Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) and Answers about the Lehigh Valley Baseball League
Want to play?
Join our player list today! We will contact you to keep you informed of the draft and openings on teams. Our goal is to place every player we can.
What is the Lehigh Valley Baseball League?
The Lehigh Valley Baseball League offers competitive Baseball starting at age 16 (Managers must be 18 or older and complete required background checks to coach). Our teams are part of a Division based on playing ability and overall experience. We accommodate the following ages (16-40+). You can start playing young or a little older and continue your career as long as you are able to play the game (safely of course) The league is owned and operated by Lehigh Valley Baseball Group, LLC. We currently serve the following Counties in PA: Lehigh, Berks, Northampton, Carbon, and Monroe. NJ: Warren
What does it cost to join or play?
New players should budget around $200 per season. Some teams have sponsors that help contribute toward your league fees, etc.
When are League games played?
The league plays primarily on Weekends, mostly Sundays. However, makeup games, practice and league events are held on some Saturdays and occasionally during the week. Times can vary based on field availability and other unforeseen issues.
When are Team practices?
Most teams start indoor practices in early spring/winter, then move outdoors as weather permits. Practices are held on Saturdays or Sundays and sometimes during the week during the playoffs at the end of the season. Teams will increase practices at times to prepare for playoffs, tournaments, etc. Most Managers are flexible but expect the large majority of players to practice and play.
What type of bats are used?
Ash, Metal-Wood, Bamboo, Maple, Composite wood bats and wood bats are allowed in games. Only Wood bats are permitted.
Does the league require a Physical to play?
No, however players should be in good physically health to play. The League is not responsible for player injuries whether fit or unfit to play.
How far do I have to travel to play?
Games are primarily played in the Lehigh Valley, PA area. Most fields are within a 20-30 minute drive. The league works to optimize the schedule as much as possible.
What does a team provide for equipment, jerseys, etc?
Each team is managed differently however, most managers provide a game jersey and hat. Typically, you will need your own baseball equipment like bats, gloves, workout equipment and pants.
What is the level of competition?
The league has various levels of competition to suit the average player to the serious player. Players are drafted or placed after the draft into the appropriate Division based on there abilities and skill level. Pitchers generally throw in the 70s with moderately effective breaking pitches, but some throw fastballs in the 80s and can throw breaking pitches for strikes at will. In general, most teams are competitive and have a lot of fun playing and participating in league events.
Can I bring a friend to play?
Players are encouraged to add depth and talent to each team. If you are attending the draft you can bring along as many friends as you like. We cannot guarantee specific placement of each draft player, however you can request to be drafted on the same team and we will assist with your request when possible.
What experience is needed to play?
The league has all types of players including age brackets and Divisions for all player levels and experience. We match players previous experience and talent to the appropriate Division and Team.
Who Umpires the League Games?
The league contracts with an independent and professional umpire organization each season known as the Bethlehem Umpire Association. The BUA is responsible to assign the league games and handles matters related to the training, knowledge and ratings of each umpire for each game. The BUA is independent from the Lehigh Valley Baseball League.
Can I start my own team in the league?
Yes. We have a New Team Application Form to complete to get the process started. Click on the New Team Application From link to get started.
You should consider the following:
- A home field to use for 8-10 home games and playoffs in August.
- A deposit of $400.00 paid to the league by January 31st. Deposit is non-refundable. Your deposit can be used for team fees, baseballs, etc for the upcoming season.
- A roster of a minimum of 12 players registered registered by end of Feb. You should have no less than 16 players to make up a solid roster and well run team.
Can I umpire in the league and what does it pay?
Yes. You can make hundreds of dollars per weekend umpiring Adult Baseball Games in our league. When players retire from playing for various reasons but still want to stay involved in baseball, often times they umpire.
If I have additional questions, who can I contact?
Please feel free to send an email to ron@lehighvalleybaseball.com with any questions.
