By Matt Browning

In early November, 316 Baseball hosted a signing event for their 2021 class from their academy. There were 39 players who committed to play baseball at the next level, with more likely to happen.
“This year was extremely unbelievable in how many players committed early,” said Tonto Baxley of 316 Baseball. “I believe it’s because of the uncertainty of what’s going on. Especially in recruiting. Players reacted sooner to opportunities instead of waiting.”

There are 19 teams affiliated with 316 Baseball, with ages ranging from 6-18 and most age groups offering multiple teams. There are also winter workouts available during the offseason.
The mission statement of 316 Baseball states: “to be a dominant force in baseball; to have unyielding character on and off the field of play and to always understand our moral role in development of young men and ballplayers.”

With so many players opting to play baseball at the next level, the mission statement certainly is applicable.
“This is the most players ever to sign at one time,” Baxley said. “Players try out each year to be part of the academy, with the goal of making them not only better ball players but better young men. If they work hard both in school and on the field the end goal is to get them to the next level.”