Farm Baseball is an instructional level of play where players pitch for the first time. Players may have one or more years of experience, but new players are welcome.

Players will demonstrate progress in developing the fundamentals skills of baseball and knowledge of the rules of the game. Players will develop life skills related to teamwork and respect of coaches and umpires. Teams will maintain a fun environment for learning.

Scorekeeping and pitch counts will be introduced.

Teams will be organized by school/neighborhood as much as possible. Teammate or coach requests will be considered, but are subject to availability.

Players build upon the fundamentals learned in Rookie Baseball and begin learning the strategy of the game. Emphais is on:

Hitting: watching the pitcher; and knowing the strike zone.

Base Running: sliding into the bases; stealing, and running out extra base hits.

Throwing: fundamentals 2 or 3 finger grip of the ball; proper stance; starting in the "T" position; stepping toward the target; and follow through.

Fielding: properly fielding a fly ball; use of teamwork to complete a play; and begin to understand when to apply a tag vs tagging the base (i.e. force out.)

Pitching: learning the fundamental mechanics of pitching with emphasis on a four seam grip; stretch position; and the three steps of balance, stride, and follow through with each pitch.

Catching: setting the target; blocking the ball; and use of wider stance when runners are on base.

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 two 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 games a week during the regular season, typically one weeknight game 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 14 to 16 games. See annual calendar for dates.