What to expect in Double-A (AA).

Objectives for AA.

The goal for AA is for players to take the fundamentals and concepts they've learned in Tee Ball and A-ball and apply them to a semi-competitive environment. This is the first time players will encounter balls and strikes - and therefore strikeouts - so AA is also an important year for developing sportsmanship and teamwork. There is still no scorekeeping at this level.

Obviously the biggest change in AA is the introduction of player pitching. All players are encouraged to try pitching, at least in practices if not in games. During games, coaches can and will step in for players who are struggling to throw strikes or have hit multiple batters. (League rules mandate coaches must step in when a pitcher walks 4 batters in an inning or hits three.) Most AA games will have an umpire.

AA prepares players for Triple-A (AAA), which is the first fully competitive level of Little League baseball. There is a heavy emphasis on pitching development in AA, as you'd expect, but an equal focus on hitting skills, strike zone recognition, and base running. Players will continue to build on the general rules and concepts they learned in the Tee Ball and A divisions.

For more details, check out the Rules for AA..

Family time commitment for AA.

AA teams typically play one game a week, usually on Saturdays. Games last 90 minutes. Teams will also hold one 90-minutes practice during the week.

Coaching commitment for AA.

As you might expect, the coaching commitment for AA is different than at the lower levels. The addition of pitching and the increased focus on hitting opens greater opportunities for learning and development. Practice planning is more important at this level, and good coordination and communication with coaches and parents is key to a fun and rewarding season. Coaches should expect to spend between 5 and 8 hours per week between games, practice, and preparation.

For more information, check out our page on Coaching AA.