What is your long term plan?

In my opinion with a 2021, in the fall,  your focus should strictly be on the first three bullets and that's it. And add one more bullet......have fun with family and friends, go fishing and camping and play lots of backyard football.  That's what I did.  Now for me with a 2019 we have had to add your final bullet points.  Our time is running out so this will be our first fall to play. (I posted a week or so ago about "what would you do" in reference to my rhp this fall.  We have decided to start playing at the end of September (ramping up throwing  this month to be ready, had 5-6 weeks off with no throwing, but two a days of working out and cardio and have grown an inch is summer)  culminating in Jupiter.

I have a 2021 too

Grades are huge, most definitely

Bigger/Stronger/Faster is an absolute priority.  We live in an era where measurables are the difference maker.

without great grades and great measurables, one's opportunities are severely limited.

After that, refining skills are paramount.  Practice reps are more important than game reps.

At least 2 straight months off from throwing for position players, and 3 straight months off from throwing for pitchers cannot be ignored, in my opinion.  

I can't believe I left these off the list:

• identify your target schools
• determine where you fit (D1,D2,D3, NAIA etc.)
• the plan should be flexible

I went back re-read the recruiting timeline on this site for 9th grade. Compared to that list, we are pretty much in line for the most part with a couple of exceptions. He isn't throwing again yet and He isn't playing fall ball this season.

We bucked the timeline advice on this one. The original plan was for him to take fall off and transition to the HS baseball schedule -- which plays later into the summer with potential college camps running through August and beyond. Playing this fall would have meant playing from Jan through late October of 2017,  getting ready for HS tryouts in January '18 and playing until Aug and maybe Sept. ' 18 again with the travel /camp schedule. He played a lot this summer so fall ball just felt like "more baseball" without as much purpose. 

Instead, he's been focusing on strength. He's added 9 pounds of his 15 pound goal this summer. He also decided to play in a fall basketball league with the HS team to prepare for HS basketball tryouts. This is great for conditioning but challenging the weight gain goal. His calorie consumption is going up even more now to offset the basketball conditioning. 

I've found it challenging to put all the pieces together at the detail level to support "the plan." There's only so much time after school for studying, being a kid, being a student athlete. We are at the lake this weekend having some fun and getting in a little R&R. 

I think all of this "planning" is fine, but I also think that it's probably driving people nuts worrying about stuff that may eventually take care of itself.  Worrying about a plan with a middle school kid is crazy.  Heck, the kid has 5 or 6 years to decide if he even still likes baseball.  My son had 4 or 5 kids from his 25 boy middle school class that I think legitimately could have played D1 baseball based on the athlete they ended up being...but they all gave up baseball after 8th grade.  HS football, basketball and track took priority.  1 is a D1 basketball player...the others were "average at best" in their HS sport and ended up not playing in college.  

My son played as many games as he could every year.....if a team needed a player...he was there...spring, summer, fall, travel, rec, whatever.  Heck, his first year of travel (10U) he was crushed when his last fall tourney got cancelled and he only got to play 97 games instead of 100. 

He played local rec, middle school, travel, and fall every year thru 8th grade...then HS, travel and fall thru HS. Played SS and Pitched....so essentially no innings/games off.   He also played HS soccer.   He basically took November and December off then started back in again Jan 1.  

Keep in mind, he was a young kid for his grade....and small so there were no guarantees...he just played as often as he could hoping to get better and hope that someday he would grow...which he finally did....lol

The pic I've attached is from his 14U summer...he's on the right.  All 5 were 2015's and all ended up at D1's.  A juniors in college, they are all listed at 6'0 or 6'1 lol.  The kid in the center ended up being my son's freshman roommate....in their pic from move in day my son had him by a a half inch. 

1. 4 S's: strength, speed, skills, school.
2. And if you don't plan, maybe it will happen, and maybe it won't. But with a plan, you've given your son every opportunity to succeed.

I just think it is way too early for a 2021 to determine where they fit.  Way too many variables still to be found out

• determine where you fit (D1,D2,D3, NAIA etc.)

3and2Fastball posted:

I just think it is way too early for a 2021 to determine where they fit.  Way too many variables still to be found out

• determine where you fit (D1,D2,D3, NAIA etc.)

Agree 100%.

3and2Fastball posted:

I just think it is way too early for a 2021 to determine where they fit.  Way too many variables still to be found out

• determine where you fit (D1,D2,D3, NAIA etc.)

Agree it's early but keep it in mind, it's a 4-5 year plan. The sooner you know where your skills and abilities align, the more time and effort you can spend focusing on getting in front of those types of schools. High Academic schools will take longer as grades and scores must be present first. Power5 and elite level schools start filling classes sooner. 

Maybe part of the plan early should be exposure at as many levels as possible. You could refine when interest levels from schools increase or adjust if there's no interest at that level.

PlayWithEffort posted:

3and2Fastball posted:

I just think it is way too early for a 2021 to determine where they fit.  Way too many variables still to be found out

• determine where you fit (D1,D2,D3, NAIA etc.)

Agree it's early but keep it in mind, it's a 4-5 year plan. The sooner you know where your skills and abilities align, the more time and effort you can spend focusing on getting in front of those types of schools. High Academic schools will take longer as grades and scores must be present first. Power5 and elite level schools start filling classes sooner. 

Maybe part of the plan early should be exposure at as many levels as possible. You could refine when interest levels from schools increase or adjust if there's no interest at that level. 

Understood and you did mention being flexible with plans, but unless a Kid is a slam dunk early bloomer there is just no way to know how much they will develop.   Even with the early commit Kids, very few 2020's and 2021's, despite an early commitment to a D1, have regularly faced 90+ pitching.   If it turns out 3 years from now that they can't hit 90+, they will go through a de-commitment process

With my own Kid, I have no idea if he'll stay 5'11" or grow to be 6'3" as projected.   

There is just no way to know where he'll end up.   I think maybe as a rising Soph one can at least have a little more insight

My two cents....... Don't worry about things that are out of your control. 

Dont get consumed with being "seen". Showcasing is as much an evil as it can be a blessing. Moderation is key.

Character..... Be a good person, do the right thing. Treat EVERYONE with respect, yes sir, yes ma'am, hold doors, ect. You never know who is going to "give" your son the opportunity and it never hurt anyone to show respect for everyone anyways.

Express to your player, work on being the the best version of "yourself", spend the time doing activities to get better...... That's getting stronger, recharging and coming out in the spring with an improved version of your last season self. Simply, keep getting better. Coaches can spot improvement and if you fit their program they will reach out.

Do concern yourself with grades! Grades go down...... Get him help/tutor....... Just as you would get them hitting lessons for a slump. 

The rest will take care of itself.

The basic tenet to any 5 year plan is to work backwards from the desired measurable objectives, and if you can define those objectives for strength, speed, skills and school, then you can work backwards to determine what you need to do today to achieve what is desired tomorrow.

Debate away, but one facet that is not debatable: to control the controllables, and to (at best) mitigate the downside to any uncontrollables. Do what you can NOT to allow the primal forces of nature to take care of everything...

3and2Fastball posted:

I have a 2021 too

Grades are huge, most definitely

Bigger/Stronger/Faster is an absolute priority.  We live in an era where measurables are the difference maker.

without great grades and great measurables, one's opportunities are severely limited.

After that, refining skills are paramount.  Practice reps are more important than game reps.

At least 2 straight months off from throwing for position players, and 3 straight months off from throwing for pitchers cannot be ignored, in my opinion.  

---

 

I'll second this.  Grades and test scores. Spend time working on the act/sat.  A lot of it is timing and strategy, not knowledge.  Just like hitting, reps are key.  Many merit awards are based on gpa and score, so get that done.  

Bigger, stronger, faster too.  Much more important than skills. I have seen to many with questionable skills get the love based on projectibility.  Throw hard, hit harder.  Get the measurables.  

I hear you all saying it's too soon for a 2021, and a 2020.  In theory this makes sense, I mean they could grow another 8 inches or they could be as tall as they are now for the rest of their lives.  They could throw 95 or they could get stuck at 82, you just don't know.

What I do know is that many people on this board have also said 2019's are being recruited to D1 right now and that the D1's will be mostly done recruiting the 2019's by Christmas. 

If you follow this thought progression, and if you think your son might be D1 material, then is it really too soon for a 2020 or 2021 to start thinking about this?  Shouldn't you have a plan about getting these schools your kid is interested in to see him?  Can you really just depend that by being on a good team and in good events it will all just come together for them? Or should you have a plan to be at an exact event, such as Jupiter?  And if you do need to be at Jupiter shouldn't you find a team that usually goes there? These things can't happen over night, they do require planning.

I agree, work backwards from your goal.

CaCO, no way are the D1s mostly done with 2019s by Christmas. If there are something like 2,000 - 2,500 D1 recruits per year, I would bet less than half are committed by Christmas of junior year.

Edited to add: I just checked PG and there are 83 California kids in the class of 2019 listed as committed to D1s. I know we're still three-and-a-half months to Christmas, but most years California will end up with 275 or so D1 commits . . . So maybe half of D1 commits by Christmas of junior year??

PlayWithEffort posted:

...

Prerequisite: a long term plan. Without that, then the player/parent is floating along without a rudder.

So for you parents out there with middle schoolers and early HS players: pull together your plan."

======

As a dad of a 2021, the concept of having a long term plan really resonates...

What are the key components of your plan to play in college?

• Grades
• Development is key -- keep working to get better
• Improve Strength, speed, agility
• Play the best competition 
• identify your team (instructor, travel team, trainers, nutritionists, mentors etc.).

 

What else would you add?

I would move this up to first bullet point...

HAVE FUN PLAYING BASEBALL !!!!!!!!!

With all respect, PWE and other parents of 2021's, we're talking about middle schoolers and brand new HS'ers and we're writing stuff like...

• identify your team (instructor, travel team, trainers, nutritionists, mentors etc.).

A five year plan for a 13/14 y.o.?   Good luck with that.  Yeah, yeah, I watched the PG 14u game, I have had a kid or two in my program start getting attention as a freshman over the years (although, VERY few ).  I get that the P5 D1's are recruiting early.  But, please, let's keep perspective.  I have had dozens of players come through our program and ultimately play college (and professional) baseball and NONE of them had a detailed plan like this when they entered 9th grade.  ALL of them wanted to have fun playing baseball.  ALL of them wanted to enjoy other things in life outside of baseball.  PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE keep that in mind.

Development is key?  Yeah, of course it's important.  But what if they only play through HS?  Isn't winning and competing and being brothers with their HS teammates what really resonates with them?  When they are playing that JV game against the school rival, should they be thinking about development?  Or kicking some rival @$$ ?  What if they switch their primary interest as HS juniors to music or academics or humanitarian causes...?  Getting five years ahead with a detailed "making it to college baseball" plan for a 13 y.o. is where many parents lose sight of really enjoying their kids for who they are today and who they may become.  I see it play out with several parents every year. 

95+% of kids that ultimately end up playing college baseball will not be contributors at a D1 P5 program.   They will not be recruited as a freshman or sophomore in HS.  100% of them WILL want to enjoy playing while they are playing for as long as they are playing.  They will want to have well rounded lives as adults and that almost always is determined by what they are introduced to as kids, certainly including middle school and HS age.

If your son is one of the 1% ers, you probably know it.  And EVEN if you think your son is one of the 1%ers, I would caution to still make sure there is balance and they have the opportunity to be young kids in every sense.

Sorry, just my POV and I know it is not for everyone.  I just see so many fall into this trap and can't help but try to offer some perspective.

There are 300 D1 programs. It's a recruiting race for about 50 of them. If your kid is a target for these schools you won't have to figure it out. You will know.

You don't need to get on the showcase/tournament circuit before your kid is ready to be viewed with potential. Otherwise you will waste a lot of money. A majority of D1's are not competitive Power Fives and other major programs. If a kid blossoms for post junior summer his timing is fine. There will be a place for him.

Or he could rush to be an early commit to a top program, be one of their lowest rated recruits and get bumped off the roster when a big prospect decides not to sign out of high school. How does a kid get bumped? Top programs have to over recruit in anticipation of recruits signing and never arriving on campus. When this recruit arrives on campus some lower recruit gets screwed.

A friend's son was told the last week of August to switch to a JuCo and the coach will bring him back next year. Put it in writing? Not a chance!

As the old bull said, "Why don't we take our time and have it all?"

CACO, There is so much movement in baseball, recruiting is not over until it's over.......My 2018 has been committed for quite some time but that hasn't deterred others from inquiring "IF" he's truly committed. It's become more and more like football......recruiting takes place until LOI.

You will also find that PG is a resource for commits but keep in mind some don't report. I can tell you my sons group chat consists of 11 commits and 5 that have reported their commitment. Of the ones that reported, most are all from the southeast and likely played a lot of  PG events (I've never cared to look). Now, add in transfer commitments.........which are seldom reported as well, taking up additional roster spots.

You don't get extra credit for getting recruited early, nor does it guarantee a spot..........."it doesn't matter get better" is simple as it is true. Continue getting better is your best bet in gaining an opportunity to play at the college level.

Go where you are loved, go where you fit and go where you can play.

Here's something to consider for parents of kids in middle school and early years of high school. Your kid may be a dominant stud. But the funnel gets narrow real fast. My son was a dominant player in a quality large classification high school league. A high school dad asked be if he was just as dominant in travel and scout league play. The dad was surprised when I told him he's just another D1 prospect on his team. He was shocked when I took him to a game that summer. He didn't realize there was that much talent in his age group in the area. It was only two of the teams.

Be looking ahead. But be sane. I told my son regardless of his baseball ability the decision would be 70% academic. I spent money for hitting pitching and running the sixty when he was in high school and a proven talent. You don't teach mediocrity how to hit and pitch. You refine talent. I also spent money for an SAT tutor.

cabbagedad posted:

PlayWithEffort posted:

...

Prerequisite: a long term plan. Without that, then the player/parent is floating along without a rudder.

So for you parents out there with middle schoolers and early HS players: pull together your plan."

======

As a dad of a 2021, the concept of having a long term plan really resonates...

What are the key components of your plan to play in college?

• Grades
• Development is key -- keep working to get better
• Improve Strength, speed, agility
• Play the best competition 
• identify your team (instructor, travel team, trainers, nutritionists, mentors etc.).

 

What else would you add?

I would move this up to first bullet point...

HAVE FUN PLAYING BASEBALL !!!!!!!!!

With all respect, PWE and other parents of 2021's, we're talking about middle schoolers and brand new HS'ers and we're writing stuff like...

• identify your team (instructor, travel team, trainers, nutritionists, mentors etc.).

A five year plan for a 13/14 y.o.?   Good luck with that.  Yeah, yeah, I watched the PG 14u game, I have had a kid or two in my program start getting attention as a freshman over the years (although, VERY few ).  I get that the P5 D1's are recruiting early.  But, please, let's keep perspective.  I have had dozens of players come through our program and ultimately play college (and professional) baseball and NONE of them had a detailed plan like this when they entered 9th grade.  ALL of them wanted to have fun playing baseball.  ALL of them wanted to enjoy other things in life outside of baseball.  PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE keep that in mind.

Development is key?  Yeah, of course it's important.  But what if they only play through HS?  Isn't winning and competing and being brothers with their HS teammates what really resonates with them?  When they are playing that JV game against the school rival, should they be thinking about development?  Or kicking some rival @$$ ?  What if they switch their primary interest as HS juniors to music or academics or humanitarian causes...?  Getting five years ahead with a detailed "making it to college baseball" plan for a 13 y.o. is where many parents lose sight of really enjoying their kids for who they are today and who they may become.  I see it play out with several parents every year. 

95+% of kids that ultimately end up playing college baseball will not be contributors at a D1 P5 program.   They will not be recruited as a freshman or sophomore in HS.  100% of them WILL want to enjoy playing while they are playing for as long as they are playing.  They will want to have well rounded lives as adults and that almost always is determined by what they are introduced to as kids, certainly including middle school and HS age.

If your son is one of the 1% ers, you probably know it.  And EVEN if you think your son is one of the 1%ers, I would caution to still make sure there is balance and they have the opportunity to be young kids in every sense.

Sorry, just my POV and I know it is not for everyone.  I just see so many fall into this trap and can't help but try to offer some perspective.

Cabbage, wow, on point! AMEN to that! Just want to add, they are only insert age once in their young life. It's easy to get carried away as we adults see the advantages of personal trainers, nutritionists............all the resources that help players transition into college and pro players.

The best laid plans are subject to alter.............there's a lot to living in the now, enjoying the moment!

Enjoy watching your young players play the game and equally important let them know you enjoy watching them perform. Validation is a great self motivator.

I would agree, FUN is by far the biggest component for success, whatever level or career path it be.

I agree with Cabbage.  Full disclosure: my 2019 committed to a P5 school last month.  But our "plan" if you want to call it that, at a young age was to have him play some travel ball (13U), then Babe Ruth (14U) with his friends with intermittent hitting and pitching instruction along the way.  He was always good but the HS coaches here are notorious for not knowing (or asking) which of the freshman class can really play.  So the plan was to make sure he made the HIGH SCHOOL freshman team and if he made JV instead it was gravy (he did).  He was called up to Varsity two weeks after the first game and didn't look back.  Played Senior Legion in the summer of 2016 because he wanted to have fun with his friends.  He didn't start showcasing or attending college camps until last winter (as a sophomore) and that was only after his HS coach told him he thought he could play college ball if he wanted and was willing to work for it and also, after the coach of a good 18U travel team here asked son to play for him.  And he only went to camps (two in total) after the travel coach spoke with contacts at those programs and the coach said they wanted to see him play.  I guess my point is that having a plan between middle school and spring of freshman year which consists of simply getting better and helping make the right high school team (frosh, JV, Varsity) [and having fun along the way] may be all some kids need at that point in time.  If they have the chops early in high school, you (and others) will know it quickly and then perhaps, you can begin the crazy maze of college recruiting.  This is just my opinion and son's experience.    

The world of Baseball is rapidly changing.  The emphasis on measurables is astounding.  Kids are doing Speed & Agility training at 11 and 12 years old, and starting weight training at 12 & 13.

I know a 2021 who throws 85 on the mound with excellent mechanics and it is really eye opening to see that on a National/Power 5/Perfect Game level he is behind the top level pitchers.  He did the NTIS thing, played on a USA Great Lakes team in Cary etc but in the world of getting invited to the Perfect Game 14U event or getting an early SEC commit it is more (shrug). "85?  No big deal"

I've seen PBR either fudge numbers or allow kids to use Drop 5's in showcases or just not be accurate in their stopwatch times.  Saw a 2021 run a 7.28 sixty with a 92 mph exit velo in Feb of 2017 at a PBR showcase, supposedly.  Dad was told by academy owner he was being fast tracked to Power 5 recruiting.  Went to a PG showcase in July and ran a 7.6 sixty with an 84 mph exit velo and got graded a "7" by PG

Seen a 2021 kid who literally is too small/weak to hit a ball out of the infield with BBCOR consistently get invited to Area Code based on his 6.8 sixty

crazy crazy world out there

now if an old guy like me is aware of all this and dozens of other similar stories, you think the kid's aren't aware of it? Information flies like wildfire in a kid's hands these days

It is a mistake to assume that these "long term plans" are entirely driven by parents.  I have to make my kid take time off from Baseball and I'm hardly alone in that regard among the people I know.

When you are 14 and Baseball is your favorite thing in life, you are coming off a 14U season in which you hit .480 using BBCOR and then you are told by the top level teams after tryouts "you can hit but you are too slow for us to give you a roster spot" you start coming up with training plans with every competitive bone in your body.   Especially for a kid like mine who is considered "on the bubble" for the top teams, invited by one to attend practices but won't be rostered yet, put on a wait list by another.  Kid is already 5'11" 175 but still very much looks like he's in a boy's body, not a man child

I say "give it time, dude, you are going to be huge"

he says "that and five dollars will pay my entrance fee to watch those kids play, when I know I can hit them"

You come up with a plan

There are 3 travel teams in our state that consistently go to Jupiter/WWBA etc.   If you aren't on those teams you are behind.  Doesn't matter if you have a few of the tools needed but aren't as far through puberty, you are behind.  

And if you are a driven athlete, you come up with a plan.  As a parent it is my job to keep the plan within reason.

Backpick25 posted:

CACO, There is so much movement in baseball, recruiting is not over until it's over.......My 2018 has been committed for quite some time but that hasn't deterred others from inquiring "IF" he's truly committed. It's become more and more like football......recruiting takes place until LOI.

You will also find that PG is a resource for commits but keep in mind some don't report. I can tell you my sons group chat consists of 11 commits and 5 that have reported their commitment. Of the ones that reported, most are all from the southeast and likely played a lot of  PG events (I've never cared to look). Now, add in transfer commitments.........which are seldom reported as well, taking up additional roster spots.

You don't get extra credit for getting recruited early, nor does it guarantee a spot..........."it doesn't matter get better" is simple as it is true. Continue getting better is your best bet in gaining an opportunity to play at the college level.

Go where you are loved, go where you fit and go where you can play.

I don't think it is impossible for a 2019 to commit to a D1 after Christmas, sorry if that's how it came across.  I meant the conversation on this board and the numbers I have looked up lead me to believe the bulk of 2019's who are going Power D1 will be committed by Christmas.

Of the people that reported their commitment to PG from the class of 2019: (I just picked schools I knew of and assumed they were D1, sorry if I picked any that aren't)

Alabama = 11 Commits from 2019

Auburn = 8 Commits from 2019

Clemson = 11 Commits from 2019

Duke = 14 Commits from 2019

Florida State: = 8 Commits from 2019

Georgia (UGA) = 9 Commits from 2019

Kentucky(UK) = 10 Commits from 2019

Tennessee = 8 Commits from 2019

Texas A&M = 9 Commits from 2019

Vanderbilt = 17 Commits from 2019

Are there late comers, sure!  Coastal Carolina only has 2, Ohio State only has 3, Penn state only 4, and UCLA and Purdue only 5.

Plus, there are still some major tournaments coming, or just happened, that a lot of offers come out of. It still appears to me that the bulk of Power D1's will be done by Christmas, and the money for scholarships will be gone.  Maybe one or two spots left over for the late bloomers, but it doesn't look like much can be left.

Kid is already 5'11" 175 but still very much looks like he's in a boy's body, not a man child. I say "give it time, dude, you are going to be huge"

My son was 5'4" when 14u started. On the street he would see a 6'2" geek, turn to me and say, "What a waste of freak'n size!" I just laughed.

He was 5'11" the next year on his way to 6'2".

3and2Fastball posted:

The world of Baseball is rapidly changing.  ...

You come up with a plan

There are 3 travel teams in our state that consistently go to Jupiter/WWBA etc.   If you aren't on those teams you are behind.  Doesn't matter if you have a few of the tools needed but aren't as far through puberty, you are behind.  

And if you are a driven athlete, you come up with a plan.  As a parent it is my job to keep the plan within reason.

Love the last two sentences... exactly right.

Look, I was not suggesting there shouldn't be a plan.  But for most 2021's it's too early for a five year plan and no plan at that age should scream "100% baseball training for the future".   

Yes, your son is behind "their" schedule.  But he's not behind "his" schedule.  His body will mature when it matures.  Absolutely, if he is driven to do things to get better, provide that opportunity (as you said, within reason).

As the baseball world (and the real world) tries to speed up and force certain (often artificial) standards, it becomes all the more important that we listen more closely to our inside noise than we do all the outside noise.  Yes, be informed.  But stick to your gut, not a bunch of outside noise/pressure.  Know what is important in YOUR world - in YOUR household.

A few of us may actually have kids that are THAT driven AND THAT talented, AND can actually pay attention to what all the baseball people are telling them what they need to do, and right now.  Those kids probably need protected from themselves to a degree.  The rest of us find out later that we probably had more influence on our kids' thought process at this stage than we'd care to admit.  I hated when that happened... I mean... you know... to other people 

CaCO3Girl posted:

Backpick25 posted:

CACO, There is so much movement in baseball, recruiting is not over until it's over.......My 2018 has been committed for quite some time but that hasn't deterred others from inquiring "IF" he's truly committed. It's become more and more like football......recruiting takes place until LOI.

You will also find that PG is a resource for commits but keep in mind some don't report. I can tell you my sons group chat consists of 11 commits and 5 that have reported their commitment. Of the ones that reported, most are all from the southeast and likely played a lot of  PG events (I've never cared to look). Now, add in transfer commitments.........which are seldom reported as well, taking up additional roster spots.

You don't get extra credit for getting recruited early, nor does it guarantee a spot..........."it doesn't matter get better" is simple as it is true. Continue getting better is your best bet in gaining an opportunity to play at the college level.

Go where you are loved, go where you fit and go where you can play.

I don't think it is impossible for a 2019 to commit to a D1 after Christmas, sorry if that's how it came across.  I meant the conversation on this board and the numbers I have looked up lead me to believe the bulk of 2019's who are going Power D1 will be committed by Christmas.

Of the people that reported their commitment to PG from the class of 2019: (I just picked schools I knew of and assumed they were D1, sorry if I picked any that aren't)

Alabama = 11 Commits from 2019

Auburn = 8 Commits from 2019

Clemson = 11 Commits from 2019

Duke = 14 Commits from 2019

Florida State: = 8 Commits from 2019

Georgia (UGA) = 9 Commits from 2019

Kentucky(UK) = 10 Commits from 2019

Tennessee = 8 Commits from 2019

Texas A&M = 9 Commits from 2019

Vanderbilt = 17 Commits from 2019

Are there late comers, sure!  Coastal Carolina only has 2, Ohio State only has 3, Penn state only 4, and UCLA and Purdue only 5.

Plus, there are still some major tournaments coming, or just happened, that a lot of offers come out of. It still appears to me that the bulk of Power D1's will be done by Christmas, and the money for scholarships will be gone.  Maybe one or two spots left over for the late bloomers, but it doesn't look like much can be left.

Yes, Power 5 (SEC, Big 12, Big 10, ACC, and PAC12) will mostly be done by Christmas. But almost 80% of D1 baseball programs are not Power 5 programs. 

We're seeing a lot of 8th grade and Freshman parents on the site discussing this topic in several threads.  Baseball is absolutely competitive and the process is clear as mud until you go through it, but these kids need Freshman year to adjust to school demands and develop physically before they start thinking about what colleges should be on their list, if they want D1 or D3, etc.  By Junior year the pressure is really very intense even if you're very well prepared and your kid has the potential to play at the college level.  JMO -- get educated, but don't get overly focused on the process just yet.   

What your son can do Freshman year to ensure he's ready to be in a good position when the process really begins (others have identified a couple of these):

1) Get a good start academically -- it's hard to crawl out of a hole and good GPA opens many more options to a student athlete

2) Work on strength, agility and speed in the offseason (my son played basketball Freshman year and that was great for his agility in addition to other workouts)

3) Have fun playing and adjust to HS baseball -- playing travel and HS are two different worlds -- and a huge time commitment too -- do well in those settings and a lot of opportunities will present themselves

4) Attend one college camp (or a showcase) during the school year or in the summer to experience the competitiveness of the process and play in front of college coaches to understand the situation and get the nerves out

Also, maybe only come to this site once a week or once a month -- because the rest of us who are in the thick of it are probably projecting our intensity and the pressure/stress. 

Keep it simple...........things you CAN control = It doesn't matter, get better.

Vanderbilt just got it's one billionth commit..........it doesn't matter, get better!

PBR fudged somebody's numbers.........it doesn't matter, get better!

But I witnessed Johnny only threw 72mph.......it doesn't matter, get better!

If  a POWER 5 has 25 commits in the '19 class..........it doesn't matter, get better!!!! If you're better than what they previously committed and they can land you, the rocks they turn over will be spun into cash to close a deal, if they want you bad enough.

In short, it doesn't matter who, why, what , where or when anyone does anything, especially at 14 (talk about another distraction for folks to get hung up on....geez.......U14) A very unnecessary event IMO. NO player ever has been made, discovered or defined as a 14 year old.

Don't waste your time with distractions that don't/won't affect your players future! Work toward the goal and continue to get better!!!

Backpick25 posted:

cabbagedad posted:

PlayWithEffort posted:

...

Prerequisite: a long term plan. Without that, then the player/parent is floating along without a rudder.

So for you parents out there with middle schoolers and early HS players: pull together your plan."

======

As a dad of a 2021, the concept of having a long term plan really resonates...

What are the key components of your plan to play in college?

• Grades
• Development is key -- keep working to get better
• Improve Strength, speed, agility
• Play the best competition 
• identify your team (instructor, travel team, trainers, nutritionists, mentors etc.).

 

What else would you add?

I would move this up to first bullet point...

HAVE FUN PLAYING BASEBALL !!!!!!!!!

With all respect, PWE and other parents of 2021's, we're talking about middle schoolers and brand new HS'ers and we're writing stuff like...

• identify your team (instructor, travel team, trainers, nutritionists, mentors etc.).

A five year plan for a 13/14 y.o.?   Good luck with that.  Yeah, yeah, I watched the PG 14u game, I have had a kid or two in my program start getting attention as a freshman over the years (although, VERY few ).  I get that the P5 D1's are recruiting early.  But, please, let's keep perspective.  I have had dozens of players come through our program and ultimately play college (and professional) baseball and NONE of them had a detailed plan like this when they entered 9th grade.  ALL of them wanted to have fun playing baseball.  ALL of them wanted to enjoy other things in life outside of baseball.  PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE keep that in mind.

Development is key?  Yeah, of course it's important.  But what if they only play through HS?  Isn't winning and competing and being brothers with their HS teammates what really resonates with them?  When they are playing that JV game against the school rival, should they be thinking about development?  Or kicking some rival @$$ ?  What if they switch their primary interest as HS juniors to music or academics or humanitarian causes...?  Getting five years ahead with a detailed "making it to college baseball" plan for a 13 y.o. is where many parents lose sight of really enjoying their kids for who they are today and who they may become.  I see it play out with several parents every year. 

95+% of kids that ultimately end up playing college baseball will not be contributors at a D1 P5 program.   They will not be recruited as a freshman or sophomore in HS.  100% of them WILL want to enjoy playing while they are playing for as long as they are playing.  They will want to have well rounded lives as adults and that almost always is determined by what they are introduced to as kids, certainly including middle school and HS age.

If your son is one of the 1% ers, you probably know it.  And EVEN if you think your son is one of the 1%ers, I would caution to still make sure there is balance and they have the opportunity to be young kids in every sense.

Sorry, just my POV and I know it is not for everyone.  I just see so many fall into this trap and can't help but try to offer some perspective.

Cabbage, wow, on point! AMEN to that! Just want to add, they are only insert age once in their young life. It's easy to get carried away as we adults see the advantages of personal trainers, nutritionists............all the resources that help players transition into college and pro players.

The best laid plans are subject to alter.............there's a lot to living in the now, enjoying the moment!

Enjoy watching your young players play the game and equally important let them know you enjoy watching them perform. Validation is a great self motivator.

I would agree, FUN is by far the biggest component for success, whatever level or career path it be.

Thanks to both of you for your feedback and perspective. Other than the 4-5 year part, I'm not sure how middle schoolers and 13 year olds got included here since 2021s are freshman in high school whether they are 14 or 15. 

Just because something like development is called out doesn't mean that fun or willingness to be competitive doesn't exist for the player. And why is it assumed that enjoyment stops of just watching them play and be a kid in order do these things?  (This is rhetorical, BTW). 

Sure things could change. They most definitely will change but why not have an idea, or plan, that helps guide you along the way with the advice from people on this board that have been through the process?

Some pieces of the plan may be too much for some...others maybe too little depending on where they are along the journey. Either way, Its been a good discussion so far. Thanks!

BaseballinCT posted:

I agree with Cabbage.  Full disclosure: my 2019 committed to a P5 school last month.  But our "plan" if you want to call it that, at a young age was to have him play some travel ball (13U), then Babe Ruth (14U) with his friends with intermittent hitting and pitching instruction along the way.  He was always good but the HS coaches here are notorious for not knowing (or asking) which of the freshman class can really play.  So the plan was to make sure he made the HIGH SCHOOL freshman team and if he made JV instead it was gravy (he did).  He was called up to Varsity two weeks after the first game and didn't look back.  Played Senior Legion in the summer of 2016 because he wanted to have fun with his friends.  He didn't start showcasing or attending college camps until last winter (as a sophomore) and that was only after his HS coach told him he thought he could play college ball if he wanted and was willing to work for it and also, after the coach of a good 18U travel team here asked son to play for him.  And he only went to camps (two in total) after the travel coach spoke with contacts at those programs and the coach said they wanted to see him play.  I guess my point is that having a plan between middle school and spring of freshman year which consists of simply getting better and helping make the right high school team (frosh, JV, Varsity) [and having fun along the way] may be all some kids need at that point in time.  If they have the chops early in high school, you (and others) will know it quickly and then perhaps, you can begin the crazy maze of college recruiting.  This is just my opinion and son's experience.    

Congrats to your son on the commitment! 

Thanks for sharing your experience as well. 

PlayWithEffort posted:

Backpick25 posted:

cabbagedad posted:

PlayWithEffort posted:

...

Prerequisite: a long term plan. Without that, then the player/parent is floating along without a rudder.

So for you parents out there with middle schoolers and early HS players: pull together your plan."

======

As a dad of a 2021, the concept of having a long term plan really resonates...

What are the key components of your plan to play in college?

• Grades
• Development is key -- keep working to get better
• Improve Strength, speed, agility
• Play the best competition 
• identify your team (instructor, travel team, trainers, nutritionists, mentors etc.).

 

What else would you add?

...

Thanks to both of you for your feedback and perspective. Other than the 4-5 year part, I'm not sure how middle schoolers and 13 year olds got included here since 2021s are freshman in high school whether they are 14 or 15. 

Just because something like development is called out doesn't mean that fun or willingness to be competitive doesn't exist for the player. And why is it assumed that enjoyment stops of just watching them play and be a kid in order do these things?  (This is rhetorical, BTW). 

Sure things could change. They most definitely will change but why not have an idea, or plan, that helps guide you along the way with the advice from people on this board that have been through the process?

Some pieces of the plan may be too much for some...others maybe too little depending on where they are along the journey. Either way, Its been a good discussion so far. Thanks!

PWE, to answer your first question,

Because a) it's what you said/used in your OP (see orange), and b) there are certainly 2021's who are 13/14 y.o. right now.

Aside from that, the message was not to say you shouldn't have a plan and I really don't think I implied that fun or competitiveness couldn't exist within the framework of development and/or having a plan.  I'm just saying don't get too far ahead of yourself, don't get too carried away, keep things in perspective.  I will repeat, I have seen far too many parents do just that and I am trying to help others avoid overkill that they may later regret.  So, I am doing just as you say, trying to help guide you along the way with advice, having been through the process... again and again and again.  With my own kids and with my own HS players and parents I have been associated with.  This goes without saying but, just my POV, take it for what it's worth to you.

cabbagedad posted:

3and2Fastball posted:

The world of Baseball is rapidly changing.  ...

You come up with a plan

There are 3 travel teams in our state that consistently go to Jupiter/WWBA etc.   If you aren't on those teams you are behind.  Doesn't matter if you have a few of the tools needed but aren't as far through puberty, you are behind.  

And if you are a driven athlete, you come up with a plan.  As a parent it is my job to keep the plan within reason.

Love the last two sentences... exactly right.

Look, I was not suggesting there shouldn't be a plan.  But for most 2021's it's too early for a five year plan and no plan at that age should scream "100% baseball training for the future".   

Yes, your son is behind "their" schedule.  But he's not behind "his" schedule.  His body will mature when it matures.  Absolutely, if he is driven to do things to get better, provide that opportunity (as you said, within reason).

As the baseball world (and the real world) tries to speed up and force certain (often artificial) standards, it becomes all the more important that we listen more closely to our inside noise than we do all the outside noise.  Yes, be informed.  But stick to your gut, not a bunch of outside noise/pressure.  Know what is important in YOUR world - in YOUR household.

A few of us may actually have kids that are THAT driven AND THAT talented, AND can actually pay attention to what all the baseball people are telling them what they need to do, and right now.  Those kids probably need protected from themselves to a degree.  The rest of us find out later that we probably had more influence on our kids' thought process at this stage than we'd care to admit.  I hated when that happened... I mean... you know... to other people 

Good stuff here CabbageDad. I definitely agree with most of this. Most 2021s don't have the ability to identify all of the items I listed in the OP. That's where the parent helps.

Setting goals and making plans to accomplish them is an important skill in life. It doesn't necessarily matter if the plan is 100% accurate. What does matter is taking something that seems impossible to some kids, developing an approach that breaks it down into achievable parts, getting them to buy in and take ownership of their own progress and let the chips fall where they may. 

cabbagedad posted:

PlayWithEffort posted:

Backpick25 posted:

cabbagedad posted:

PlayWithEffort posted:

...

Prerequisite: a long term plan. Without that, then the player/parent is floating along without a rudder.

So for you parents out there with middle schoolers and early HS players: pull together your plan."

======

As a dad of a 2021, the concept of having a long term plan really resonates...

What are the key components of your plan to play in college?

• Grades
• Development is key -- keep working to get better
• Improve Strength, speed, agility
• Play the best competition 
• identify your team (instructor, travel team, trainers, nutritionists, mentors etc.).

 

What else would you add?

...

Thanks to both of you for your feedback and perspective. Other than the 4-5 year part, I'm not sure how middle schoolers and 13 year olds got included here since 2021s are freshman in high school whether they are 14 or 15. 

Just because something like development is called out doesn't mean that fun or willingness to be competitive doesn't exist for the player. And why is it assumed that enjoyment stops of just watching them play and be a kid in order do these things?  (This is rhetorical, BTW). 

Sure things could change. They most definitely will change but why not have an idea, or plan, that helps guide you along the way with the advice from people on this board that have been through the process?

Some pieces of the plan may be too much for some...others maybe too little depending on where they are along the journey. Either way, Its been a good discussion so far. Thanks!

PWE, to answer your first question,

Because a) it's what you said/used in your OP (see orange), and b) there are certainly 2021's who are 13/14 y.o. right now.

Aside from that, the message was not to say you shouldn't have a plan and I really don't think I implied that fun or competitiveness couldn't exist within the framework of development and/or having a plan.  I'm just saying don't get too far ahead of yourself, don't get too carried away, keep things in perspective.  I will repeat, I have seen far too many parents do just that and I am trying to help others avoid overkill that they may later regret.  So, I am doing just as you say, trying to help guide you along the way with advice, having been through the process... again and again and again.  With my own kids and with my own HS players and parents I have been associated with.  This goes without saying but, just my POV, take it for what it's worth to you.

 

Dang it! It's right there in black and white...And apparently Orange!

Well then I owe you an apology. .

I realize, now,  I copied that from JoeMktg's post which I will now use as my excuse for not remembering that part. It's better than admitting getting old . 

Cabbage: the more I've read through the rest of the thread, the more I believe we are aligned than not. I appreciate your responses. 

cabbagedad posted:

PlayWithEffort posted:

...

Prerequisite: a long term plan. Without that, then the player/parent is floating along without a rudder.

So for you parents out there with middle schoolers and early HS players: pull together your plan."

======

As a dad of a 2021, the concept of having a long term plan really resonates...

What are the key components of your plan to play in college?

• Grades
• Development is key -- keep working to get better
• Improve Strength, speed, agility
• Play the best competition 
• identify your team (instructor, travel team, trainers, nutritionists, mentors etc.).

 

What else would you add?

I would move this up to first bullet point...

HAVE FUN PLAYING BASEBALL !!!!!!!!!

With all respect, PWE and other parents of 2021's, we're talking about middle schoolers and brand new HS'ers and we're writing stuff like...

• identify your team (instructor, travel team, trainers, nutritionists, mentors etc.).

A five year plan for a 13/14 y.o.?   Good luck with that.  Yeah, yeah, I watched the PG 14u game, I have had a kid or two in my program start getting attention as a freshman over the years (although, VERY few ).  I get that the P5 D1's are recruiting early.  But, please, let's keep perspective.  I have had dozens of players come through our program and ultimately play college (and professional) baseball and NONE of them had a detailed plan like this when they entered 9th grade.  ALL of them wanted to have fun playing baseball.  ALL of them wanted to enjoy other things in life outside of baseball.  PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE keep that in mind.

Development is key?  Yeah, of course it's important.  But what if they only play through HS?  Isn't winning and competing and being brothers with their HS teammates what really resonates with them?  When they are playing that JV game against the school rival, should they be thinking about development?  Or kicking some rival @$$ ?  What if they switch their primary interest as HS juniors to music or academics or humanitarian causes...?  Getting five years ahead with a detailed "making it to college baseball" plan for a 13 y.o. is where many parents lose sight of really enjoying their kids for who they are today and who they may become.  I see it play out with several parents every year. 

95+% of kids that ultimately end up playing college baseball will not be contributors at a D1 P5 program.   They will not be recruited as a freshman or sophomore in HS.  100% of them WILL want to enjoy playing while they are playing for as long as they are playing.  They will want to have well rounded lives as adults and that almost always is determined by what they are introduced to as kids, certainly including middle school and HS age.

If your son is one of the 1% ers, you probably know it.  And EVEN if you think your son is one of the 1%ers, I would caution to still make sure there is balance and they have the opportunity to be young kids in every sense.

Sorry, just my POV and I know it is not for everyone.  I just see so many fall into this trap and can't help but try to offer some perspective.

Yes by all means have a plan. Keep it simple until the player reaches varsity.  And have fun! Be involved in other stuff besides baseball.

Every thing you posted I agree with 100%. The trap is easy to fall into.  Get a good evaluation after freshman year and work on what is needed for YOU to be the best player you can be, not what the other players are working on. And keep in mind that most will NOT go onto play beyond HS and even less to professional ball.

Can we define "the trap".

i get that if you are asking a 14 year old Freshman to go to 4 showcases, guest at 9 PG national events while playing for his own travel ball team and having 8 lessons a week is too much....BUT....I think what PWE is saying is what should the plan be then? What is too much, and thus "the trap", and what is too little that the recruiting world passes your son by?

Late add here, my son is a 2019 pitcher/catcher getting interest from non-power 5 D1 schools in New England/NY. We have never pushed him and helped him manage his schedule appropriately. Everyone knows he can play and are always asking him why he hasn't committed or where he's going. Even without us pushing him, he feels the pressure and wants to commit soon to "get people off his back". He also has 2018 friends who have been committed for a year and a fair number who are just committing now to P5 and non-P5 good programs.

Remember, this process is just as much about finding the right school as finding the right program for his abilities.The vast majority of these boys will be doing something besides pro ball when they graduate. We've been told he can play Power 5,. but believe he may be better off in CAA, A-10, or something similar type of school.

IMO, there's a fine line between playing ball and chasing  perceived opportunities.  Every time you step on a ball field is an opportunity to show what you've got. Is that 50 times, 75 or a 100....... Everyone seems to have different opinions and it's easy to get wrapped up in the "trap" of showcasing. If 4 events are good, then 8 must be great.........not necessarily.

I once had a parent express to me how there wasn't enough scouts/recruiters at the tournaments.  I asked, How many do you need? There's been atleast a dozen or more come through over the weekend and it only takes one. He paused for a bit and said, "But nobody's talking to them, somebody needs to talk to the coaches".

Long story short, the parent made it a point to let every coach and recruiter know who his kid was every single tournament and showcase. In the end, it didn't matter.

I tried to tell the parent, the coaches will tell you what level your kid is D1,D2,D3.........or not at all.  It works itself out. Nobody tells coaches who or what to do. It's their job and their lively hood depends on it.

I have a friend who was given his opportunity/D1 scholarship after he chased a foul ball!!! Again, shagging a foul ball!!! It's not about how many events you do, it's about playing the game, playing it right and doing the right thing!

I also. have a couple friends that are cross checkers. Both of them express the importance of playing where you live as most players that go on to play collegiate ball, do so within a 2-3 hour radius of where they live. They also stated, "We know who the players are and we also talk to college coaches"

 I would agree that is true for a majority of players. My own sons('15 and '18) colleges are 10 hours and 8 hours away. At no time did I believe they were going to be left behind in the recruiting process, nor did we realize their fit was going to be a bit further from home.  

There really is a lot of great advice in this thread.  But the best advice of all is by TPM... Have FUN playing baseball.  That should never stop no matter how far you go in the game.

Everyone knows that we do tournaments and showcases, many that are very high level.  A college coach that is very well known told me that we were responsible for the early recruiting these days.  He didn't mean it in a bad way, but that we were the first to start identifying the top young kids.  Guess that is true, but all the early recruiting, doesn't favor the kids that play as much as it favors the colleges those kids commit to. 

I don't see anything wrong with planning as long as people remember the most important thing... Have fun playing and working on baseball.  Without that you are almost certain to see any plan fail.

Regarding PG, it is simple, if you have the necessary talent we want to see you.  We are not interested in seeing players that can't play.  We do get to liking some of those kids that lack talent, we treat them fairly, but we can't help them get to the next level unless their an academic star.

If a player has what colleges and pro scouts are looking for, that is what we are looking for.  While it is true that most kids stay fairly close to home when going to college, I feel it necessary to speak up when it comes to those with lots of talent.  The more you are wanted... The more you are worth.  We have seen it so many times.  The state school makes a minimum offer to the kid from their state.  Sometimes even nothing more than preferred walk on status.  Then the kid goes down south or out west to a big event and gets identified and seen by other recruiters from big baseball power programs.  Next thing you know the same kid getting low ball offers from State U is getting better offers from colleges outside the state.  Now State U has to compete with those offers.  Kid still might end up at State U, but with a much better offer.  We see it all the time.  The more options you have the better it is.

Those trying to follow in the foot steps of those players making commitments or signing LOIs or college freshman should do one thing.  Simply google their name and put baseball behind it.  Example... John Doe Baseball   That might give you an idea of what those players did, whether planned or not.

My question to every player I talk to after an event...  Did you have fun?  You learn a lot by how they answer that simple question. They almost always say yes, but in so many different ways.  There is pressure on those kids, but some of them have the "most" fun when that pressure is there.

RE: Fun...

Having fun and having a plan are NOT mutually exclusive. 

And I can argue that having a plan in place, based on the players goals and objectives, takes uncertainty out of the equation so that they player knows what he has to to without fear of the unknown. Result: less pressure and more room for fun.