases the chances of catching the attention of college recruiters and potentially earning athletic scholarships. However, it is important to note that obtaining a college scholarship is competitive and requires not only skill but also academic performance and other factors.

7. Are professional coaches involved in travel baseball teams?

In summary, travel baseball can be a significant financial investment, but it provides opportunities for skill development, player growth, and potential college scholarships. The level of commitment and involvement varies, and it is important to research and find a team that aligns with your child’s goals and aspirations.

In conclusion, travel baseball offers young athletes a platform to develop their skills, compete against talented players, and potentially earn college scholarships or professional opportunities. It requires dedication, financial investment, and time commitment, but the rewards can be significant. Professional coaching, regular practices, and participation in showcase tournaments contribute to skill development and exposure. It is suitable for a range of age levels and provides an environment for personal growth and life lessons beyond the sport.

Last Updated on October 30, 2023 by Travel Baseball Players, Parents and Coaches

About The AI Alchemist

Not only is Ben Teal the original AI Alchemist, he’s a mojito loving Philosopher Economist. In addition is also an Analytics and Process Systemization Expert and Bestselling Author. He holds a BA with a double major in Philosophy and Economics from Yale University.

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Travel Baseball: A Guide For Parents & Players

Baseball has changed.

Well, not the game necessarily. The diamond is still the same dimensions, as is the distance from the rubber to the plate. But the way the game is played has changed – specifically at the youth level.

For decades, organized youth baseball was a seasonal sport, played on town diamonds under the banner of Little League Baseball. Each spring, kids would join their local league and play with their friends, against teams made up of kids from the same town, coached by a group of fathers. There was little travel, little intermingling. It was a local sport, unless you made the All-Star team.

Youth baseball was based around recreational leagues , with little emphasis put on the competitive nature. There was a set schedule, with spaced-out games and a hyperlocal focus. It was just a spring sport, one of many sports played by youth across America.

Now, things are different. Kids who play baseball have a chance to forge their own path, to take part in more than just recreational leagues played in the springtime. The recent introduction of youth travel baseball has made it easier for young players to specialize in the sport that they love, focusing on their development on a team that plays throughout the year.

Travel baseball can be difficult to get involved in. Many times, there is anxiety surrounding it, with questions that are hard to answer. Is it worth it? How much travel is involved? What team should my child join? What will he gain from it?

We’re here to break it down for you, uncovering some of the secrecy surrounding travel baseball.

What Is Travel Baseball?

Travel baseball is a relatively new way to play. Until recently, travel teams only existed in parts of the country that were baseball hotbeds – places like Florida, Southern California and Virginia. Only elite players took part, the best of the best, and it was focused on the upper levels of youth baseball, where scouts could get a better look at developing players, gauging their professional prospects.

It was intended to be more of a showcase for older players, but in the last twenty years, baseball at the youth level has evolved considerably. Now, travel baseball is almost a necessity for any player that’s looking to hone their skills and be serious about baseball. Instead of being a place for a young player to showcase their skills, it has become a place where a younger player can develop, can receive specialized instruction. It’s also a way to face an increased level of competition.

Travel baseball isn’t a monolith. It goes by several different names: select ball, club ball and premier ball. There are several different governing bodies, including USSSA , Perfect Game, AAU and Triple Crown Sports. But each team has something in common: the structure of its season.

Instead of being focused on individual games, spaced out through the week with practices and off-days, a regular season and postseason, travel ball is centered around tournaments.

Most of these tournaments happen on the weekends. Teams can play several games each day during a tournament, sometimes against teams from different governing bodies. These tournaments are not always local, as some of the best teams travel across the country to compete, while others prefer to stay closer to home.

Teams in travel ball can be started by anyone. Sometimes they’re started by a baseball academy, while other times they’re started by a group of parents looking to branch out from a Little League. Some teams have squads in each age bracket, for each level of baseball ability, while others are the only team to bear their name.

It must be noted that due to its competition structure, travel baseball is pay-to-play. Entering tournaments costs money, as does renting batting cages and getting field time. Thus, travel baseball costs money, which to some people, is a deal breaker.

How Much Does It Cost?

Here’s the short answer: it depends.

What does it depend on? The structure of the team, the level at which it plays, and the travel that’s involved.

Sometimes, those fees are high, in the thousands each year. This is mostly confined to teams at the elite level, teams that travel frequently and enter tournaments with top-tier squads. And while parents may fork out thousands of dollars for their child to play, that amount doesn’t include travel costs. Those will have to be paid for out of pocket, especially for parents who want to see their child play in far-away states, where high-level tournaments are held.

However, for teams that travel locally, have volunteer coaches and enter less expensive tournaments, the costs can be exponentially lower, in the hundreds each season.

So why fork over all that money? Why should your child play this type of baseball? Because, it has its advantages, many of which lead to increased developmental opportunities that a young player would otherwise miss out on.

What Are The Advantages Of Travel Baseball?

There’s a reason travel baseball is so popular among parents and players alike. Playing baseball for a club team can help younger players develop more and specialize in their favorite sport by playing it year-round. But structurally, it provides a number of advantages over regular baseball.

Here are a few advantages that travel baseball provides:

• Better coaching
• Increased competition
• Specialized training
• Team bonding
• Increased exposure

Better Coaching

The old cliché about the typical Little League coach is that he’s the father of a player. In his mind, his kid is the star of the team, even if that’s not the case on the field. The coach probably played some baseball growing up but doesn’t know the technique or the strategy that the coach at the local high school does. He isn’t paid, nor is he all that experienced.

Travel baseball differs in that it offers players the opportunity to learn from coaches who are more focused on development. Many travel-ball coaches have coached for years and some even offer private lessons on the side. Sometimes, teams even have a fulltime coach who is paid strictly to coach the younger players.

Because the coaches are more experienced, the players get better teaching. Hitting practices can be spent refining a certain technical part of the swing. Players who develop a mechanical flaw can work with a coach to fix it quickly. Coaches can look at a player’s skillset and marry him to a position, focusing on the little aspects of that position that matter the most.

Some teams even have a full staff of coaches – a pitching coach, hitting coach and a manager. This means players become more polished and can harness more of their raw ability earlier. It means that they can unlock hidden potential from a coach that can teach them how to get more break on a curve or add a little juice to their fastball – something that they wouldn’t have been able to do in a recreational league.

Increased Competition

Recreational leagues have a low barrier of entry. While this is great for encouraging a passion for the game, it’s not always a great setting in which to develop. Players come from all skill levels and for some, it’s their first time holding a baseball.

What about players who want to specialize in their sport, who know early on that they want to be the best they can be at baseball? What good do they get from playing someone who doesn’t want that – someone with less experience and less polish? What good do they get from someone who is rusty around the edges and can’t throw strikes?

Not much, that’s for sure.

That’s why travel ball is such an advantage for most younger players – because it consists of players with a like-minded mindset, most of whom are focused on their development. That means that players are more polished, that curves have sharper breaks, and those infield grounders are converted into outs more often than not.

The old saying is that if you want to be the best, you have to face the best. That’s why travel ball can be so valuable to younger players – they can gauge their abilities against the best competition and see how they stack up.

Additionally, many teams have “B” and “C” teams. While these teams may not face the best of the best, they’re great for players who are still developing their talents. That’s because those players can face talent at their level as they refine their game, maintaining their confidence and focusing on what they need to improve and sharpen going forward.

For what it’s worth, I had to play on one of those “C” teams one season, as I worked on my skills behind the plate. For me, it was great, because I got to work on my approach behind the plate and focus on positivity. It really did wonders for my game, in the long-term timeline, because my confidence was high going into the next season, when I rejoined my regular team.

Specialized Training

I’m huge on specialized training, especially when it comes to fielding. Really, this advantage of travel baseball is an outgrowth of the advanced coaching one receives, but it is so, so critical in order to become a great player.

While often overlooked, fielding is key to become a well-rounded player. And as a former light-hitting outfielder, I can attest to the fact that it can be a way to get noticed and get playing time, even if you don’t hit well.

Some of the best training I received in travel ball was fielding training that focused on footwork in the outfield, leading to better routes taken to fly balls and ultimately, better range. It was highly technical training, something that I doubt I could have received elsewhere.

For catchers and pitchers, this is especially true. Catching is something that is hard to teach in recreational ball – you either have it or you don’t. But in travel ball, catchers can focus on honing their craft during practices, working newly created drills that really help receiving and controlling runners.

Because a lot of travel teams have their roots in baseball academies and developmental centers, it is easier to get sidework in, and field time is also easier to obtain. That clears a major hurdle when it comes to developmental work.

Team Bonding

In recreational leagues, you’re playing with your friends and acquaintances. It can be cool, since most of y’all go to school with one another and grew up playing together. However, those bonds are not as strong as the ones forged in travel ball.

Because of the sport’s nature, with intense training, many hours spent together, and yes, travel time, the bonds forged by club ball are stronger. The atmosphere sometimes mimics that of higher levels, as players share the same buses and hotel rooms on trips.

Interpersonal bonds are formed by time spent together and a shared sense of purpose, often in the face of adversity. In travel ball, where weekend tournaments consume free time and practice is held most days, there’s plenty of that to go around. With shared interests and a focus on development, players have more in common – thereby making those bonds easier to forge.

Sports create lifelong friends, and travel ball is a testament to that.

Here’s a shocker, one that you may not have noticed yet: in travel ball, teams get the opportunity to travel. Crazy, right? Anyway, one of the big advantages of travel baseball is the opportunity to go beyond the local sandlot, even if it’s just locally. Some of the smaller teams focus on limited travel, never going more than a few hours out of their way, but that still affords a younger player a chance to see other parts of the country, a chance to get out of the confines of their own backyard.

Other teams travel more – around the region or even nationally. This gives players a chance to really broaden their horizons, but it’s also very exciting. There’s something special about going to a tournament two states away to prove your worth. For a younger player, it’s fun to spend time with teammates in hotel rooms – almost like a short vacation during the time off.

For parents, it can be fun too. Many of these tournaments are hosted in centrally located cities, where amenities and attractions are plentiful. For example, Orlando commonly hosts these tournaments because it is centrally located, with an excess of fields.

Local tournaments can feature more than just baseball there, as parents and players alike can visit one of the city’s amusement parks.

Increased Exposure

This one is for the players at higher levels. At the summit of club baseball, it can still be very much as it was in its early days, where showcases of talent are the main priority. Organizations like Perfect Game provide weekend-long tournaments dedicated to players who want to be seen in front of major league scouts. They take time to go through a combine, showing off their bat, arm, glove and speed, before taking part in a few games.

Plenty of folks are watching, from college coaches to MLB executives. And they’re all looking for the next big thing.

That kind of exposure is something you can’t get in high school ball, where the rosters are less talent rich. By consolidating so many pro prospects, it becomes a must-see event, one in which a player who puts together a good showing can go from a non-prospect to a prospect.

Is It For You?

Ultimately, the decision to play club baseball is up to individual families. They must weigh the advantages against the costs and the time that must be spent to make such a commitment.

Related Articles

• Comparing Youth Baseball Leagues
• Travel Ball vs Rec Ball
• Youth Fall Baseball

A lifelong baseball fan, Jacob Prothro has covered all levels of baseball for MLB.com, The Wichita Falls Times Record News and Rivals.com. Prior to that, he was a light-hitting outfielder in the Texas high school ranks. In his free time, Jacob roots for the San Francisco Giants and plays in a men’s league, where he still hasn’t figured out how to hit a curve.

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Travel Baseball: A Complete and Updated Guide for 2023

March 11, 2023

James Arnold

Do you want your child to be a great baseball player? 

Are you a youngster who has finally realized that you want to take your baseball skills to the next level?

Or possibly both the parent and the kid are reading together, eager to learn more about improving their baseball skills and turning it into a more serious activity.

If you feel it to be a convenient strategy, participating in travel baseball may provide answers to all of your questions and allow you to accomplish all of your ambitions.

In this article, you will learn all you need to know about travel balls, from the fundamentals to the more advanced aspects.

What Is Travel Baseball?

First and foremost, we must familiarize ourselves with the concept of “travel baseball.”

Typically, when people talk about travel baseball, they’re referring to a squad of elite players who participate in tournaments and train at their own facilities.

You may think of it as a sort of youth baseball in which games are played away from home. 

Teams known as ‘ travel ball teams or travel teams ‘ in this form of baseball may travel to another state or city to compete in baseball travel tournaments.

Structure Of Competition

A tournament system is used for almost all travel baseball games, played on weekends.

Tournaments may potentially take place anywhere, although they are most often conducted in multi-field sites near major transportation hubs.

You can anticipate traveling more if you reside far away from such transit centers.

The final teams for the event are decided after each travel ball team has played several matches.

Depending on how well a team does, they may play somewhere between three to eight games throughout the course of a two-day or three-day tournament.

The number of tournaments a team may enter isn’t set; although two per month is considered normal, higher-level teams may play more regularly. 

Level-Play In Travel Baseball

There are generally three categories of competition in a travel baseball tournament, ranging from the least developed to the most developed level of youth baseball.

This classification is according to Baseball Youth’s DivLevel classification system, which is a travel baseball’s national team division classification system.

1. Division 1 Or D1

Within Baseball Youth’s DivLevel categorization system, Division 1 or D1 is the top level of play.

D1 is better suited for teams considered Major/All-Levels of AAA, Gold, or Elite/Advanced in their respective leagues.

Teams in the D1 division should play the bulk of their games against regionally competitive opponents and/or nationally rated.

2. Division 2 Or D2 

Within Baseball Youth’s DivLevel categorization system, Division 2 or D2 is the intermediate level of play.

Teams graded as Medium AA/High AA, Silver, or High-Level Intermediate are best suited to compete at the D1 level.

Teams in the D2 division should play the bulk of their games against other mid-level regional and local opponents in the same division.

3. Division 3 Or D3

Within Baseball Youth’s DivLevel categorization system, Division 3 or D3 is the weakest level of play.

Low AA/All-Levels of A, Bronze, or Low-Level Intermediate/Beginner teams are the greatest fit for the D1 level.

Teams in the D3 division should play the majority of their games against other domestic and regionally-based opponents in the same division.

Travel Baseball Against Little League

There are several significant parallels and distinctions between travel baseball and little league baseball .

Both aid in developing important life qualities such as a positive work ethic, sportsmanship, cooperation, and the ability to learn from mistakes.

They are, however, significantly different in terms of time investment and competition.

One is recognized for being competitive and raising your skill level, while the other is known for being recreational and a means for youth to learn the rules.

Travel baseball offers a higher competition level than what traditional little leagues provide.

In a single season, roughly 14-20 games are played in both.

There isn’t much difference between these two, other than the amount of seriousness and the fact that you’ll have to travel for a travel ball .

How To Get On A Travel Baseball Team?

As a player, being a member of a travel baseball team is a thrilling experience.

Following are a few pointers that can help you relax and perform at your best, making joining a baseball team much simpler.

1. Be On Time (Or Before Time)

First of all, plan to arrive a few minutes early. If you arrive late, you’ll have to hustle to keep up with everyone.

Arrive early enough to check in, go for a quick jog, play a game of light catch with a buddy, and ease up on your own.

2. If You Are A Baseball Player, Look Like One

Dress appropriately for tryouts; do not show up in jeans or oversized basketball shorts.

The ideal outfit consists of a clean pair of baseball trousers , a decent light sports shirt, and a nice hat worn with the bill facing front.

If you don’t have baseball pants available, a nice pair of sweatpants will do.

3. Practice Makes Perfect

You should play catch even if you only have time to do so twice or three times before the tryout.

If you’ve been to the tryouts previously and are familiar with a few of the activities they’ll be doing; it’s a good idea to put those skills into practice as much as possible.

Practice gaining leads , doing excellent leaps, and anything else you believe you’ll see during the tryout.

4. Play Your Usual

You should just play your game and allow the game to come to you; don’t try to force it.

Simply wait for the right chance to present yourself, and then boldly do your task to the best of your ability.

If you push too hard, you will almost certainly make more errors than you would otherwise.

5. Good Behavior

You’ll be a suitable candidate if you’re willing to work hard and take constructive feedback.

Have a sportsman’s attitude ; if you don’t catch the ball, ask the coach to throw it again instead of pouting.

Don’t be hesitant and hide in places, missing out on the chance to learn what you need to know in travel teams.

Also, remember to be kind to your teammates , motivating them when they make errors and communicating with them regularly while conducting the exercises.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Travel Baseball

There are upsides and downsides to consider when it comes to travel baseball. 

• Strong Competition: Travel baseball lets kids play with and against some of the finest players in their region and even beyond.

The players are more committed to the game and motivated to progress. Your child’s performance will be pushed to the limit by the increased level of competition.

• Improved Coaching: Coaches are frequently ex-players who have gone on to coaching careers in the sport.

There is a higher likelihood that a travel baseball coach will be better educated, more experienced, and more tied to the game.

• Fun Experience: Many weekends will be spent in hotels together, learning about new places and bonding as a group in a travel baseball team. 

It’s one of the best ways for young people to go to new places around their region and the country, and they can do it while having an amazing time with their teammates.

• Easy Exposure: You can get a lot of attention from college and professional scouts by playing travel baseball. 

One of the best things about being on a high-level travel baseball team is meeting other high-level coaches.

• Character Growth: The significance of travel teams about being on time, behaving well, and putting in the most effort makes a child more disciplined.

As young people move from Minor League Baseball (MiLB) to Major League Baseball ( MLB ), they already have the sense of urgency that they need.

Disadvantages

• Very Competitive: Travel teams take their games seriously and strive to win games.

 A travel team must balance the development of its players while still attempting to win matches. This often results in players who aren’t the greatest not having a chance to play.

• Costly: Travel baseball is costly and sometimes extremely costly, which might be a reason for most kids to drop its idea.
• Prioritized Task: Even a reasonably competitive travel squad may consume a summer’s worth of weekends. 

As a result, it is a time-consuming task that you must be able to prioritize.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Baseball

Some common questions about travel baseball are:

1. How Do Baseball Players Travel?

Teams may travel by bus if the shortest path between the two cities is less than 200 miles.

Anything longer than that necessitates plane travel , with all flights being nonstop.

Major airlines, which are generally among the team’s sponsors, charter flights for most MLB clubs.

2. When Does Travel Baseball Season Start?

The travel season is divided into two seasons: Yearly Season (Main) and Fall Season (Optional)

The yearly season starts from around April 1, ends in August , and is compulsory.

While the fall season spans from around September to the late part of October, which is optional.

3. Who Can Play Travel Baseball?

The 8-year-old squad, mostly composed of 2nd and 3rd students, is the first to go.

4. What Age Is Best For Transitioning To Travel Baseball?

Travel baseball would be a logical next step for children aged 11 to 12 (but not younger than that) who want to enhance their talents to the level of a professional player.

5. Is Travel Baseball Worth The Money 

Whether Travel Baseball is worth the money or not depends on how serious you are about getting your skills to higher levels.

It gives extra opportunities for committed baseball players who want to get the most out of each year

6. How Much Does Travel Baseball Cost?

The exact cost of participating in travel baseball differs, but it typically costs somewhere around $500 and $2,500 per year.

Travel baseball is an effective way to enhance your skills and increase your chances of playing in college or as a professional.

But, do not overlook the expense and investment of time that comes along with the benefits travel ball gives.

Only the most costly team doesn’t need to make your kid adequately talented to join a team in college or select baseball as a profession, a fairly priced team may be similarly trained and qualified, so you need to get into a team thoughtfully.

After reading this article, I hope that you have a firm grasp of all of the technicalities surrounding travel baseball .

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Travel Baseball Pros And Cons

• May 3, 2023

For children, travel baseball is the key to the world of high-level college play . If you want your kid to excel in this sport or if your child shows serious interest in it, youth travel baseball is worth a shot.

With that said, what is travel baseball exactly, and how does it differ from other forms of youth baseball? Read on to find out!

What Is Travel Baseball?

Travel baseball is a form of youth baseball that is played away from a team’s immediate area . Travel teams may travel to another city or state to participate in baseball travel tournaments.

Generally, travel baseball is viewed as an intermediary step between Little League baseball and high school or college-level baseball . Travel baseball is usually much more competitive than recreational baseball leagues like Little League. Besides that, youth travel baseball allows for more exposure for a young baseball player, potentially providing a big boost to a child’s baseball career.

Travel baseball vs. Little League

The Little League embodies traditional youth baseball where children have fun rather than become engulfed in the tough training world of more “serious” youth baseball environments (like travel baseball).

Kids may start playing in the Little League from as young as age 4 . LL games are very rarely held outside a local area , and in this league, children will be learning the basics of hitting, pitching, and other essential baseball concepts.

Little League was traditionally an intermediary stage between recreational youth play and middle to high school baseball . Back in the day, sticking to the Little League and other recreational programs was enough to prepare young players for high school- and then college-grade baseball.

These days, this is no longer the case . Middle school programs are now either subpar or non-existent. Little League is a viable alternative to recreational baseball, but when it comes to building the basis for elite-level competition, it pales in comparison with travel baseball.

With all that in mind, let’s conclude this section with these two points:

• For professional-level development, travel baseball would be a logical next step for children aged 11 to 12 .
• Recreational leagues like Little League or local adult baseball leagues are a great choice for non-competitive baseball players who want to have fun and don’t want to make their life revolve around baseball.

The Benefits Of Travel Baseball For Aspiring Players

My overview of travel baseball and its benefits was kind of vague so far. Now, let’s look at the specific benefits of playing at travel teams compared to rec baseball.

More exposure

I’d say that exposure is the biggest advantage of travel baseball . Getting yourself in front of the right people is important for a child’s long-term success in this sport – travel baseball allows you to leverage this.

At the very least, travel baseball gives children the opportunity to show their worth to high-level college baseball coaches who may have substantial influence in the sport . College scouts also often attend travel baseball meetings. In case your child has what it takes to succeed in baseball, a scout will identify their talent and perhaps give your kid a chance to establish themselves at a higher level.

More competition and thus motivation

Players in travel baseball are better-versed in baseball and are more competitive than rec players . This is actually a good thing – young players will have someone to look up to and will be more motivated to improve .

Children will also learn to face and hopefully overcome challenges that they wouldn’t encounter in recreational baseball. Fierce competition from better players forces weaker athletes to adapt – this is arguably the best aspect of travel baseball, though I still think that exposure is its  #1 benefit.

Better coaching

Travel baseball team coaches are typically more competent than their colleagues at recreational leagues . Although travel baseball coaches will put more strain on a young player than a rec coach, the results will accordingly be considerably better.

Not only that, but travel baseball teams often employ former professional coaches who may have strong networks in basebal l. Such coaches not only know how to make a skillful player but also may be able to connect athletes with other teams.

More eye-opening experiences

And finally, travel baseball is laden with eye-opening experiences . 

People – and even more so kids – often don’t realize that there is an unexplored world beyond the limited horizon they have become so accustomed to . Throughout their travel baseball engagement, children will be able to meet people with different backgrounds, characters, and views of sport and life in general. 

Some encounters with other players will help your kid appreciate sportsmanship, while others will teach them how to ignore fan hate and how to stand up for themselves.

The immense load of the sport itself will also help children get used to investing effort to get results and make them understand that life has its ups and downs .

The Disadvantages Of Travel Baseball

Travel baseball is far from perfect – it has a few disadvantages that parents ought to know about:

• It’s really expensive. Traveling costs can rack up to $5,000 or even $10,000 a year, though in most cases, families seem to spend around $2,500.
• It’s stressful for parents. Parents will have to plan ahead to accommodate their children’s play schedule. Frequent travel can put a toll on any parent, not to mention the financial dent it makes in parents’ wallets.
• Mental and physical strain on children. Tougher and more frequent workouts will undoubtedly produce better players, but they also strain children considerably – both mentally and physically.
• Not everybody will make it in travel baseball. Travel baseball is highly competitive, and usually, only the best players find a place in a travel baseball team. Not everybody will thus make it in this sport.

With commitment, skill, and some luck, travel baseball can be a gateway into professional sport. However, before you decide to have your child join a travel baseball team, you must consider its advantages and disadvantages – both for you and your kid.

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What To Consider When Looking For A Travel Baseball Team

Now, I’ll outline a few things that you should be looking for in a travel baseball team – in case you are thinking about it as a future for your child.

Costs are going to be the #1 consideration for most parents.

I can’t tell exactly how much you’ll have to spend on entry fees, travel, and equipment – but it will most likely be under $2,500 per year. But depending on certain factors (more about these below), your costs may climb higher – in 2011, CBS News reported on parents who paid $4,000 for their kids’ participation in travel baseball .

You won’t find accurate cost estimates easily – you’ll have to dig deep for that. But one thing is certain – bigger teams with higher-quality coaches are going to cost you more.

To hopefully set you in the right direction, here are some major factors that will affect how hard travel baseball will hit your pocket.

• Your location. Teams based in rural areas will have to travel often and far. In contrast, travel baseball teams in important baseball hubs – like California – won’t have to drive or fly to another city or state too often.
• Whether the team will provide equipment. Bigger and more successful teams may have sponsorships with baseball gear brands. In these teams, players get their equipment for free or at a significantly reduced cost.
• Access to baseball facilities. Some teams have to rent baseball facilities to train. Needless to say, rent is going to be covered from your own pocket – whether in part or entirely. With teams that have their own facilities or train only at public fields, this will not be a concern.
• Coach compensation. Some teams pay small compensation to their coaches or cover their travel costs. Again, a team with such a model will transfer the responsibility for covering compensation to you. This will increase annual fees, but paid coaches are also likely to do their job better.

Travel tournaments in which the team participates. Teams participating in higher-level tournaments will have to pay higher entry fees. More competitive and “serious” teams are therefore going to cost you more.

What about coaches ? Some people may, unfortunately, overlook this crucial aspect.

Here are a few questions that you need to find an answer to regarding coaches:

• Does the coach encourage their players?
• Does the coach give tips and advice tailored to the player’s personal strengths and weaknesses?
• How does the coach handle mistakes? Do they scream at players?
• Does the coach treat all players equally? Or maybe they have favorites in the team?

Don’t become captivated by clean facilities and promises of success in the sport – you may overlook jerk coaches if you do.

3. Location

Your location will matter if your child wants to compete at the highest level in the future.

The thing is that major baseball states like California, Florida, Georgia, or Louisiana have plenty of elite travel baseball teams to choose from . You won’t have to travel far from home to find a worthy team for your kid.

On the other hand, in areas where baseball isn’t that popular, you may have few to no options . Even if there is a baseball team in such a place, it probably isn’t a super-competitive team with excellent baseball coaches.

Suppose your kid is unlucky enough to both want to play competitively and live in a baseball-less area. In that case, you’ll have to travel to another city or perhaps even state to find the opportunities you or your child desire . Not only is travel time-consuming, but it is also costly. You will have to make compromises – either play in a low-grade team or spend time and money to travel to another area.

4. The reputation of the team

The reputation of the team matters as well – for the athletic future of your child. If your kid plays in a team known for unfair plays, they may have trouble getting into a better team down the line.

Beating bad sports habits out of a baseball player can be challenging, and unless coaches are dealing with remarkable talent, they’ll prefer to work with someone who has the right foundation for their team’s goals and values.

5. Competitiveness and skill level

Is your kid looking just to have fun? In that case, more relaxed, less competitive Baseball travel teams would be ideal. Children who don’t intend to reach exceptional heights in baseball will feel out of place in a super-competitive team where everybody works at their limit.

In contrast, if your kid is ready to compete seriously, a more “upper-class” team with skilled players and a demanding coach will immensely motivate them.

In the end, youth travel baseball provides entry to competitive high school and college baseball. Consequently, it gives children a chance to try themselves in competitive play.

Travel baseball is a costly endeavor, and it requires plenty of planning and compromises on your part. Weigh the pros and cons and try to determine what would be the right choice for your child – more light-hearted, recreational leagues, or an astronomically competitive travel team.

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The Ultimate Parent’s Guide to Travel Baseball | Everything You Need to Know

March 14, 2023

49 min read

If you’ve got yourself a youth baseball player, you’ll probably start hearing all about travel ball soon – if you haven’t already. 

Travel baseball can be rewarding and exciting for both you and your ballplayer. 

It’s a chance for your child to substantially develop their baseball skills and passion while having a ton of fun. 

And a chance for you to foster that positive growth and love for the game while joining a new social tribe yourself – that of the travel ball parent, with its fulfilling experiences, camaraderie, and norms, just like any good tribe. 

But, travel ball can also be a huge commitment. It often involves a significant financial and time investment from you and your budding athlete. 

So before deciding to play travel ball, you should carefully consider what your child will get out of it and how it might affect your entire family. 

Several factors should go into this choice of whether or not to play club ball. 

And in this ultimate parent’s guide to travel baseball, you’ll learn how travel ball works, the pros and cons of travel ball vs. recreational baseball, what to look for in a new travel team, and even how to start your own travel team.

Let’s hook-slide in together.

# The Difference Between Travel and Recreational Baseball

# recreational baseball.

Recreational baseball often refers to Little League. Although, there are other organizations around the country, like PONY or Cal Ripken Baseball, that host recreational baseball leagues for their localities. 

Local is a keyword here. That’s usually the main difference between rec and travel ball – recreational ball doesn’t require travel. 

Recreational leagues focus on players learning the basics of the game, especially at the youngest levels. Seasons run from late spring to early summer. And you can expect around two games per week.

# Travel Baseball

Travel ball, on the other hand, refers to teams that travel to other cities or states to play baseball. 

Club teams might be a single team or an entire organization with several teams spanning different age levels. 

Another major difference is that travel ball is often played year-round. Not having extended off-seasons ups the commitment levels for all involved significantly. 

A few of the biggest organizations in the travel ball world are the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA), the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU), Triple Crown Sports, and Perfect Game. 

These organizations will host most of the tournaments that travel teams compete in.

Traditionally, travel ball has been a higher level of competition than Little League, meant to train elite players who had their eyes set on collegiate opportunities. 

However, as travel ball becomes more ubiquitous, the level of competition can now run the gamut a bit more between extremely high to moderate-low.   

Travel baseball, as you’ll see, is also much more expensive in terms of both cost and time commitment than its recreational variety. 

# The Pros and Cons of Rec Ball Versus Travel Baseball

Both recreational and travel baseball have their merits and drawbacks. You and your child should consider the pros and cons of both before deciding which type of team to play on. 

# Little League Pros

• Local – If you don’t fancy traveling around two weekends out of every month, then recreation leagues might be better for your family. Part of this locality is time. The amount of time you and your ballplayer will spend at team practices, games, and individual workouts is significantly less in recreation baseball. 
• Learn a lot – Little League, PONY, or Cal Ripken Baseball teams’ emphasis on learning and having fun lets your kid discover and grow to love the game in a low-pressure environment.  Some children benefit more from this, especially in the beginning, while others thrive only with higher levels of competition.
• Less expensive – The average fee in the U.S. for a season of Little League is $150, but it could vary as low as $30 and as high as $250 in some areas.  Travel ball can easily cost three to four times that. But we’ll get into the details and rough estimates of this cost in just a bit.

# Little League Cons

• Dependent on your area – Having a local baseball league often depends on the interest in your area. No interest could mean no teams. The level of competition also depends on who’s playing and how much talent your area happens to have.
• Not a conduit for playing at the next level – Although it used to be the case, Little League is no longer a safe route to playing high school and college baseball.  Today, kids who want to reach these levels and find success once there, must, in most cases, find a travel team to play on at some point in their journey.  Of course, there are exceptions to this for ballplayers who naturally have top-tier talent. And obvious caveats must also be made to make room for how competitive or noncompetitive a particular high school might be.  But these unique instances aside, the reality for many parents and coaches on the ground is that playing rec ball only these days makes it less likely for a young man to be an impact player in high school or college. 
• Coaches – With recreational baseball, the coach is usually one of the players’ parents. And this person may know little to nothing about baseball, or about managing a youth team. They are exclusively volunteers after all. Sometimes you can get very lucky with elite-experienced parent volunteers and other times not so lucky – it's kinda a crapshoot.  

# Travel Ball Pros

• Better competition and coaches – Travel ball usually affords more competitiveness and more experienced coaches. Travel ball coaches might even be former college and high school coaches who’ve started a travel club. And larger organizations often pay monthly or seasonal paychecks to these professional coaches – many of which will not have a child on the team.
• More games – Instead of the 8 games per month during a short, designated rec season, your child can expect to play much more with travel ball.  It’s year-round, and the most games occur during weekend tournaments in the summer. Though some yearly tournaments are weeklong affairs.  At each tournament, teams play between three and ten games – depending on how well your team does in bracket play. By playing more games, your kid gets more exposure to baseball and is afforded more reps to cultivate their developing skills.
• Nicer facilities, opportunity to travel – Travel ball tournaments are usually held at nice facilities with plenty of room for parents to watch and for teams to hang out when they’re not playing.  Club ball also gives your kid a chance to venture outside their native city or state, which can be a valuable learning experience for them.

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# Travel Ball Cons

Costly – A season of travel ball can run anywhere from $800-$28,000 per year, depending on tons of different variables.

The numbers above may be less common on both the low and high side – but both are certainly possible. 

The second number ($28,000) that’s causing your blood pressure to rise higher than Boston’s Green Monster is meant to reflect a total expenses possibility with everything maxed out. 

You may not find a number that high when you Google travel ball expenses, but the writers of those articles are likely not including every single cost into their calculations. 

Here are some things to truly consider:

You will be expected to pay base starting fees and possibly tournament entry fees for your team or organization. 

And, sometimes, you’ll also be on the hook for monthly team dues along with an annual organizational fee. 

Also, you’ll  purchase all of your ballplayer’s personal baseball equipment and uniforms if your team’s not sponsored. 

And in travel ball, the pressure to get your ballplayer the top of the line equipment in all categories is much stronger than in rec ball. 

Next, many sports complexes that host tournaments charge daily gate fees on top of not allowing outside food or drinks. 

And you and your family need to eat and stay hydrated during these all day tourneys, which leaves the complex’s overpriced snack shack or restaurant as the only option at times. 

Don’t forget the hotels, food, and transportation costs for any and all out-of-town games, too. 

Further expenses include the gas and increased vehicle maintenance that you will surely incur driving to so many practices and games within your county or state. 

Another common expense that sneaks up on parents are weekly private or group lessons that are often expected by competitive programs. 

Besides hitting, pitching, catching, or fielding sessions, many parents also opt for sport performance training and athletic optimization services – i.e. strength and conditioning classes, a physical therapist, a chiropractor, etc. 

Another cost is found by participating in team bonding and fundraising activities, where you might be expected to bring snacks and drinks or buy tickets – such small things add up during the course of the year-long travel season. 

Finally, if your ballplayer is recruiting age, this higher number above includes college camps and showcases throughout the year.

It also includes getting his professional skills video produced, so you have something great to send over to college coaches.

Do not be too alarmed. Many of these expenses are totally avoidable and up to your family's budget. 

But, you should also know there tend to be unspoken expectations and incentives for some of these activities that you might feel are avoidable once you’re actually inside of competitive travel programs.

• Time – Travel ball is a significant time commitment. The two weekends per month out of town for tournaments is only a small part of it. Your child might also have practice or scrimmages against other travel ball teams during the week. And, as mentioned, your ballplayer may still be expected to get professional skill and sports training lessons each week.
• Tough – The level of competition is, again, higher in travel ball. The players are better, and many teams take a “the best players play” rather than an “everybody plays” approach. Club baseball can be intense and challenging. If your ballplayer’s skills aren’t at the right level yet, then they’ll see less playing time and could get discouraged. 

# Should You Switch from Rec Ball to Travel Baseball?

Parents often have mixed opinions when it comes to travel ball. In particular, there’s disagreement over what age to switch. 

Some say you shouldn’t put your child in club ball until he is 13 years old, since many kids drop out of sports altogether by this age. 

The rationale behind this recommendation goes something like: 

Most parents can avoid paying a bunch of fees for travel ball between the ages of 7-12, when your child is statistically likely to give up the sport soon anyway. And if they’re still serious about baseball at 13 years old, then it’s worth the investment.

While some parents echo this sentiment, others strongly advise starting your kid in travel ball much sooner – if they show a real interest. 

As one parent  put it online when asked about starting at the 8U level, “As long as they don’t get burned out I say let em’ play.” 

Another parent disagreed, however, saying that they saw “absolutely no value in travel ball with children that are so young.” 

Most parents polled agree that their decision to switch depended on their circumstances. 

Some said that “it is difficult to make a blanket statement” about when to switch or that decisions “are going to vary based on regions.” 

Again, the latter statement points to the raw fact that certain geographic regions of the country are much more competitive in baseball than others.

Living in a highly competitive region raises the threshold necessary for things like making a high school team to the point that playing travel to gather enough skill is an almost prerequisite.  

Often, the decision to join a travel team does come down to the organizations in your area. You’ll want to find out how many travel organizations there are in your locale and what their quality is. 

If there are no clubs in your town or city and none nearby, you’ll be looking at a bigger time commitment and more expenses to put your kid on a club team – which will include much more driving and the potential for more hotel rentals. 

But when to switch from rec ball to travel is not the most important question facing parents and ballplayers who are still on the fence about switching in the first place. 

So let’s get to the heart of the matter.

# Will Your Child Enjoy Playing Travel Ball?

The most important factor to consider when making the switch to travel ball is your child’s interest in baseball. 

Is your kid a competitor looking to sharpen his or her skills and continue playing as he or she gets older? 

Or does your child like baseball for the fun of it, and enjoy being on the field with his teammates?

Travel baseball is a huge time commitment – but not just for you. Your child has to be willing to put a lot of personal time and energy into it as well.

# Is Your Child Willing to Give Things Up for Club Ball?

Playing travel ball means your kid will miss out on many social events with friends and family.

Birthday parties, holiday celebrations, sleepovers, school events, family reunions, can be all sacrificed to time playing baseball. 

This is not say that there aren't plenty of travel ball players excelling in the classroom, because of course there are.

It's just that they need to be more focused and organized than other kids to get those same high marks, and parents should be aware of these realities. 

Not only are time and special occasions sacrificed, but the money you spend on baseball – fees for the team, equipment, private lessons, etc. – is money you cannot now spend on other things your child might want. 

Depending on your family’s finances, new clothes, video games, gadgets, and other material items for your son could come at the cost of playing baseball.

Whether you switch from recreational to travel baseball is ultimately down to you and your child. There are many factors to consider, some of which, like where you happen to live, are outside of your control. 

The best thing you can do is educate yourself and your child as much as possible about the pros and cons of travel ball, and then make an informed decision together. 

And this guide is a great start. But it should be supplemented by talking to local parents in your area and possibly finding Facebook Groups or other communities to learn from parents who have been there and done that when it comes to making the travel ball switch. 

If you do decide travel ball is the way to go for your family, then your next task is to find the best team for your ballplayer’s development. 

# How to Get Started on a Travel Baseball Team

# what to look for in a travel team.

If you and your child do decide to join a club baseball team, then you have five main things to look for when choosing a team.

# 1. Coaching

Here are few questions about any travel ball coach that you, as parents, will want answered right off the bat before joining their team:

• Who is the coach, and what is this person’s experience? 
• Is the coach someone who knows what they’re doing in terms of baseball skills and leadership?
• Even if they know the game, are they new to the travel ball scene?

Note: this last question can become more important once your ballplayer gets into the college recruitable ages. 

If it’s your ballplayer's goal to play in college, you will want to join an established program that plays in the right tournaments to get noticed, and a coach that has built a trusted relationship with college coaches and recruiters over the years. 

But, if the current goal is just to improve your son’s skill set, then the coach’s knowledge and ability to articulate it might be more important to you than he or she being a travel ball insider.  

Some additional, related questions to ask both the travel coach directly and to ask parents whose child is already playing under he or she are:

• What kind of coaching style is most commonly used? 
• Does the coach emphasize skill development or college recruitment? 
• Is the coach more like an instructor, or is the team playing to win nearly all of the time? 
• Would the coach yell at a player for making a mistake on the field or pull them aside afterward to discuss the error privately?

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As we’ve explored, cost is a big factor for travel ball because it’s not cheap. Make sure you get all the anticipated, known costs for the season upfront from the coach or their team administrator.

If the coach can’t give you exact figures of what things cost on their end – monthly team dues, organization fees, uniform costs, and any additional tournaments costs – before you sign on, be wary. 

The coach may not be organized or experienced enough to help your ballplayer and you might end up paying more than you expected to. 

Some club teams have sponsors who provide equipment and uniforms, but others will ask parents to pay for these in addition to registration fees. 

You might also have to hand over a fee to help fund the coach’s stipend if they are paid for their expertise. 

For some elite organizations, coaching is a full-time job, plus the coach has to travel with the team too.

# 3. Location

Here’s some questions on this front that you’d want answered:

• Do you live near a big urban center where the team plays most of its tournaments, eliminating long travel times? 
• Or does the team regularly travel out of state for their games? 
• It’s a travel baseball team, but exactly how much travel is involved on this particular team?

Think carefully about how much you and your kid are willing to travel and factor those expenses into the cost.

# 4. Structure

Structure-related questions might include:

• How does the team operate? 
• Will your child get to see significant playing time? 
• Will the team have regular practices and training sessions to attend as well?

Another important question about structure is if your kid will get to pick their position. 

Meaning, will the coach let kids play where they want, or try to rotate everyone around to different positions during practices or practice games? 

Of course, this last line of questioning applies almost exclusively to the youngest levels of play. From about 14U up, there is more positional specialization and team roles are established and sustained more based on the talent and performance of the individual ballplayers. 

# 5. Values

Value question to get clarity on:

• What is the mission of this travel team? 
• Are they helping players get noticed by college recruiters? 
• Do they just try to offer more playing time and a fun environment? 

Make sure their objectives line up with yours. Ask yourself as well how your child will develop as a baseball player by joining this particular travel team.

# 6. Team Chemistry

Before joining a club team you should try to gauge the team’s chemistry. 

Once you commit, your child will be spending a lot of time with these teammates, so if they don’t get along or your kid doesn’t feel like he or she fits in, it could be a problem.

Similarly, look at how the parents interact with the players and each other. Are the other parents promoting a supportive environment for everyone by being encouraging?

Or are they the types to yell at umpires, coach from the stands, or take the game to unhealthy levels? 

Not only will your kids be spending a lot of time with their teammates, but you’ll also spend time with the other parents. 

So choosing a travel team is in a way choosing friends and peers for both you and your child. 

Team chemistry should also extend to how players and coaches relate to each other. Do the coaches work hard to bolster the kids’ confidence, or are they constantly tearing them down for the sake of winning?

# Where To Look for Travel Baseball Teams

Reading up on how travel baseball works in helpful guides – like this one – is again a great start. 

Don’t be afraid to ask around in your area about club baseball, either. Word-of-mouth is often one of the best ways to understand travel ball, especially how it operates in your specific city or town. 

You can also look up registered teams in your area on the USSSA website or FieldLevel.com . 

Again, Facebook Groups are also a great way to find local travel teams, since many teams might not have their own website. 

These groups are filled with parents like yourself and coaches who relish in helping with your travel ball journey. 

But maybe you have lots of playing or coaching experience and want to spearhead your own travel ball team. We’ve got you covered on exactly how to do it below. 

# How to Start Your Own Travel Baseball Team

Choosing to join an existing club team is one thing; starting your own is another entirely. 

Maybe you have some playing or coaching experience and you’d like to put together a team for your son or daughter. Maybe there aren’t any club teams in your area, so you’ll be starting the first. 

Whatever your reasons, starting a travel baseball team is a rewarding endeavor, albeit a daunting one. You are basically starting an entirely non-profit business. 

And you’ll see below that you must do many of the same steps that new entrepreneurs must do when beginning an enterprise, so make sure you have the time and skills for this undertaking before you even start.  

The steps to creating a travel ball team can be broken down into four main phases. 

We’ll look at each of these in detail. 

# Travel Ball Team Building Phase 1 - Finding Volunteers

Before doing anything else, you should recruit some other parents or outside volunteers to lend you a hand. 

Whether you’re planning to coach the team or to have someone else do it, committing to running all aspects of a team as a single individual for an entire season isn’t feasible. 

To make a strong team, the internal team of coaches, team managers, or recruiters needs to be strong first. 

Call on parents you know and trust, former coaches, former teammates from your playing days, or current older players to help you out. 

As you’ll see in future steps below, it’s highly recommended these days to have at least one person on your team who knows marketing, graphic design, or website creation. You’ll save a lot of time and money this way.

And instead of having 2-3 full-time volunteers, it can be helpful to eventually amass a network of people who are willing to pitch in semi-frequently. 

That way, you’ll have coverage if one of your coaches or volunteers can’t make it.

# Travel Ball Team Building Phase 2 - Planning Your Budget

After you have a group of people to help out, you should focus on the financial planning for the team. 

Make a list of the expenses that you’ll have to cover, along with sources of funding. 

Next, you should approach local sponsors about paying for some of the things you need, like uniforms and equipment. 

Now’s the time to think about fundraisers as well. Any the money you raise helps lower your player fees. 

Fundraisers are an important aspect of many teams, especially those without established sponsors. 

Raffles, silent auctions, casino nights, bingo nights, trivia nights, and paid dinners can all make great fundraising events. 

Look around at your volunteers and support staff. Do they have any skills, jobs, or relationships that can help raise funds to send your boys to the best tournaments? 

Company tickets to sporting events, like box seats or concerts, make great raffle or silent auction items. And if someone owns a restaurant, a paid dinner fundraiser is a no-brainer. 

Take this budget phase seriously, and it’ll save you a lot of headaches down the road. 

# Travel Ball Team Building Phase 3 - Getting Your Players

Once you have some people to help and a balanced budget, you need to find some players. 

It’s possible you already have a group of interested players and that’s why you’re starting the team in the first place. 

But your initial seed group may not be big enough to field an entire team. So you’ll likely need more. 

There are two slightly different journeys at this point in the process. One for people wanting to start a travel team by joining an already established organization and another for those starting a new team completely from scratch.

Of course, joining something that already exists is a bit easier, because they'll hopefully have team processes and even recruiting relationships in place that'll allow you to hit the ground running. 

If you are joining an already established travel ball organization, then you'll want to leverage their name, social media accounts, website, and email list to help you recruit your new squad of ballplayers. 

Even if this is the case, you will likely still want to create your own social media accounts that use the established organization's name alongside either the age group or grad years of your team and your last name as the username.

Here's a template for what we mean when applied to an Instagram account name:

{Established Organization Name} {The Age Group: 8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, 16, 18U or Graduation Years} {Your Last Name}

Example: LA Pioneers 12U d'Aranud

But, if you're starting a new team or organization from scratch, there will be some additional steps. To make people aware of your team, you'll want to do the following:

• Pick a name
• Create a logo
• Set up all of your social media profiles
• If possible, create a simple website. 

A website can be a major differentiator between your travel team and others, as most teams still only have social media presences and no official site in the current year.

For social media, you need Facebook and Instagram profiles at minimum, because these are the first places interested potential parents in the current year will check you out. 

If your logo design and website developer skills are not where you’d like, we recommend outsourcing these things to freelancers on Fiverr, UpWork, or 99 Designs. 

You can find incredibly talented people who are reasonably priced and can do whatever you require quickly. 

But always first look into your new network of trusted team helpers and see what skills they possess before outsourcing anything. 

Once these fundamental online presences are established, you will want to make some social posts that give parents looking into your program feelings of trust. 

Post about your playing or coaching experience and about everyone on the awesome team of helpers that you’ve assembled. Seek to post images or videos that convey your values as a new team. 

Tell everyone you know about these new profiles, so you can build a bit of social proof for your team and encourage all of your helpers to do the same. This step alone can get you your first one hundred to a thousand followers. 

Once people in your community know your team exists, you can hold tryouts for skilled players. 

Seek out travel baseball message boards and Facebook groups, and post all the details of your tryouts – making sure to include a link to your shiny new website or social media profiles. 

There are even Instagram profiles dedicated exclusively to posting the details of travel ball tryouts, so take advantage of these as well.

However, if you’re still not getting enough interest through these free methods, you might consider setting up paid Facebook or Instagram ads. Just make sure that the video or graphics you use for your ads are top-notch. 

Again, if you’ve never created such assets or set up Facebook ads before – and they can be overwhelming to the uninitiated – lean on outside professional help in the beginning. Experts in paid media creation and management can be found all over the web.

Next, you run your awesome baseball tryouts. These we’ll leave to you, coach. 

When putting together your roster though, hedge toward a  bigger team rather than a small one . 

Summer is an active time for kids – they have family vacations and other sports or activities to do in addition to baseball. You may not have your full roster attending every tournament at the start. 

So having a team with at least 14 or more players covers you for when other commitments come up. 

# Travel Ball Team Building Phase 4 - Registering Your Team

Once you have your team put together, you’ll need to register your players with at least one of the major travel ball associations in the country. 

Again, these are USSSA, AAU, Triple Crown, Nations, Perfect Game, but there are others. 

These associations host the travel ball tournaments that you’ll be competing in. Make sure you follow the regulations and register your team properly. Each organization has their own unique guidelines for registering.

Once this phase is complete, you still have all the practices, travel logistics, and dues collections to worry about – but you will have laid an amazing foundation for your new travel team. 

Now you can enjoy the honor of helping the next generation of ballplayers find success in the game you love. 

# Wrapping Up Our Ultimate Parent’s Guide to Travel Ball

As you’ve undoubtedly realized – because we repeated it more than once – travel baseball is a big commitment. 

Switching from recreational baseball to travel ball shouldn’t be done lightly. 

It should also be a joint decision between you, your ballplayer, and the rest of your family. If you or your kid is interested in club baseball, then make sure you both understand the impact it’ll have on your lives. 

Once you know what you’re getting into, you can make the best decision together.

About the Authors

Courtney Withrow

Professional Writer

Originally from the U.S., Courtney is a Brussels-based freelance writer with a Master’s degree in International Relations. She grew up playing softball and still loves the game.

Chase d'Arnaud

Chief Talent Acquisition Officer & Baseball Business Ops

Chase d'Arnaud is a 7-year veteran of Major League Baseball. He played for the Pittsburgh Pirates, Philadelphia Phillies, Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, San Diego Padres, and San Francisco Giants.

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Travel Baseball 101: Everything You Need To Know

• By Chris F.
• On July 29, 2022
• Travel Ball

Table of Contents

Most popular organizations

Tournament travel, how is travel baseball organized, additional costs:, what’s a good age to start playing travel ball, other parents, organization websites, what to look for in a team, travel baseball pros and cons, travel baseball vs little league, what is the best travel baseball team, when should i leave a travel baseball team, fundraising ideas for travel baseball.

If you are an engaged baseball parent and have a child with decent skills, you’ve probably grown frustrated with the level of play in the laid-back rec leagues in your towns. I mean, how is your kid going to get better if the other players on the team don’t understand the game and don’t have the desire to improve? This is probably the most significant reason we’ve seen explosive growth in the travel baseball leagues and tournaments. 

The transition from Little League to AAU comes with many questions, but the good news is that these travel leagues will provide a support system and structure to help your child succeed in highly competitive baseball. 

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about travel baseball and help answer any questions that will help you determine whether or not these types of leagues make sense for your child. 

Travel Organizations

Let’s not beat around the bush. Travel baseball is a business. This market has exploded over the past decade, and the youth sports industry expects to grow more as travel teams become more popular.

This $15b youth sports market in the US rivals that of the $14 billion NFL, so you know we are talking about big business.

However, this business presents kids as young as eight with opportunities to team with other skilled players to play against better competition in their area. Teams will compete with other travel teams within the state and participate in regular tournaments. 

When people hear “travel baseball,” they immediately think the team goes all over the country every weekend to participate in different tournaments. In some cases, that may be true, but when I think of travel baseball, I think of some of the better local players coming from all over and trying out for the team. If you are on more of a showcase team, you will often have players come from all over the country. 

.stk-2b1a187{margin-bottom:0px !important}.stk-2b1a187-container{background-color:#96caf9 !important}.stk-2b1a187-container:before{background-color:#96caf9 !important} There are thousands of travel baseball teams throughout the country, and most play in tournaments or leagues organized by AAU, USSSA, and Perfect Game.

Playing in one of these leagues is almost a requirement if you are a talented ballplayer and are serious about your baseball career. While expensive, these leagues will help players develop their skills and play against some of the area’s best competition.  

If your child is on the younger side and is just getting started with travel baseball, most of the games will be local, with a few longer-distance tournaments mixed in. Once you get to that 16u-18u range, the tournaments become more about exposure and getting recruited by colleges so that you might travel to Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, etc.

You won’t go to all these travel baseball tournaments every year, but the WWBA, for instance, is one of the biggest tournaments in youth baseball and is located in Georgia. Many college coaches attend this tournament, so it’s an excellent opportunity to showcase your skills and gain exposure. 

If you are a player from one of the colder states and are interested in playing down south , these tournaments provide a great platform for you to make some new connections and show some of these coaches what you can do. 

When I think about travel baseball, I don’t think of it as being seasonal. Some teams will have their regular season in the spring, and some even play in the fall.

During the winter, especially in the Northeast, my son’s team had bi-weekly practices in one of the local indoor facilities where they could train. This allowed the team to build chemistry while also keeping them fresh. Travel baseball will allow you to practice all year round if you want to while you play other sports. 

All the travel league games my son has played in have taken place on the weekends. We typically have a doubleheader against the same team to squeeze in more games with a short break in between.

The tournaments usually consist of the top 8 teams in the League and are set up in a pool format. Those tournaments can be held anywhere, but we’ve traditionally hosted them at a local sports complex with multiple fields.

Suppose your tournaments are made up of more than ten non-local teams. In that case, they will usually take place in a central location with the infrastructure to accommodate traveling families for the weekend.  

With pool play, teams are guaranteed a certain amount of games before moving into the single-elimination games. Depending on the size of the tournament, a team may play between 2-8 games during the weekend. 

When signing up for travel ball, part of what you are paying for could include participation in a certain amount of tournaments. I know we were guaranteed at least one tournament, and everything else would be at an additional cost.

Each team will decide which tournaments to participate in and how many they’d like to do. The coach will need to look at age level, skillsets, and how many families can afford the additional cost.  

When the players enter high school, they may start participating in player showcases or tournaments where coaches and scouts come to watch and evaluate players. 

How Much Does Travel Ball Cost?

I’m not going to lie, when I first saw the cost of playing travel AAU baseball, there was definitely sticker shock. Our League tries to keep it affordable for families, so we were apparently on the lower end at $1700.

When you break it down, though, it wasn’t too bad. The kids got home and away uniforms, sweatshirts with their names, two sets of hats, helmets, Easton bags, and a batting warmup jacket.

The team had access to an indoor baseball training facility twice a week starting in the fall through April to practice. The fee also included a spot in a local tournament.

Other travel teams near us were upwards of $4k for the season. When I heard that, I stopped complaining about our price. Many of these travel baseball teams come with exorbitant prices that, unfortunately, eliminate many families and kids who can compete at this level.

.stk-110d1c6{margin-bottom:0px !important}.stk-110d1c6-container{background-color:#96caf9 !important}.stk-110d1c6-container:before{background-color:#96caf9 !important} When it comes down to travel baseball teams, the price can be pretty shocking to most parents, so you must decide how big of a financial impact this will have on your family. The League’s overall cost will differ but typically ranges from $500-$5,000 a year.

That amount is only the fee to play on the team. When you put together a potential budget, there are many additional costs to factor in. 

• Equipment – New bat rules may require you to buy your child a new bat. There are USSSA leagues that require USSSA bats, USA bats , BBCOR bats, and wood bats only. If you are lucky enough to be on a sponsored team, sometimes equipment such as bats, gloves, and other baseball gear is included.
• Travel costs – Even if you aren’t flying to a tournament, you will most likely be driving considerable distances, so be sure to factor in the price of gas. 
• Are the coaches being paid? Most likely not if you are on a younger team, but some older, more competitive travel teams pay their coaches.
• Facilities – We lucked out because practice time was included in our league fees. Teams who may not have access to public fields and practice off-season will have to rent space.

These are all the costs associated with your player and the League. Now, what about the stuff you will need as a baseball parent? Team gear, comfortable camping chairs , coolers, wagons, heaters , and fans.

Over the past twenty years, travel baseball’s popularity has exploded. Initially designed for teenagers, younger age groups have also taken over the sport.

Our first taste of travel ball was when our son was eight years old, playing on our town’s summer travel team. We didn’t have to travel far, but it was a fantastic experience.

It was a little more competitive than rec ball, so it gave us a good idea of where our kids stacked up compared to other towns. While eight sounds young, the kids improved during the month-long season. They knew who to back up, where to take the cut-off throws, and when to tag up on the bases.

It was so nice to see them begin to understand the little intricacies of the game, and they would not have received this type of instruction in town ball. While we had a great experience with our eight-year-old’s summer travel team, it is still pretty young.

I’d say the best time to start competitive travel baseball is around 9-10. It’s sad, but any later, you and your child will fall behind. Many kids have played years of competitive ball by then. 

How Do I Find A Travel Team Near Me?

If you have decided that travel baseball could be a good fit for your son or daughter, it’s time to start looking for a team. If you think your child would benefit from joining a travel baseball team but have no idea where to start, there are many resources to help you find some squads in your area. 

Facebook is a great place to start. In the search box, type in travel baseball near me or travel baseball ga for example. You will see a feed of many local teams advertising for upcoming tryouts or even established teams looking for a player to fill in for a tournament.  

After watching rec ball for a season, you will recognize who the best players are. Talk to their parents and ask them if their child is doing travel ball. If they are, ask them what their experience has been. Talking to other parents can also be helpful because if their child isn’t already in travel ball, they may know someone else who is. Word of mouth is huge. 

Many organizations, like USSSA, provide a list of active teams on their website. You can filter by age, location, and overall skill level to find potential groups that might be a good match for your child.  

A few other helpful resources for finding a travel team are Select Baseball Teams ,  AAU , and Field Level .

• Does the program win?
• What is the team’s location, and how far do they need to travel?
• Do they develop their players? What is their team mission?
• What is their facility like?
• Who are the coaches – read their bios on the website 
• How many games/tournaments do they play each season?
• How often do they practice
• What is the total cost for the season?
• What does the offseason training schedule look like
• Do they encourage multi-sport athletes?
• Do other players enjoy being on the team?
• What’s the reputation of the organization?
• What’s the skill level of the kids?
• How is playing time determined?
• Do they protect the pitcher’s arm by adhering to pitch counts?
• How many kids are on the team

When it costs thousands of dollars, money will always be an issue but try not to make your decision solely based on cost. Pick the program where your child will have fun and where they will develop the most. 

• Competition  – Competition tends to be better. Players take the game more seriously and seem to want to improve. It’s not cheap, so unless the parents have money to throw away, they will only pay the fees if their child is serious about the game.
• Development  – There’s a bigger focus on skill building. You practice much more than Little League, so your child will likely improve. 
• Coaching  – Travel teams will often have multiple talented baseball coaches who are more qualified and have more knowledge of the game and how it should be taught.
• More exposure  for the kids when they play in regional tournaments.
• More games played  
• Travel  – more opportunities to travel as a family and see different parts of the country
• Cost –  The price of playing travel can be high, sometimes up to $5k per year. 
• Time – Playing travel ball takes up a lot of time, so hopefully, you don’t like your weekends free in the summer.  
• Competitive – Travel ball can also be a lot of fun, but it’s way more competitive .  There is more of a focus on winning and advancing in tournaments. 
• Playing time  – The best players will rarely come off the field, so if your child is average, there might be a lack of playing time. 
• Lack of diversity – Aside from the high cost, many argue that the lack of ethnic and socioeconomic diversity is what is wrong with travel baseball.
• Overdoing it . Is all of this playing too much too soon? There’s been an enormous increase in Tommy John procedures over the past decade amongst young pitchers.

The debate about travel baseball vs. Little League has been a popular topic in US youth baseball for some time. The two organizations have different philosophies on the game and how it should be played. 

We all came to love the game of baseball by playing Little League. For that reason, it’s easy to be biased toward the more laid-back rec leagues where the mission is to foster community, volunteerism, sportsmanship, and fair play. With Little League, whether you win or lose, each ballplayer should have fun, make lifelong friends and grow their love for this beautiful game. 

Travel ball is much more competitive, and fans of these types of leagues prefer the more “advanced” brand of baseball that comes along with it. In AAU and other travel ball associations, these leagues provide a level of instruction, coaching, and competition that Little League cannot match. 

If your child has shown true talent on the ballfield, considering “travel” should be an option. Many high school players and beyond have played in some competitive travel leagues.

I don’t want to give off the impression that these leagues have no similarities because they do. In any league, the kids should learn about teamwork, sportsmanship, respect for their opponent, work ethic, and dealing with and bouncing back from failure. These are excellent life lessons that extend well beyond the baseball field. 

The differences are around the competition level and the time commitment. Little League doesn’t always offer the type of coaching that will take your game to the next level. That is why many families are supplementing with travel ball.  

So, if your child is serious about playing at a high level, you should transition to travel ball at around 11-12 years old, if not earlier. 

Take a look at travel baseball rankings to see who the best performing teams were this year. This site is an excellent resource because it lets you filter by age and either state or national rankings. It even allows you to see historical data to see who consistently ranks at the top.  

Some of the top 16u national teams for this past year are listed below. You will see that most originate from the baseball hotbed states of Texas, Florida, California, and Georgia.

16u Rankings

• USA Prime National(TX)
• Top Tier Roos National(FL)
• Exposure Under Church(TN)
• TBT National(FL)
• Power Baseball Marucci(FL)
• East Cobb Astros(GA)
• Knights Nation Baseball (LA)
• Alpha Prime National(CA)
• MCBC Hit Dogs(MI)
• 5 Star National Black(GA)
• Burn Scout Team(FL)
• Top Tier Roos American(FL)
• Canes National(VA)
• CBU United(FL)

Let’s face it; every child will not have a fantastic experience with their travel team. There are so many different factors that go into whether or not a kid has a positive experience. 

• Are they getting enough playing time?
• Are they developing their skills?
• Is the team winning?
• Do they get along with the other kids on the team?
• Is it getting too expensive for the family?
• Are they mad about the time commitment, missing birthday parties, sleepovers, etc.? 
• Are the coaches compassionate and caring about you as a person, or are they only worried about winning a cheap plastic trophy?

It won’t be the same experience for everyone, so chances are, you and your child will know when it’s the right time to leave. It may be one of the reasons listed above or something completely different. Still, the bottom line is that if your child is not enjoying the experience and is not improving, why continue wasting money? 

• Super Bowl squares
• Yeti Cooler raffle – 1 ticket for $10 or 3 for $20
• Lottery ticket basket raffle
• Stand in front of Dunkin Donuts or the grocery store with signs and helmets to collect the money. Have a sign that says we take Venmo!! Do it in 3 hours shifts and watch the money roll in. 
• Golf tournament – although more complex to plan
• Solicit donations from local businesses
• Hit-A-Thon – They hit 15 (or whatever # of balls you choose). Each ball has a number on it. You sell each number for $10-20. The ball he hits the farthest wins a GC. The rest of the money you keep! Stream it live on Facebook for everyone to watch. Use the 99 Pledges site to set it up. I read about one League that raised $44k in one season. 
• Purse bingo
• Meat raffles
• Wreaths at Christmas
• Popcornmania
• Pampered chef

Final Thoughts

Baseball should still be fun. As good as it might feel, do not try to relive the glory days if you even had them in the first place.

Many parents see baseball or any other sport their kid is playing as the only realistic path to college, and these youth games are treated as training grounds for an athletic scholarship. No wonder why you have adults screaming at umps and other kids. Unfortunately for some folks, every game feels like life or death. 

So, is travel baseball worth it? It can be a rewarding experience for your player and the entire family. You must select the right travel team to ensure you have that fulfilling experience.

Depending on when you start, you will be with this coach and these players and their families for the next few years. Committing to a travel team will turn your life into absolute chaos, but you will learn to love it. If you are lucky enough, you will join a team where you click with the other parents, and your kid becomes lifelong friends with his teammates.

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The Baseball Road Trip Planner for 2024

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Baseball Road Trip Planner 2024

You CAN There From Here

* Start City: --------- ARI ATL BAL BOS CHC CHW CIN CLE COL DET HOU KC LAA LAD MIA MIL MIN NYM NYY OAK PHI PIT SD SEA SF STL TB TEX TOR WAS

End city: --------- ARI ATL BAL BOS CHC CHW CIN CLE COL DET HOU KC LAA LAD MIA MIL MIN NYM NYY OAK PHI PIT SD SEA SF STL TB TEX TOR WAS

+ Number of Days: ----- 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

+ Number of Cities: ----- 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

* Earliest Start Date:

Latest Start Date:

Welcome to Bases Roaded, A Baseball Road Trip Router

Travelling to different baseball stadiums is a hobby many enjoy. The baseball roadtrip has become a way to visit multiple stadiums in relatively short time. While the trip is a blast, trying to plan a roadtrip to hit as many stadiums efficiently can take a lot of time. The Baseball Roadtrip Router is a tool to make such planning easier than just randomly searching the schedule. Learn More

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Time Travel Baseball Base Game E-Book

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For our initial release, we are offering a Base Set which includes: * 8 Manager Cards * 8 Ball Park Cards * 242 Player Flash*Cards * 104 Gamble Cards * All game components

For the initial offering of Time Travel Baseball, I wanted to present it in the form that Stanley Frohlich intended, and that is to offer several players of varying abilities. Your skill as a general manager in composing a team with a salary limit will ultimately be the deciding factor in winning and losing. In the near future we will offer full seasons. But, I wanted to pay tribute to Stanley with our initial offering. That’s not to say that I haven’t implemented a few changes in the new game. For one, I’ve included Ball Park effects. This adds an additional element of strategy as you build your team. You’ll tailor your team’s hitters and pitchers to your stadium, just like the real life general managers. I have also introduced new ratings and have fine-tuned card creation formulas. You’ll also see catcher’s and outfielder’s throwing arms have a great deal more impact with the latest version of the game. All-in-all I have meticulously strived to keep a balance between adding more modern elements to the game, while keeping everything that makes Time Travel Baseball unique. Most importantly, I have kept the game’s strengths which are speed of play and pure fun factor.

The player Flash*Cards included in the Base Set are:

Hitters ---------- Bill Freehan Bill Dickey Roger Bresnahan Roy Campanella Yogi Berra John Wathan Johnny Bench Josh Gibson Thruman Munson Gary Carter Ted Simmons Ray Schalk Carlton Fisk Ivan Rodriguez Mickey Tettleton Terry Steinbach Jason Thompson Boog Powell Norm Cash Harmon Killebrew Steve Garvey Orlando Cepeda Jimmy Foxx Keith Hernandez Eddie Murray Wille Stargell Dan Driessen Bruce Bochte John Mayberry Gil Hodges Anre Thornton Mark McGwire Phil Garner Bill Mazeroski Frank White Rogers Hornsby Miller Huggins Bucky Harris Manny Trillo Steve Sax Dave Concepcion Freddie Patek Cal Ripken Jr. Alan Trammell Honus Wagner Robin Yount Jimmy Rollins Hanley Ramirez Wade Boggs Pete Rose Ron Cey Mike Schmidt Ray Knight Frankie Frisch Eddie Mathews Julio Cruz Wille Randolph Joel Youngblood Jerry Royster Tim Foli Doug Flynn Jim Morrison Rodney Scott Mickey Stanley Tony Kubek Stan Hack Granny Hamner Chico Salmon Toby Harrah Joe Sewell Dale Murphy Eric Davis Keith Moreland Milt Thompson Mickey Rivers Cesar Cedeno Miguel Dilone Hank Greenberg Al Simmons Carl Yastrzemski Lou Brock Bob Meusel Goose Goslin Greg Luzinski George Foster Lee Mazzilli Garry Maddox Don Baylor Tony Armas Rickey Henderson Dave Kingman Mickey Mantle Ty Cobb Sam Crawford Wille Mays Willie Wilson Gorman Thomas Al Oliver Ted Williams Barry Bonds Ichiro Suzuki Jose Cruz Gavvy Cravith Dave Collins Babe Ruth Al Kaline Reggie Jackson Roger Maris Duke Snider Sammy Sosa John Wockenfuss Alex Trevino Biff Pocoroba Larvell Blanks Mario Mendoza Brian Asselstine Dusty Rhodes Razor Shines Skeeter Barnes Danny Heep Bobby Valentine Mike Lum Rowland Office Frank Taveras Ed Kranepool Jay Johnstone Carmelo Martinez Sixto Lezcano Ron Oester Rafeal Landestoy Pitchers -------- Bob Feller Mario Soto Tom Seaver Greg Maddux Dwight Gooden Fernando Valenzuela Jim Palmer Charlie Leibrandt J.R. Richard Nolan Ryan Frank Viola Warren Spahn Bob Knepper Dennis Lamp Tom Underwood Ed Walsh Sam Jones John Curtis Bob Veale Bert Blyleven Mark Langston Bob Welch Mike Norris Scott McGregor Frank Tanana Eppa Rixey Dave Goltz Mike Cuellar Dave Steib Don Sutton Randy Johnson Steve Carlton Don Drysdale Dizzy Dean Three Finger Brown John Smoltz Tim Lincecum Roy Halladay Roger Clemens Hideo Nomo Lee Smith John Franco John Hiller Hoyt Wilhelm Gary Lavelle Dave Righetti Tug McGraw Sparky Lyle Mitch Williams Bruce Sutter Bob Stanley Aurelio Lopez Dan Quisenberry Roy Face Dick Radatz Rudy May Lew Burdette Tom Hausman Woodie Fryman Francisco Rodriguez Jose Valverde Trevor Hoffman Tom Gordon Bobby Jenks John Rocker Fred Lasher Marcelino Lopez Tippy Martinez Goose Gossage Sid Monge Mark Clear Dale Murray Ryne Duren Dave LaRoche Dick Tidrow Ken Forsch Elias Sosa Kent Tekulve Enrique Romo Grant Jackson Satchel Paige Danny Darwin Jerry Garvin Bill Caudill Doug Corbett Darold Knowles Tome Hume Roger McDowell Don Carmen Terry Forster "Donut" Bill Carrick Jim Merritt Tom Kelley John Pacella Odell Jones Rick Matula Craig Swan Dickie Noles Chuck Rainey Rich Gale Bruce Berenyi Frank Pastore Frank LaCorte Jim Deshaies Jim Abbott Terry Mulholland Andy Hawkins Carl Erskine Steve Trout Len Barker

Below you'll find several samples from the game.

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A Sample Half Inning of Play

(Note this is the BASIC version of the game. The Advanced and Master versions offer many additional layers of strategy)

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The Ultimate Baseball Tournament Packing List (+ Travel Items)

What do you need to pack for a day (or a weekend) out at the sports field? Whether you’re packing for a baseball tournament or softball, soccer, lacrosse, football, etc., here’s your list of essentials to pack for tournaments. Never forget everything you need again with my free printable baseball tournament packing list ! 

When my boys played recreation baseball, it was easy to grab the essentials for a game because you don’t need that much for 1-2 hours, right? Just slap on a cap and some sunscreen on everyone and you’re good to go.

But when my boys started playing on competitive travel teams, I suddenly had to learn how to up my game. Big time.

And I made a few (big) mistakes along the way! So, I wanted to help reduce your learning curve by giving you my hard-learned list of must-haves for weekend baseball tournaments.

Tips To Simplify This Baseball Tournament Packing List

If you’re new to the world of competitive sports teams and tournaments, know ahead of time that you’ll probably spend hours at the field each day. Sometimes there’s a break in between games where you can run to a bathroom or grab some food.

Other times, games are back to back and you really can’t leave. And you’ll likely do this both Saturday and Sunday (or multiple days if you’re taking part in a travel tournament).

Planning ahead will be your best friend – keeping some things already packed and ready to go was the BEST thing I do to help reduce prep time and the chance of forgetting things.

Tip 1: Keep Layers And Sunscreen Ready To Go

Once the spring baseball season kicks off, I keep a tote in my vehicle that has clothing essentials such as a hat, sunscreen, winter hat, gloves, blanket, windbreaker, umbrella, and rain poncho.

Tip 2: Keep Some Snacks Packed

And I also make a snack bag filled with non-perishable grab-and-go essentials such as beef jerky, sunflower seeds, nuts, protein bars, licorice, and gum.

With these two bags or totes packed up, all you have to do is keep them in the car (my preference) or by the door and grab them on your way out.

Grab my handy checklist so you never forget an item again!

What To Pack For A Baseball Tournament: 33 Essentials

In an effort to make this list easy to follow, I’m breaking it down into categories.

Health Items On Your Baseball Tournament Packing List

1. sunscreen.

I recommend keeping a bottle of easy-to-apply sunscreen in your child’s bag and another bottle for you and the family.

I was very opposed to the spray sunscreens for a long time…until we started doing weekend tournaments for baseball. Now I’m a HUGE fan!

Having a spray sunscreen is SO much easier to use than rubbing in creams when you’re rushing from one game to another or have dirty hands from being at the fields!

I highly recommend these two:

• Neutrogena Beach Defense SPF 50
• Blue Lizard Sport Sunscreen SPF 50 (mineral-based sunscreen)

2. Sun Hat Or Baseball Cap

Baseball players and family members spend so much time out in the sun, and if you’re anything like me that bright light is murder on the eyes and the skin.

Bring along a sun hat to keep the sun off of your entire face. There are many different options from baseball caps to wide brim floppy sun hats. Here are a few of our favorite go-to’s :

• Women’s UV Protection Foldable Mesh Wide Brim Hat (great for ponytails!)
• Rollable UPF 50+ Wide Brim Gardening Hat with Neck Flap (great for rolling up small and protecting the neck!)
• Straw Wide Brim UPF 50 Foldable Roll up Floppy Hat (great for a fun, stylish option!)
• UPF 50+ Wide Brim Roll-up Straw Sun Hat Sun Visor (great for an open, airy, cooler option!)
• Ponytail Hat Baseball Cap (love this for my constant ponytails and messy buns!)

3. Sunglasses

My light blue eyes are super sensitive to bright light anyway, but my optometrist gave me a reminder about how important it is to protect your eyes from the sun’s UV rays. 

Here are some of my favorite options:

• Vintage Big Frame Sun Glasses (for the best coverage and that “diva” look!)
• RIVBOS Polarized UV Protection Sports Sunglasses (I love sports sunglasses!)
• Polarized Aviator Sunglasses

4. Bug Repellant

The heat and humidity of summertime often mean bugs – and lots of them! If you’re anything like me, being a mosquito buffet takes away from the enjoyment of watching your kiddos play ball.

Protect your family (and yourself) with a good repellent. There are many options, but here are my favorites:

• Make your own DIY Essential Oil Mosquito Repellent
• Chemical-Free Bug Soother Spray
• OFF! Deep Woods Bug Spray & Mosquito Repellent

5. First Aid Kit

I’ve seen a lot of injuries on the baseball field over the years. That includes everything from bee stings to cuts and bruises to goose eggs and broken bones.

We’ve been on some teams where the coach or team parent had a first aid kit. And we’ve been on teams where no one had a first aid kit.

After my son got hit by a bad pitch and we didn’t have ice, I started bringing a first aid kit and Ice Paks so that we (and the rest of the team) would always have the essentials on hand.

FYI, it’s come in handy MANY times, and I’ve even used it to help kids playing on nearby fields when their team didn’t have a first aid kit either.

I like this 300 piece kit that comes with a variety of bandages, antibiotic ointment, burn cream, a cold compress, sterile gauze pads, tweezers, scissors, and more. I love that it’s big enough to hold additional items if needed. It also has free shipping for Prime members!

I like to fill it up with a few helpful extras:

• Triple antibiotic ointment packets for scrapes and cuts
• Benedryl to help when someone has an allergy attack
• Dermoplast Pain, Burn & Itch Relief Spray for injuries and bug bites
• Bactine Max Pain Relieving Cleansing Spray to clean wounds
• Wound wraps

6. Instant Cold Pack

Bumps and bruises happen in sports, and it definitely helps to have some instant ice packs handy to keep the swelling down.

I have purchased several sets of these packs – and used them all!

7. Lip Balm

I get chapped lips in the sun and wind, and my kids do too. It took me a while, but I finally remembered to bring chapstick with me. It was life-changing!

8. Hand Sanitizer

Baseball fields aren’t clean places. Some fields have bathrooms and some only have Porta-potties. You just don’t know which fields will have bathrooms, not to mention which ones will have soap in their bathrooms.

A bottle of hand sanitizer is a must-have as part of a baseball tournament packing list.

9. Ibuprofen

I recommend having both kids’ and adult doses of ibuprofen. They come in handy when you least expect it.

10. Insurance Card

I hadn’t thought of this…until my son broke his arm on the baseball field (bad slide into 2nd base). Oh man, was I grateful his insurance card was in my wallet!

And there happened to be a very conveniently-located urgent care a half of a mile away. 😂

If you’re worried about losing the card, just put pictures of them in your phone so you always have them with you!

Food-Related Items For Your Baseball Tournament Packing List

11. extra water.

When you’re likely to be at the field for several hours, have a couple of these extra (insulated) water jugs with you because the sun and heat will make you and your player thirsty!

12. Snacks/Food

You’ll want to pack food. Trust me – cheering for your kids burns some serious calories! Many fields will have a concession stand, but some won’t.

Even if the fields have a concession stand, you’ll probably go broke spending 3x as much for crappy snacks. Pack some snacks and keep everyone satisfied all day.

Here are some of our favs:

• sunflower seeds
• protein bars
• fruit pouch
• fresh fruit (apples, oranges, grapes, bananas, watermelon, etc)
• dried fruit
• granola bars
• fruit leather

13. Gum/mints  

I’m a gum addict – it helps me munch a little less, and it gives me fresh breath for socializing.

14. Cooler

And you’ll need something to keep your food from getting hot or melting. That’s where a cooler comes in handy.

Fill a cooler with ice and keep your snacks and drinks cool. I have heard of some fields not allowing coolers, although we’ve never run into that issue.

If coolers aren’t allowed, you can still bring a cooler and leave it in your car. However, if coolers are allowed, then I recommend one of these three:

• Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze
• Yeti Hopper Fip 18 (NOTHING keeps things as cool for as long as a Yeti does – and we’ve tried them all!)
• Coleman Portable Roller Cooler
• YETI soft coolers (use as a bag or wear as a backpack!)

If your family spends a lot of time at baseball tournaments, or you like to go camping or fishing, consider getting a (wheeled) Yeti cooler . Yes, they’re expensive, but they seriously last forever and keep things cold for days . No joke!

If you spend your weekends at baseball tournaments, get one. You’ll thank me.

Savings Pro Tip: Sign up for Rakuten before making your purchase. You’ll get a $30 bonus for signing up through my exclusive link and making your first purchase – PLUS, you’ll get cash back on your purchase from YETI (and all your online shopping)!

15. Cash

Concessions, parking fees, and entry fees (if you have them) usually ONLY take cash. Take some cash with you to avoid the hassle of finding an ATM.

Clothing Items For Your Baseball Tournament Packing List

A day at the baseball fields can present several clothing challenges. Here are some things you’ll want to have on hand to be prepared – and comfortable.

16. Jacket, Blanket, And Warm Pants

Even if it’s 80+ degrees when you leave for the tournament early in the morning, please take a jacket with you! Learn from my mistakes – I thought so many times “it’s hot, I’ll be fine!”

And I wasn’t. As soon as the sun set, I was freezing. And that doesn’t even count the days where rain or cold wind moved in.

I recommend having a few things, including:

• Fancywing Outdoor Waterproof Fleece Blanket (great for wrapping up to stay warm and keep the wind out)
• Ultimate Sports Wrap – Hooded Stadium Blanket with Zippers (for something a little more heavy-duty)
• Extreme Weather Hooded Blanket by Mambe (to keep you warm on those miserably cold days – you’ll be SO grateful for this!!)

It took me a couple of seasons to figure out the best jackets to take with me (I loved my long puffer jacket ). And in the early season when it can be REALLY chilly, I wear ski pants because they’re warm and great windbreakers!

17. Winter Hat And Gloves

We have been to MANY tournaments where the weather changed drastically over the course of the day or the weekend. It might be hot early in the day and then a cold wind brings in cold temperatures or rain.

We’ve sat through games in the rain AND the snow.

The ONLY way I got through those games was because I had the warm layers I mentioned above and a winter hat and warm gloves.

18. Fresh Clothes

Have layers handy for the weather turning colder, and a change of clothes handy for hot days when you’re tired of being sweaty. If your child is on a competitive team, BOTH will come in handy!

Seating And Weather Protection Items For Your Baseball Tournament Packing List

This section includes chairs and other items that will make watching the game more comfortable.

19. Stadium Chair Or Fold-up Chair

I don’t know about you, but I get uncomfortable pretty quickly when I’m sitting on something hard like bleachers. And when I get uncomfortable, I get grumpy.

It’s important to be prepared to hang out and watch your kiddos playing ball all day! This Ventura Reclining Stadium Seat will change your life.

I love that it folds flat and has convenient backpack straps for carrying. It has armrests for ultimate comfort, plus it comes in multiple colors so you. can match your team or find a color you love.

And at the beginning of the season when it’s still cold outside, you’ll want a heated stadium chair – trust me. Once the tooshie gets cold, watching baseball outside for hours is miserable.

When it gets warm outside, I prefer using a camping chair to sitting on the bleachers. I think they’re more comfortable and I can set up my sunshade canopy over it much easier.

20. Canopy or Umbrella

You may not need/want this on cool days, but it’s crucial for hot days, or rainy days! Keep cool and dry under an easy-to-put-up canopy . They are AWESOME because they literally pop up in about 5 minutes.

And if you have extra space, share with another family! I always did – we would sometimes have 4-5 families underneath. And they were always willing to help me set up and take down the canopy!

Plus, you can set it over chairs, over bleachers, off to the side, or in the outfield and move it between games, if needed, to save you from the heat.

Consider one with a single wall  which helps when the sun is low in the morning or late afternoon (I always wanted one of these because tilting the canopy to block the sun just doesn’t work) and on windy days.

If you happen to live in a windy area, I recommend a set of canopy weights to put down on the feet so your canopy doesn’t blow away on very windy days. I’ve seen it happen, and the canopy was ruined. 😔

If you prefer to hang out on the bleachers while you watch, this  clamp-on umbrella holder  is a must-have item for tournaments!

Electronics

Electronics may not be at the top of your list of things to bring to the ball field but think about taking pictures.

21. Smartphone/Camera

You’re definitely going to want to take pictures (and videos!) of your kiddo, so make sure to bring a camera with plenty of memory. You can invest in a great  Canon Rebel  that will take incredible game pictures.

I love to use my Canon for stills because the quality is still better than my smartphone images. However, when it comes to videos, I reach for my smartphone.

22. Extra Chargers

When you’re stuck at the field all day, a dead phone battery isn’t just a possibility, it’s a likelihood. And trust me, it’s NOT ideal on so many levels!

That’s why I LOVE this  SunJack Solar Charger  which can be charged outside at the game in all that sunshine you’ll likely be facing. It’s the size of a tablet and is waterproof, shock-proof, dust-proof, and drop-proof!

Plus. I always carry a  small portable charger  or two for my kids who aren’t playing. They’ll play games with other kids at the field for a long time, but at some point, they get worn out and want to have some device time.

23. Entertainment For Younger Siblings

Tournaments don’t just last 2 or 3 or 4 hours. I have spent weekends at the fields where we have been there for 13+ hours. That’s ALL day!

I always start out letting my kids play with other kids until they reach their limit. Then it’s time for some device time so they don’t have a melt down!

Keeping Cool & Toiletry Items For Your Baseball Tournament Packing List

24. cooling towels.

Those hot, sweltering days can be miserable – not only for you, but also for your player standing out on the field in the sun. The day I found out about these cooling towels was LIFE CHANGING.

Keep several wet rags in a baggie in your cooler. A nice, cold  hand towel  will make a HUGE difference for kids and parents alike. We have shared our towels with other players countless times – and helped a few recover from heat-related problems in the process.

25. Water Bottle Or Mister

I have literally left a game before and gone to the store to find water bottles because it was so hot and the kids were so miserable (and playing and EXTRA long game). Bring along a couple of large spray bottles so everyone can spray themselves down and cool off when they need it most.

OR bring along a mister ! They feel SO good on those hot days!

26. Roll Of Toilet Paper

This might sound a little weird, but I can’t tell you how many times it’s come in handy. From dealing with bloody noses to snotty noses to having some backup for the nasty portapotties that don’t have toilet paper.

Keep a roll with you. It’s WORTH it.

Make Carting All Your Stuff Easier

27. a large tote.

It may seem like an obvious thing to bring, but I have actually forgotten to take a baseball bag to tournaments. And I REGRETTED it. 

A nice large tote  can hold your keys, wallet, hats, sunglasses, snacks, extra clothes, chargers, extra water, etc. Plus, much more! This one is one I love because it has several pockets, a keychain clip, and plenty of room!

I also love this mesh bag because any dirt that gets into the bag (and ball fields have PLENTY of dirt), falls right out!

28. Portable Wagon 

I spent 2 (I think) seasons without a wagon, and when I finally got a  collapsible wagon , the difference was night and day. It carries all your stuff (I would put my canopy, tote bag, and more inside) and can hold a young whining sibling too!

Essential Traveling Items For Your Baseball Tournament Packing List

Traveling to another town or state involves bringing a few additional items.

29. Extra Uniforms

Bring along a pair or two of extra Youth Baseball Pants and jerseys. If you are staying in a hotel, pants will occasionally get a rip so it’s a good idea to have extras.

30. Laundry Detergent

If you’ll be gone longer than overnight, bring along your Fels Naptha  and Sponge to get out the stains and smells of your athlete’s pants so they show up looking clean and fresh to their next games!

Here’s how to get white baseball pants clean .

These are super portable so you can wash your child’s pants in the sink or bathtub and hang them up to dry overnight.

31. Clothes Hangers

You may need to air dry uniforms, and I haven’t found hotel hangers to be up to the task. Bring along a couple of hangers so you’re always prepared.

32. Slippers or Flip-Flops

A pair of waterproof slippers are perfect for hotel travel because the floors may not be clean, the kids will likely want to go to the pool, and they can do triple-duty as shoes your kiddo can slip on to get a break from their cleats.

33. Swimsuit

If you’re staying in a hotel, chances are good that there’s a swimming pool. And if your kids are anything like mine, they can’t resist going for a swim (as a team!) in their downtime!

Make Sure To Always Have These Baseball Tournament Packing List Essentials On Hand

When packing for a baseball tournament or any other kind, make sure to include these essentials in your bag!

Are there items I missed? If so, include them in the comments below.

Pro Mom Tip: IF you forget something, be gentle with yourself because there’s so much to remember (thus, the need for the wagon!). The good news is that you CAN buy most of what you need (we just don’t want to take time to go to a store or spend money we don’t need to spend!).

You got this! Play ball!

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Simplify Your Family's Emergency Preparedness

Baseball mom wagon: the ultimate list of things to bring on game day.

I remember it like it was yesterday.  Tyler and I were in the middle of our second baseball season with our newly blended family, and things were a little crazy.  With 7 kids (4 of whom were playing Little League baseball that year), every day was a struggle.  It was a good, happy, beautiful struggle; but it was a struggle.

Weeknights we divided and conquered, getting everyone to their different practices and games.  Saturdays were awesome because everyone was in the same location and there were only games; no practices. 

However, with the number of kids we had playing, there were some Saturdays when we were literally at the baseball field ALLLLLLLLLLLL DAYYYYYYYYYYYY.  And being somewhere all day with that many kids means bringing a lot of gear.

Every week I would see families with wagons but I just hadn’t completely warmed up to the idea.  I’m not sure why; I guess I felt like that would take it to a whole new level that I wasn’t willing to commit to.  Which is SO DUMB because, HELLO!!  We had 4 kids playing baseball!  I’m not sure how much more committed we could have been!  Anyway, I am just weird sometimes.

And then Mother’s Day came…and I was TOTALLY SURPRISED to open my very own baseball wagon!  This is a picture of the first day we used it.  We were all ecstatic!  

We’ve come a long way as far as organization and having the things we have wished we’d had over the years. So I thought I’d share some suggestions of what you may want to consider taking with you to survive gamedays!

**This post contains affiliate links; using my links helps to support my blogging and my family at no extra cost to you.**

1. Folding Wagon

After having the wagon for one game, I was sold. Why had I denied myself this necessity for so long?! If you are a parent of a child who plays baseball, just go buy yourself a wagon now! Let’s face it; you’re going to buy one sooner or later…might as well be sooner so you can enjoy it longer!

If I knew then what I know now, I would have gone with the double-decker wagon . Holy cow. This is genius. And if any of you get it, I want to know about it. I am super tempted to sell my current wagon and get this bad boy. Because, DANG! How cool is that?! Anyway, if you want to enjoy this baseball season, get a wagon. If you plan on taking your own chairs that would fit in between the wheels, get the double-decker wagon. Buy now. Thank me later.

We went years without owning a pop-up. I was scared to death of them, and rightfully so. But it got to a point where our very lives were at stake. We could either join the ranks of the pop-up families, or die of heat stroke.

I have a love-hate relationship with pop-ups. I love them when they’re up and I’m basking in the shade. I pretty much hate everything else about them. They’re big, they’re heavy, they’re awkward, and regardless of how easy the pictures on the box make it seem, they are a pain in the butt to put up, but even a bigger pain in the butt to take down.

**Tip: do a practice run AT HOME, with no one else watching. And then do another one. And another one.

You pretty much need someone to pull the wagon and a different person to lug the pop-up to the field. Most of them come with carrying cases with wheels, but be careful with those wheels. Because once they’re busted, your life gets about 1000% harder on those sunny Saturdays because those things are HEAVY.

I feel like I’m not doing a very good job of convincing you of the pop-up idea. It’s just one of those necessary evils. If you aren’t going to get a pop-up, make friends with someone who has one. And girl, you better claim that friend at the FIRST GAME, before someone else steals that shaded friendship status. Because those pop-ups are really only big enough for one friend and a few kids.

If you need to buy yourself a pop-up buddy, bring a tub of licorice, sit your buns right next to a nice, roomy pop-up, and proceed to eat and hand out your Red Vines to your kids as loudly as you can. When the pop-up lady’s kid comes and asks you for a Red Vine, you’re in. From that moment on…half of that shade is yours. That $8 tub of Red Vines just bought you an entire season of shade. Boom.

3. Bigger/Separate Items

• Chairs – we have the Tommy Bahamas that have the straps on the back so you can wear them on your back like a backpack. This makes it super convenient for carrying them to the field, but they are really low and not super comfortable. Just FYI. Pros and cons. By the way, we did NOT pay $45 per chair. This is the Amazon link I could find for them. We got ours at Costco a few years ago and I think they were $30ish per chair. If I had to do it over again, I would spend the money on the double-decker wagon, and get cheaper chairs that are more comfortable and lay them on the bottom level of the wagon.
• Stadium Chairs (for bleachers) – What kind of chairs we use depends on the field and what side our team is on, so we come prepared with our regular chairs as well as stadium chairs. I used to be embarrassed at the thought of using one of these and thought they were just for old people. Turns out 35 is old cuz I’ve got no shame. I love those things. We got ours at Costco and they were on a coupon. I think they were $25ish a piece with the sale price. These are considerably more expensive, but dang, they look amazing. They look super comfy, have cupholders, recline, and have the backpack straps to carry them. With this 2-pack, they are $45 a piece. If you are wanting to splurge on stadium chairs, these look awesome.
• Waterproof blanket for the ground
• Propane Heater (this is on my wish list – I don’t have one)
• Jumbo-sized bags or Big Bags to keep muddy cleats in.
• They fit in the side pouch of school backpacks, bat bags, in cupholders everywhere, and there’s still ice at the end of the day.
• Indestructible! Seriously. Even the lid. Nothing about this can break. It’s amazing.
• Dishwasher Safe (I hate that Hydro Flasks are not dishwasher safe, so they are a curse word in our house)
• WIDE-MOUTH LID, so you can fill it from your ice-maker without 95% of the ice cubes missing the opening and landing on your kitchen floor!
• Fits in normal-sized cupholders (they have this same Rambler in bigger sizes, but the base is wider, and therefore they don’t fit in normal cupholders…we do have a couple 26-ounce ones and I love that they all use the same size lids! I just don’t like that they don’t fit in cupholders)
• THIS LID is the best thing ever. Leak-proof, comfy mouthpiece, 2 straws included. Interchangeable with the 18 and 26 ounce ramblers.

4. Different Bags/Pouches

I held out for years before buying my kids bat bags. Dumb. What was I thinking? Was I waiting for them to grow up so they deserved a bag? Seriously, I can be such an idiot sometimes. I got my girls little bags to put their dance stuff in when they could hardly walk. I give my piano students a bag to put their piano books in. But I didn’t think my kids needed a bat bag to hold all their gear. Total face palm.

After a few YEARS of being stupid, I decided Cody was worthy to receive a bat pack for Christmas. He got a normal-sized one, so this is one he can use forever.

But I still didn’t get it. I hadn’t gotten any of the other kids one. Seriously, why didn’t someone just come up and tell me what an idiot I was?! I think one of my fears was that I would spend a bunch of money on something they would grow out of soon. But the fact is, they can use these longer than their cleats or even their batting helmets, and I didn’t seem to have a problem buying those every year…

It’s true that a brand new T-baller can’t quite carry a normal-sized bat pack very well. I FINALLY bought our first Youth Bat Pack last year. We have been in this game for 8 years, people. Don’t make the same mistake I did. Had I just gotten one for Cody 8 years ago, our lives would have been SO MUCH EASIER, and it would STILL be getting use today. 8 years later!!!

**A note on the Youth Bat Packs: They are smaller than normal bat packs and therefore can’t fit as much. We have this Youth Bat Pack for Briggs and it fits his mitt, batting helmet, water bottle, bat, and hat. It does not fit his cleats. But my kids have always just worn their cleats from home to the field, so that’s not a big deal for us.

Anyway, my point is, get your kid a bat bag. If it kills you to buy a new one, find one on Facebook for cheap if you want to. But get the kid a bag!!

• Water/Gatorade
• Batting Helmet
• Batting Gloves
• Frogg Toggs Chilly Pad Cooling Towel
• Gum / Seeds
• Dryer Sheet (for smell)

Everyday Stuff

• Hand Sanitizer
• Brush (love this mini brush) and Ponytails – no better time to do your little girls’ hair than while her brother is warming up for his game
• TP (don’t ask…ugh)
• Feminine Stuff
• Cash/Change for Snack Shack
• Sharpie for putting names on water bottles/ gatorade
• External Charger – keep your phone alive for pictures/video!
• Attach umbrellas to wagons or bleachers
• Hold down an overloaded wagon load
• Paper Plates, Paper Towels, Plastic Forks and Spoons – for when we grab food on the way to the field. My favorite thing to do is stop at Little Caesars and just get a whole pizza. Cheap, easy, quick. Bam. Done. But it sure is easier to eat pizza on a dirt field when you have a plate and a paper towel to wipe up the grease.
• Ziploc Bags (for ice)
• Pen, Envelopes, Post-it Notes (for giving money for team stuff, signing up for team stuff, reminders for team stuff, etc)
• Dog Stuff (if allowed at field )

First-Aid Kit

Target has a deal that comes up fairly frequently where if you buy 3 boxes of Band-Aids, you get a free First-Aid case. I have done this several times to make a small First-Aid kit for each of our cars, as well as our Travel Tote First-Aid Kit.

I bought most of the items below in bulk or purchased a money-saving pack to give me extras to put in the First-Aid kits I have in each car as well as our family’s 72-Hour Kit and Travel Tote First-Aid Kits. So if you are going to put together a First-Aid kit for your wagon, consider putting together a few of them at a time.

• Ibuprofen/Tylenol – I just put a few of these in a mini zipper bag, labeled it with the name, dosage, and expiration date, and we were good to go. This is way cheaper than buying a travel-size bottle. You could also just use an empty medicine bottle from an old prescription. Just be sure to take the label off and wash the bottle really well before re-using it.
• Alcohol Wipes – I bought this pack of them and put a few in each of my First-Aid kits, with the bulk of them in our family’s 72-hour kit.
• Tape – these colorful rolls of Coband are super fun and easier than tape
• Ace bandages
• INSTANT Cold Pack – I bought a box of these and distributed them throughout all the First-Aid kits I have…one for each car, one for the wagon, one for the house, and one for our travel tote . Their expiration date is 4 years from when I got them.
• I got an entire box of 200 of these at Costco for $19.99. I put a few in each First-Aid kit, and I keep the rest in the box for when I am cutting up raw chicken or when I am cleaning toilet bowls with a pumice stone. This has been a great investment!
• I found some of these on Amazon that are medical grade and food safe , and they were the exact same price per glove as Costco, but you only have to buy 100 instead of 200.
• Tweezers (for slivers and/or bee stingers)
• Sting-Kill Swabs (for bee stings, insect bites, etc) – this is something I haven’t ever had before, but decided it was a good idea. I bought the money-saving 4-pack so I could put a pack in each of my First-Aid kits as well.

Hot Weather Bag

• Portable Fan (keep the battery in a separate bag in between seasons)
• Spray Bottle

Cold Weather Bag

• Blanket for warmth
• Handwarmers (again, something I bought in bulk for our 72-hour kits and used some for our baseball wagon)
• Gloves – again, a great price if you buy in bulk and put a few in each spot (baseball wagon, 72-Hour Kits , cars, etc. If you have any extras you could give them to the homeless)
• Extra sweatshirts, hats, scarves

Rainy Day Bag

• Umbrella – this one is AWESOME in the wind and has super cute colors too. I highly recommend this umbrella.
• Ponchos (something I bought in bulk for our 72-Hour Kits ). This set has 4 adult and 4 kid ponchos .
• Towel to wipe off wet bleachers/park equipment for little siblings

Activities for Siblings / Fun Bag

• Mitts and balls
• Coloring Stuff

BRING YOUR OWN FOOD

I love the idea of supporting the league by making purchases from the Snack Shack. However, we’ve got mouths to feed. Baseball is expensive. Not only do you have to pay the registration fees, but those fees usually only cover the shirt and hat, and you are left to still have to purchase pants, socks, belts, cleats, and equipment (batting helmet, bat, mitt, etc).

Having a large family with multiple players, we spend anywhere from 3-8 hours every Saturday at the ball field (plus anywhere from 1 to 3 weeknights). Buying everyone’s meals, snacks, and drinks from the Snack Shack for the whole season would be insane.

We have chosen to allow our kids to take their own money to buy their own junk food from the Snack Shack, but we don’t typically buy anything for them. Every once in a while, we have one of those days where nothing goes as planned and we end up at the field without a dinner. This happens a couple times each season, and we just plan on buying everyone’s food at the field that day. But this is not a regular occurrence.

Instead, we plan ahead and bring our own drinks, snacks, meals, and even candy.

Cooler / Ice Pack

I finally found a good cooler that I love . It is a large, soft cooler, but has a hard bottom. It has a rectangular top, rather than just zipping from one end to the other. You lose SO MUCH SPACE when a cooler does that. This one has as big of a top as the bottom. You can pack a LOT of stuff in this thing. I love it!

I got really sick of using all of the little ice packs from school lunches, especially for weeknight games when we only have about an hour between school and when we need to leave for the baseball field. By that time, the ice packs had been in the kids’ lunchboxes all day, so they often needed a recharge in the freezer.

So I decided to get one SPECIFICALLY for our family cooler. One that wouldn’t fit in the kids’ lunch bags, and therefore would always be in the freezer when I went to pack the cooler. This ice pack (affiliate link) is my favorite one that we own and it stays frozen for days ($29.99 whether on Amazon or YETI.com ) . It lasts all day on a Saturday when we’re at the field all day, and it is always available for me when I go to pack our cooler for an evening game while the kids are still at school. I stick it at the bottom of our cooler bag and load everything else on top.

• See my entire Gatorade section in 10 Baseball Mom Hacks .
• Water – a MUST
• Sometimes I will fill a large thermos with hot chocolate and bring styrofoam cups (Smart & Final or Costco) to the field. It is always a welcome drink on a cold game day!

I’m not gonna lie. I don’t go to great lengths to get super creative with meals at the ball field. I really only have 2 recommendations, and neither of them are earth-shattering, but I do have a couple of tips to take them from boring to awesome.

1 – Pizza. We are sooooo lucky because we have a Little Caesars about 5 minutes from our Little League field. It’s cheap and it’s my favorite. It’s embarrassing, but I’m just being honest. Maybe it’s an acquired taste, but I totally love it. Anyway, we often grab a pizza or two on the way to the field and eat there. On Saturdays when games are spread out, we go grab pizza in between. **My pizza tip: don’t skip the paper plates and paper towels in the “Every Day” list above. Especially if your player has white pants! Having plates and paper towels helps keep the grease at bay, and also encourages everyone to eat their pizza at a normal pace, rather than feeling like they have to gobble it up because they have no place to set it down.

2 – Sandwiches. This is about as boring as it gets, I know. But! I have a few things I do to spice it up a little bit and make it feel like it came straight from Mr. Pickles (kind of).

• Sourdough bread – lightly toasted
• Spread cream cheese on the lightly toasted bread – this adds such a gourmet feel to the sandwich, it’s unreal.
• Spread mashed avocado on top of the cream cheese layer; not sliced avocado – smush it around.
• Turkey – honestly, with all this other stuff, I don’t think you need to go fancy on the meat. It doesn’t need to be freshly-sliced or anything.
• Havarti cheese – available sliced and ready to go at Winco and Costco (or just something other than the classic cheddar cheese)
• Sprouts. Seriously – just trust me. Have you ever noticed that lots of fancy sandwich shops have sprouts? It’s because they have a way of making your sandwich feel and taste so fancy and grown-up and sophisticated. Do it. Get the sprouts.
• This may be over-the-top, but I think it is so much fun, and I even do it with the kids’ sandwiches in their lunches sometimes. I bought a box of 100 Sandwich Wrap Sheets from Smart & Final. I know it’s 100% psychological, but it makes it feel “legit” as my kids would say.
• If I have time, I wrap a dill pickle spear in a separate sheet of paper, just like Mr. Pickles used to do before they started charging for the pickle on the side.

If you haven’t noticed, I like Ziploc bags a lot. But sometimes, you just need some shape. I much prefer putting little snacks (like granola bars or cheese and crackers) in hard plastic containers than Ziploc bags. So I found a few old containers that didn’t have lids anymore and put them to good use! This helps keep the snacks contained and organized.

• See DIY Nachos section in 10 Baseball Mom Hacks
• Hard Boiled Eggs
• String Cheese
• Fresh Fruit
• Trail Mix (I like the Nuts & Berries one from Costco)
• Granola Bars
• Dried Fruit
• Nuts (bulk at Winco)
• Scrabble – our favorite homemade Chex Mix
• Beef Jerkey

If I am really on my game, I will have each of the kids choose their own snack for the day; if they choose it, they can’t complain about it! I have them load up their own tupperware container with their name on it, which keeps things from getting smashed.

• Winco bulk is the way to go here. Buy the same exact candy that your kids would buy at the Snack Shack, but buy it in bulk at Winco and bag it in small quantities. Depending on the candy, I like to use these little plastic containers with lids from the Dollar Store, or mini zipper bags .

• Smart & Final also has a lot of the candy that is available at the Snack Shack. In fact, all 3 of the Snack Shacks that I’ve worked at get their inventory from Smart & Final. There are a lot of options there that just aren’t found at normal grocery stores.
• Suckers – if you read my Movie Theater Post last summer, you can probably guess why I think suckers are a FANTASTIC thing to take to baseball games.
• Red Licorice! I don’t know why, but baseball screams Red Vines to me! Most Snack Shacks sell them, but I have an issue with germs. An open bucket of licorice? No thanks. I’ll bring my own. And in case you were wondering…Smart & Final and Costco are incredibly competitive in price for Red Vines.

Now for something to put all the snacks in…I want the space that a full-sized bag gives you, but I hate having a flimsy bag that doesn’t keep its shape. So I got a little bucket from the Dollar Store and stuck it right in there. The bucket is flimsy enough that I can smush it in the wagon to fit in smushy places, but it is strong enough to give the bag some shape.

Packing the Wagon

I know it seems like a lot, but it really isn’t as much stuff as you think. I put all the BIG ZIPLOC BAGS (Every Day, Cold Day, Hot Day, Rainy Day) in one cute bigger bag that I’ve had for years (the black and white bag in the picture below). The cooler fits next to that.

Then I put the snack bag, licorice (disguised in the emptied out bucket of baseballs) and little kid chairs on the other side. Remember…our adult chairs are on our backs. But when I am alone, or if the kids are beat, I just stick the chairs on top and sometimes use a bungee cord to hold them all up there. Those are the days I REALLY wish we had the double-decker wagon!

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Before you leave, check out these other baseball mom posts:

10 Baseball Mom Hacks You Haven’t Heard Before

The BEST GIFT EVER for Baseball Lovers (plus a $20 off coupon)

Baseball Flip Flops .

Baseball Mom Help: Printable Little League Game Day Checklist

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HALL OF FAME WEEKEND 2024

The eyes of the baseball world will be focused on Cooperstown July 19 - 22, with the legends of the game in town to see history unfold during Hall of Fame Weekend.

The Class of 2024 will be inducted July 21 on the grounds of the Clark Sports Center in Cooperstown. Adrian Beltré, a five-time Gold Glove winner and four-time Silver Slugger recipient at third base, and former batting champions Todd Helton and Joe Mauer were elected to the Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America. They will be joined by Jim Leyland who was elected by the Contemporary Baseball Era Committee. 

HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2024

Adrian Beltré

3rd Baseman

Todd Helton

1st Baseman

Jim Leyland

HALL OF FAME WEEKEND EVENTS

• INDUCTION CEREMONY -- SUNDAY, JULY 21
• Turn Two with Ozzie Smith & Special Guests -- Friday, July 19
• Hall of Fame Awards Presentation -- Saturday, July 20
• Parade of Legends -- Saturday, July 20
• LEGENDS OF THE GAME ROUNDTABLE -- MONDAY, JULY 22

Always a Hall of Fame Weekend favorite, Ozzie Smith will return to Cooperstown with his Hall of Fame friends to host  Turn Two with Ozzie.  This unique event, taking place on Friday, July 19, will support the Museum’s Education Program.

The Awards Presentation will take place at 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 20. 

Boston Red Sox radio voice Joe Castiglione will be presented with the Ford C. Frick Award for broadcasters and the 2004 World Series champion Red Sox will be recognized on the 20th anniversary of their victory at the July 20  Awards Presentation , which will be held at the Glimmerglass Festival, located just north of the Village of Cooperstown. The late Gerry Fraley will be honored with the BBWAA Career Excellence Award for writers at the event, which takes place in the Alice Busch Opera Theater.

Tickets for the 2024 Hall of Fame Awards Presentation are now sold out.

Fred McGriff and Scott Rolen at the 2023 Legends of the Game Roundtable . 

Class of 2024 inductees Adrian Beltré, Todd Helton, Jim Leyland and Joe Mauer will share memories at the Legends of the Game Roundtable on Monday, July 22 at 10:30 a.m., at Doubleday Field.

MUSEUM MEMBERSHIP

Through the  Museum's Membership Program , baseball fans from around the country and around the world can be part of the team that is preserving the Game’s history and celebrating the all-time greats.

In addition to being part of preserving baseball history, Members receive a full roster of benefits.

Members Have Additional Hall of Fame Weekend Privileges 

Exclusive early access to the Museum on Saturday, Sunday and Monday

Free admission to the Hall of Fame throughout the year

Priority access to the Hall of Fame to avoid long lines

Reserved seating for the  Induction Ceremony  for Contributor, President’s Circle and Benefactor Members

A complimentary copy of the Commemorative Hall of Fame Weekend Program 

Priority access to the  Legends of the Game Roundtable  program on Monday

TRAVEL PACKAGES

The Museum has teamed up with Sports Travel and Tours to offer baseball fans a one-stop opportunity to purchase Hall of Fame Weekend travel packages. For more information or to plan a trip to Cooperstown, please call 1-888-310-HALL (4255). Membership participants receive a 5% discount on all their baseball travel packages.

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2024 College World Series Score Updates and Schedule | NCAA Baseball Tournament

Matt newton | 2 hours ago.

See live score updates for every game in the 2024 College World Series from the double-elimination round all the way to the best-of-three CWS Finals where the 2024 NCAA Division I Baseball National Champion will be crowned. This scoreboard will be updated following the conclusion of each game. Refresh the page for updates. All times Eastern.

Friday, June 14 [Bracket 1] Game 1 (2pm): North Carolina vs. Virginia (ESPN) Game 2 (7pm): Tennessee vs. Florida State (ESPN) Saturday, June 15 [Bracket 2] Game 3 (2pm): Kentucky vs. NC State (ESPN) Game 4 (7pm): Texas A&M vs. Florida (ESPN) Sunday, June 16 [Bracket 1] Game 5 (2pm): Loser Game 1 vs. Loser Game 2 (ESPN) Game 6 (7pm): Winner Game 1 vs. Winner Game 2 (ESPN2) Monday, June 17 [Bracket 2] Game 7 (2pm): Loser Game 3 vs. Loser Game 4 (ESPN) Game 8 (7pm): Winner Game 3 vs. Winner Game 4 (ESPN) Tuesday, June 18 Game 9 (2pm): Winner Game 5 vs. Loser Game 6 (ESPN) Game 10 (7pm): Winner Game 7 vs. Loser Game 8 (ESPN) Wednesday, June 19 Game 11 (2pm): Winner Game 6 vs. Winner Game 9 (ESPN) Game 12 (7pm): Winner Game 8 vs. Winner Game 10 (ESPN) Thursday, June 20 [if necessary] Game 13 (2pm): Bracket 1 winner-take-all Game 14 (7pm): Bracket 2 winner-take-all C ollege World Series Finals Game 1: Saturday, June 22nd at 7:30pm (ESPN) Game 2: Sunday, June 23rd at 2pm (ABC) Game 3 (if necessary): Monday, June 24th at 7pm (ESPN)

See the results and game scores of the Super Regional round of the 2024 NCAA Baseball Tournament here.

See the results and game scores of the Regional round of the 2024 NCAA Baseball Tournament here.

College World Series Bracket and Schedule | 2024 NCAA Baseball Tournament

Read more: Virginia Baseball: Bracket Set for UVA's Side of the College World Series

MATT NEWTON

Managing Editor and Publisher, CavaliersNow Email: [email protected]: @mattynewtssWebsite | LinkedIn | Instagram Matt Newton is the managing editor and publisher at CavaliersNow. He has been covering UVA athletics since 2019 and has been the managing editor at CavaliersNow since launching the site in August 2021. Matt covers all things UVA sports, including Virginia basketball and football news and recruiting, former Wahoos in the pros, and coverage of all 23 of the NCAA Division I sports teams at the University of Virginia. A native of Downingtown, Pennsylvania, Matt grew up a huge Philadelphia sports fan, but has also been a UVA sports fanatic his entire life thanks to his parents, who are alums of the University of Virginia. Matt followed in his parents' footsteps and attended UVA from 2017-2021, graduating with a degree in Media Studies and a minor in Economics in May of 2021. 

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NCAA.com | June 10, 2024

Pairings and game times set for 77th men's college world series.

OMAHA -- The pairings and game times for the first two days of the 2024 NCAA Men’s College World Series (MCWS) have been announced. The 77th MCWS will take place at Charles Schwab Field Omaha in Omaha, Nebraska, June 14-23/24.

The first game on Friday, June 14 is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. Central time, and showcases No. 4 national seed North Carolina (47-14) against No. 12 national seed Virginia (46- 15) on ESPN. Friday’s second game features No. 1 national seed Tennessee (55-12) against No. 8 national seed Florida State (47-15) and is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. Central time on ESPN.

The Saturday, June 15 action includes No. 2 national seed Kentucky (45-14) against either No. 7 national seed Georgia (43-16 through June 9) or No. 10 national seed NC State (37- 21 through June 9) at 1 p.m. Central time on ESPN. The other Saturday game features No. 3 national seed Texas A&M (49-13) squaring off against Florida (34-28) at 6 p.m. Central time on ESPN.

The losing teams of Friday’s two games will play at 1 p.m. Central time Sunday, June 16 on ESPN, while Friday’s winners face off at 6 p.m. Central time Sunday, June 16 on ESPN2. The losers of Saturday’s games will play each other at 1 p.m. Central time Monday, June 17 on ESPN. Saturday’s winners will meet Monday, June 17 at 6 p.m. Central time on ESPN.

The winners of the two brackets will play a best-of-three Men’s College World Series Finals, with the first game set for 6:30 p.m. Central time Saturday, June 22 on ESPN. The second game is scheduled for 1 p.m. Central time Sunday, June 23 on ABC with game three (if necessary) scheduled for 6 p.m. Central time Monday, June 24 on ESPN.

NC State focused on a new dream at the 2024 Men's College World Series

Georgia's Charlie Condon wins the 2024 Dick Howser Trophy

The Dick Howser Trophy: A complete guide to college baseball's national player of the year award

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How Phils are planning for London Series trip

Paul Casella

This story was excerpted from the Phillies Beat newsletter. Paul Casella is filling in for Todd Zolecki on this edition. To read the full newsletter, click here . And subscribe to get it regularly in your inbox.

PHILADELPHIA -- Not much has been able to slow down the National League-leading Phillies this season, so they're going out of their way to make sure this weekend's trip to London doesn't disrupt their remarkable start.

While the flight time itself -- a little more than seven hours -- isn't overly excessive by Major League standards, the six-hour time change is unlike anything the players have experienced before. That's why the organization has met with the players to emphasize the importance of strictly adhering to the advice of experts and the club's medical staff in regard to how to approach this weekend's two-game London Series against the Mets .

London Series • Everything you need to know about the London Series • Here are all the celebrities you’ll see at the London Series • The key players to know in '24 London Series • Lindor Q&A: London Series, fashion, his career, more • From the 'Chosen One' to London: Harper reflects • Ahead of London Series, Utley reflects on expat decision • Murphy bests former rival Utley at Trafalgar Square home run derby • Former Phillies, Mets greats reflect on rivalry in London • Complete London Series coverage

So what do those plans look like?

Well, the Phillies will head directly to the airport following Wednesday afternoon's game against the Brewers, then fly overnight to London. Between the flight length and the time change, they will arrive on Thursday morning.

"Essentially, the key is making sure we're sleeping on the plane going over," manager Rob Thomson said. "We've got a plane with 100-something lay-down seats. So it'll be sleeping on the way there, then getting up and moving around once we get there to try to acclimate to that time zone."

That’ll be extra important for a Phillies team that just finished a West Coast swing through Denver and San Francisco last week. By the time they return from London, the Phils will have crossed 18 time zones since May 23, when they departed for Colorado.

And while sleeping isn't typically the preferred activity for most of the players, they're confident the special makeshift beds will help their cause.

As for the return trip, the Phillies will head straight to the airport following Sunday's series finale. Obviously, the exact timeline depends on when the game ends, but the plan is to arrive in Boston -- where they will open a three-game series vs. the Red Sox on Tuesday -- around 10 ET on Sunday night.

That means they'll need to do the opposite on the trip back home: stay awake for the entire flight, then sleep as soon as they get to their hotel in Boston.

So how does one pass seven-plus hours on a flight after back-to-back international baseball games?

"Cards," Thomson said. "Playing a lot of cards."

While Thomson and some of his fellow coaches play their hands, a group of players typically has their own game going.

That core group usually consists of Kyle Schwarber, J.T. Realmuto, Trea Turner and Whit Merrifield, but notable guests drop in from time to time, including Bryce Harper, Alec Bohm and Bryson Stott, among others. The game is dealer's choice, though Merrifield said it's usually some variation of poker.

⚽️ Football ➡️ Baseball ⚾️ The London Stadium is #LondonSeries ready @MLB | @Mets | @Phillies pic.twitter.com/pgYLsxPrUJ — MLB Europe (@MLBEurope) June 5, 2024

As for some of the other guys, Zack Wheeler sometimes entertains himself with a Nintendo Switch, though he noted he's "not much of a video game guy." Matt Strahm dabbles in Sudoku and kills time on the Internet. Aaron Nola said he likes to just relax and chat with catcher and seat neighbor Garrett Stubbs.

"Maybe sip some bourbon," Nola said.

Added Stubbs: "He has the good stuff; it's good to be plane buddies with Noles."

Regardless of how they pass the time, the key will simply be to stay awake.

Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol, whose club faced the Cubs in the London Series last summer, recently shed some light on the experience when he was in town for this past weekend’s series between the Cards and Phils.

“It was really enjoyable; I appreciated being able to go out there and experience that,” Marmol said. “But coming back is difficult. You plan for it as much as you can and you do everything possible, but it’s not an easy stretch.”

Marmol acknowledged that all the prep work and sticking to the advice of experts certainly helped make the transition easier, and Thomson is hoping the same holds true for his team.

"I'm excited,” Thomson said. “Honestly, I think everybody is excited to go. I think this is going to be unique, and it's going to be a great experience for everybody involved."