Mustang — Ages 9-10

At the Mustang level, the players begin to play a more competitive level of baseball. It is the first level of “kid-pitch” and hard balls are used. Each team now fields 9 positions. The batting order still consists of the entire roster. Base runners can now steal. All teams participate in double elimination playoffs at the end of the season. Additionally, PBF typically assembles one tournament team at the end of the season to play in a Memorial Day Tournament and/or other tournaments against teams from surrounding communities. The Commissioner appoints the head coach for the tournament team who is responsible for selecting assistant coaches and eligible players. Priority should be given to players who will not have an opportunity to play at this level again.

Expected Skill Level at Beginning of Season - At this level, first year Mustang players are expected have a basic working understanding of all of the Pinto skills, and most importantly, an enthusiasm for the game. Previous baseball experience is not required as long as the player demonstrates a reasonable chance of some success through either athleticism or enthusiasm and commitment.

Team Commitment

1. Practice - Two 1 1/2 to 2-hour practices (time increases after daylight savings time) per week.
2. Games — One or two 6 inning games per week consisting of a 45 minute pre-game warm-up and approximately two-hours of game time.

Playing Time and Position Rotation - Coaches have a goal to find all players ample opportunities throughout the season to play both infield and outfield positions, provided that the coaches determine that the player can safely field and reasonably execute what the positions call for. No player shall sit out 2 defensive innings more than any other player on the team.

Skill Building Goals - The overall season goal is to prepare the player for the next divisional level (Bronco). This includes:

1. Achieving mastery of all skills from previous level.
2. Attaining increased confidence and competence in the batters box, including an understanding of the strike zone and pitch selection, stepping toward the pitcher, overcoming fear of getting hit, ability to make contact with the ball, and an understanding of situational hitting (e.g., when to be aggressive or picky, when to “take” or make contact).
3. Showing some ability to hit within the 40 to 50mph range in a batting cage.
4. Understanding advanced base running skills, such as stealing, and sliding.
5. Understanding of situational defense such as knowing “where’s the play,” backing up, and hitting the cutoff.
6. Developing of Pitchers and Catchers.

Division Description Menu

Introduction
Shetland — Age 6 and under
Pinto — Ages 7-8
Mustang — Ages 9-10
Bronco — Ages 11-12
Pony — Ages 13-14
Equipment Guidelines