Rookie Parent W/ Questions

If the younger PG National events are structured like the National events for the older kids he would be considered one of the top 250 or so players for his grade. If it's free, your kid is consistently in the 80s, and you can afford the flight/drive/hotel stay then go for it. I wouldn't be shelling out any money for showcases heading into 8th grade, but it would probably be good to see what the top of the heap looks like. He's at an age where players are still two way guys, call PG and ask if he can do both. I'm sure it won't be an issue. If it costs 800 or whatever they charge now I would skip. 

Hey Cocdawg,

All the same principals apply here as to your February "Help Me Out" thread.  There are definitely no "must attend" events at your son's current age.  He has early size and velo and you are playing in other events to where he will certainly not go overlooked.  You are doing right by seeking out good qualified P instruction to keep him progressing and mechanically sound.  Beyond that, align him with good competition that he enjoys, teams/teammates that he enjoys and let things play out for a while.  If that showcase fits easily in the schedule and budget and his arm will be properly ramped up and he otherwise wants to attend, nothing wrong with playing in it.  But don't feel the least bit of pressure that he needs to.

His size and velo now will likely start to get him put on some radar lists but will be meaningless in two years if he hasn't continued to progress and/or doesn't take care of his arm, and/or doesn't continue to develop a passion for the game.  Too much pressure, too much push too early on is one of the many common factors that can result in lost passion for the game in the teens.

Thanks PABaseball and Cabbage Dad.

Both responses make sense.