Pee-Wee Division (Ages 7 & 8)
The Cal Ripken Pee-Wee Division is where young athletes transition to the structure and excitement of real baseball, providing a dynamic environment for ongoing skill development and increasing confidence. Building on foundational knowledge, players now get to truly showcase their growing abilities as teams become organized, players assume specific positions, and the focus shifts to competitive gameplay. This division strategically transitions from coach pitch to player pitching throughout the season, promoting accuracy and challenging development. Specifically, after an initial introductory period where coaches pitch one or two innings for practice, players progressively take over pitching duties. Crucially, the division utilizes modified rules that are conscientious about promoting player development—not simply punishing walks on developing pitchers—ensuring engagement and action. These 7- and 8-year-olds are actively playing, learning to hit live pitches, executing defensive plays, and mastering the full range of baseball skills in a structured, fun, and fast-paced environment.