Minors & 10U Softball is the first level of player only-pitched baseball and softball in Lancaster Youth Baseball and Softball. Minors is played on a 60’ base path and 46’ pitcher’s mound distance. 10U Softball is played on a 60' base path and a 35' pitcher's rubber distance. The majority of the players in Minors and 10U will be 9 to 10-years-old. Experienced 8-year-olds may be on Minors teams if they meet all requirements. Any player that doesn't meet the requirements to play in Minors, may request to be reassigned to Rookies for another season.

In Minors and 10U, coaches emphasize the advancement of player's baseball and softball skills. Players are taught to apply those skills and make their own decisions in live game situations.  Minors and 10U introduces live pitching from the players, as well as a hard baseball and an 11", hard softball.  Amoung other rules, base stealing and bunting is introduced.  Minors and 10U is meant to prepare players for their introduction to competitive baseball in Majors and 12U Softball.

Developmental Guidelines for Minors & 10U Softball

Players who register for Minors & 10U should be able to demonstrate the following skills upon completion:  

• Ability to hit a baseball/softball pitched on a flat line (not lobbed).
• Ability to catch and throw a ball on a flat line.
• Knowledge of all field positions and base locations
• Players should not be afraid to catch a baseball/softball or to have a ball pitched at them.

Minors & 10U Division Details

• Most children play in Minors & 10USoftball for two years prior to entering Majors & 12U.
• Lancaster Youth Baseball and Softball forms teams with the purpose of ensuring an enjoyable experience for players.  We use information such as player's schools, and coach or teammate requests when forming teams.  We cannot guarantee we will be able to honor all requests.
• Games last a maximum of six innings or 90 minutes.
• Teams observe continuous batting; the batting order includes all players on the team.
• Players may be called out on strikes and half-innings end after three outs.
• Players are rotated through infield and outfield positions, although coaches may consider safety in assigning positions.
• Ten defensive players take the field during each half-inning. Players share equal playing time and will sit out innings, but no player shall sit out two consecutive innings. Catchers are positioned behind home plate and catch “live” pitches.
• Coaches and youth assistants umpire in Minors games. 10U softball uses Jr. and adult umpires. Game scores and records are kept and standings are introduced with area teams.
• Teams will typically have 1 practice and 1-2 games each week.  The season, which begins in late April and ends in late June, includes approximately 12-16 games and include playoffs.