T-Ball Instructions

T-ball is a variation of baseball where batters hit off a tee rather than against a pitcher. It is usually played by children age seven or younger with the focus on participation and learning how to play the game rather than on winning or losing, and is many children's first introduction to baseball or softball. There are a variety of rule variations, but the specific rules matter less than keeping the focus on having fun. T-ball can be played on a softball, Little League or children's recreational baseball field, or in any open grassy area that's more than 100 feet by 100 feet.

Things You'll Need

  • Bats specifically for T-ball, approximately 25 inches long, 12 to 15 ounces and 2 1/4 inches in diameter
  • T-ball balls, 9 to 9 1/2 inches around, 4 to 6 ounces in weight
  • Tee
  • Baseball gloves
  • Batting helmets
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Instructions

    • 1

      Separate your players onto two teams, with roughly the same number of players on each team.

    • 2

      Designate one team as the "visitor" and one as the "home" team. This can be done either by the organizer of the game simply choosing a home team and visiting team, or by coin toss, with the winner of the toss getting to choose to be the home or visiting team. The home team starts the game in the field, while the visiting team bats first.

    • 3

      Explain the rules of the game to players, including that every player from each team bats in every inning, with the inning ending when the last batter for the team is either gotten out by the opponent or crosses home plate. Every player also plays in the field when the other team is at bat. Games usually last three or four innings, depending on the number of players on each team and the amount of time allotted for the game. Make it clear that baserunners must stay on the base until the ball is hit, and cannot advance on overthrows. Stress the importance of the proper use of equipment, including wearing helmets at all times when at bat or running the bases, and not throwing bats or other equipment.

    • 4

      Shake hands with every player and coach at the conclusion of each game or practice, and have each player and coach do the same to encourage sportsmanship.