This resource stems from a question submitted to the Ask PCA blog. Responses come from our experts including PCA Trainers, who lead live group workshops for coaches, parents, administrators and student-athletes.

“My 11-year-old son’s select-team baseball coaches are upset that he is also playing house league Fall Ball, which my son loves, because it is so relaxed and fun. These select coaches say that playing with 'bad' players will hurt my son’s talent. I’m curious what the general thought is on this.”

PCA Response by Eric Eisendrath, Former PCA Lead Trainer
I cannot support your son's select-team coaches' stance in any way. If your son enjoys playing with his friends, in a familiar league, with a more relaxed atmosphere, I support his decision 100%. At this age, continuing to foster a love for the game is critical to prevent burnout.

Other than the possibility that it may take your son a few at-bats to re-acclimate to the speed of select-team pitching after his time playing in the house league, I cannot think of one shred of evidence to support these select-team coaches' claims.

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