OVERVIEW
For players aged 11-13, the Intermediate division introduces leadoffs, pickoffs, and unrestricted base stealing. The game is played on a larger diamond, with the pitching rubber 50 feet from home plate (up from 46 feet) and bases 70 feet apart (up from 60 feet). Our Majors Field can be adjusted to these dimensions. Player assessments are required, and players aged 11 or 12 not drafted into Intermediate will enter the Majors draft. For All-Star purposes, 11- and 12-year-olds are eligible for the 9-10-11 and 10-11-12 teams, while 13-year-olds are eligible for Intermediate All-Star selection.

FAQ

Q: What equipment do I need to provide for my Intermediate player?
A: The league provides team hats and jerseys. Players must have the following items:

• Bat (see USA bat requirement below)
• Fielding glove
• Batting helmet
• Cleats (metal spikes are not allowed at The Optimist fields)
• Baseball pants, belts, socks (once your team has its color scheme, you can purchase pants, socks, and a belt accordingly
• Protective cup (for boys)

Q: When do Spring practices start?
A: Practices are set to begin the first or second week of February (subject to change).

Q: When do Spring games start?
A: The first games are tentatively scheduled for first weekend in March. The season is expected to end around mid-May, followed by the Intermediate tournament to determine the division winner, who will represent Vista Little League (VLL) at the District 70 Tournament of Champions.

Q: Can I make a “buddy” or coach request?
A: No. Player assessments and a draft process help ensure team parity and appropriate competitive levels. (In the fall season, we do our best to honor coach and buddy requests.)

Q: What is a typical week for Intermediate?
A: There will be one 90-minute field practice and one 60-minute batting practice during the week, plus one weeknight game and one game on the weekend (Friday or Saturday). Practice days will be determined by the practice scheduler. (For the fall, there will be one game per week.)

Q: What types of bats are allowed?
A: In Intermediate, bats must be USA Baseball certified or meet BBCOR standards. Any other bats are illegal for Little League play.

Q: Are scores and standings kept?
A: Yes, but scores and standings do not affect tournament seeding, which is randomized.

Q: Is there still time to register?
A: It depends on team availability. We try to accommodate every child, but late registrations may face limited options.

Q: Who are the managers and coaches?
A: All managers and coaches are parent volunteers, most with years of youth baseball coaching experience.

Q: What is the goal for Intermediate?
A: Intermediate introduces "real" baseball, with larger field dimensions (70 feet between bases and 50 feet from the pitching rubber to home plate). Leadoffs and pickoffs are now allowed, and players can steal at any time. The focus is on preparing kids for high school-level play.

Q: How can I help the league besides managing or coaching?
A: Every board member, manager, and coach is a volunteer. We encourage community members to contribute their skills to help keep our facilities and operations running smoothly. More help allows us to invest in creating the best environment for our kids.