Ahh…summer ball. Some players love it and some hate it. I have absolutely had a blast playing summer baseball and met some lifelong friends. Summer baseball is different than what you would be used to in terms of high school travel baseball. It is a fun and unique time. In this article, I will answer 7 questions about collegiate summer baseball.
1. What is the best league?
The premier summer baseball league is the Cape Cod League. This league is strictly invitation-only and features some of the best players from around the country. Some other quality leagues include the Northwoods League, the Alaska Baseball League, and the Coastal Plains League. If you are looking for a place on the West Coast, the California Collegiate Baseball League is also a quality spot. In all of these leagues, you will be seen by Major League scouts and you will face great competition.
2. Where will I be?
Collegiate summer baseball is a huge part of small towns in the United States. You will most likely be in a small town that has a passionate fanbase. Some places I have played include Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and Palmer, Alaska.
3. Where will I live?
You will live with a “host family” when you play summer baseball. The great thing about host families is that you don't have to pay a dime to live there. Host families are generous enough to allow you to stay in their house rent-free the entire summer. Most of them will provide you with home-cooked meals as well.
4. Is the emphasis on winning or development in summer baseball?
The emphasis of summer baseball is definitely on development. College coaches send their players to summer ball in order to get innings and at-bats. However, this does not mean that your summer ball coaches will not want to win. Summer baseball is a business, and as such, coaches will recruit and play the players they think will help them win ball games. Focus on your development as a player and enjoy meeting new friends.
5. Will there be team practices on my summer team?
The answer to this question really depends. When I played in the Northwoods League, we didn't ever have team practice. We threw bullpens and played catch on off days, but there was never an official team practice. However, when I played in the Alaska baseball league, we had team practice regularly on our off days. It all depends on your summer league.
6. How many games will I play? How long does the season last?
Summer baseball replicates minor league baseball in that you will be playing almost every day. Sometimes your team might even have a double-header! This is completely different than what you would be used to in-season so it is important to take care of your body. Most summer ball seasons will begin in late May/early June and end in early-to-mid August. The Northwoods League is notorious for having the most amount of games with 72.
7. Who will be on my team?
A variety of players will be on your team. You will have JUCO players, DI players, DIII players, and even players who have already graduated. You will realize how many good players there are from all over the country. Make friends, socialize, and have fun. Summer ball is a rewarding experience if you allow it to be!
