How do I begin the recruiting process for college baseball?

I'm a junior interested in playing baseball at the college level, but I'm unsure how to start the recruiting process. What should I be doing right now to get noticed by college coaches?

Getting recruited for college baseball can be an exciting yet challenging process. Here are a few steps to help you get started:

1. Assess Your Skill Level: This is an important first step. Are you a Division I, II, or III prospect, or are you more suited to a junior college or NAIA? Playing at the highest level isn’t always the best route for everyone, so make sure to find the level that best suits your skills and academics. A good point of reference for this would be your current coach or a trusted sports mentor.

2. Create a Highlight Video: Highlight reels are the primary way coaches scout potential players, especially during the pandemic when in-person visits are limited. Ensure your highlight video showcases your abilities adequately. Include game footage and practice clips, showing your offensive, defensive, and (if applicable) pitching capabilities.

3. Start Reaching Out to Coaches: Start approaching the coaches of the Universities you are interested in. You can email them your athletic resume and your highlight video. Also, reach out to them on recruiting platforms to help raise your visibility. Remember, coaches are more likely to respond if they can see that you've done your research and you're genuinely interested in their program.

4. Perform Well Academically: Coaches prefer athletes with good grades. The better you do in school, the more opportunities you'll have, as you'll qualify for academic scholarships as well as athletic ones.

5. Talk to Your Current Coach: Make sure your current coach knows about your aspirations to play at the college level. Your coach can be instrumental in your recruiting process by speaking with college coaches, making recommendations, or possibly even advocating for you to recruiters.

6. Attend Showcase Camps: These are ideal opportunities to get seen firsthand by college coaches. Many colleges host summer camps that allow players to showcase their abilities while becoming familiar with the program and its coaches.

7. Register with NCAA and/or NAIA Eligibility Centers: If you aim for a Division I or II school, you'll need to register with the NCAA Eligibility Center. If you're considering an NAIA school, you should register with the NAIA Eligibility Center.

Remember, it’s a process. Stay persistent, keep networking, and eventually, you will find the right fit.