Division 1 college baseball teams are composed of some of the most talented student-athletes in the United States. These teams are highly competitive and require a large roster of players to be successful. Knowing the roster size for a Division 1 baseball team is important for coaches, players, and fans alike. Read on to learn more about the roster size and player requirements for a Division 1 baseball team.
NCAA Rules for Division 1 Baseball Rosters
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) sets the rules for Division 1 baseball teams. According to the NCAA, a Division 1 baseball team is allowed to have a roster of up to 35 players. This includes both active and inactive players. However, only 27 of the 35 players can be active on game days.
In addition to the 35-player roster limit, the NCAA also limits the number of scholarship players that a team can have. Division 1 baseball teams are allowed to have a maximum of 27 scholarship players. The remaining players must be walk-ons who are not receiving any financial aid.
Position Requirements for a Division 1 Baseball Team
Division 1 baseball teams must also adhere to certain position requirements. A team must have at least two catchers, six infielders, and four outfielders. There must also be at least eight pitchers on the roster. Pitchers and catchers are typically the most sought-after positions on a Division 1 baseball team.
Recruiting Requirements for Division 1 Baseball
Division 1 baseball teams must also meet certain recruiting requirements. Teams are allowed to have up to 11.7 scholarships per season, with at least 25% of those scholarships going to pitchers. In addition, teams are limited to no more than 27 scholarships per season, meaning that some players will be walk-ons.
Teams must also adhere to the NCAA’s recruiting calendar. Recruiting for Division 1 baseball teams begins on September 1 and runs through August 31. During this period, teams are allowed to make a maximum of seven in-person visits with recruits. Teams are also allowed to make up to seven phone calls, emails, and text messages to prospective recruits.
Roster Maintenance for Division 1 Baseball Teams
Division 1 baseball teams are also subject to certain roster maintenance requirements. Teams must maintain a roster of at least 28 players throughout the season, with at least eight of those players being pitchers. If a team falls below 28 players, they are subject to penalties such as forfeiting games and having their season record vacated.
Conclusion
Division 1 college baseball teams require a large roster of players in order to be successful. The NCAA sets the roster size for these teams at 35 players, with a maximum of 27 scholarship players. Teams must also adhere to certain position requirements and recruiting guidelines. Lastly, teams must maintain a roster of at least 28 players throughout the season or else face penalties. Knowing the roster size and player requirements for a Division 1 baseball team is key for coaches, players, and fans alike.