Myth #1. It’s on a bigger field, but it’s the same game.
The fundamentals remain the same, but the “thinking” part of the game and strategy are more important. Players can take leads off bases, and pitchers will try to pick them off. Situational hitting and defense are emphasized. Hitters and runners must work together on hit and run and squeeze plays. With more ground to cover, almost every fielder is involved in every play.
Myth #2. I’m not good enough.
The seniors division is still recreational baseball, like Major and Minors, and not “travel” ball. Players of all skill levels play Seniors baseball. Whether you haven’t played baseball in a few years (or ever) or if you would like to sharpen your skills for high school, Seniors baseball is a good choice. Myth #3. The pitchers are older than I am and too good, and I won’t be able to hit.
While some of the pitchers are 15 and 16 years old, most are 13 and 14. The older pitchers tend to play on their high school teams and their availability and pitch count in Seniors is limited. Although some of the pitchers might throw faster, remember that they are throwing from 60 feet rather than 45 feet, and batters have more time to react. Myth #4. I play on my high school team and I can’t do both.
Some Seniors ballplayers also play on their high school teams, especially when they are freshmen and sophomores and want some extra time on the field. Seniors rosters tend to be larger, because we anticipate that some players will need to attend their high school games. The high school season ends around the same time that Seniors playoffs begin. Myth #5. I’ll get “stuck” in right field.
You might have to play some—or a lot of—outfield, especially in your first year in Seniors as you develop arm strength for the infield and become familiar with defensive strategy on the big field. Outfielders are busy and important in Seniors. Balls will be hit your way. Some players end up preferring the outfield. Mookie Betts was a second baseman in the minors. Now he plays right field. Myth #6. Travel baseball is “better”.
Maybe in some ways, but it’s also a lot more time consuming and expensive. In terms of competitiveness, Tiverton Seniors teams have been pretty good since we joined the division six years ago. We have won two southern Rhode Island division championships, and made it to the districts championship game. Myth #7. There are no Seniors all-stars.
TLL has fielded a 13U all-star team every year we have played in the Seniors division. The all-star team plays in the districts tournament and usually in one private tournament. Myth #8. I live in Little Compton, so I can’t play in Tiverton.
Little Compton players can register for Tiverton Seniors baseball. We are happy to have them. Players from other towns that do not have a Seniors division may also be eligible. |