Baseball
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Parent / Coach / VolunteerAdmin⚾ Baseball
First real game experience — learning the field, learning to love the game.
8U Baseball is the gateway to competitive youth baseball in La Crescent. Players step into real game situations — pitchers on the mound, fielders at position, base runners learning to read the play.
The first half of the season uses coach pitching so every batter gets quality plate appearances. As the season progresses, kid pitching is introduced on a 40-foot mound to prepare players for 9U and 10U. The emphasis is always on fundamentals and fun — not the score.
There are no walks at 8U — after ball 3, the coach comes in to pitch for the remainder of the at-bat. No stealing or leading off is allowed. Every player bats every inning in a continuous lineup.
| Base path | 60 feet (SRAA) |
| Pitching mound | 40 feet (SRAA) |
| Innings | 6 innings — 80-minute time limit |
| Run limit | 6 runs per inning maximum |
| Mercy rule | 10 runs after 4 innings; 15 runs after 3 innings |
| Pitch counts | 50 max/day — SRAA rest rules enforced |
| No walks | After ball 3, coach pitches the rest of the at-bat |
| Stealing / leads | No stealing or leading off at this level |
| Bunting | Not allowed at 8U |
| Hit-by-pitch | Pitcher who hits more than 2 batters must be replaced |
| Batting order | Continuous — everyone bats every inning |
| Metal spikes | Not permitted — rubber cleats only through 12U |
Pitch Count / Arm Protection
SRAA limit: 50 pitches per day. Rest rules: 1–20 pitches = 0 days rest; 21–35 pitches = 1 day rest; 36–50 pitches = 2 days rest. If a pitcher hits more than 2 batters, they must be replaced.
Coach's Note
"Focus on throwing mechanics before velocity. Every player should leave every practice knowing how to grip, stride, and follow through. Track pitch counts at every game — the 50-pitch limit protects young arms and is enforced by SRAA. If a pitcher hits 2+ batters, remove them — no exceptions."
Players born in 2018 or 2019 are eligible for 8U Baseball (must turn 8 by March 1, 2026). Players who turn 9 after March 1, 2026 may also play 8U.
Bat
26"–28" bat, drop -10 or lighter. USA Baseball certified stamp required. Barrel max 2¾". Tee-ball bats are NOT permitted.
Official USA Baseball approved bat list
Glove
9"–10.5" outfield/infield glove. A smaller glove is easier for young hands to control.
What to Bring