Beyond the Game: Baseball Showcases Explained

Youth baseball is filled with opportunities to showcase skills in front of scouts and coaches at the next level, each with unique benefits that players can take advantage of. Any player looking to play in college or beyond has certainly heard of the services a company like Perfect Game provides, hosting some of the biggest showcases in the country. However, there are several other opportunities for players to consider as they begin looking for a future path in baseball.

Each of these recruiting showcases has pros and cons, offering players different chances for exposure. It is important to know how these paths work and how understanding a player’s talent level can help not only save money but also connect them with the right college recruiting opportunities.

Scouting Service Showcases

The primary scouting service showcases are the most popular and well-known—Perfect Game, Prep Baseball Report, and Baseball Factory. These three major companies control the majority of the space, hosting events throughout the country for players to attend.

At these showcases, players compete in a pro-style workout that includes hitting, defense, and a timed run, along with a game at the end for live pitching and hitting. This is the general format for showcases, and it is important for athletes to be familiar with it before attending. As players work through each aspect of the showcase, data is gathered to evaluate a player’s talent—throwing velocity, exit velocity, hit distance, sprint speed, and more depending on the showcase. Typically, players are filmed and given edited videos, providing them with highlights to share with recruiters and coaches.

Events are generally divided into two categories: open and invite-only. Open events, as indicated by the name, are open to any player, regardless of talent level or experience, and can cost anywhere from $200-$850. For players with less exposure, attending one of these events and performing well can be an effective way of building name recognition and beginning the recruiting process. However, it is important to understand where a player is at in their development—if they do not have the skills to warrant recognition yet, these events can be more of a money-grab without clear benefits.

Matt Chamberlain, a former outfielder for the St. Louis Cardinals, who also has experience as a college assistant coach, was critical about his time attending showcases like this.

“I was never able to get recruited or make lasting relationships at the events,” he said. “This also has to do with my personality and my skill set on the baseball field. It’s not the showcase’s fault, but, if I could go back, I might choose to go to a few less than I did.”

According to Chamberlain, understanding your goals as a player is key to optimizing your exposure and finding the right showcase. This can be especially true at bigger events, where there are limited opportunities to stick out in a crowded, competitive field.

College Showcases

Most players will also encounter showcases or camps hosted by college programs during the recruiting process. These are smaller than scouting service showcases and give players the opportunity to play directly in front of a school they are interested in. For many schools, this is an opportunity to get another look at a player they have been recruiting, or a chance to find a lesser-known talent to complete a recruiting class.

Most of these camps are open for anyone to attend, but players getting actively recruited by the school will receive personal invitations. Costs range from $100-$350 and the camp format includes a pro-style workout and scrimmage games. Many schools also incorporate program-specific training like drills and throwing routines to make the experience more unique.

“We have to make [players] feel comfortable,” said Chamberlain about his time organizing these events. “The best way to do that is to get them on campus, meet the staff, meet the players, and experience what that school is all about.”

Schools will also host team camps for travel ball programs, providing players with a different kind of training opportunity. This is an event that some travel programs add to their schedules that typically includes a tour of the school’s facilities and a game against another team. While it is an additional cost, it’s a good way to add games to a travel ball schedule while connecting players with universities.

Academic Showcases

Another unique showcase opportunity is designed for high-academic players, establishing a set of academic requirements for entry and connecting players with schools that align with those standards. This is a great option for athletes who have a clear idea of what they want from their college experience.

Academic showcases tend to bring together high-level institutions to connect them with students who fit certain academic profiles. Athletes are encouraged to connect with coaches and develop a network that can make the recruiting process easier, especially when many high-academic institutions struggle to recruit. For example, Ivy League schools have a harder time finding players due to a lack of athletic scholarships and a heavy workload commitment. Attending an academic showcase allows athletes to market themselves directly to these coaches, making them clearer targets in recruiting.

Selecting a Showcase 

High school players may struggle to envision their future, but having a structured recruiting plan gives them a competitive edge over those navigating the process without one.

With some showcases costing over $1,000—plus travel expenses—it’s important to be selective. Showcases provide only a brief window to make an impression, and baseball is a game where long-term performance matters more than a single standout moment. That’s why showcases should supplement, not replace, real game experience.

Rather than signing up for every available event, players should focus on showcases that align with their skill level and recruiting goals. Researching different options and understanding what each one offers can help players connect with the right coaches and programs while making the most of the time and money invested.

Want the latest travel baseball news and insights delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for the Travel Baseball Guy weekly newsletter and never miss a beat.