Tee Ball Rules

Tee ball is where most kids start. The ball sits on a rubber tee at home plate and the batter hits it from a standstill. No pitching, no strikeouts, and usually no outs. The goal is learning the basics while having fun.

The basics

RuleDetails
AgesTypically 4–6
The ballSits on a tee at home plate. Batter swings until they hit it fair.
BattingEveryone bats every inning. No strikeouts, no walks.
OutsMost leagues don’t record outs — the inning ends after everyone bats.
ScoreMany leagues don’t keep score. Some do after the first few weeks.
Innings2–3 innings, or a time limit (usually 60–75 min).
Field sizeBasepaths: 50 feet. Pitcher’s mound: none (coach may stand near).

What parents need to know

TopicDetails
Everyone playsAll kids play every inning. There is no bench.
Positions rotateKids rotate through all field positions during the season.
No base stealingRunners advance only on batted balls.
Helmets requiredBatting helmet with face guard required at the plate and on bases.
Coaches on the fieldCoaches stand on the field to direct players, teach positioning, and keep it safe.
The only goal at this age: Have fun, learn to swing, learn to catch, learn to run to first base (the right one). Everything else is gravy.