Participation in organized sports drops by an estimated 70% by age 13. Baseball alone has similar numbers. The drop is driven by several factors, but burnout is number one. Why do kids burn out? Kids state it’s no longer fun. They feel too much pressure from parents and coaches. The kids say they can no longer compete at that level. They are just not good enough. Organized sports offer a lot for kids, including life lessons, physical fitness, and fun with friends. Certainly, some kids develop other interests, causing them to drop out. But others drop out because of the sport itself.

When it stops being fun

Baseball starts out as just a fun activity that’s typically played with friends in the community. As the kids (and parents) learn the game and gain experience, the shift begins. Kids become more engaged and more competitive. Some request private lessons. Some parents push their kids to do more. It starts to become a job. They begin to say they “have to put the work in.” It’s certainly more fun to win than lose. The desire to win begins to take priority over enjoyment.

Some achieve more wins through practice, while others pursue wins by switching teams. Parents and coaches begin to evaluate (scrutinize) the kids constantly. This added pressure eliminates some of the fun. As some switch to more competitive teams, the pressure to perform also increases, not to mention the additional cost. These factors combine to reduce the fun for kids, coaches, and parents.

Year-round schedules

Parents and kids also felt pressure to specialize in their chosen sport. Specializing early creates an increased risk of injury and provides less time for recovery. Staying active in multiple sports can help prevent burnout and provide a healthier experience. Playing multiple sports does not mean that the kids need to play them all at the highest and most competitive level. Exercising different muscles, varying movement patterns, and increasing coordination helps to become more athletic. Coaches prefer more athletic kids.

Multiple sports also prevent boredom and monotony. The constant repetition affects the mental state and contributes to potential overuse. When combined with private lessons, normal practices, tournaments, and travel, that risk of burnout is high. Mixing it up with other sports is effective, especially with younger ages. As they get to high school and want to specialize, they are much more ready for it.

Not good enough

Another contributor to burnout and the desire to leave baseball is the feeling that they are no longer good enough. As kids reach age 13, they typically move to a full-size field and begin to use heavier bats. Many of the tournaments and showcases also require wood bats. For the late bloomers, this move can really frustrate them. There have been some attempts at easing the transition, for better or worse. Recently high schools changed the bat rules to allow the use of lighter bats for high schoolers. This could provide some relief for the smaller players. If they are looking to play at the next level though, they have to get to the -3 approved college bats.

Comparing themselves to others can also produce worry and anxiety. It’s noted that kids should strive to be their best and not compare their outcomes to others. The current recruiting, showcase, travel, and ranking systems all but force the comparisons. Some kids thrive on the added pressure, but for many, it’s a driver to leave baseball.

Increasing pressure

Parent behavior often increases pressure on kids. As parents have dished out more money for travel, tournaments, and showcases, their focus moves to outcomes (winning). Parents will push kids to play when they don’t want to, leading to physical and mental fatigue. This fatigue drives kids to leave baseball earlier than they may otherwise.

Comparing kids also exerts significant pressure on the kids. Coaches and parents alike are guilty of this. Whether done in public or in private, it has a similar effect on the kids. Playing time and the surrounding entitlement also create significant stress. In rec ball, playing time requirements are used to help provide opportunities for kids. In travel ball, no one guarantees playing time. As the overall spend increases in travel ball, parents expect at least a minimum level of playtime. As the focus shifts to winning at all costs, the use of guest players causes conflict. Should the guest player take innings from a paying team member? (Yes, there are times when guest players make sense. Long tournaments require more arms than shorter tournaments, for example). Coaches often overuse guest players by just bringing in ringers for bracket play.

Poor adult behavior by both parents and coaches also adds to the pressure. Parents coaching and criticizing from the sidelines and arguing with umpires and coaches need to end. Kids put enough pressure on themselves and do not need this extra chaos. Social media misses nothing. Seeing how the adults act undermines the joy for the kids. Handle disagreements like adults and positively support the kids.

How to help kids stay

To help the kids stay engaged and support their desire to play at the next level requires awareness and self-control. Be supportive without adding pressure or stress. The kids will tell you how they are feeling . . . Listen! Let them play multiple sports as long as they desire, knowing that at some point they will probably need to specialize. It’s extremely rare to have kids who play multiple sports at a high level. Avoid toxic coaching. Find a knowledgeable, supportive coach who is interested in developing kids.

As long as the kids are having fun, they will stay engaged!

Pitchers today are constantly chasing velo, and you see kids at progressively younger ages hitting 90 MPH. 90 always seems to be the magic number that kids are chasing, but that seems to increase over time as well. How important is velo for recruiting? There is a baseline velo that recruiters are looking for, but it depends on the division and whether you are a lefty or right-hander. Velo still gets you noticed, but other factors are weighing in more heavily than in the recent past.

Velo

Do you have enough velo to get on the radar? Depending upon the level of school you are pursuing, there is ‌ a minimum velo needed to be effective. Velo requirements are a little lower for left-handers than right-handers. There are plenty of charts showing these requirements, but they seem to change every year, although not significantly. Left-handers’ requirements usually are a couple MPH lower than for the right-handers.

Throwing Strikes

Parents have yelled it from the stands, and even coaches have said it from the dugout. “Just throw strikes!” What does that mean, though? I think of it as pitch to contact. Throw a pitch that entices them to swing and induces weak contact. By keeping your strike percentage at about 70%, you keep the hitters engaged, and they know a walk will be difficult. It also keeps the defense attentive and ready to make plays. Lulling the defense to sleep with walks, deep counts, and little action makes for a long game. The defense has no chance of getting a player out on a walk. With weak contact, the defense makes plays for outs.

Movement

While throwing strikes is important, putting a flat, straight fastball down the middle with no movement is a recipe for disaster. Hitters can catch up to a fastball regardless of its velo. It’s important for a pitcher to have movement on his fastball. Throwing a 2-seam will usually give enough run to make it difficult to hit. A straight 4-seam is a hitter’s dream. It can be effective as a different look, especially high and tight. Hitting movement is way more difficult than a straight fastball.

Changing Speeds and Hitter’s Eye Level

Varying speeds is another tool to make pitching more effective. A classic changeup is a common pitch to use. Without even using a secondary pitch, going from 90% effort to 100% effort is sometimes enough of a velo change to throw the hitter’s timing off. Changing the height of the pitch is also effective. Making a hitter change his eye level can also interrupt his normal hitting pattern. Hitting is tough anyway, so any changes only make it that much tougher. Hitters who fail 70% of the time are considered really good.

Secondary Pitches

In addition to the fastball, recruiters are looking for at least 2 other pitches that he commands. Whether curveballs, sliders, changeups, etc. he needs 2 other pitches that he can reliably throw for strikes. The pitches should effectively look like fastballs until they don’t . . . meaning late break and coming out of the same tunnel or release point. Deceptive pitches keep the hitters out of rhythm and effectively get swings and misses.

Getting Ahead in the Count

Throwing first-pitch strikes and staying ahead in the count is probably the most effective tool the pitcher has. If he can’t throw strikes, hitters will not swing at anything that may look out of the zone and will sit on fastballs. Getting ahead in the count allows pitchers to utilize all the tools in their arsenal. A hitter with 2 strikes is usually going to swing first, and that opens up all the chase-me options. According to MLB data, a first pitch strike drops the batting average by about 29 points. A first pitch ball increases the average by about 12 points. So the difference between a 1-0 count and a 0-1 count is about 41 points in batting average.

Maintaining Velo

Another recruiting factor regarding velo is how long the pitcher sustains his velo. If it starts to drop off after just an inning or two, that could be ineffective as a starter. It might be ok if they are looking for short relief. Sustainable velo is key to throwing meaningful innings. As velo decreases, hitters are able to adjust more easily. By the second or third time through the lineup, their batting success will increase. Throwing at max effort on every pitch will reduce the time that the pitcher can maintain velo. Early fatigue usually means loss of control and command.

Situational Competition

Pitchers also need to possess situational awareness and competitiveness. They need to cause outs. That’s their first priority. They don’t need to strike everyone out. They just need to get them out. Ground outs and pop-ups are typically better for longevity than throwing strikeouts. Outs through contact usually result in lower pitch counts, longer mound presence, and less fatigue.

Velocity should be the result of development, not the qualifier. Showcases and tournaments, especially Perfect Game and Prep Baseball, are so focused on the metrics that it has become difficult to consider anything else. To get any additional information, you have to dig deeper into the statistics to better understand the effectiveness of the pitcher. Perfect Game does keep score for any of their DiamondCast games, but for others, the teams themselves keep score, usually via GameChanger. For scouts and recruiters, they have to see the performance and hope to get more supporting evidence of the outing. Velo matters, but it’s certainly not the only thing to consider. The emphasis should keep moving toward pitching versus just throwing hard. Ultimately, the pitcher’s job is to get outs.

The number and frequency of injuries are growing. Many are blaming “overuse” as the cause, but I’m not so sure. MLB and USA introduced initial “Pitch Smart” guidelines for baseball in 2014. Many tournaments follow those rules, or something similar. High schools in most states have also adopted similar rules. The rules address pitch count limits and the days of rest needed after reaching certain thresholds.

Elbow injuries, linked to the UCL (Ulnar Collateral Ligament), have become common. You’ve likely heard of the infamous Tommy John surgery. TJ surgery requires a full rebuild of the UCL, including a skin graft from a healthy ligament. Other surgeries only require UCL repair. Often referred to as Tommy John, but instead of a full rebuild, it’s just a repair with an internal synthetic brace. Getting the repair versus the full TJ surgery can cut recovery time by 3-6 months. In many of the cases that require a full TJ rebuild, the ligament shows evidence of overuse.

In some cases, doctors are finding the UCL detaches but does not show evidence of overuse. These injuries require the ligament to be reattached to the ulna or humerus and lined with an internal brace. Recovery for this surgery is much quicker than a full TJ surgery. Returning to throw can be around the 6-9 months. For pitchers, it can take a few months longer.

Why are we still seeing an increase in injuries when most are following the “pitch smart” guidelines? Many have posed a number of different theories, but it seems there is nothing definitive. It most likely is a combination of these factors.

• Chasing velocity … especially for pitchers. Pushing too hard and fatigue can cause breakdowns in otherwise proper mechanics, increasing the chance of injury.

• Specializing in baseball early on. Most believe a multi-sport athlete uses a better variety of movements and muscles, resulting in less stress on the arm.

• Throwing at high intensity too often or too long. Here is where the pitch count theories came from. Referred to as acute overuse.

• Year-round play - Between travel, school, tournaments, and showcases, players take very few breaks anymore. With fewer breaks, there is little time for full recovery and healing.

• Improper mechanics - Throwing incorrectly can cause increased stress on ligaments, joints, and muscles.

While each of these alone can certainly contribute to injury, it’s likely a combination of these factors that causes injury. That makes sense, and one can easily just say “overuse” is the culprit.

My son recently had UCL repair surgery, and the doctor noted that the ligament simply detached from the humerus. He was pitching in Jupiter, FL in October‌ 2025. We had monitored his pitch count and limited his number of appearances to avoid injury. He still ended up injured and required surgery. When the doctor completed the surgery, he said it wasn’t because of overuse. The ligament still looked “brand new.” The ligament simply detached from the humerus. The doctor reattached the ligament with the internal brace, and my son began his rehab. At the time of this post, he is at college for his freshman year, and should be ready to pitch for the Fall.

I theorize that as players have learned how to throw harder at younger ages, their bodies are just not able to handle that level of stress yet. Ages 15-19, from what I’ve been able to find, receive about 60% of TJ surgery or UCL repairs. Certainly there are some because of each of the reasons noted above, but there are many where those potential causes have been controlled. Injuries still happen.

With the growing number of pitching camps, lessons, workouts, and monitoring systems (Trackman, Rapsodo), players are able to squeeze every bit of velocity out of their bodies. This is being pursued by younger players every year. Just like younger athletes are told not to lift weights too early, I think players should avoid chasing velo until after puberty. Vélo is going to improve naturally with strength and size, but putting that strain on too early causes ligament failure. Moderation is key. While growing and improving mechanics, learn to pitch, not just throw. Master changing speeds and locating pitches. As the pendulum swings back to throwing strikes versus just throwing hard, you have time to master control.

Do you know of anyone, or have personal experience, where the injury was not due to overuse?

You’ve probably heard of players re-classing … Holding back a year … Repeating a grade. Players have done it. Coaches have recommended re-classing. Tournament groups have embraced it. There are a multitude of reasons to consider re-classing. Which reasons are good ones? What do you gain? What do you lose? You’ll see it in almost all sports today. In the past, repeating a grade was mostly for academic or social issues, allowing a student to mature. Re-classing has become commonplace, with sports as the driver.

Academics

Traditionally, kids were either held back a grade for poor academic performance or needing to develop socially. Some started kindergarten late, and as a result, were older than their classmates. I’m really not addressing those circumstances. It’s the deliberate decision to stay back a year, that I’m reviewing. Repeating a grade to ensure the student can keep up academically is a strong driver for re-classing. There are some other tools to help with this situation, like tutoring, that may be better than re-classing. Is the student struggling with a single subject, or is it more broad? Additionally students need to consider NCAA and high school eligibility. Typically you have to take a certain number of UNIQUE credits per semester to be eligible. Take a course to better your GPA may not count. Research this before trying re-class and retake some classes.

Social Maturity

Another common reason for re-classing is to allow the student to mature socially so they better fit with their classmates (teammates). This is often the case with students that have late summer birthdays, making them the youngest in their class. Moving from younger to older in the class will often give them more confidence. Switching classes can pose challenges for students as well. Will the majority of their friends be graduating earlier then they will, or do they already hang out with younger friends?

Physical Maturity

Some are now re-classing just to give themselves an edge in sports. I’ve seen baseball players who have re-classed well into high school. Most states have particular rules regarding the process. Be sure that the student does not lose eligibility. Some states restrict re-classing to repeating a certain grade only, like prior to moving to high school. If that’s the case, and they want to re-class in high school, then their only option may be to switch to private school. Before making this move, research the rules in your state to ensure you are not doing the student a disservice.

Re-classing for baseball typically means that the player will be bigger, stronger, and more mature at recruitment time. They will also be older. With the new 5 years to play 5 being based on age, you will need to pay special attention to their age. If they turn 19 prior to the current academic year, they could lose a year of eligibility. While there may be some physical advantage, there is still some downside depending on how you address travel ball. For example, PG supports re-classing with a grade-level exception clause. If the player is otherwise older than the requirements, but they are in the correct grade level, they can play at that level. So a re-classed player that is 16 years old can play a 15u tournament. It may seem to be an advantage playing against younger competition, but birth dates are included in the profile and coaches take that into account. For college, it seems to help. Pro scouts are certainly more interested in seeing them play against top competition, meaning at age level or older.

If you re-class for sports, consider playing up at age level versus playing down at grade level. It allows the scouts, coaches, and recruiters to see where you fall in the development cycle. Also consider the impact on the other aspects of high school before making that decision. Even if there are multiple reasons to justify reclassification, some will still judge it as trying to gain an unfair advantage or game the system. Even though it all levels out soon..

With the 5-for-5 rule change, the NIL money, and the transfer portal, college rosters are becoming older. Considering the age requirement of 19, is re-classing the right move? Maybe adjusting expectations and evaluating the continued development through other channels. JUCO and NAIA may provide an opportunity to gain size and experience without giving up a year to stay in high school. Other options include the academies that offer a gap year (post-high school grad) to continue playing. Some academies play a lot of smaller colleges. Everyone’s path is unique. You don’t need to follow the pack.

Why does there always seem to be friction between kids, parents, and coaches? Lately I have seen a number of posts (and I guess it’s that season) where teams offer anonymous tryouts, coaches complain about being poached, and parents criticize everything. Does anyone really care about the players’ goals? A lot of the contention comes from not understanding or respecting the goals and expectations of the others.

At younger ages, kids want to learn and have fun. There are some exceptions, but at 9 or 10 years old, most just want to have fun. Coaches can typically keep development going by converting drills into fun competitions. We typically don’t see kids complaining about having too much fun. As the kids get older, they receive a lot more competition for their time, and thus, develop different goals. Schoolwork becomes more demanding. Girls enter the picture. Kids figure out what it’s like to work and have money in their pockets. Then the freedom of the driver’s license comes. It’s worth checking in to see if their goals are still the same, or as parents and coaches, do we need to “make an adjustment.”

For the kids who just want to have fun, a great question for them is, “Is it more fun to win or lose?” Winning regularly requires more practice, discipline, and more effort. Before spending the money on private lessons and travel ball, it’s worth the discussion about goals. Many times the kids are pushed into the grind, when they really don’t want the grind. Here is where it is critical to match the kids’ goals with the coaches’ goals. Some coaches are all about winning. They are very selective about team members and are always looking for the better players. Other coaches take what they have and want to turn their players into the best team possible. Not that one’s better than the other, but the players’ goals need to align with the coaches’ goals. The work ethic needs to match. Taking a talented player who doesn’t want to work hard will eventually conflict with the other players who want to work hard to improve. Some players are truly passionate about baseball, and some are just going through the motions. Coaches should also accurately communicate their goals. If you use guest players on a regular basis to help you win, you might be more concerned with winning than teaching. Parents, if you applaud this, you may also be more concerned with winning than development. That’s ok as long as everyone is operating with that understanding. It’s probably not the same for those that are sitting while the guest players take the innings. This is not to be confused when a guest player is needed for a specific position because of a player absence. Guest players can also be necessary during longer tournaments to ensure enough arms to compete.

Playing at the next level means just that. For each individual player, the next level for them may differ from others. For some it’s moving from rec to travel, from regional to national level, from travel to high school, etc. For many, it has been Cooperstown, and then they hang up the cleats after that. For others, that time comes later. I have seen some talented kids who decided during high school not to pursue college ball. Some high schoolers lose interest as their goals change. I’ve seen them leave baseball to pursue college and a medical degree. I’ve seen them forgo college to learn a trade. Trying to force the next level just doesn’t work. The rigor and discipline will not happen without ‌dedication and passion.

Whatever the player’s goals, parents should understand them and work to match them with the right team and coach. Everyone will be much happier overall. Coaches, players, and parents often reinforce being a team player. It’s really hard to be a team player when your goals don’t match the team. It’s critical that coaches, parents, and players ensure shared goals. When talent, work ethic, and goals align, great things happen!!

Good luck to all those grinding for the next level!

August 1, 2026 has come and gone. While some 2028s received calls from recruiters, many calls were most likely delayed. Judge Charlotte Sweeney issued an injunction extending another year of eligibility to 2022s. The injunction came out on July 31, just one day prior to the August 1 recruiting kickoff. College recruiters stepped back to see what options this opened up for them, but questions remain. The NCAA plans to appeal, leading to more uncertainty.

Some questions still exist:

• If the player has graduated from college, will he have to enroll as a graduate student to be eligible? Or will taking enough of a class load be enough?

• College coaches need to consider how this impacts their current committed roster. Are there any players leaving that they can add back?

• How might this impact the scholarship distribution?

• Should recruiters delay committing more 2027s and 2028s?

• Would this new rule have changed players’ decisions regarding the draft? If they were not a high round choice, would the player have stayed for another year?

• What about those who have aged-out prior to the 5-for-5 rule? Do they still get another year?

The way the injunction currently reads, the players must otherwise still be eligible. That seems contradictory though, because if they previously played 4 years but had a redshirt, that would seem to make them ineligible.

For colleges taking this into account, Fall 2026 may be more competitive than ever. With any last-minute decisions made, it will significantly impact those that may be cut at such a late date. It happens to some extent already. The teams have to drop to the 34-man roster prior to spring. Should the NCAA allow for a roster increase if a player is returning to the same school for their fifth year of eligibility? Should they allow the extra roster spots for transfers as well?

We’ve already seen a slowdown in the commitment timeline prior to this injunction. 2027s are committing later in the process than 2026s, and I suspect 2028s will commit even later. The decision remains with the school. Do they have someone return, or does the current roster remain intact? With the recent changes, rosters are aging every year. The process will remain chaotic for some time before we see things stabilize. I thought we would see some stabilization this year, but it looks like it will remain volatile for the near future.

For coaches and recruits, the recruiting process has changed with increasing frequency and complexity. For aspiring college athletes, they will need to stay consistent and persistent in their efforts. Find the right match that meets your educational goals, financial constraints, and development goals. It looks like offers for many will come later than in previous years, and there may not be as many spots for freshmen as before. The recruiting timeline has extended anyway due to the transfer portal timing and the need for coaches to win now. D2, D3, and JUCO will become a more frequent path for many, unless the NCAA changes that with some new rules in their “rule of the month” timeline.

Prior to Signing Up

You have targeted some colleges and completed your research. The school has your intended major, and the environment meets or exceeds your expectations. The camp has published dates, fees, and a signup link. Consider these items prior to entering your credit card information. These tips are generally for the prospect camps. Ensure you are signing up for the correct camp. Some schools also hold “youth camps,” which are more instructional than the prospect camps.

• Do you know the coaches, or at least know their names? Do they know you?

  • Make them aware that you will be attending. Email, DM, or text them that you will be attending. Ask your current coaches to reach out to them, especially if your current coaches already have a relationship with them.

• Decide if you will participate as a pitcher only, 2-way, or position player only.

  • You can usually register for any of those. 2-way players pay a little more since they will hit, occupy a field position, and pitch a few innings.

  • Register for your BEST position! In the games, you may have limited time at your actual position in the games. Shortstops usually outnumber every other position by a significant margin.

• Ask if you can expect other coaches from nearby schools to attend.

  • Many times, other schools will be there too. (other divisions, etc.) There will typically only be a couple there.

Preparation

After registering, you will get your receipt, camp instructions, and usually a medical information form, and a waiver to return. Send those in early. It makes registration much smoother than having to sign forms at the registration desk. Follow up with the coaches 2 days before that you will take part at the camp. If you’re not familiar with the campus, look at Google Maps (or others), and check out the field location, parking, etc. Sometimes the camp coordinator will include the parking info in the information packet. Many schools charge for parking. It’s worth checking into. There’s nothing worse than getting back out to the car after a long day and seeing that ticket on the windshield.

The school will sometimes recommend hotels if needed, and you definitely want to be close to the field, especially for the multi-day camps. Eat a good breakfast and get there early.They usually either provide lunch or will have a break for lunch. Most of the camps include a T-shirt. If they don’t, wear something with your last name on it. Pack for baseball! Bring water, equipment, baseball attire, etc. Bring cleats, turfs, molded cleats, and sneakers. Some schools are very particular about what shoes you can wear on their field.

Arrival and Check-in

Check-in is usually pretty painless. Bring your gear. Parents don’t need to wait in line with the player, and they can go find a seat if they plan to spectate. Some parents leave, but a lot will hang around to watch. After signing in, you will get your team assignment and schedule. On the schedule, you will usually see a campus tour, a facility tour, and game times for your assigned team. Some will watch all the games, while others will leave and return. Either is ok. My experience is that they are usually running close to on-time, but the late games can go a little longer, depending on how many campers there are. Usually, everyone heads to the field after signing in for warmups.

Metrics

After warmups, they will usually want to knock out the 60 yard run first. Coaches will have the players run in pairs to help with performance. The coaches will record this as the first metric. After the 60, the coaches will gather the other metrics. They will capture infield and outfield velocity, pop times and throw down velocity for catchers, and general throwing accuracy. Once field time is concluded, the teams will go into their rotations based upon the schedule. Some will start tours, others will rotate through batting cage warmups, and games will begin.

The coaches are observing players the WHOLE time, even when not actively performing. Warmup with intention, play active catch, stretch, and any other prep routine that you have. I know of at least one school that uses their field cameras to watch after the camp to see how engaged the players were during the camp. Be social. Meet the other players and coaches. Shake hands. It’s ok to cheer on the other players and acknowledge strong effort.

After the camp is over, the director should send out the results for the player. If you don’t receive his metrics, just ask.

Games

The games are fun to watch, and the players are also having fun. At a couple of the camps, the school’s players cheered and helped in the dugouts. It was great for the campers to ask questions and get to know some of the team members. The school usually has Trackman going. It allows for some great feedback. If you are a parent watching, you can usually capture the metrics from the big screen to share later.

When playing, the coaches are evaluating skills, technique, and performance. That’s the easy part. They are also viewing how you carry yourself on and off the field. They are observing your interactions with the coaches and other players. They are also watching to see how you react when you make a mistake or have a poor at bat. Enjoy the games, but coaches love to see how you handle adversity.

Games will usually follow a “showcase” format, with 3 outs or 5 batters usually being the norm. This allows them to use pitching appropriately, manage time, and ensure they see everyone.

Departure

When getting ready to depart, make sure you thank the coaches. Shake their hands and look them in the eye. Be confident! You will see some players pulled to the side. Some will get some private feedback, etc. Remember, some campers are not old enough for the coaches to discuss recruiting yet. Some of the players there were specifically invited to attend that camp. Pitchers, thank your catchers. Catchers have a tough job catching all those pitchers at camp. You will probably see them again. There just aren’t that many around . . .

Afterward

After the camp, whether on the drive home, or after you get home, thank the coaches for the camp. Mention any specifics about the camp that will help them remember you. Email, post to X, DM them, etc. Did you like the tours? Can you see yourself attending and playing there? Let them know! Be excited about the opportunity.

Take some notes about the camp, campus, and coaches. As you continue on your journey, things will start to blur. Make sure you are clear on your desires. If you didn’t like it, that’s ok too. You’ve learned where you might not want to attend. That helps you narrow in on your search.

I hope you find this valuable. If you feel I missed anything or would like me to discuss another topic, please let me know in the comments or message me. If you are in the hunt, good luck!!

When looking to gain visibility to be recruited in baseball, there are numerous apps, services, and techniques to consider. I will mention some of these, but primarily I’ll focus on social media for this publication. You need a strategy, and you need to be consistent. First let’s discuss strategy.

The Basics - Account Setup

Focus on one platform and then expand on that. First and foremost I recommend X (Twitter). It is by far the most widely used by recruiters. It’s also simple to tag others, and you can send direct messages. You can use an account dedicated to baseball here. Don’t clutter it up with “friend information.” It’s fine to like things, but don’t repost others’ stuff. You can do that with a personal account. When reposting, those will be at the top of your posts, and push your posts down the list. Here’s a couple of tips on setting up X.

• You’ll want to create the account using a name that at least represents the player’s real name.

• The player should run the account and keep it dedicated to baseball.

• In the profile, include:

  • Physical attributes: Height, weight, positions played

  • Academic info: High School (include City/State), Grad Year, GPA, any Honors

  • Links to other social accounts (mainly Instagram and/or Youtube)

  • Travel Team

• Pick a good profile picture and banner (baseball-related preferably)

• Pin a highlight video to the top of your feed.

Posting

Capture a lot of videos‌. It’s easier for pitchers and catchers, as they are always part of the action. The hardest part for them is editing it down. Batters are also easier to catch. Catching that great defensive play on camera is much tougher and becomes hit and miss. Being consistent is super important. Post at least a couple of videos per week. If nothing is going on in a particular week, post a previous one. Here are some other tips and recommendations for posting:

• Create a tag list somewhere, like Notepad. That makes it easy to copy and paste for each post.

  • On most posts tag current coaches, school sports accounts, and repost accounts

  • Don’t tag college coaches/recruiters (DM/Text/Email them a link to the post individually instead)

• Post a video, but make it only two minutes. I tried to keep them under a minute.

• Include a description - where, outcome, etc.

• Include your tag list

• Repost or quote scouting reports from PG, PBR, Dynamic, etc.

  • Always thank them for the recognition

  • Again, include your tag list

• For pitchers and hitters, post stats for the game.

  • Don’t include pitcher velo unless it was included in a third party scouting post

• Post your schedule - especially for travel ball

  • Text/DM/Email it to specific coaches individually

By posting regularly, you will gain an audience. Some of the coaches will follow you. Some will stay incognito, but will still be watching. Just because they are not listed as a follower, does not mean that they are not watching. Find the appropriate groups to tag for your area to help increase exposure. Some like @uncommited, @”travel team”, @”geographical area” , and many others can help with exposure by reposting your posts. Include the tourney body in your tags as well.

There are other services that are not really social media, but are invaluable in making you reachable. Take advantage of all the profiles for the tournament bodies, like PG, PBR, Dynamic, etc. They are free. The profile information is viewable by the scouts and recruiters. You can repost to Instagram as well, but it does not seem to be followed as closely as X.

As you are taking videos, post them all to a YouTube channel. As mentioned earlier, reference the YouTube channel in the profile/bio. Say something like “For more videos go here —> “YouTube link.” For pitching, we included full bullpens, full ABs, etc. We tried to make them less than a minute and in portrait mode. Those get posted as “shorts” by YouTube and get a lot of additional visibility.

I hope you find this helpful. Good luck in your recruiting efforts!

If you have questions, please let me know in the comments or send me a direct message.

Interested to hear about another topic? Let me know!

High school baseball will see a change in bat specifications starting in the 2028 season. Currently bats need to meet the following:

• BBCOR-certified bats

• Maximum 2⅝-inch barrel

• -3 drop weight only (e.g., a 33-inch bat must weigh at least 30 ounces)

These requirements remain the same through the 2027 season, and can still be used going forward.

Beginning in the 2028 season, the players may use:

• Traditional USA BBCOR (-3) bats (Older non-branded bats can be used indefinitely)

• USA-certified -4 bats

• USA-certified -5 bats

• USA-certified -6 bats

The new bats will need to have the USA certified branding to be legal.

Advantages

The newer lighter bats will allow younger smaller players to transition more easily from youth baseball bats to the heavier -3 high school bat. The lighter bats will improve bat speed, and some think this is a safety risk for players. Currently manufacturers are claiming that the reduced mass will not result in significant increased exit velocity. I’m not crazy about the wording, but it I believe they mean that with players swinging an appropriate weight for their size.

Risks

I believe that for varsity, they should keep to the -3 weight, and allow the other weights for middle school and JV (including Freshman ball where appropriate.) One study shows that for every ounce drop in weight, bat speed increases by 1-2 MPH. So if bat speed with a -3 is 80 MPH, then at -6, the bat speed would be 85-86 MPH. That’s a pretty significant increase. If you have a larger junior or senior already swinging upper 80s, then I think the exit velocity could increase significantly. The loss of mass would be negligible compared to the increase in swing speed. That’s why the lighter bats should remain outside of varsity. Players looking to play in college will need to be swinging the heavier -3 anyway to prepare for college.

Let me know what you think . . . good rule or no?

Thanks for reading! If you have any other topics you’d like to hear about, just drop me a comment.

When reaching high school age and looking to play at the next level, discussions turn to college camps, showcases, and tournaments. Prior to the big field, these provide little benefit as college coaches are typically not looking at younger players. With the current recruiting rules, coaches cannot begin recruiting discussions until the summer after sophomore year of high school. Division 1 schools can’t have those discussions until August 1 prior to junior year. D2 and D3 can start earlier - June 15th after sophomore year.

To have a successful recruiting effort, players need to plan for exposure. Prior to looking for exposure, complete a self-assessment to determine where you will likely have success as a player and academic student. Being realistic here is extremely tough. Have someone give you an impartial evaluation, compare your metrics to the division you are considering, and make a list of schools that interest you.

Communication is key. Making contact with coaches to let them know your plans puts you ahead of the other attendees. Your name will not get lost on the list if they know you are attending. For showcases, it is important to know which coaches plan to attend. You can also try to confirm the list. Let them know you plan to attend, and ask if they are still planning to attend.

Showcases

There are numerous showcases, and their target schools can vary. Some specialize with the high-academic schools, and others are more regional with attendance. The traditional showcase will have players run through the typical drills to capture metrics, and afterward separate into teams for simulated games. The games are usually set to go through 3 outs or 5 batters, with pitchers usually going for two innings or so. Depending upon the size of the showcase, there may be games on multiple days. Some of the larger showcases stream their activities as well. Showcases can be pricey, and recruiter attendees can vary in number, division, and locations. Do your homework on the showcases. Try to confirm number of attendees, which colleges will be attending, and the format. Looking at previous year attendees can help. Some of the other “invite” type showcases are usually well-attended by the colleges. PBR, PG, and others hold these types of showcases several times per year.

College Camps

Attending camps can be very cost effective if they are on your targe list. The key advantage for these camps is knowing that your target school coaches will be there. Other nearby schools are also usually in attendance. Most “prospect” camps follow a format very similar to a showcase, but sometimes include a bit more hands-on instruction. Camps usually provide time for campus and facility tours, which is a great way to determine if a school may be a fit for you. Again, always make sure that the coaches know you’ll be there.

Tournaments

Playing tournaments can be an effective way to gain exposure, but it really depends upon the actual tournament, which teams/players are there, and where those tournaments are located. The national level tournaments typically draw a strong recruiter and scout attendance. If you are not on a truly competitive team at the national level, you may not see that many. Tournaments can definitely be hit or miss with recruiters and scouts. Tournaments that take place on college campuses usually get some views from the home coaches, but scouts and recruiters may be elsewhere. Tournaments are fun, but their effectiveness can vary. Some venues tend to draw more recruiters than others bases upon convenience, and where they can see more games. Not to leave any out, but at least on the East Coast, East Cobb, Lakepoint, Hoover, Palm Beach, and Jupiter tend to draw larger crowds. To attend the big tournaments can get expensive. Between travel, hotels, meals, and not to mention the team costs and fees, it can generate significant cost. The big, national level tournaments can also last several days to a week, requiring time off of work also.

Everyone’s path is different, and these options can be effective to gain exposure. These events are typically geared for high school age. Attending one at a younger age is a good idea just to gain an understanding of the process. That helps with handling the nerves at future events. Most of all, enjoy the journey!! Having a budget and plan will help you enjoy it. I’ll leave you with quote that someone posted as I was going through this process with my son. “Be good and be seen!”

I’ve read and heard a lot lately about loyalty in Baseball. “Kids/Players are not loyal to their teams.” “Coaches are not loyal to their schools or teams.” I’ve also heard it’s just about the money. So what is the driver behind the constant shuffle and these statements of loyalty? I believe there is more than just money behind it. It seems almost every article I read narrows the driver down to money. If that’s the case, then whose fault is it???

Most schools, especially in the power conferences, expect the coaches to win. For some the goals and expectations are almost unreachable year over year. As a result, the coaches are driven to a “win now” mentality, and player development falls to others, like smaller schools, the players themselves, or even Indy leagues. The pressure to “win now” drives a number of factors that impact loyalty, or at least the perception of loyalty.

With college recruiting for example, do the coaches owe the recruits any loyalty? We often see really large recruiting classes with last minute cuts prior to the Fall, and then more cuts at the end of Fall. Granted, the schools need to address the potential loss of students through transfer and the draft. This drives them to recruit more than they may potentially need, but it’s understandable. When “shoe-in” draft picks don’t happen, that spot doesn’t come open, meaning that someone else will be let go. Is that a loyalty issue? If these last minute cuts happen too often, then people will suspect that the coaches are knowingly over-recruiting and had no plans of retaining certain players. Recruits are promised the world. They commit, and then are let go right before they are supposed to report for Fall. What about the verbal promises made, and then reneged on? If the player then decommits, is he being less than loyal? Without knowing the driver behind the decisions, who is not being loyal?

So when you see a player enter the portal, it can mean a couple different things. Did the player feel he didn’t get enough playing time, and can’t compete at that level so he entered the portal? Did the coach tell him he should enter the portal, or was he quietly cut? Can you really pin it on loyalty without knowing the details? Maybe there were some backroom conversations, and it’s a money decision. If the school fires a coach, is it just about the wins? Did the school provide the coach with the resources to compete at the expected level? With the roster size reduction and the MLB taking fewer high schoolers than before, the competition for college spots has never been higher.

One can argue loyalty from many perspectives. The tragic story is when a player enters the transfer portal, and no one picks them up. Would he still have been able to play at his current school? If he developed, would he play later? There are certainly examples of players who had limited playing time as a freshman or sophomore and went on to very successful college and even professional careers. Sometimes baseball rewards patience and hard work versus instant gratification. Sometimes it’s not “loyalty,” it’s just poor decision-making or lack of understanding. The one free transfer rule and the 5 years to play 5 are steps in the right direction to calm some of the chaos. Can you fault those that are trying to do better for themselves? Would you go for the money?

NIL and paid players have certainly changed the look of college baseball. With their impact considered, is it really loyalty that is questionable? Baseball has become “corporate.” Similar to the quarterly profitability of a public company. Teams must win … now! Many are working for those wins at any cost. From the players’ perspective, they must know where they fall within the roster constraints. How far down the depth chart are you? What is your level of dedication to the team? What is your development window? Make sure you are in the right place for you!!

A lot to unpack here, but I’ll leave it with this . . . Coaches definitely held the upper hand in recruiting. It was a verbal commitment in both directions, but coaches could drop committed players without any short-term consequences. On the other hand, after a player committed, most recruiting from other schools ceased. Over time, the patterns could be recognized and players would scrutinize certain schools more closely before committing. As the pendulum swings, the transfer portal has at least provided some alternative to the players. Free transfers may have pushed it too far the other way, but only time will tell.

I really hope to see schools recruiting players that they WANT and plan to incorporate into their team, even if it means they need to develop them. I want to see players recognize and commit to those schools that develop and strive for team and player continuity. What will it look like if the MLB stops recruiting high schoolers? August first is fast approaching!

Travel baseball can be fun and challenging! For some, travel can mean across town or a couple hours away. For others, it can mean hotels, long road trips, or air travel. I personally preferred the longer road trips, but we did quite a number of air travel tourneys, especially while living on the West Coast.

We lived in OR for about 4 years, and traveled to AZ, CA, and NV on several occasions. When traveling by air, you will need to consider some things that you don’t really think about when you can just load everything in the car, truck, or SUV.

What to Take?

Here’s a quick checklist, and how to pack for the plane . . . Conserving space is a necessity, unless you are not worried about the extra bag fees, and have a large enough rental car for all the bags.

1. Uniforms - need to be in the carry on. You can’t replace a uniform quickly if the checked baggage is delayed or lost. Always start from head to toe to ensure you have everything . . . hats, jerseys, belts, pants, and socks.

2. Shoes - we usually had our player wear turfs for the airport/plane and carry molded cleats. Metal cleats usually have to be checked.

3. Gloves - attached to carry on . . . Again, it’s really hard to break-in a new glove in that short of time. Assuming, you can find one.

4. Bats - checked - We used a catcher’s or duffel for bats and miscellaneous.

5. Chairs . . buy cheap ones at the destination or take a bleacher pad (or blanket)

6. Cooler - we used a grocery cooler bag. We could fold it and check it in the catcher bag. We always carried some ziplocks. Hotel ice in the ziplock and then in the grocery cold bag. Worked pretty well for waters and stuff.

7. Laundry supplies - checked bag - tried to share laundry service with other team members if possible, but I have washed stuff in the bathtub or sink.

8. Don’t forget sun screen . . . has to be checked

9. Umbrellas - in the catcher’s bag

10. Baseball backpack used as carry-on

11. Chargers and battery packs

12. Medication

13. Toiletries

14. Mini first aid kit (bandaids primarily)

I’m sure that you’ll have additions and changes that work for your family . . .

Other Miscellaneous Tips and Thoughts

• I prefer to stay as close to the venue as possible. For us, it was a “business trip.” Baseball was first, and entertainment was secondary. For some tournaments, the fields were a crapshoot, and could be over an hour away. For those, I tried to stay near a high restaurant concentration.

• I preferred to fly in the night before, but sometimes had to fly in that morning. If you typically play deep into tournaments, I tried to book flights the morning after any scheduled games. If we didn’t make it that far, I could try to move my flight up. I didn’t want to get caught trying to move a flight out. For hotels, it’s also easier to leave early than to extend. You usually know far enough in advance to cancel a night without penalty.

• TSA PreCheck is well worth the investment. Especially in the busier airports, like Vegas and LAX.

Hopefully, you’ll find some value in this. I’m sure I’ve missed some items. Feel free to add your tips in the comments. Travel ball for me was a great time, and while exhausting, it was well worth it. I plan to discuss the road trips in another post 🙂.

From July of 2025 . . .

Here’s a shorter vid and writeup on X . . . He is now at ODU . . .

Choosing a travel baseball team feels “high-stakes” because, well, it “is”. The wrong fit can mean wasted money, stalled development, unnecessary stress, and a kid who starts dreading the sport he used to love. The right team? It can accelerate growth, build confidence, and keep the game fun for years.

But here’s what most highlight-reel sales pitches won’t tell you. The flashiest website and the most tournament wins don’t automatically equal the best environment for *your* player.

So how do you cut through the noise? You ask the right questions … and you know what the good (and bad) answers actually sound like.

This guide gives you exactly that: the essential questions every parent should ask, why they matter, and what red flags to watch for. I’ve pulled from years of parent conversations, coach realities, and the patterns that actually predict a good (or painful) experience.

First, Get Clear on *Your* Goals (Before You Ask Anyone Else)

Before you grill a coach, do some honest homework as a family.

• What’s the primary goal right now? Development and fun (especially 8U–12U)? Exposure and recruiting (more relevant 15U+)? Winning trophies? A mix?

• What’s realistic for your schedule and budget? Travel ball isn’t just the team fee. It’s hotels, gas, food, time off work, and potentially lost multi-sport or family time.

• Where is your player developmentally? Some kids thrive on high-level competition early. Others need more reps, position flexibility, and lower pressure to actually improve.

• How many games/practices per week/month can you sustain and support without burnout?

If you skip this step, you’ll end up on a team that looks good on paper but doesn’t fit your actual life. Plenty of families do this every year and regret it by June.

The Essential Questions to Ask

Here’s your cheat sheet. Print it, save it in your notes app, or forward it to your spouse. Ask these during tryouts, in follow-up calls, or when talking to current parents.

Coaching Background & Philosophy

1. What’s your coaching background and experience at this age group? (Playing experience is nice. (Playing experience may or may not directly correlate to teaching ability. Coaching track record at this specific age, and developing players who actually improve, matters more.)

2. What’s your coaching philosophy? Can you give examples of how you balance winning with long-term player development?

Pro tip: If every answer comes back to “we win a lot” or “we play the best players,” dig deeper. At younger ages, a win-at-all-costs approach often means less development for everyone except the top few.

3. How do you handle playing time? Is it earned, equal opportunity, or something else?

This is potentially make-or-break. Some coaches say “earned” but it really means “my favorites and my kid play.” Get specifics. This should complement their coaching philosophy. It’s important to understand how this will impact YOUR player. Does your player stack up well with skill and/or ability against the rest of the team.

Roster, Playing Time & Your Child’s Fit

4. Who is currently playing my son’s primary position, and how many players are at that spot?

If there are already two strong catchers or three shortstops, ask realistically how much meaningful time your player will see there.

5. To Coach, what position does your own child play, and how do you manage that dynamic?

It’s a tale as old as youth sports. It doesn’t automatically mean favoritism, but it does mean you should understand the reality before you sign up.

6. How many players are on the roster, and what’s your philosophy on guest players for big tournaments?

Ideal roster size for most youth teams is around 11–12. Too many and reps get thin. Guest players can help win games but often steal at-bats from roster kids. In longer/bigger tournaments, pitching can become an issue. Are they enough two-way players to pitch the necessary innings. Guest pitchers are a necessity with older groups to keep an appropriate level of pitching. Younger ages can usually be fine with fewer “dedicated/PO” arms.

7. Where do you see my player fitting on this team realistically?

A good coach will give you an honest assessment instead of just “we’d love to have him.” Ask for specifics like, like what positions, and where in the order? It will at least give you an idea of what the coach is thinking at that point.

Schedule, Practices & Commitment

8. What’s the practice schedule during the season and off-season? How much actual skill work vs. just playing games?

Games are fun. Development happens in practice. If it’s 80% tournaments and almost no structured practice, that’s a red flag for long-term growth. Are there indoor practice facilities available? Poor weather can change all great plans . . .

9. How many tournaments and games do you plan to play? How many are local vs. travel, and how far?

Some teams treat the calendar like a second job. Ask for the actual proposed schedule, not just “we play a lot.” If they don’t already have a tentative schedule, that could identify a potential problem as well.

10. What’s your approach to multi-sport athletes and family conflicts?

Will your kid get benched or penalized for playing another sport or missing a tournament for a family event? This reveals a lot about the program’s values. For a travel team, it is important for all the families to have similar dedication. Budgets and timing for tournaments can create conflict. If some of the team backs out, it can be costly and frustrating for the rest.

Costs & What’s Included

11. What’s the total cost, and exactly what’s included? Are there additional fees, fundraising requirements, or “optional but really not optional” expenses?

Get the full breakdown. Some teams quote a low number then hit you with uniform add-ons, extra tournament fees, or mandatory fundraising that costs you either way. Financial visibility is also important. How is it structured? Monthly dues? One time up front? etc.

12. Are there indoor facility access, speed/agility work, or instructor sessions included?

This varies wildly and affects real development. Is there after hours access? Does a coach have to be present?

Development, Arm Care & Long-Term Focus

13. What’s your arm care and pitcher workload plan? Do you follow Pitch Smart guidelines or something similar?

With elbow and shoulder issues rising in youth baseball, this isn’t optional anymore. Ask how they protect arms — especially if your player pitches. This should be more than just inning count. How many times are they to get “hot” per week/tournament? Some tournaments have guidelines, and some don’t. Understand the coach’s plans and inform them of any limits you may have for your player. (especially for those players that both catch and pitch)

14. How do you approach position development and specialization at this age?

Rotating positions early helps kids find what they’re good at. Locking kids into one spot too soon can limit growth (and future opportunities). While there is more specialization at the older age groups, developing skills at multiple positions definitely helps with recruiting.

15. For older teams (14U+): How do you support recruiting and exposure? Do you help with highlight videos, profiles, or coach connections?

Some organizations are excellent at this. Others treat it as an afterthought.

Communication, Culture & Expectations

16. How do you communicate with parents during the season? What’s your expectation for parent behavior at games and practices?

Look for a written code of conduct that applies to coaches too. Good programs have clear boundaries.

17. Can I talk to a couple of current or recent parents (not hand-picked ones)

This is gold. Ask them the tough questions privately: playing time reality, coach temperament, hidden costs, whether their kid is still enjoying baseball. Sometimes this can be done even prior to scheduling a tryout. Learn what you can from others. Check the reputation with other teams and parents as well.

Red Flags That Should Make You Pause (or Walk Away)

Even if the coach gives smooth answers, watch for these:

• ”We win a lot” is the main selling point . . . especially at 10U–12U. Winning is great. Making it the ONLY thing often comes at the expense of development and fun.

• High roster turnover year after year. If half the team leaves every spring, there’s usually a reason.

• Vague or dodgy answers on playing time, costs, or schedule. If they can’t (or won’t) give specifics, that’s your answer.

• Shiny marketing but no substance. Highlight reels and commitment graphics are easy. A clear practice plan and development philosophy are harder, and more important.

• ”Everyone plays” in theory but the same 8–9 kids dominate in practice. Words vs. reality.

• Pressure to go year-round immediately or drop other sports. Multi-sport kids often develop into better athletes and stay healthier longer.

• No clear arm care or pitcher management plan. “We’ll figure it out” is not a plan.

• The coach seems more interested in selling you than evaluating your player. Good coaches are selective too.

How to Vet Beyond the Interview

Questions are step one. Do this too:

• Watch a practice or game in person. How does the coach interact with players after mistakes? Is it instructional or demeaning? Do players look engaged or terrified?

• Talk to parents who aren’t the loudest cheerleaders. The ones who have been around a year or two will give you the real picture.

• Ask former players (if old enough) what they liked and didn’t like.

• Request a sample practice plan or full proposed tournament schedule. Serious programs have this ready.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not About Finding the “Best” Team on Paper

The “best” team for the kid down the street might be a disaster for yours. The right team aligns with your player’s age, personality, goals, your family’s bandwidth, and a coach whose values match what you want your kid to experience.

Sometimes that means a slightly lower-profile team with better coaching and more reps. Sometimes it means stretching for a higher-level program that challenges him. The only way to know is to ask the hard questions and trust what the answers (and your observations) tell you.

Travel ball can be an incredible experience . . . or an expensive way to make everyone miserable. The difference often comes down to doing this homework before you commit.

What’s been your experience choosing teams? Any questions that saved you or that you wish you’d asked? Drop them in the comments — this community gets better when we share real talk.

If this helped, share it with another baseball parent who’s in the thick of tryout season. And if you want more practical guides (recruiting timelines, tournament packing checklists, arm care basics, or balancing high school + travel ball), hit subscribe. More coming.

Stay curious, ask the tough questions, and keep the game fun. The right team is out there — you just have to do a little detective work to find it.

With the recent NCAA rule change for D1, players will have 5 years to play 5. It becomes “age-based,” and will definitely change current practices. The timer starts when the player turns 19 or graduates from high school. From those two triggers, the eligibility clock starts during the next academic year. From there the players have 5 years of eligibility to play 5 years . . . no red shirts or exceptions, except for military service, maternity, or missions.

The new rule will begin to impact recruiting practices almost immediately . . .

• Many claim there will be limited room for Freshmen due to the extra year of eligibility for players. With the roster limitations, average team ages should increase. The transfer portal will have more impact than the 5/5 rule change, as colleges continue to pull in older transfer players. The proposed one free transfer rule change, should help to curb that.

• For JUCO players, after playing two years, they will still retain three years of eligibility. D1s will be able to pick up transfers that they can potentially keep for three years, increasing their value as transfers.

• With 5/5, there will be no red-shirts. That will provide colleges with potential opportunities to provide game experience for younger players without burning their potential red-shirt. Even limited exposure as a Freshmen still leaves them with four more years to play.

• This new rule should limit the reclasses in high school. If the player turns 19 prior to their senior year of high school, they will lose a year of eligibility.

• Aging out of college ball becomes a reality.

I’m looking forward to more stabilization of rosters in college, and the limited transfer rule, if enacted, should help with some stabilization.