JP, I agree all things in moderation. I have no problem with him playing xbox as long as it is the last on his priority list. I tell him all the time -- you will have time to do everything you want to do, but not everything will get equal time. I just want him to make sure he sets his priorities right.
What southwest says hits home: That after her kid made varsity and grew up he realized that mom was right. Parents have the benefit of experience. I know if he works hard he can contribute to his HS baseball program. If he doesn't, he'll be on the outside looking in. I don't want his baseball career to be cut short because he didn't work hard enough.
For example, several years ago he started working out as a catcher. It was a lot of extra work. He was going to give it up because he wasn't getting the opportunity to play catcher as we had the best catcher in town on our team. But here's the thing. The catching coaches that worked with him where the best coaches he has had at any level, in any sport. So I encouraged him to keep with it -- the worst thing that could happen is he spent a few extra hours of hard work with excellent coaches and learned a skill he may be able to use one day. I didn't force him. Fast forward a couple of years, the one catcher leaves and my kid goes from catching a few innings per season to catching 75-80% of the innings. Coaches start inviting him to tryout for their team. Had I not suggested he keep at it, he wouldn't have the opportunities he has now.
So I am trying to find that line between "encouraging" him to do the extra work to get better and letting him make his own decisions. So far, you all have given some great perspective.