What are the evaluations and what do I need to bring?
The try-out/evaluation process for the Spring Little League Divisions will be held at Mansel Carter Oasis Park at the baseball complex. We have over 500 players going through the process. This is a large task and we will work to get through the process as quickly as possible while upholding the integrity of the purpose of tryouts. We ask that parents and players be patient and expect to have to wait a bit. We will have an additional field available for players to warm up on (if needed).
When should I arrive?
An email will be sent including a list of all players that are expected at the try-outs/evaluations. The list will be in alphabetical order by last name and will include proposed arrival time. If you cannot make it at the proposed time, it's not a problem! We try and give block of times to prevent waiting. Please arrive in enough time to have your player warm up and be ready (10-15 min) for that time. We will start with the younger divisions and move up by age group. If your name does not appear on the list, and you expected it to be there please email [email protected]. Remember, coach’s children/protected players will not be on the list.
How will the process work?
When you arrive, please check in at the table up by the field entrance. We will group the players in groups of 10. Once we have 10 players in a group, we will assemble them outside the dugout. The 10 will go into the dugout and start the evaluation process. When they go in the dugout, we will start the process of assembling the next group outside the dugout. Please make sure you stay close by so you don’t miss your group. We will let each group in 10-15 minutes ahead of their evaluation to warm-up. We are going to limit the number of kids in the field area. We ask that you not form a large crowd at the entrance.
What do the players need to bring?
Players should wear cleats if they have them. They will also need a baseball glove to complete the evaluation. If they have a bat they should bring it. If they don’t have a bat, we will have a few at the field they can use if needed. Concessions will not be open so please bring any refreshments you require. Depending on the weather, you may also want to bring a jacket and wear a long sleeved shirt.
What do the players do during the tryout/evaluation?
Each player will get three swings against a pitching machine. After the third swing, they will run to second base like they have hit a double. They will then take two to three ground balls at shortstop and throw to the first baseman. They will then stay at first base and catch the throw from the next player. Once they complete the activities, they are free to leave.
Does everyone have to try out? What if I cannot attend?
All players registered in Junior Minors or above must complete a spring tryout to be eligible to be drafted. If they do not attend evaluations, they will be placed in a blind selection process during the draft and be randomly assigned to teams after the regular drafting has taken place. The following are the only exceptions to this process:
If you cannot make the evaluation, a written excuse must be emailed and approved by the league prior to the try-out evaluation. Please e-mail that information to: [email protected].
- If a player has been “protected” on a roster of an existing team they do not need to attend a tryout. These are primarily coach’s children.
Why do player tryouts at all?
Junior Minor, Senior Minor and Major Division teams are formed through a player draft. This is a method where coaches take turns selecting players until all the teams are formed. A player tryout is conducted to assess current performance levels of the players so that coaches can draft teams that are balanced and competitive. The term “tryout” is a formal term, as this is more of an evaluative process and all registered players will be drafted to a team.