You have 50 players trying out and only 15 roster spots. How do you make fair, defensible decisions when parents are watching and emotions run high?
The answer: objective criteria and consistent evaluation.
Based on millions of baseball scores in TeamGenius, these are the eight most common criteria elite coaches use to evaluate player performance and potential. More importantly, we’ll show you exactly what to look for in each category
1. Hitting
Hitting is one of the most heavily scored criteria in baseball evaluations — and for good reason. It’s the skill that directly impacts a team’s offensive production. When assessing hitting, look beyond results like base hits and focus on fundamentals: swing mechanics, bat speed, balance, contact quality, and pitch recognition.
Players who demonstrate strong hitting mechanics and can adjust to different pitch types show the kind of consistency that translates to long-term success. Remember, good hitters make solid contact — great hitters make smart decisions at the plate.
2. Throwing
Throwing ability reflects both arm strength and control. Evaluate how well a player can execute accurate, quick throws across different distances and positions. Coaches should look for smooth throwing mechanics, efficient arm action, and the ability to make throws from multiple angles under game pressure.
Reliable throwing skills are the foundation of defensive success — one accurate throw can change the course of an inning.
3. Fielding
Strong defensive players bring confidence to the field. Fielding evaluations focus on how well a player tracks ground balls, fields cleanly, and transitions quickly to throwing. Watch for proper footwork, body positioning, and reaction time. Athletes who anticipate plays and stay composed under pressure tend to stand out. Consistency and clean execution are key indicators of dependable defenders.
4. Mechanics
Proper mechanics lead to better performance. Whether it’s in a swing, throw, or pitch, body control and movement efficiency play a major role in player development.
When evaluating mechanics, look for smooth, repeatable motions that generate power without excess strain. Athletes with good mechanical habits are easier to coach and tend to progress faster over time.
5. Pitching
Pitching is about more than velocity — it’s about command, consistency, and composure. Coaches should evaluate how well a pitcher controls different pitches, maintains form through delivery, and executes under pressure. Key areas to evaluate are arm slot consistency, follow-through, and pitch variety. The best pitchers blend mechanics, strategy, and confidence to dominate from the mound.
6. Throwing Accuracy
Strong arms are valuable, but accuracy wins games. Evaluating throwing accuracy gives coaches insight into which players can consistently hit their target under pressure — from shortstop to first, or from the outfield to home.
Combining accuracy data with velocity and mechanics creates a complete picture of a player’s defensive reliability.
7. Arm Strength
Arm strength measures how far and how fast a player can throw. It’s especially critical for catchers, outfielders, and corner infielders. A strong arm, paired with good accuracy and footwork, often separates average defenders from elite ones.
8. Speed
Speed impacts every area of the game — from tracking down fly balls to stealing bases and beating out grounders. Measure both straight-line sprint speed and agility through quick starts, turns, and reaction time. Our in-app stopwatch is a perfect tool for these drills.
Building Successful Baseball Programs
These eight criteria create a consistent, objective framework for evaluating baseball players. By focusing on measurable skills, coaches can make fairer roster decisions, provide targeted player feedback, and identify development opportunities more effectively.
Beyond skill, look for coachable, high-character athletes who compete hard, communicate well, and embrace feedback. These intangibles often define the long-term success of your program more than talent alone.
TeamGenius helps you assess all eight criteria, collect accurate data, and make confident roster decisions — all in one platform. Start your free trial or schedule a demo today to streamline your baseball tryouts.
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