9U-14U Travel Baseball

Teams are organized by age at the 9U–14U levels, which generally correspond to players in 3rd–8th grade. Players must be in 3rd grade to participate, or, if in 2nd grade, have a birthdate on or before August 31. Age eligibility for each division is determined using a May 1 cutoff date, meaning players cannot turn the next age level before May 1 of the current season.

Tryouts are held in March, typically before Spring Break. The season runs from early April through July, with approximately three games or practices each week, plus 3 or more weekend tournaments throughout the season.

Teams compete in the Metro Baseball League (MBL), with league games played throughout the Twin Cities metro area. In addition to league play, teams participate in weekend tournaments across the metro and, depending on the team's age level and tournament availability, may also travel to greater Minnesota or western Wisconsin.

Travel teams typically practice two to three times per week. Practices are held at local fields in Farmington. Early-season practices may be held indoors due to weather and field conditions.

Teams play approximately 14 weekday league games during the season. In addition, each team participates in at least 3 weekend tournaments, with a guaranteed minimum of three games per tournament and the opportunity to play more based on tournament results. Some teams also choose to participate in additional tournaments.

Players selected for a travel baseball team are responsible for purchasing the approved FBA uniform, which includes a primary jersey, secondary jersey, pants, and hat.

Players are also responsible for providing black socks, a black belt, and a black undershirt to wear with their uniform.

Players are responsible for providing their own glove, batting helmet, bat, and cleats. Molded cleats are required for 9U–12U, while metal cleats are permitted beginning at 13U. FBA also strongly recommends that all players wear a hard protective athletic cup.

Teams that qualify for or are invited to participate in postseason events, including state and national tournaments, are responsible for any associated entry fees and travel expenses. Likewise, the cost of any additional tournaments a team chooses to enter during the season is the responsibility of the team and participating families.

All families are required to fulfill the FBA volunteer commitment. A $500 volunteer deposit will be collected per family and refunded upon completion of the volunteer requirement. Families are required to complete four volunteer hours per player, with a maximum of six hours per family.