MATERIALS
From the interior construction to the exterior casing, each piece of the ball serves an important purpose.
DICK'S PRO TIP: Beginner baseball players may benefit from using raised-seam baseballs to add more grip.
DICK'S PRO TIP: Cushioned cork balls (which have thin layer of rubber surrounding a small cork pill) are considered higher quality than basic cork + rubber for its truer flight and longevity, but often cost more. They perform like regular balls, bouncing and rolling true to expectations, but help soften the structure of a baseball to aid youngsters in overcoming their fear of being hit.
SIZE
Baseballs used in competitive play for all leagues youth through adult must fall between 9 and 9-1/4 inches in circumference (or 22.86-23.49 cms), with the exception of some beginner and t-ball leagues for players 8 and younger.
In terms of weight, the ball must fall between 5 to 5.25 ounces (or 141.75-148.83 grams).
BUYING FOR YOUR AGE/LEAGUE
For competitive play, make sure you buy a ball that fits the requirements mandated by your league.
DICK'S PRO TIP: Need more help buying tee ball gear? Visit our buying tee ball buying guide HERE.
DICK'S PRO TIP: Starting Jan 1, 2020, all baseballs for high school competitions must be stamped with both NOCSAE and NFHS logos, which establish performance requirements in the weight, compression deflection load, circumference, and coefficient of restitution for new baseballs.
