T-ball and coach pitch rules, and how they differ from kid pitch

The three stages at a glance

Youth baseball is usually built as a ladder. Players begin with the simplest version and the game adds pieces over time. The goal at every level is the same: let kids touch the ball, play catch, run the bases, and enjoy it.

All of this depends on the league, so treat the table as the usual pattern and not a rulebook.

How T-ball works

In T-ball, the batter hits a ball off a stationary tee. There is no pitcher, so there are no balls, strikes, walks or strikeouts. The batter swings until the ball is put in play, or, in some leagues, for a set number of swings. After that, the batter runs.

• Everyone bats. Most leagues bat the entire roster each inning, so every child gets a turn.
• The whole team fields. Many leagues put every player on the field at once, including extra outfielders, and rotate positions often.
• Outs and scores may not be tracked. Some leagues do not keep a score or count outs, and the inning ends when everyone has batted. Others do both. Ask which your league uses.
• Running rules are simple. Players generally run to first and then follow the base path. Some leagues say a runner stops at a base the coach points to.
• Safety comes first. Adults on the field, batter's helmets and clear rules about not throwing bats are the norm.

The purpose of T-ball is learning the basics: how to swing, how to hold a glove, how to run in the right direction. For hitting basics, see hitting basics for beginners.

How coach pitch works

In coach pitch, an adult, usually a coach from the batting team, throws to the batter from a short distance. The goal is a slow, hittable pitch so the child can practice tracking and swinging at a moving ball. Since there are no strong pitchers, the walks and strikeouts that slow down kid pitch are usually removed or greatly reduced.

• Limited number of pitches. A batter usually gets a few pitches from the coach. Leagues differ on what happens after that. Some move to a tee, some call the batter out, and some give the batter another try.
• The coach's position. Pitching coaches often throw from near the mound, sometimes from a spot marked by the league. Some leagues require a protective screen or ask the coach to stay in a defined area. Check what your league uses.
• Defense is real. Outs are typically counted, and the inning ends after three outs or after everyone has batted, depending on the league.
• A defender may stand near the mound. Some leagues put a player in the pitcher's spot as a fielder only. The coach throws; the child fields the ball.
• Base running grows. Many leagues allow runners to advance on hits but not steal, and some limit how far a runner may go on an overthrow.

Coach pitch is also where children first learn to tag, force and throw to a base. For positions, see baseball positions explained.

What changes when kids start pitching

Kid pitch is the first time the full game appears. A player on the fielding team pitches, and the batter can strike out or walk. Games take longer, because pitches are less predictable, and runners can be involved on wild pitches or passed balls. Leagues usually add pitch counts and rest rules to protect young arms. Read youth baseball pitch count rules and arm care for young pitchers for background.

Some leagues bridge the gap with a hybrid, such as a machine pitch or a division where a child pitches but the coach finishes the at-bat if the child cannot find the plate. If your child is moving up, moving from coach pitch to kid pitch covers the adjustment in detail.

What to ask your league

1. Is score kept, and are outs counted? This changes how competitive the games feel.
2. How many pitches does a batter get? And what happens after the last one?
3. Can runners steal or lead off? Many younger divisions say no.
4. How long are games? Many leagues use time limits or a set number of innings.
5. What equipment is provided? Bats and helmets are often provided. See the equipment checklist.
6. Is there a rule on bats? Bat markings and standards matter. See bat standards and sizing.

How parents can help

• Keep it light. At these ages, children are learning to love the game. A swing and a miss is normal.
• Do not coach from the stands. Conflicting instructions from many adults confuse young players.
• Practice catch at home. Short sessions throwing and catching a soft ball help more than anything else.
• Volunteer. Coach pitch and T-ball leagues are often short on helpers.

For what the first year typically looks like, see the first season of youth baseball.

Common mix-ups

• "T-ball is just a warm-up." It is where kids learn to listen, share and follow a game.
• "Not keeping score is bad." It is intentional. Many leagues skip it so the focus stays on learning.
• "My child should be pitching soon." Not every child needs to pitch, and readiness varies.

Sources and further reading

1. A Parent's Guide to Little League Tee Ball Little League
2. Parents Guide to Little League Little League
3. Age Group F.A.Q. PONY Baseball and Softball

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between T-ball and coach pitch?

In T-ball the ball sits on a tee, and in coach pitch an adult throws a slow pitch to the batter. Coach pitch also tends to count outs and use more of the standard game.

Do they keep score in T-ball?

It depends on the league. Many do not keep score or count outs so the focus stays on learning, while others do.

Can runners steal in coach pitch?

Many leagues do not allow stealing or leading off at this level, but it varies, so check your league's rules.

What comes after coach pitch?

Kid pitch, where a player on the fielding team pitches. Some leagues use a machine pitch or a hybrid division in between.

What do kids need for T-ball?

Usually a glove, a helmet and comfortable shoes, with the league often providing bats and team gear. Ask your league what it supplies.