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Katy American Little League

Tee Ball (Ages 4-6)

  • Overview: Tee Ball introduces young players to the fundamentals of baseball in a fun, non-competitive setting. 

  • Special Rules:  

    • No pitching – All players hit off a tee to develop hand-eye coordination and hitting skills.

    • No scoring – Focus is on learning; there’s no official scorekeeping.

    • No outs – Each team bats through the entire lineup each inning, regardless of outs.

    • Base running – No leading off, stealing, or sliding; players simply advance bases after hitting.

  •  Game Length: Typically 1 hour or 2-3 innings, whichever comes first.

  •  Game Time: 1:15

  • Tee Ball Overview

  • Tee Ball Parents Guide

  • Tee Ball Program


 Minor League (Ages 6-11)  

  • Overview: Minor League introduces more structure to the game, with some levels using coach-pitch, while older players move to player-pitch. 

  • Special Rules:

    • Coach or machine pitch – Younger players (typically ages 7-8) often hit from a coach or machine pitch. Player-pitch usually starts around age 9.

    • No leading off – Runners must stay on base until the pitch crosses the plate.

    • Limited stealing – Stealing may be allowed in player-pitch games but is generally limited.

    • Sliding – Sliding is introduced; however, head-first sliding is generally not permitted.

    • Continuous batting order – Many leagues use a continuous batting order, allowing all players to bat each inning, regardless of fielding positions.

  • Game Length: Typically 6 innings or around 1.5 to 2 hours.

  • Game Time: Rookie 6: 1:20, Rookie 7: 1:25, Minor 8: 1:30, Minor 9: 1:35, Minor 10/11: 1:40

  • Pitching Rules: Little League Pitching Rules


 Intermediate Division (Ages 12-13)  

  • Overview: The Intermediate (50/70) Division serves as a transition between the Little League field and the larger field dimensions used in Junior League, introducing more advanced gameplay rules.

  • Special Rules:  

    • Leads and pick-offs – Players can take lead-offs, and pitchers are allowed to attempt pick-offs, bringing in a higher level of strategy.

    • Field dimensions – Bases are set at 70 feet, and the pitching distance is 50 feet, offering a midway point between standard Little League and regulation-sized fields.

    • Stealing – Allowed, including stealing home plate.

    • Slidin– Head-first sliding is permitted, reflecting the transition to more advanced rules.

  • Game Length: Typically 7 innings or about 2 to 2.5 hours.

  • Game Time: 1:45

  • Pitch Rules: Little League Pitching Rules


 Junior/Senior League (Ages 14-16)  

  • Overview: These divisions use a full-sized field with a pitching distance of 60.5 feet and 90-foot base paths, designed to closely mirror high school baseball rules and prepare players for competitive levels.

  • Special Rules:

    • Leads and pick-offs – Players can take lead-offs, and pitchers can attempt pick-offs, following standard baseball rules.

    • Stealing – Full stealing is allowed, including stealing home plate.

    • Sliding – Head-first sliding is allowed, offering players the full scope of advanced baserunning techniques.

    • Mandatory play – While mandatory play rules may be relaxed in this division, many leagues encourage fair playing time for all players. Tournament play may have specific participation requirements.

    • Pitching – There are no pitching machines in these divisions. Pitchers must adhere to the previously discussed pitch count limits and mandatory rest days to protect young arms.

  • Game Length: Typically 7 innings, with games lasting around 2.5 to 3 hours.

  • Game Time: 1:50

  • Pitch Rules: Little League Pitching Rules


Challenger Division (Ages 4 and Up)

Overview:
The Challenger Division is an adaptive baseball program designed for individuals with physical and intellectual challenges. It provides a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment for athletes of all abilities to enjoy the game of baseball.

Special Rules:

  • Buddies Program – Players may be paired with a “Buddy” to assist with batting, fielding, or running the bases as needed. Buddies are encouraged to foster independence but can provide help when requested.
  • Inclusive Play – All players bat each inning and play defensively in every game.
  • No Scorekeeping – Games are non-competitive, with no runs or outs recorded, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
  • Flexible Gameplay – Rules can be adjusted to fit the needs of each team and individual players.

Game Length:

  • Typically 1-2 innings or about 1 hour, depending on the needs and energy of the players.

Game Time:

  • Varies by league, but generally held during weekend mornings or afternoons for flexibility.

Participation Rules:

  • All players have an equal opportunity to participate on the field, with no restrictions on batting or fielding rotations.
Game Play Guidelines for Challenger Buddies

Katy American Little League

24927 Morton Ranch Rd. 
Katy, Texas 77493
Email : [email protected]
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