Major League-
The Major League division is for players league age 10-12, but may occasionally include skilled 9-year-old players. In the Major League division the emphasis is on skills development, rules of baseball, sportsmanship, specialization, and game strategy. While coaches attempt to provide fair playing time for all players, there is more emphasis on competition and there is no guarantee that all players will receive equal playing time or will be able to play their preferred position.
Teams will have a regular game on Saturday morning and up to two additional games during the week, typically Tuesday - Thursday. Approximately half of weekday games will be away games played in the Old North end of New North End of Burlington. Teams will typically practice once or twice per week when the game schedule permits. Players must attend tryouts for the Major League division. There may be a limited number of spots and not all players will have the opportunity to play in the Major League division. Where space is limited, preference will typically be given to players league age 11 and 12.
Major League FAQs
When does the season start/end?
The season officially begins on Opening day- which is typically the last weekend in April or 1st weekend in May. There are optional clinics hosted in March and April. Some players will go on to be selected for the All-Star team, and that season typically starts mid-June and ends mid-July.
What is the time commitment?
Teams will typically practice once or twice per week when the game schedule permits. Teams will have a regular game on Saturday morning and up to two additional games during the week, typically Tuesday - Thursday. Approximately half of weekday games will be away games played in the Old North end of New North End of Burlington.
What equipment do I need?
Each player needs to have cleats and their own glove. Players typically wear baseball pants. It is not required to have your own bat or helmet. If you do purchase a bat, it needs to meet the USA Baseball Bat Standard (USABat) as adopted by Little League - the coaches can help guide this purchase. Players are required to wear a protective cup at this level.
What is the age and talent level of the kids?
Minor league is for players league age 12 and under. It is expected, but not required that players will have had some experience with baseball or at minimum will have some ability to throw and catch a baseball. The emphasis of Minor Leagues is on skills development, specialized positions, and the rules of baseball.
How are the games structured?
Games are 6 innings of 3 outs (or 2 hours, whichever comes first). Players who have strong throwing ability and control will pitch to hitters. Games are scored and the teams will have a season record. Players will learn the specifics of each position, how to field and cover bases on defense, and steal bases on offense.
Can I volunteer to help?
Yes! BA relies on volunteers to make the season possible.
Coaching: At this level, it is expected that coaches have baseball knowledge. BA has a player development agent who will provide guidance to the coaches in how best to structure practices.
Green up Day: Everyone is welcome to help get the fields ready for the season.
Snack Shack: The Snack Shack is the main fundraising source for BA, and parent volunteers are critical to keeping it running. Parents (and older kids), can sign up to take shifts selling snacks and running the grill. *Please check out the “Volunteer Opportunities” link on the website*