When should you start doing showcases?

My son started going to showcases/ clinics the summer before entering his freshman year. We have been going fairly steadily to showcases and clinics over the years and noticed that there are more and more 8th graders attending these events. Not sure I would attend any of the large showcases yet (price is a little high for beginning). There are a lot of great college clinics that would be great to attend and if nothing else get feedback and perhaps make minor adjustments early.
www.bristolcountyeagles.org

Are they recruiting 13 yo for college now?

Not recruiting for college but allowing them the benefit of attending the showcases and camps to better thier mechanics and get a great experience. There have been several 13 y/o at the clinics and showcases we have attended. Just have to monitor how much you really want to spend for the experience.

As a point of reference... We have had very few 13-14 year olds attend PG Showcases. (More 14s last couple years, though)

Usually the young players have been very talented. Here are some of them...

Bryce Harper
Justin Upton
Ryan Sweeney
Jeff Clement
Delmon Young
Jason Heyward
Jeremy Hellickson

I'm not against talented 13 year olds attending a showcase, but in most cases a clinic/camp/instruction or just playing at the highest level possible makes more sense.

This is going to sound really cynical, but I do wonder whether the instructors are looking for exposure for your son, or for themselves.

twotex - excellent comment! Not sure. They seem sincere and sre well-established locally.

Thanks to all for your initial comments! They are definitely helpful. Just trying to learn from others who have already been down the road.

I know of a local 'stud' who started early on the showcase route. He's good but still developing. Word from some local coaches is that he 'peaked' too early and the bloom is off that rose. Just sayin......

Don't just play for the next level play for right now.
If its fun or may help him learn about baseball or life do it. Don't do it so he can go pro do it because he loves to play.

Showcases for those going into their freshmen or sophomore year should be used to gauge their current ability against others their peers and show them what areas they may want/need to improve on. For those with upper level skill, it allows them to start getting their name out amongst the coaching circles.