Player Evaluations and Drafts

Spring Player Evaluations & Drafts

Why We Evaluate

Across San Mateo National Little League’s (SMNLL) competitive divisions — Majors, PCL / AAA, and AA — our goal is to create as much competitive balance as possible, so kids come to the park for each game believing their team has a chance to win. Skills develop faster, and love for the game grows, when teams are evenly matched and games are close.

We also aim to place kids in the division that best fits their current skill level. Players develop at different paces, and being behind peers one year doesn’t mean that will always be the case. We know parents often want their child to “play up” into the most competitive division possible — but that isn’t always the best approach for their development.

How Evaluations Work

Prior to each Spring season, SMNLL holds a mandatory player evaluation for all registered players ages 9–12, and for 7- or 8-year-olds who have indicated interest in playing AA during registration. Evaluations are generally held on a weekend in early January. Players run through a series of drills — groundballs, flyballs, batting practice, and more — giving Managers, our Player Agent, and independent evaluators a chance to assess each player’s current skills.

The Draft

Following evaluations, the SMNLL President, Player Agent, Division Coordinators, and Managers for each competitive division meet to draft teams.

There are no “cuts” in Little League — every registered player is placed on a team in the division that best fits their age and skill set.

Non-Competitive Divisions

In Single A, T-Ball, and Wiffle Ball, there are no tryouts. Teams are formed by Division Coordinators using buddy requests and/or by school, aiming for balance in skill wherever possible.

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Questions? Email us at playeragent@smnlittleleague.com.