League placement for all players is based on the child's age as of April 30. A child must be 5 years old by April 30 in order to participate. Please use the below chart to determine which league your child will play in.

We manage our age groups to ensure that every player, regardless of skill level, gets a fair and fun opportunity to play ball. This aims to ensure that every player is treated equally. It also helps to ensure that all players are in a safe environment.

Players ALWAYS have the option to participate at the next lower level if a parent believes it to be in the child’s best interest. “Playing up” is NOT permitted except where noted.

• T-Ball American League – Age 5. The use of a stationary batting tee helps develop the proper swing and
  confidence. Balls are softer and designed for first-time players to help build confidence and reduce the risk of injury. This program includes instruction time and game time. Teams are randomly formed by the South Orange Recreation Dept.
• T-Ball National League – Age 6. The use of a stationary batting tee helps develop the proper swing and
  confidence. Halfway through the season, coaches may pitch to players who are ready. Balls are softer and designed for first-time players. Teams are randomly formed by the South Orange Recreation Dept.
• Rookie American League – Age 7. This program is designed for children who have a basic understanding of simple fielding techniques, and the eye/hand coordination necessary to swing the bat at a pitched ball. Coaches will pitch to their own team in the beginning of the season. Depending on ability, players will have the opportunity to pitch to their own team in the second half of the season. Teams are randomly formed by the South Orange Recreation Dept.
• Rookie National League – Age 8. This program is designed for children who have a basic understanding of simple fielding techniques and the eye/hand coordination necessary to swing the bat at a pitched ball. Players will pitch to the opposing team from the beginning of the season. Teams are randomly formed by the South Orange Recreation Dept.
• Minor League – Age 9. All Minor League Players must attend Player Evaluations. Team members are then selected by individual parent volunteer coaches. Players pitch in the Minor League. After approximately two weeks of practice, a round-robin schedule of league games begins. 8 year olds may try out to "play up" in the Minor League but are not guaranteed a spot on a Minor League team.
• Cal Ripken Majors 60 – Ages 10 & 11. All M60 League players must attend Player Evaluations. All 10 year old and most 11 year old players will play in the Majors 60. Team members are selected by individual parent volunteer coaches. After approximately two weeks of practice, a round-robin schedule of league games begins.
• Cal Ripken Majors 70 – Age 12. All M70 League players must attend Player Evaluations. All 12 year olds and a limited number of 11 year olds will play on a 50/70 field (pitching distance of 50 feet and bases 70 feet apart). This is a “step up” from the traditional 46/60 format and a great transition game to prepare our players for playing on the “big diamond” (60/90) when they turn 13. Team members are selected by parent volunteer coaches based on the coaches’ evaluation of each player at tryouts. After approximately two weeks of practice, a round-robin schedule of league games begins. 11 year olds may try out for the Majors 70 League but are not guaranteed a spot on a Majors 70 League team.
• Babe Ruth League – Ages 13 -15. All Babe Ruth players must attend Player Evaluations. Team members are
  selected by individual parent volunteer coaches. After approximately two weeks of practice, a round-robin schedule of league
  games begins.