⚾ Minors Division – Ages 8–10

Player-Pitch Baseball | Cal Ripken Division | UKCYBSA

The Minors Division is where players take their first big step into competitive baseball. It introduces player-pitch, live umpiring, and real game strategy, while keeping the focus on fun, development, and sportsmanship. This is a key learning phase for young athletes as they grow in confidence and baseball IQ.

👥 Who Can Play?

• League Age: 8–10 (as of May 1, of calendar year)

• Ideal for players who have completed one or two seasons in Rookies, or for new players ready to try live pitching and more advanced rules

📝 Player Evaluations

All Minors players must attend a mandatory player evaluation in late February. This helps UKCYBSA build balanced teams and ensure each child is placed in an environment where they can grow and succeed.

🔑 Key Features

• Pitching Distance: 46 feet

• Base Path Length: 60 feet

• Ball Size: Official Cal Ripken baseball (standard youth size)

• Live player-pitch (first time in league play)

• Umpired games following Cal Ripken/Babe Ruth Minor League rules

• Score is kept, but development and effort are the priority

• Stealing bases is allowed (except home)

• No dropped third strike or infield fly rule at this level

• Rotating positions to help kids find their strengths

• Coaches emphasize sportsmanship, game awareness, and having fun!

🛡️ Safety & Sportsmanship

• Pitchers follow age-appropriate pitch count limits and rest rules (Babe Ruth League guidelines)

• Coaches and umpires work together to maintain a positive, respectful environment

• We teach kids how to win and lose with grace and encourage teamwork above all

🗓️ Season Overview

• Season Start: Early April 

• Season End: Early June

• Practices & Games: 2–3 days per week (varies by team/field availability)

• Locations:  Memorial Park 

🧢 Gear & Uniforms

Provided by UKCYBSA:

• Team jersey

• Batting helmet (loaner if needed)

Players must bring:

• Baseball glove

• Cleats (no metal) 

• USA Baseball certified bat (optional but recommended)

• Water bottle and great attitude!

🧠 What Players Will Learn

• How to pitch, hit, catch, and field in a live game

• Game situations: force outs, tagging up, cutoffs, and more

• Good sportsmanship and how to support teammates

• How to play fair, focus under pressure, and have fun doing it

💬 Questions?

We’re here to help every step of the way.
Email us at 📧 [email protected] with any questions about division placement, evaluations, or gear.