Introduction to Rawlings – A Trusted Name in Baseball Since 1887
For over 130 years, Rawlings has been crafting high-quality baseball equipment that players love. Founded in 1887, this iconic American brand has outfitted countless major league players and backyard athletes alike. Let’s take a closer look at Rawling’s rich history and what makes their gear so popular.
George and Alfred Rawlings started their company in St. Louis, first producing uniforms and gloves for local baseball teams. Their products were such high quality that by the 1920s, Rawlings was the preferred brand for big league clubs. Legendary players like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Stan Musial all swung Rawlings bats and wore Rawlings gloves back in the early days.
Today, Rawlings is now the official baseball supplier for Major League Baseball. They craft the pristine white MLB baseballs by hand in their Costa Rican factory. Rawlings also makes the iconic gold gloves awarded to the top fielders each year. While mainly known for baseball gear, Rawlings produces equipment for fastpitch softball, basketball, and football as well.
So why has Rawlings equipment withstood the test of time? Attention to detail, quality materials, and innovative designs separate Rawlings from competitors. They don’t cut corners or take shortcuts. From their patented Heart of the Hide leather to aerospace-grade alloys used in their bats, Rawlings spares no expense crafting gear that performs and lasts.
Choosing the Right Rawlings Baseball for You
With so many types of baseballs available from Rawlings, it can get confusing finding the right one. Here’s a quick guide to picking the best Rawlings baseball for your needs:
- Rawlings Official Major League Baseballs – Top quality, leather-covered balls used in MLB games. Great for competitive play but expensive.
- Rawlings R100 Baseball – All-rubber recreational ball. Affordable and extremely durable. Ideal for batting practice or casual games.
- Rawlings Soft Baseballs – Compressed cork or rubber centers. Reduced impact for beginners. Available in 11″ and 12″ sizes.
- Rawlings Training Baseballs – Mimic feel of real balls but reduce flight distance. Help develop fundamentals without chasing balls.
Think about your skill level, budget, and playing surface when choosing a Rawlings baseball. Be sure to get the right size too – regulation hardballs are 9 inches in circumference while softballs come in 11 or 12 inches sizes. The smaller 11 inch is best for younger players.
Rawlings R100 – My Go-To Batting Practice Baseball
For batting practice and casual games, I always grab my Rawlings R100 rubber baseballs. These affordable all-rubber balls really hold up well to repeated hits. The bright white faux leather cover looks sharp and has a nice tacky grip. While not as realistic as leather baseballs, the firm rubber core provides great feedback. My hits carry well off my aluminum bat. What I like most is the extreme durability – my R100s easily last an entire season of heavy use.
A word of caution with the R100s – don’t use these for pitcher’s batting practice. The high-bounce rubber makes them tricky for pitchers to field. I save these strictly for soft toss and tee work. For a durable but authentic feel, Rawlings training baseballs are better for pitchers.
Choosing the Right Rawlings Tee Ball for Young Players
For young kids just learning the game, Rawlings makes several tee ball options. Let’s go over what to look for in your child’s first bat and ball set.
First, consider your child’s age and size. Rawlings tee balls are sized for specific age groups. The smaller 17″ tee is ideal for ages 3-5. Bigger kids ages 5-7 will need the larger 19″ tee. There are also adjustable tees to accommodate growth. Right size = better development.
Next, examine the bat. Aluminum alloy bats are super lightweight for young swingers. Composite materials reduce vibration and have bigger sweet spots. PowerBilt tee ball bats use innovative bat-ball technology to send balls farther for more fun. Can’t decide? Go adjustable – Rawlings makes bats with adjustable barrel sizes.
Finally, inspect the ball. Rubber cores reduce impact force and travel distance – key for safety. Textured surfaces improve grip. Look for balls with tee studs that easily mount on batting tees. No wrong choices here as all Rawlings tee balls are high quality.
With the right Rawlings tee ball set, kids build confidence while having a blast. Don’t forget the helmets, gloves, and other essentials too. Safety first!
Wrapping Up
From hometown little leagues to the World Series, Rawlings is the first name in baseball gear. Their equipment is trusted by amateurs and pros alike for good reason – it’s well-made and works. With so many types of baseballs and bats available, make sure to do your homework and get the right Rawlings product for your needs. Happy hitting!
Rawlings Soft Baseballs – Great for Beginners and Batting Practice
When my son started t-ball last year, one of the first things we had to get him was a soft baseball. Made of rubber or cork, these balls reduce impact and travel distance – perfect for introducing young kids to the game. I quickly learned that top brands like Rawlings make different types of soft baseballs for players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a little leaguer getting your first glove or a major league slugger limbering up in the batting cage, Rawlings has a soft baseball designed for your needs.
For starters, Rawlings soft baseballs come in two standard sizes – 11 inches and 12 inches in circumference. The smaller 11-inch version is tailored specifically for t-ball and coach pitch. With a compression rating around 75, these balls have a soft, cushiony feel off the bat. My son’s 11-inch Rawlings rubber core ball has just the right density to limit flight distance while still allowing him to make solid contact. At the same time, the soft compression reduces impact shock and sting to build confidence.
As kids graduate to player pitch baseball, Rawlings offers 12-inch softballs with firmer compression ratings in the 85-90 range. These balls react more like real leather baseballs off the bat but have a bit less zip for fielding. My local little league uses 12-inch Rawlings rubber balls for games to allow fielders to react while limiting dangerous bad hops.
For advanced high school and college players, Rawlings makes softballs with an ultra-firm 95 compression rating. Built with a cork and rubber pill, these balls provide a game-like feel for batting practice and scrimmages. The tighter wind reduces bat vibration and allows for some carry. But the softer core still limits dangerous high-speed comebackers to the mound. Pitchers can safely simulate game intensity while honing their skills.
In the big leagues, you’ll see even elite hitters swinging away at Rawlings soft toss balls before stepping into the box. With a leather-like “Mattack” surface, these balls resemble MLB baseballs in look and feel. But the soft cores reduce flight, allowing batters to loosen up without muscling the ball. Whether warming up in the cages or working on swing mechanics, Rawlings soft toss balls help Major Leaguers dial in their swings before live pitching.
Teaching Young Players with Rawlings Tee Balls
Those bright yellow Rawlings tee balls represent a rite of passage for countless young ballplayers. Here in my hometown, tee ball is where love for the game begins. At age 5, my son couldn’t wait for that first crack of the bat off the tee. After researching options, we chose a Rawlings tee ball set sized just for his age. From the first practice to his final game, the quality gear gave him the confidence to succeed while having fun.
All Rawlings tee balls feature durable rubber cores that compress on impact. This increased flex reduces inertial bounce and travel distance – key safety factors for little kids. Those rubber pills are wound tightly in moisture-resistant latex windings. Even after season-long use, the balls retain their shape and tackiness.
The textured surfaces also aid grip. Tiny bumps make the balls easy to control, whether placed on a tee or tossed by a coach. My son loves the visual feedback as the ball squishes at contact. And the bright colors stand out well on green grass.
Rawlings designs tee balls suited for specific age groups. The smaller 17-inch tee is sized for ages 3-5, while bigger 19-inch tees fit ages 5-7. Adjustable tees allow for growing kids. Pair the right tee ball with a light bat, and young players build skills safely.
While nothing beats those first games of tee ball, the pride I see on my son’s face now pitching to his teammates says it all. The fundamentals those little Rawlings tee balls helped build led to bigger things. And for that, we’ll be a Rawlings family for life.
Whether needing your first tee ball or a batting practice softball with some “pop”, be sure to choose Rawlings. No brand understands the nuances of crafting safe equipment for all ages and abilities quite like Rawlings. Their innovative designs allow young and old ballplayers alike to hone their skills while staying protected. So trust the professionals that MLB pros have leaned on for over a century. Pick up a Rawlings soft baseball or tee ball, and enjoy America’s pastime the way it was meant to be played.
Things to Consider When Buying a Rawlings Soft Baseball
With my son starting t-ball this spring, it’s time to buy his first real baseball equipment. We want him to be safe while having fun, so we’ll definitely start him out using soft baseballs. Rawlings makes various compression softballs for different ages and skill levels. Here are the key factors I’ll be considering when choosing the right Rawlings soft baseball for my little slugger.
First and foremost is getting the proper size. Rawlings offers soft baseballs in two main circumferences – 11 inches and 12 inches. The 11-inch size is specifically designed for young tee ball and coach pitch players, like my 5-year-old. With a smaller diameter, these balls fit smaller hands while limiting flight distance for safety.
Next, I’ll pay close attention to the compression rating, which measures the firmness of the ball. Lower compression balls have more give, reducing impact forces. My son’s first softball will likely have a rating around 75 for maximum flex. As he improves his hitting, we can move up to firmer 12-inch, 90 compression balls with a more authentic feel.
The materials used in the softball’s construction also make a difference. Many recreational softballs utilize all-rubber cores. But higher-end Rawlings training balls incorporate layered cork and rubber to better mimic the liveliness of real baseballs while limiting flight distance.
For outdoor play, softballs with moisture-resistant windings retain their shape and tackiness over time. My local league uses rubber-pill Rawlings balls wound in latex that really hold up on grass and dirt. Indoor play may call for synthetic or cotton windings.
I’ll also check out the ball’s surface. Softer balls meant for early ages often have textured surfaces for improved grip and visual feedback. Training models can feature leather-like covers that handle and play more like real baseballs. It all comes down to matching the right materials with my son’s skill level.
Of course, cost comes into play when equipping a young team. Bulk packs of all-rubber balls keep per-ball prices down. Expect to pay more for hand-assembled cork/rubber models, but the play is truer. Budget plenty for lost balls!
Safety has to be my top consideration. Softer compression reduces injuries and damage from bad hops. Limited flight distance with softballs curbs errant balls. My little guy’s smile after hammering his first softball will say it all.
While softballs help develop skills for baseball, some compromise in realism is expected. Finding the right balance of safety and playability takes experimenting with different compression ratings and constructions. With a bit of trial-and-error, I’m confident we’ll get my son equipped with softballs that improve his abilities while keeping the game fun.
At the end of the day, it’s about making memories together as a family. Those bright yellow softballs represent the first steps on his baseball journey. By matching Rawlings’ innovative designs with his emerging abilities, his skills…and passion for the game…will continue to grow. Before I know it, we’ll be swinging real hardballs, the softballs of his youth fond keepsakes of a father-son bonding experience called tee ball.
Top Rawlings Soft Baseballs for 2023
With a new tee ball season approaching, it’s time to stock up on equipment. And when it comes to soft baseballs, Rawlings sets the standard. Their innovative designs allow young players to swing safely while having fun. After testing out many models with my son, here are my picks for the best Rawlings soft baseballs for 2023.
For starters just learning the game, the Rawlings RLB1 Rubber Core 11-inch is ideal. With a 75 compression rating, these softballs have a cushiony feel off the bat to limit flight distance. The all-rubber core reduces impact forces, while the synthetic windings are durable for outdoor play. Paired with a lightweight tee ball bat, this softball gives young kids confidence at the plate.
As skills improve, check out the Rawlings 12RPL rubber pill softballs. With firmer 90 compression, these 12-inchers react more like real baseballs yet still limit bad hops. The rubber pill and latex windings retain shape and tackiness all season long. Youth leagues love these balls for safety and performance.
For advanced hitting practice, I like the Rawlings XLB1 cork/rubber softballs. Their 95 compression gives a game-like feel off the bat with reduced vibration. But the multi-ply cork centers limit flight distance and injuries – perfect for high school batting practice. These handsome white/gray balls look and play like the real deal.
For pitchers, go with the Rawlings PGCRTB. These training balls have leather-like Mettack surfaces for an authentic look and feel. But compressed rubber centers reduce incoming ball speed to replicate game conditions while improving reaction time. A must-have for coach and pitcher’s BP.
New for 2023 is the Rawlings DIG12Digital Softball. An embedded sensor tracks metrics like exit velocity, launch angle, and distance. Great feedback for improving hitting mechanics or monitoring player development. Take tee ball high tech!
On the tee ball side, Rawlings’ new POWERTB features the innovative Bat-Ball TechnologyTM core. Hits spring faster off the sweet spot for awesome sound and feel. Ultra-soft polyurethane foam reduces sting. More power can be fun!
For practice versatility, I love the Rawlings Adjustable Soft Core. Quickly switch between 75, 85, and 95 compression with the twist of a dial. Lets you fine-tune softball firmness as players improve. Can’t beat the flexibility.
When equipping your team, don’t forget about softball sizing. Opt for 11-inch balls for beginners ages 5-7 and smaller hands. Bigger 12-inch balls suit advanced hitters. Consistent compression and size builds skills.
While new tech emerges, you can always fall back on old faithfuls like the Rawlings RSB1. Rubber cores, moisture-resistant windings, and tacky surfaces make these durable favorites year after year. Available in both 11- and 12-inch models.
Any of these hit-reducing softballs will get young sluggers off on the right foot. Remember – safety first, then skills, and always fun. Mix and match different Rawlings soft baseball models as abilities progress. Before you know it, those hole-ridden softballs will be keepsakes of their tee ball glory days.
Introducing the Rawlings Tee Ball – Perfect for Kids 5-7 Years Old
It seems like just yesterday I was helping my son take his first tee ball swings in the backyard. Now he’s pitching to his little sister out there! Where does the time go? For parents with kids ages 5-7, tee ball represents that magical intersection where skill development and fun collide. And Rawlings sets the standard for quality tee ball equipment perfect for young players. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Rawlings the leader in tee ball bats and balls.
Rawlings designs their tee balls from the ground up for safety and performance at the earliest levels. It all starts with the core – made of durable rubber wrapped tightly in moisture-resistant windings. This reduces the ball’s bounciness for limited flight distance, while retaining shape and tackiness over time.
The durable polyurethane covers feature textured surfaces that aid grip and provide instant feedback. Tiny bumps allow the balls to compress on contact, reducing sting while encouraging proper swing mechanics. Bright colors help visibility for fielders and coaches alike.
Multiple sizes suit different ages and hand sizes. The smaller 17-inch tee ball is ideal for ages 3-5 just learning the game. Bigger kids 5-7 years old will swing the larger 19-inch size with confidence. Adjustable tees allow for growing youngsters.
Rawlingstee bats are engineered for lightweight swingability. Alloy barrels, composite handles, and innovative foam grips reduce vibrations and stick sting. Many feature adjustable barrel sleeves to find the perfect fit as kids grow.
New Bat-Ball Technology in some Rawlings tee bats optimizes energy transfer back to the ball. This creates awesome sound and feel to excite young players. But safety remains the priority – soft rubber cores keep flight distances in check.
As a tee ball coach and dad, I appreciate how Rawlings gears their products specifically for 5-7 year olds. The equipment allows them to succeed both in games and confidence. Seeing their smiles round the bases or make a catch shows tee ball doing its job.
Before you know it, those tee ball seasons will be cherished memories. With Rawlings, you can make sure your youngster’s developing skills and passion blossom in a fun, safe environment. So grab a Rawlings tee ball set sized just right for your 5-7 year old. Then sit back and let the smiles, laughter and memories begin!
Benefits of Using a Tee Ball for Young Players
As my son’s first tee ball season approached, I wasn’t totally sure if he was ready. Could his little hands really grip a bat? Would he make contact? Would he even like baseball? My worries vanished that first practice when the coach teed up those little yellow balls. The smile on my son’s face after smacking his first one made it all clear – tee ball was going to be awesome!
Designed specifically for beginners ages 5-7, tee ball allows young kids to learn hitting fundamentals in a fun, safe environment. The ball is always conveniently placed on an adjustable tee, eliminating the challenges of tossing and pitching. This let’s kids focus on grip, stance, and simple swing mechanics at their own pace.
Since the ball is stationary, new hitters don’t have to time tricky pitches. Their eyes stay locked on the ball throughout the swing. Making solid contact builds tremendous confidence in little sluggers. Safety is also enhanced with tee setups versus pitches coming at varying speeds.
Soft rubber tee balls compress upon impact, reducing sting and distance. This limits fielding requirements for young players. Coaches can position fielders in logical spots to keep everyone involved. Little legs don’t have to cover acres of ground chasing real home runs!
Limited flight distances also curb dangers from errant balls. Soft rubber cores reduce impact forces and bad hops that could harm developing kids. Players and spectators alike are safer.
Because tee ball is not competitive scoring-wise, the focus stays on learning skills in a team environment. Kids get to take hacks without fear of strikeouts or letdowns. Coaches offer encouragement and tips to foster advancement.
The stationary ball also allows for effective adjustments between swings. Coaches can reposition hands, feet, hips for proper mechanics without throwing new pitches. Kids directly apply adjustments on the very next swing, expediting learning.
Finally, tee ball allows parents the chance to engage with their aspiring ballplayers. Whether hands-on coaching or cheering from the stands, memories are made supporting their little sluggers.
Tee ball opens the door to lifelong passion for the game. By using developmentally appropriate equipment tailored for beginners, tee ball allows young kids to swing (and smile) with confidence!
What to Look for in a Quality Tee Ball
As my daughter’s first tee ball season approaches, we want to get her started off swinging the right equipment. Tee balls take a real beating from excited young hitters, so durability and performance are key. Through my years of coaching and watching my son’s tee ball career, I’ve identified a few factors that make up a quality tee ball – especially for beginners ages 5-7.
First and foremost, check the core materials inside the ball. The best tee balls feature durable rubber or cork centers that compress upon impact. This provides great feedback for young hitters while limiting flight distance for safety. The cores should be wound tightly in moisture-resistant windings to retain shape after repeated hits.
Next, inspect the cover material and surface. Synthetic covers like polyurethane are extremely durable for tee work. Textured surfaces improve grip and control for little hands. Covers should also resist water absorption so balls don’t get waterlogged and heavy.
For outdoor play, visibility is key. Opt for bright colors like safety yellow that are easy to pick up visually on green grass. Contrasting stitching also helps the ball stand out both at the plate and in the field.
Consider tee balls with features that aid placement on batting tees. Some have small rubber spikes or tabs that secure them in place on tee tops. This prevents slipping or falling off, especially important for squirmy young kids.
Sizes should be tailored to age groups. Younger kids do best with the smaller 17-inch circumference tee balls before moving up to 19-inch at ages 5-7. If in doubt, go smaller for safety and control.
I also recommend buying tee balls in bulk. These balls get beat up fast, so expect to go through lots of them in a season. Buying 12 or 24 packs saves money and always ensures you have enough good balls on hand.
Lastly, prioritize safety above all else. Soft construction prevents injuries from contact with players or errant throws. Durability ensures balls retain compression and playability over time. With the right tee ball, young sluggers can take their first swings worry free!
Reviews of the Best Rawlings Tee Balls
With tee ball season fast approaching, it’s time to get my daughter equipped with a proper tee ball set. As a longtime coach and baseball dad, I always recommend Rawlings tee ball gear for beginning players ages 5-7. Through countless practices and games, Rawlings tee balls have proven to be the perfect mix of quality, performance, and safety. Let’s review some of the best options for young sluggers.
The Rawlings RTB1 Rubber Training Baseballs are a tee ball classic. These rugged polyurethane balls stand up to endless abuse from excited hitters. Textured surfaces aid grip while soft rubber cores limit flight distance. Hundreds of hits only increase their sweet spot. RTB1s are tee ball perfection.
For high visibility, the Rawlings white/yellow RYL1 safety balls are ideal. The two-tone design makes it easy to pick up the ball against green grass. SOFTSTRIKE technology provides great compression and feedback. These pro-looking balls build confidence in young hitters.
The Rawlings RLLB1 Little League training balls are sized right for small hands. At 17-inches, these softballs fit perfectly on smaller tees. Rubber construction withstands countless hits for extended playability. Can’t beat them for tee work or indoor hitting.
Newly upgraded Rawlings RLL1W little league balls feature moisture resistant windings that retain shape and tackiness. Textured covers aid grip while soft rubber centers limit flight distance and sting. Built pro-grade for flawless tee ball action.
For indoor tee ball practice, the Rawlings IDB1 Indoor Balls are ideal. Cotton windings allow for controlled flight in confined spaces. Rubber cores cushion impact while providing great feedback. Let kids hit year-round!
If durability is key, the Rawlings RDB1 Rubber Baseballs can’t be beat. Solid rubber construction withstands the roughest hitters. Weather resistant covers retain color and tackiness over time. These practically indestructible balls just beg to be hit.
Any of these Rawlings tee ball models provide the right balance of safety, performance and durability to get young players off on the right foot. Whichever you choose, you can be assured your 5-7 year old will be swinging with confidence and loving the game of baseball.
Proper Tee Ball Sizing Based on Age and Skill Level
As a tee ball coach and dad of two, I’ve learned how important using the right sized ball is for developing skills and safety. Rawlings makes high-quality tee balls in sizes tailored specifically for different ages and abilities. Here’s a quick guide on sizing your tee ball gear properly.
For young tee ballers ages 3-5 just starting out, begin with the smaller 17″ size balls. The 17″ circumference is ideal for smaller hands learning proper grip and swing mechanics. The soft rubber construction reduces impact forces for safety too. As skills progress, move up to the larger 19″ tee balls around age 5-6.
If players struggle making contact with larger balls, don’t be afraid to scale back down until skills improve. Safety and confidence should drive sizing decisions. I’ve had some kids happily stick with 17″ balls up to age 7 if needed.
Advanced hitters playing up may be ready for real 11″ hardballs off a tee around ages 7-8. But again, only transition when mechanics are sound and contact consistent. Don’t rush into hardballs until players prove ready. Stay with softballs until the skills truly warrant it.
For teams with mixed ages, have several ball sizes handy for tailoring drills to ability levels. Allow less advanced kids to use smaller balls in hitting stations before gradually working up. The key is matching ball size to current skill, not age.
The same concept applies when moving up from light plastic bats to higher performance bats. Upgrade equipment incrementally as ability improves. Aluminum bats increase swing speed as kids get stronger. But wait until a player truly controls a lighter bat before sizing up.
When in doubt, always err on the side of safety and control. Ask yourself “Can they consistently make solid contact and get the ball airborne?” If not, stick with smaller sized balls and bats. Building skills the right way prevents injuries and future issues down the road.
While kids want to play with “the cool older kid gear”, resist temptation until skills warrant it. With the right-sized Rawlings tee balls and bats matched to current ability, young hitters will progress safely while having a blast playing the game we love.
Teaching Proper Swing Mechanics with a Tee
As a new tee ball coach this season, I want to make sure my players develop proper swing fundamentals right from the start. The batting tee is the perfect tool for teaching key mechanics in a controlled setting before introducing pitching. Let’s go over some best practices for utilizing tee work to ingrain quality form.
With the ball conveniently placed on an adjustable tee, young hitters can lock eyes on it throughout the swing. This allows them to track the ball from setup to contact for optimal timing. Changing trajectories and speeds are eliminated, letting players ingrain ideal swing paths.
The tee also keeps the ball centrally located in the strike zone. Kids learn to swing through the hitting area versus chasing outside pitches. Repeated quality contact further engrains keeping hands inside the ball.
Since the ball is stationary, we can fine tune setup and form between swings. I remind my hitters to stabilize their base and balance their weight before each swing. Hands should start relaxed before gripping the bat. Adjusting grip, positioning, and posture is easier when not awaiting a new pitch.
The tee allows for smooth, level cuts that build muscle memory. I cue kids to swing through the ball with a flat bat. Topping and popping up pitches is less likely versus toss hitting. Solid contact becomes the priority over reactions.
Backspin off the tee indicates optimal collision with the sweet spot. I watch for consistent backspin as proof they are locking barrels. The feedback motivates kids to keep honing mechanics.
For struggling players, I lower the tee height to restore confidence. Crouching to meet the ball helps reinforce proper swing planes. Building back up from basics gets skills back on track.
Lastly, I remind impatient hitters to pause between swings. Rushing leads to poor mechanics.brief pauses ensure focus, proper setup, and full swings. Good habits start here.
The batting tee is an invaluable training tool every new coach should utilize. By providing quality repetitions in a controlled setting, the tee helps cement proper mechanics in young hitters before facing live pitching. Kids build both skills and confidence with this simple iconic piece of equipment.
Fun Baseball Drills to Do with a Tee Ball
Keeping young players engaged and motivated is key to building tee ball skills. The same old stationary swings get stale fast. As a coach, I’m always looking for fun drills that break up monotony while teaching skills. Here are some of my favorite baseball drills kids love doing with their trusty tee balls and bats.
Tee Ball Long Toss – Set up two tees apart from each other. Give each player a ball and have them take turns hitting then retrieving their ball. This works on hitting and fielding in a competitive, active way.
Tee Ball Target Practice – Place empty plastic bottles on field and let kids take aim from the tee. Seeing bottles scatter builds accuracy and power.
Hit the Coach’s Glove – I’ll kneel in the hitting zone and have them smack balls into my glove. Helps reinforce level direct hits and hitting a moving target.
Home Run Derby – Set up “bases” at different distances. Give each hitter 10 swings to tally total hits. Great power practice and they love circling bases.
Tee Ball Bowling – Stand plastic bottles upright like pins around plate. See how many they can topple with hits. Working angles and making adjustments.
Hit the Bucket – Have designated fielders attempt to catch tee shots on the fly with a bucket. Emphasizes hard consistent contact.
Tee Ball Tic-Tac-Toe – Use chalk or tape to make a tic-tac-toe board on the field. Teams take turns trying to hit boxes in a row from tee. Fun team competition!
Rapid Fire Tee Ball – With help resetting tees, see how many balls players can hit fair in 1 minute. Fast-paced way to get a lot of quality swings.
Home Run Strokes – Count and call out made up homer distances for well struck balls. “That one’s 350 feet!” Kids eat up the exaggerated praise.
Those are some of my favorite tee ball drills for skills and engagement. Set targets and challenges to break up standard repetitions. And keep things moving! The games keep kids active, learning and begging to hit more off that magic tee.
Setting Up Backyard Batting Practice with a Tee
With tee ball season fast approaching, I want to help my young hitter get some extra reps in the backyard. Batting tees provide the perfect way for aspiring sluggers ages 5-7 to sharpen skills outside of organized practice. Here are some tips for setting up fun, productive batting practice at home using that versatile tee.
Safety first! Start by defining a clear hitting direction away from people, pets, buildings, and breakables. With lighter tee balls, 60 feet of clearance is plenty. Have a responsible adult “spotting” nearby in case of miscues.
Portable batting tees offer height adjustability for dialing in proper ball positions. Set the ball just above the child’s belt line to start. Raised tee heights reinforce level swings versus chopping down.
Fill a couple buckets with rubber balls, real balls if skills allow. Multiple spheres reduce retrieval downtime versus single ball. Spare balls keep action continuous. Nothing slows momentum like chasing misses.
For accuracy and motivation, set up fun backstop targets like old blankets or cardboard boxes. Visual feedback helps kids self-correct. Knocking down “buildings” is a thrill!
Consider hanging tennis balls on strings or small tarp targets at varying heights. Target practice sharpens hand-eye coordination and engages young sluggers.
Paint or tape yardage distance markers on the ground. Kids get a kick from calling their own “home runs” when shots pass markers. Great power incentive.
To monitor mechanics, position a smart phone or video camera perpendicular to the tee. Reviewing recorded swings helps ingrain proper form.
Above all, keep it fun! Like backyard pitch-backs for fielding, simple tee sessions help instill proper mechanics minus the pressures of live ballgames. Short focused stints keep kids wanting more. Just watch their skills and love for the game blossom!
Transitioning from Tee Ball to Coach Pitch Baseball
Watching my daughter develop her batting skills these past two seasons of tee ball has been so rewarding. As she now transitions to coach pitch baseball, I want to make sure she continues progressing while staying sharp. Moving from hitting off a tee to swinging against live pitching presents new challenges. Here are some tips for a smooth transition.
First, don’t abandon the tee! Continue utilizing batting tees in practices and at home. Solid contact off the tee builds muscle memory. My daughter still takes a few rounds of tee swings before facing live throws.
Overprepare them for pitching speed. Have coaches throw moderately fast for batted balls to start versus lobbing it in. This makes real pitches seem slower by comparison.
Focus batting practice on hitting inside pitches and reaction times versus power. Making quick adjustments is now key rather than the controlled tee environment.
Consider having players wear full protective facemasks at first for peace of mind. New pitch types and speeds can intimidate, so keep their confidence up.
Start pitches close with decreased distances as skills progress. Shorter reaction times challenges hand-eye coordination while building confidence.
With each success, slowly incorporate more pitch varieties like changeups and curveballs. Vary speeds, locations, and delivery styles to keep batters sharp.
Continue using softer baseballs initially before transitioning to harder balls. Maintain safety until ready for increased speed and reduced compression.
Most importantly, keep practice fun and upbeat. With patience and encouragement, coach pitch offers a perfect bridge from tee ball to real games. Meeting new challenges head-on ensures skills keep advancing.
While less controlled than tee setups, coach pitch expands hand-eye coordination and sharp reactions. With quality repetition and training aids like batting tees, young hitters quickly adapt their skills to live pitching. Just watch that sweet swing continue blossoming!
Important Safety Tips for Using a Batting Tee
As tee ball season starts, keeping our young hitters safe should be the top concern. While batting tees help develop skills, we must use proper precautions as well. Based on my years of coaching 5-7 year olds, here are my top safety tips when using batting tees.
First, define a safe hitting direction away from people and objects. With lighter balls, 60 feet is sufficient clearance. Adults should stand outside the swing path when feeding balls.
Wearing helmets is an absolute must, even with softer balls. Batting helmets protect skulls from occasional errant swings and prevent dangerous head-first falls.
Use balls appropriate for age and ability. Beginners should use lightweight plastic or soft rubber balls to start. Only tee up hardballs when players demonstrate sufficient strength and control.
Soft tossers should stay alert and wear gloves. Young kids sometimes lose grip during messy swings. Protect hands and eyes when feeding the ball machine.
Set tee heights based on current skill levels. Start low, centering balls in the swing zone. Gradually increase tee height as mechanics improve. Proper ball positioning prevents low contacted pops.
Keep bystanders like siblings or pets clear of the hitting zone. Loose equipment and missed balls can ricochet unpredictably. Defining a safe perimeter prevents accidents.
Remind overeager batters to pause between swings for proper setup. Rushed, unbalanced swings often go awry. Patience prevents falling into tee or taking wild cuts.
Finally, inspect equipment for damage regularly. Replace loose or cracked tees that could give way. Eliminate tripping hazards from worn hitting mats or nets.
With the right safety measures in place, batting tees should be a fun, low-risk way to improve young hitting skills. Keeping our sluggers protected while building confidence is a win-win.
Where to Buy Rawlings Baseball Equipment and Accessories
With another exciting tee ball season starting, it’s time to get my daughter outfitted with new Rawlings gear. As the leader in baseball equipment for over 100 years, Rawlings sets the standard for quality and innovation. But with so many retailers carrying merchandise, where is the best place to get authentic Rawlings products?
For the widest selection, local sporting goods stores like Dick’s, Modell’s, and Dunham’s are safe bets. They carry everything from gloves and balls to accessories. Try stuff on for fit and feel in person before buying. Often cheaper than small shops too.
Baseball specialty stores offer knowledgeable staff and niche gear. Expect to pay more but you get trustworthy recommendations and small business support. Great for custom mitts or team orders.
For bargains, check department stores like Walmart, Target, and Kmart. Their equipment quality varies but deals abound. Ideal if budget is tight or you need volume equipment for rec leagues or camps.
Online retailers like Amazon provide convenience and quick shipping. Easy to comparison shop styles and prices. Verify fitting guidelines and return policies. Can’t beat delivery to your doorstep.
For latest gear, shop directly from Rawlings.com. See all their newest product releases right when available. Custom team orders are easy. And take advantage of free shipping promotions.
Scour used sporting good stores for quality pre-owned mitts and bats at reduced costs. With some TLC, lightly used Rawlings gear often has plenty of game left for recreational play.
Ask teammates where they get their stuff. Word of mouth recommendations ensure you get the right equipment from trusted local sources. Support shops that support your team.
However you choose to outfit your player, opt for Rawlings gear that matches their age and skill level. Keep tags for easy returns or exchanges. With quality training equipment, young ballplayers gain confidence while having fun. So shop around for the best deals, but ultimately choose Rawlings for proven performance and durability season after season.