Youth Inc. Recommends: Seven Resources for Choosing the Right Baseball Team

When it comes to club or rec baseball, some athletes and parents may find themselves at a crossroads. Rec is less pressure, less of a time commitment, and usually no tryouts. Club, however, includes tryouts, multiple practices, strength and conditioning, hitting practice, games, tournaments, and travel. Choosing a team depends on what you’re hoping to get out of the experience. Once you know that, your choices will become clearer.  

That’s why the Youth Inc. team has scrolled miles and miles to find the best resources for you. From understanding the difference between local and club to clarifying questions to make sure you’re choosing the right level; we are happy to help you identify what you want to achieve.  

Here are seven resources to help you choose the right team:  

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Debating Club vs. Rec/Local Options  

What it is: A YouTube video from club team Rawlings Tigers about things to consider when deciding to play club baseball, as well as other options like playing local or rec. 

Why we like it: Understanding what you should know before committing to a travel team is important. And it can be a make-or-break. That’s why you should set expectations with the coach before committing to the team. When parents and athletes don’t do this, they may end up being unhappy with their choice.  

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Flo Baseball Explains the Difference Between Recreational and Travel 

What it is: An article from Flo Baseball that breaks down the differences between recreational and travel ball, what to expect from each, and how to know which one is the best choice for you personally.  

 Why we like it: You may not know what you’re getting yourself into when signing up for travel or rec baseball. The environment is important, especially for youth development, which is why we like that this article breaks that down. It notes that while rec may be more fun and laid-back, playing travel and going to tournaments is an excellent networking tool- if you’re hoping to get recruited eventually.  

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5 Clarifying Questions on Rec vs. Travel Baseball 

What it is: A YouTube video from Building Better Baseball that gives parents and athletes clarifying questions that can help them make a calculated decision about what team to join.  

Why we like it: Deciding to play travel is not a light decision for parents or athletes. If you don’t plan on playing in college or even beyond youth, players need to decide exactly how much baseball they want to play. If they don’t want to play beyond youth, maybe rec is the right choice. 

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Choosing The Right Travel Baseball Team 

What it is: A TikTok from Titans Sports Academy talking about the three money-saving tips to think about when joining a travel team.  

Why we like it: Costs add up for competitive sports. Whether that’s tournaments, gear, or extra sessions- it might be more than you signed up. Understanding the travel that comes with a club team is important- and there might be better options than joining a team that only competes across the country.  

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5 Crucial Factors to Choosing the Right travel Team 

What it is: A TikTok from Titans Sports Academy talks about the five factors to consider when joining a travel team- cost, coach, facilities, player development, and competition.  

Why we like it: While the club may be prestigious, that means nothing if the coach isn’t committed to player development. Paying for a travel team means getting the bang for your buck. If you don’t think the coach is committed or knowledgeable enough, you may need to rethink your options.  

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Reddit's Parents Guide to Finding a Travel Team 

What it is: A Reddit user asks for resources to find a travel team for their son as they live in an area where baseball isn’t super popular.  

Why we like it: If you’re talented enough and ready to commit to travel ball, finding the right team is important. Living in an area where there isn’t a slew of options can make this difficult. It’s important to consider all of your options if you’re ready to make this decision.  

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School vs. Travel baseball: Which Is the Right Choice? 

What it is: A YouTube video from Coach Beede, baseball coach, that discusses the struggle between playing school baseball vs. club baseball and what athletes are missing out on when they don’t play high school ball.  

Why we like it: Parents often feel like because they’re paying for club ball, their athletes should play when they want, where they want, etc. In high school sports, athletes learn the meaning of teamwork and how to face adversity. In turn, they become better athletes and people, which is why you may be missing out by not playing for the school team.