The main differences can be explained as follows:

Recreational Baseball - (Babe Ruth, Cal Ripken, Little League, etc.)

1. Usually requires an open registration and combines all levels of playing skill.

2. Teams are usually comprised of playing rosters, based on lottery or draft picks.

3. Coaches may be volunteers who possess average or limited knowledge of the game.

4. Players are guaranteed playing opportunity, no matter what level of skill they may possess.

5. Rules are designed to spread equal time, opportunity and safety to all.

6. All players are usually rewarded at the end of the season just for participating.

Travel Baseball - (USSSA, Nations Baseball, Triple Crown, etc.)

1. Usually requires individual competitive tryouts and costly, individual expenses.

2. Players are usually selected based primarily on their playing ability.

3. Coaches have above average to professional coaching experience.

4. A player's playing time is usually based on production or experience.

5. Rules are usually mirrored towards High School, College or Pro rules.

6. In Travel Baseball, usually ... only championship teams receive trophies.