The Cal Ripken Rookies program is designed primarily for 7 and 8 year olds. Dr. Robert Brown, former president of the American League formulated the concept of the Rookie League, a pitching machine program. Babe Ruth League quickly embraced this concept and established the Rookie League as a division.

By controlling the pitches with a pitching machine, there is more action at the plate and in the field. Fear of being hit by a pitched ball is diminished. It makes the game safer and improves the playing confidence and ability of all participants. It removes the boredom - which is often the result of either overpowering or inadequate pitching - by throwing only strikes.

Fewer errors and greater throwing accuracy are the result of increase in activity. The program receives high praise from coaches, players, parents, and league officials. The Rookie League is an excellent way to continue teaching the fundamentals of the game and building player confidence.