Pony A
Age 8 • Introduction to Kid Pitch
Welcome to an exciting milestone in your child's baseball journey! The Pony A Division introduces 8-year-old players to kid pitching in a supportive, developmental environment. This season marks the transition from coach pitch to player pitch, building confidence and skills at every step.
Our program emphasizes fundamentals, sportsmanship, and fun. Coaches work alongside players on the field, providing guidance and encouragement as they develop their pitching and hitting abilities. Every player gets meaningful playing time in both infield and outfield positions.
Season Information
Spring Season
March - June
Our main season begins with coach pitch games, gradually introducing kid pitch innings as the season progresses. By June, players pitch full games to their own teams. Games are typically weekday evenings at 6:00 PM.
Fall Season
September - October
A shorter season focused on skill development and continued practice. Great opportunity for players to build on spring fundamentals and prepare for the next level.
Rules & Expectations
The season starts with coach pitch and gradually introduces kid pitch innings. During kid pitch:
- Pitchers throw to their own team
- Maximum 25 pitches per outing, 2 innings per game, 3 innings per week
- If a batter walks, the coach steps in for 3 additional pitches
- Pitch counters are provided to coaches
Coaches pitch hittable balls to their own batters. Each batter gets 3 swings to put the ball in play. If they don't hit any of the three, the batter is out. We encourage players to develop their understanding of the strike zone by only swinging at good pitches.
At this level, we focus on fundamentals:
- Runners may not leave base until the ball is hit
- No stealing or tagging up allowed
- No advancing on passed balls
- Hits are limited to singles unless it's a legitimate extra-base hit (hard line drive or ball over outfielder's head)
- Bunting is practiced but not used in games
These rules help develop proper fundamentals:
- Outfielders play at normal depth (away from the infield)
- No right field assists at first base
- Outfielders must throw to a base to record an out (no direct putouts)
- A coach may stand behind the pitcher to help call plays and assist fielders
Every player matters! Our playing time rules ensure all kids get meaningful experience:
- Minimum 3 innings of playing time per game
- All players bat in continuous rotation
- Players rotate between infield and outfield positions
- Catchers limited to 4 innings per game
- Free substitution is allowed
Pony A uses modified field dimensions appropriate for 8-year-olds:
- Pitching distance: 42 feet
- Base paths: 55 feet
Field Setup (Coach Resource)
Home team (third base dugout) is responsible for field preparation:
- Check field condition upon arrival
- Bases are in the shed next to the Quickball field
- Supply the game ball
- Drag field if needed (3-wheeler in garage)
Important tips for field dragging:
- Drive slowly, especially near home plate and dugout fencing
- Do NOT use the tines unless instructed
- Never go over the mound with tines down
- Do not drag mat into the grass
- Use rake to spread piled-up dirt after dragging
Field lining is done for the first game of the day (weekends) and as time allows for weekday games. For batter's boxes, align the frame against home plate and trace with the broom handle. For foul lines, use the string line pin at home plate, stretch to the base corner, and apply chalk along the string.
Away team is responsible for cleanup after the last game:
- Drag the field
- Return bases to the shed and replace post inserts
- Rake base areas (push dirt back into basepath)
- Lock the shed (check with Pony B and Quickball)
Report any equipment or field issues immediately via text.
Equipment Needs
Baseball Glove
A properly sized glove is essential. We recommend visiting a local sporting goods store to find the right fit for your child.
USA Baseball Approved Bat
All bats must have the USA Baseball stamp. This ensures safety and fair play across all youth leagues.
Cleats (Recommended)
Baseball or softball cleats provide better traction on the field. Rubber cleats are required at this age level.
Ready to step up to the mound?
Register your 8-year-old for the Pony A Division and watch them discover the excitement of pitching and hitting at the next level.