RapidBaseball FAQs:

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What is RapidBaseball?

A development tool for youth baseball players entering the initial years of kid pitch.  It is a reimagined baseball game format that invokes fun, a faster pace of play, and greater opportunities for development through increased repetition.

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Why RapidBaseball?

Currently traditional 7U-9U(kid pitch) games can be painfully slow and can lack development opportunities. The game is heavily focused around a pitcher attempting to throw strikes while hurling ball after ball to the backstop. These games typically have a combined 20+ walks, 3-5 total hits and kids standing around the field lacking opportunities to develop as baseball players.

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In a complete 8U baseball game it’s not uncommon for a kid to walk 3 times and not have one opportunity to make a defensive play. This is detrimental to the player's overall development and represents a missed opportunity for growth. 

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How does RapidBaseball Help?

RapidBaseball leverages the use of a pitching machine for the purposes of speed and consistency. More balls are put into play leading to more defensive opportunities, more confidence and more fun. 

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How does RapidBaseball Work?

A 10 minute timer is set at the first pitch of each half inning. Each team bats for 10 minutes straight. Each batter receives a maximum of 3 pitches.  A complete inning is ~20 minutes in length. On average, 22-25 players will bat per HALF inning!

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Once 3 outs are achieved, the bases are cleared, and the offensive team continues to bat. This eliminates the time wasted with players coming on and off the field plus warming up a pitcher.

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How to Pitchers Develop if a Pitching Machine is Used?

Pitching development is made a priority with RapidBaseball.  All players throughout the game will work towards a 25 pitch RapidBaseball “bullpen” with one of the coaches. This will occur for players as they take a defensive inning off.  

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What divisions within the Mercer Island Little League will use RapidBaseball?

All games in the A and AA divisions will use RapidBaseball.  Pre-season games in the AAA division will also use RapidBaseball.  After April 15, games in the AAA division will move to traditional player pitch.

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Will Coaches be Trained in RapidBaseball?

Yes!  Coaches will receive training on the use of RapidBaseball directly from experts.

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Are other Leagues in our District Using RapidBaseball?

Some are and some aren't.  Currently, Kirkland National & Kirkland American are using it in similar divisions and other D9 leagues are considering it.

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Where can I Learn More?

Visit rapidbaseball.org

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Rapid Baseball Coaches Portal

Access for all MILL coaches trained in Rapid Baseball