Team jerseys will be distributed to the team during the first few weeks of practice. For competitive divisions (Major through Single A), they must have the official Little League patch affixed to the left sleeve as specified by Little League rules for games.   

 

Team hats will be distributed to the team during the first few weeks of practice.  

 

The league does provide loaner helmets to teams for use during games and practice. However the majority of players have their own.

 

Catchers must wear approved long or short model chest protectors. All catchers must wear chest protectors with the neck collar, throat guard, shin guards and catcher's helmet, all of which must meet Little League specifications and standards. All catchers must wear a mask, “dangling” type throat protector and catcher's helmet during infield/outfield practice, pitcher warm-up and games. Catcher's helmets must bear the NOCSAE stamp. Alameda Little League provides Catcher's Gear! Players may bring their own catcher's gear. This is optional.

 

 

Baseball pants are required and not provided by the league.  Team manager will select the color based on team colors.  It's always a good idea to have the game and practice pants but this is optional. 

 

All male players playing in competitive divisions (Intermediate down through A) must wear a cup for their protection per Little League. They can chose between athletic supporters or boxer brief style sliding shorts. 

 

The baseball belt is required and not provided by the league.  Team manager will select the color based on team colors.

 

Baseball socks are required and not provided by the league.  Team manager will select the color based on team colors.

 

Long sleeve under jersey shirts are not provided by the league but are highly recommended. Team manager will select the color based on team colors. Our fields get cold and the long sleeves keep arms warm.  Long sleeve shirts worn by pitchers cannot be white or light colored (e.g. gray, cream, etc.).

 

Players may not wear game jerseys at practice. These shirts do not need to be “official” team merchandise.

 

 

Bats are not provided by the league.  However, it's nice to have your own as many players want to practice when away from the team. It is advantageous to have equipment appropriate to the skill and size of the player. Your bat must also conform to the specifications as to what bats are approved by USA Baseball for Little League use in their various divisions. This link will take you to the Little League resource page regarding bat information. The page will give you up-to-the minute info on which non-wood bats are licensed and permissible for Little League.  All bats that do not appear on the approved list are not allowed in Little League play. Bats must past rigorous testing. Bats must have the "USA Baseball" certification stamp. If you have any questions please ask a board member.

 

Bat Sizing is always a challenge as well as if your child is beginning with baseball.  Go for a lighter bat to maintain bat speed, which is the top priority in hitting.  If they cannot hold the bat for 20 seconds without the arm starting to shake, it's too heavy.

 

Batting gloves are optional and a personal preference of the player. 

 

A reiteration that players may bring their own helmet. The majority own one. Altering the helmet in any form, including painting or adding decals (by anyone other than the manufacturer or authorized dealer) may void the warranty. Faceguards are permitted, provided they were fitted to the helmet by the manufacturer and contain all of the original fasteners. No C-brackets unless they are part of the helmet and not added on. Batting helmets must bear the NOCSAE stamp.

 

Baseball cleats are required and is arguably the most important baseball item you can buy your child. If you want your child to truly learn and enjoy any sport as well as avoid injury, you will go out of your way to purchase them appropriate shoes. Cleats with metal spikes are not permitted. Shoes with molded cleats are permissible. Now if you are at the Juniors/Seniors level, the rule allows for metal cleats or spikes in these divisions. No soccer cleats if possible. Parents can select the color.  Most common color is black. 

 

Baseball gloves are required and should be at both practices and games.  Avoid buying an oversized glove. Beginners should stick to a smaller glove for additional control.  It does take time to break in your new glove. No matter what you do, most will agree that the most effective way to break in a baseball glove is by using it. Most gloves have the pre-measured size stamped inside where the pocket is. Below are general sizes:

 

Tee-Ball  9-10

Infield 10 - 11.75

Pitcher 11.5 - 12.25

Outfield 11.5 - 12.25 

 

Baseball equipment bags are an optional item but are very nice to have.  The player can put all his baseball gear & water bottle in the bag to be easily carried, and many models can be hung on the dugout fence.