How to Recruit for College Baseball

Coaching baseball in practice and games is only half the battle. Yes, coaches live and die on the road, too, where every single contact and chance of communication with potential recruits is so very important. Recruiting in college baseball is a very difficult and tough process where coaches compete against each other for new player commitments.

Instructions

    • 1

      Recruit based on need and for the future. Say you only lost two players to graduation last year and both were reserves. Then you want to recruit for the future, right? What about if you lost nine players to graduation and almost all of them started or made a huge impact on the team? Then you need to recruit for now if you do not wish to struggle next year. Recruiting is a case-by-case basis that depends on the team's needs and if help is needed immediately or for the future.

    • 2

      Every good baseball team, no matter the level, needs terrific pitching, fielding and hitters. Some players offer the complete package, while others only can hit or field really well. Consider your needs and your weakness from last year's team. Did you struggle hitting the ball? Consider recruiting a couple of big and powerful hitters. Did you struggle with pitching and defense? Find players that suit those needs.

    • 3

      Visit the prospect's home during the off-season. Coaches can visit a player's home a year before he graduates from high school, so take advantage of it. Show of your charisma and outstanding people skills by talking directly with the athlete and his family. Discuss the program, what you expect, and what they can get out of the school.

    • 4

      Invite the prospect to campus. During the season, coaches are allowed to invite a select number of prospects on campus for a tour and direct view of the school. During this time, make sure the player meets with counselors, teachers and tutors in his or her desired field of study as well as attends a baseball game and meets with a few of the players.

    • 5

      Avoid strict NCAA recruiting violations. For instance, coaches can only recruit and contact prospects during select times with select forms of communication. Coaches can never bribe prospects or give them benefits, like money, for attending the college.