Recruiting for Baseball

Baseball recruiting used to be a simple matter of a coach contacting a scout or a scout attending a game in which a prospect is playing--often observing the player anonymously. Today's recruiting process is more formalized and has become big business. Technology is playing a greater part as players showcase their talents on line or sign up to attend web-advertised recruiting camps. Player development begins in youth leagues and becomes serious in high school. College players may be picked up by professional baseball clubs.

  1. Using Technology

    • Technology plays an ever greater role in baseball recruiting.

      Some players use YouTube as a form of sports resume. A short video demonstrating baseball skills can be easily produced and uploaded for recruiters to reference at their leisure. Some ballplayers are create websites that showcase teams and personal achievements. References to the video and/or website's URL are included when players begin to contact college recruiters.

    Freshman Year

    • Freshman year of high school is the time players develop good academic habits and time management skills. Fall baseball in September aids in physical conditioning until an indoor facility offering skills training becomes available in November. Attending a college Christmas camp is a way to reach future recruiters. Playing for a high school team from February to June keeps the player sharp for competitive summer league play. Attendance at a week long college baseball camp is also a good way for players to increase their skill level.

    Sophomore Year Development

    • The playing pattern established in freshman year is continued in the second year of high school. Required courses for eventual consideration as a college level player are taken. The guidance department of the high school is a good resource for course requirements. Players keep their grades up while continuing to play summer ball in premium or elite leagues.

    Junior Year

    • This is the year that the player begins to target specific colleges. First contact letters are sent out by coaches and players with a schedule of games attached. Registration with the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse is completed using forms available from the high school guidance counselor. Registration to write the SAT in the fall is done to avoid conflict with high school games in the spring. Fall and winter conditioning and investigative trips to colleges are scheduled. Attendance at a baseball showcase in June or July ensures that the player is exposed to scouts and coaches in attendance at these events.

    Senior Year

    • In November, the player may sign a letter of intent to play for a college the next year or attend a college Christmas camp. College coaches are able to legally contact players after July of the player's junior year, while players may legally contact coaches at any time. Offers to visit college campuses occur at this time. Spring high school baseball schedules are forwarded to colleges as soon as they become available. College scouts look for players with sound academic records and the potential to play major league baseball after a successful college career. Team-oriented and focused play is highly prized by baseball recruiters at all levels of play.