Baseball and softball showcases are prime opportunities for student-athletes to shine in front of college coaches. But with dozens—sometimes hundreds—of athletes sharing the same stage, how do you make sure you’re the one they remember?
We asked coaches and recruiting experts what truly grabs their attention. In this blog, you’ll learn how to stand out at a college showcase, what to prepare in advance, and the biggest mistakes to avoid.
Physical Preparation: Train with Purpose
Showcases aren’t just about showing up—they’re about showing out. That means your physical preparation matters just as much as your stats. Leading up to a showcase, focus on:
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Sprint work and agility drills
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Strength training and conditioning
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Repetitions in your primary position
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Recovery and sleep
You don’t need to overtrain. But you do need to treat the event like a game day—because it is.
Tip: If you’re not sure where to start, check out our blog on how to prepare for college prospect camps for a full training and mindset checklist.
Showcase Skills: Hustle Matters More Than You Think
Coaches often say they can spot a serious player in the first five minutes. It’s not always about the perfect swing or throw—it’s about effort, body language, and attitude.
What coaches look for:
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Quick transitions and strong footwork
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Consistent communication on the field
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Hustling between drills
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Staying engaged—even when not the one performing
You’re being evaluated at all times. Showcasing isn’t just physical—it’s about mental toughness and maturity too.
Know the Format and Showcase Smart
Not every showcase is the same. Some are skills-based (with timed sprints and velocity readings), while others are game-based (with simulated games or scrimmages).
Be sure to:
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Know the format before you go
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Warm up properly
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Ask questions about your schedule
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Showcase your best position—not all of them
If you’re unsure how to navigate different showcase types, review our Complete Recruiting Strategy Guide for insights on picking the right events and maximizing exposure.
Communicate Like a Pro
A little preparation off the field goes a long way. Email coaches before the showcase and introduce yourself. Let them know your schedule and position.
Bonus Tip: Bring a printed copy of your recruiting profile or résumé. Better yet, learn how to craft a great outreach message by reading How to Write a Standout Sports Recruiting Email.
During the event:
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Make eye contact and introduce yourself to college staff
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Ask smart questions, like “What kind of athlete are you looking for?”
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Follow up after the event with a thank-you note
This kind of maturity is rare—and memorable.
Film Everything and Review Later
Even if you perform well at a showcase, not every coach may see you live. That’s where video comes in.
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Record your showcase performance
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Use it to update your highlight reel
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Share it in follow-up emails
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Tag coaches and programs you’re interested in
Need tips? Check out How to Create a Baseball Recruiting Highlight Video for step-by-step instructions and editing advice.
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need to Be Perfect—You Need to Be Prepared
Coaches don’t expect perfection at showcases. But they do look for players who are coachable, consistent, and confident.
If you’re an under-the-radar athlete, we also recommend reading How to Get Recruited Without Playing Travel Ball for more tips on exposure and standing out beyond showcase events.
And finally, remember: this is just one step in the journey. You can stand out if you treat every drill, every interaction, and every follow-up with purpose.
