Carmel Youth Baseball is a recreation-level league dedicated to developing the whole child—both as an athlete and as a person. Our program emphasizes sportsmanship, kindness, equity, and fundamental skill development. We strive to create a positive, supportive environment where every player can learn, grow, and enjoy the game of baseball.

Shetland Division (Ages 4-6)

The Shetland Division introduces young players to basic baseball skills and promotes enjoyment of the sport. Teams meet weekly for practice and games on Saturdays at Dampierre Field, Carmel Valley, with practice starting about 30 minutes before each game. Players begin batting from a tee, transitioning to coach-pitch as they progress. The league does not keep score or record outs, ensuring equal play opportunities for everyone.

Pinto Minor (Ages 6-7)

The Pinto Minor Division welcomes new and returning players, focusing on skill development and baseball knowledge. Overhand coach pitching is used to improve hitting. Teams practice once weekly and play games on Saturdays. All players bat in the first inning; after that, innings end with three outs or five runs. No scores are kept, and everyone rotates through different field positions.

Pinto Major (Ages 7-8)

The Pinto Major Division uses machine pitching to prepare players for the Mustang Division. Teams have one weekday practice and one Saturday game per week, with practices possibly replaced by a second game later in the season. Outs are tracked, and innings end after 3 outs or 5 runs per half inning. No scores are kept, focusing on skill development, sportsmanship, and fostering enjoyment of the game in a safe environment.

Mustang Division (Ages 9-10)

The Mustang Division builds on basic baseball skills and introduces advanced concepts like full player pitching, umpires, called balls and strikes, base stealing, and scorekeeping. Pitching and catching are emphasized, and teams are formed through a draft after skill evaluations. Sportsmanship remains a core focus as competition increases. Players continue developing skills and enjoying the game. Typically, teams have one practice, one weekday game, and one Saturday game per week. Some games may be played against nearby cities.

Bronco Division (Ages 11-12)

In Bronco, players advance from Mustang fundamentals, playing on larger fields with rules closer to high school standards. Safety remains a priority, including age-appropriate pitching limits. Teams are created through a draft for parity, kept small for ample playtime, and all players participate in each game. The usual schedule is two games and one practice per week, with possible exceptions and opportunities for intercity games against other Monterey Peninsula teams.

Pony Division (Ages 13-14)

The Pony division is the final stage before high school baseball, played on fields with 80' bases and a 54' pitching distance. It focuses on developing physical and mental skills, teamwork, and enjoyment, with added preparation for high school play through coaches, clinics, or advanced strategies. Players usually participate in 3-5 events per week, including games and practices, and compete against other Monterey Peninsula teams based on field and team availability.