Travel Teams - Playing Time

All teams are required to play a minimum of 25 games during the season, with at least 14 being league games. Each player is expected to play infield and outfield positions for at least five games by season’s end, with a minimum of three innings in these roles per game. Pitching or catching assignments qualify as infield positions. Any player who demonstrates the ability to throw a minimum of six strikes out of ten attempts in practice should be afforded the opportunity to pitch at least five innings over the course of the season (noting that one pitch in an inning counts as a full inning pitched). The selection of catchers should be based on interest and demonstrated capability, ensuring all interested players receive game experience. Teams should aim to develop at least two competent catchers. Additionally, every player should have the chance to bat in at least five games throughout the season in each segment of the lineup: top, middle, and bottom thirds.

Tournament play, including qualifiers, state, and league playoffs, is regarded as more significant than regular league play. Especially in bracket play, travel teams are expected to play to win. Accordingly, coaches will approach tournaments with the intent to maximize team performance. The primary restrictions during tournaments concern pitching innings, as set by tournament regulations. Defensively, each player must participate for at least three innings in a complete game, and it is recommended that no player be benched for two consecutive innings. Coaches are also encouraged to provide various time playing opportunities for all team members throughout tournament play whenever possible.