BASEBALL

Cal Ripken Baseball Division - Ages 2-15

Keeping baseball FUN-especially in the early stages of youth baseball-is a primary concern of Babe Ruth League's Cal Ripken Division, which is comprised of the following divisions:

Babe Ruth Baseball - Ages 13-15

Founded in 1951, Babe Ruth Baseball League was created for ballplayers ages 13-15 who wished to continue their baseball playing experience beyond the age of 12. This is where players get their baseball cleats muddy for the first time on standard 90' diamonds under Official Baseball Rules used by Major League Baseball. In this division, teams are eligible to enter tournament competition and move along the tournament trail, culminating in a World Series. Three World Series are held in this division: one for 13 Year-Old players, one for 13 and 14 Year-Old Players, and the renowned 13-15 World Series.

Major Division: 

The most experienced level of Cal Ripken Baseball, recommended for 11 and 12 year old players. Cal Ripken Baseball is played under the Official Baseball Rules, but implements some special rules as necessary for the development and welfare of this young age group. Under the Major Division.  Special base running rules are also in effect. This division is offered as an option to the major division format, and includes a tournament trail from District competition through the World Series.  Games consist of six innings. In order to encourage the league to train more pitchers, there are rules that set the maximum number of innings a pitcher may pitch in a calendar week.

Minor: 

Recommended for ballplayers ages 9-10. Players build and refine their fundamental skills while beginning to understand game strategy and teamwork. In most regions, participants first experience post-season tournament competition in this level, leading to the 10 Year-Old World Series.

Rookie: 

Designed primarily for ballplayers ages 7-8, this division makes use of a pitching machine to allow for more hittable balls at the plate and more action in the field. Fear of actually being hit by a pitched ball is diminished. It makes the game safer and improves the playing confidence and ability of all participants.

T-Ball: 

Ballplayers ages 4-6 learn hitting and fielding fundamentals in a supportive team environment. Young athletes hit the ball from a batting tee which is height-adjusted for a level swing, batting in order through the line-up for the entire game. The primary goal is to begin to instruct young players in the fundamentals of baseball in a supportive team environment.

The Foundation:  

This is for the little ones ages 2-4 who will learn the very basics of the game.  This will be a great introduction to the game of baseball and to help improve batting skills, motor skills and hand eye coordination.  We will make baseball fun for beginning athletes who will be using plastic baseballs and bats while hitting off an adjustable tee.

Babe Ruth Softball provides girls across the country with a safe, fun, and competitive environment to develop their skills, learn teamwork, and grow as athletes. Our divisions are age-based and designed to ensure each player is challenged appropriately while enjoying the game. 

No matter the level, Babe Ruth Softball is committed to building confident athletes, great teammates, and a lifelong love of the game. 

10U (10 & Under)  

Focus: Transition to kid-pitch softball
This level introduces players to pitching, with an emphasis on mechanics and control. Players begin pitching to each other, and game rules begin to more closely resemble standard softball play. Continued development in hitting, fielding, and game strategy.  

• 11" hard softball

•  Mask required for pitching, 1st, & 3rd

• 35’ pitching distance

• Player Evaluations and draft 

• Players begin to learn pitching mechanics, catching, and infield/outfield roles.
   
• Emphasis is placed on proper throwing, fielding technique, and basic team strategy.
   
• Umpires enforce rules, and game scores are typically kept.

12U (12 & Under)   

Focus: Full softball gameplay and increased competition
Players are now competing under standard softball rules with full player pitching, base stealing, and advanced defensive strategies. Teams may participate in local tournaments and all-stars. Focus is on sharpening skills and learning advanced game situations. 

• 12" hard ball

• Mask required for pitching, 1st & 3rd

• Players pitch from 40 feet.
   
• Full game strategies are introduced: double plays, relays, bunt defense.
   
• Base stealing is permitted (with limits depending on league rules).
   
• Teams may begin participating in tournaments or all-star play.
   
• Players start to specialize in positions (pitchers, catchers, shortstop, etc.).

14U (14 & Under) 

Focus: Competitive and elite-level play
Players further refine their skills with a focus on competition, preparation for high school play, and teamwork. Advanced strategies, faster gameplay, and higher levels of coaching and training are introduced.  

• 12” hard softball 

• Player pitch Mask required for pitching, 1st, & 3rd

• Pitching distance is 43 feet.
   
• Drop third strike, infield fly, and advanced rules are enforced.
   
• Teams play more competitive schedules, including travel and tournaments.
   
• Coaches focus on developing game intelligence and leadership.