Preparing for a Travel Baseball Tryout

A practical guide for families preparing for a travel baseball evaluation.

A tryout is not only a test of how many balls a player can hit or how hard a player can throw. It is an opportunity for coaches to see how an athlete moves, competes, listens, responds to instruction and works with other players.

Arrive ready to work

Bring the equipment the player normally uses, arrive early enough to get settled, and make sure the athlete has had a normal meal and plenty of water. The goal is to begin the evaluation focused rather than rushed.

Show coachability

Coaches need to see how a player responds to instruction. Listen, try the adjustment and keep working even when the first attempt is not perfect.

Compete without making it all about the result

Effort, body language and willingness to compete matter. A player can have a bad at-bat or make an error and still show coaches something valuable through the next play.

Remember the bigger picture

Adirondack Heat has described its team philosophy around finding the right fit and helping players develop from season to season. Families should look for a program where the player can grow, contribute and enjoy the experience.