Playing levels of Murrayhill Little League Softball
Murrayhill Little League strives to place girls in the division most appropriate to their ability. We currently have five levels which are described below. Other area Little Leagues sometimes refer to their divisions using different names which appear in parenthases next to the Murrayhill name. Note that all teams bat the roster even if the girl is not playing in the field.
T- Ball – T-Ball players are usually league age 5-6 years old (Pre-school - Kindergarten) and are playing for the first time. Batters hit a ball off of a stationary tee and there are no walks, strikeouts, or steals.
Coast (A) – Coast players are usually league age 6-8 years old (1st grade - 3nd grade). Coaches pitch to their team and there are a maximum of four runs per inning. Players are learning the fundamentals of softball with a focus on catching and throwing. As in T-Ball, there are no walks, strikeouts, or steals. The focus continues to be on player development. Players use an 11” “softie” ball for added safety.
Farm (AA) – Farm players are usually league age 8-10 years old (3rd grade - 5th grade). For most of the season, batters hit off a machine operated by their coach. Approximately two innings per game are devoted to player’s pitching and there is a four run per inning limit at all times. Time limits apply to games at this age and there are no steals. Players use an 11” “hard” ball.
Minors (AAA) – Minor players are usually league age 9-11 years old (4th grade - 6th grade) and have previously played softball. They are able to safely catch and throw balls and have a solid understanding of the rules. Girls use an 11” ball. It is entirely player pitch and teams are limited to four runs per inning. Players are placed on a Minors team after a tryout (skill evaluation) and draft system.
Majors – Major players are usually 10-12 years old (5th grade- 7th grade) and are playing a high level of softball. Pitchers are throwing from 40’ and use a 12” ball. Players are placed on a Majors team after a tryout (skill evaluation) and draft system.
At levels below Majors Murrayhill coaches strive to provide equal playing time to all girls although beginning in minors coaches may begin to limit girls to specific positions based upon their unique abilities. Little League mandates minimum playing rules which currently is one at bat per game and six defensive outs.
