AAA Baseball progresses the fundamental skills of baseball and teaches the strategy for game play. Players may have one or more years of experience, but new players are welcome.

Player build upon the skills developed as they have progressed through the lower levels of play with emphasis on the making correct decisions during play, and expanding each players knowledge of the rules of the game. Players develop life skills related to teamwork and respect of coaches and umpires. Intensity level of play appropriately increased.

Score keeping, pitch count, and game scores are introduced. No standings are kept at this level.

Players build upon the skills acquired at the Farm Level of play with emphasis on:

Hitting: concentrating on the pitcher; knowledge of the count, the ability to make adjustments at the plate; bunting.

Base Running: Little League lead off; running through vs rounding first base; and utilizing the base coach.

Throwing: Executing proper relay techniques, both outfielders and infielders; and use of a cutoff with hits to the outfield.

Fielding: backhand catching; each fielder has a role on every pitched ball, TEAMWORK; and objective is to retire the lead runner, if less than 2 outs.

Pitching: four or two seam grip on the ball; use of the stretch position; and the 3-steps of throwing, balance, stride and follow through.

Catching: setting a target in different parts of the strike zone; blocking the ball; wider base when runners on; and fielding passed balls.

See Coaching the Alderwood Way for more information, including drills to practice the above skills.

Practices: Practices are organized by the team manager with assistance from volunteer coaches. Recommended practice frequency is three times a week during the pre-season (starting in early March); and once a week during the season. Practices will be held at local school fields in the Edmonds School District.

Games: Teams participate in two to three games a week during the regular season, typically one - two weeknight games and one weekend game (Friday night or Saturday). Game schedules will be available at least one week prior to the start of game play.Games will be held at the Alderwood Little League complex.

Games are limited to a maximum of 6 innings or 2 hours in length. Games utilize a continuous batting order; 9 defensive players each inning; and balanced playing time. Scores are kept but not recorded for standings. Game play will be in accordance with Little League Rules and Local rules.

Season: The eight week season typically starts the week following the Edmonds School District spring break and extends until the weekend after Memorial Day; for a total of 16 to 20 games. See annual calendar for dates.