Open (Participation) League
The Open League is our participation program providing baseball for boys and girls age’s 5-14 years and with no affiliation with any national organization. However, our structure and rules will generally follow those of Pony Baseball. Players are registered individually and the league forms the rosters based on age group and by considering the player's school, and general area. Parents may request a player be placed on a specific team.
The RSA Baseball Board will allow a coach to bring a fully formed team into our Open league. The goal is to allow (church, neighborhood, private school, etc.) teams to play baseball together without boundary restrictions. The RSA Baseball Board will closely evaluate and approve all team rosters to protect the integrity of our participation league concept.
Player's Age
Players will be assigned to divisions based on their "league age." The date for determining this age for baseball is May 1, 2009. For example, if a baseball player's 12th birthday falls on or before April 30, 2009, he/she is a 12 year-old for this season. If the player's birthday is on or after May 1, 2009, he/she is an 11 year-old player for this season. Five-year old players must be 5 years old before April 1, 2009.
Birth Certificates
Proof of age must be presented for each player. A birth certificate is the usual document of proof. Passports and military identification cards are also acceptable. Proof of age will be required for all players, including those who are returning from last season.
Shetland Division (T-Ball)
For 5 and 6 year-olds. This Division is a purely instructional, focusing on instruction of beginning players, and is not intended to be competitive baseball (no scores or standings). It emphasizes teaching the basic rules and fundamental skills of baseball.
Pinto Division (Machine Pitch)
For 7 and 8 year-olds. This division introduces players to some additional aspects of the game. A pitching machine is used to pitch to the batters. The “bat the bench" procedure is used which enables all players in attendance to bat whether or not they are playing in the field. The bases are 60 feet apart.
Mustang Division
For 9 and 10 year-olds. This is the first level where they play "real" baseball. Players pitch in this division. To protect their arms, they are not permitted to pitch more than three innings per game. Base stealing is restricted. The "bat the bench" procedure is used. The bases are 60 feet apart and the pitching distance is 46 feet.
Bronco Division
For 11 and 12 year-olds. This where you introduce the developing young players to the full game of baseball. Players are allowed to lead-off and steal from all bases which are now 70 feet apart and the pitching distance is 50 feet.
Pony Division
For 13 and 14 year-olds. Players should have an understanding of the rules of the game and acquired the skills and attitude necessary for a more competitive game of baseball. Emphasis is placed not only on individual skill development, but also on team strategies. Bases are 80 feet apart and the pitching distance is 54 feet.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss the benefits of our league contact information is in the "Contact Us" section of our website.
