Why play for Pilot Mill?

We offer a unique opportunity for players whose high school does not offer varsity baseball. We create an environment for players to learn and grow in games and practices. The coaching staff helps all players develop to their fullest potential.

Who can try out?

Tryouts are open to all high school students. Tryouts date will be determined as our Spring 2025 schedule solidifies. More information about Pilot Mill tryouts is found on our Tryouts page.

Are you part of North Carolina High School Athletic Association? Why not and what does this mean?

We are not part of the NCHSAA.  As such, we are not in any league, or conference or fall under the rules of NCHSAA.  We are an independent club team.  We play various organizations and schools year after year and have developed healthy rivalries.

Who do you play?

We play 4A, 3A, and 2A high school teams in the Raleigh/Durham area. In addition, we play homeschool and independent teams.

Where are your home games played?

In the past, we have practiced and played at Lions Park Field 4  and Green Road Park. We rent fields from Raleigh Parks & Rec.

I tried out for my high school team and was cut. Can I still try out for Pilot Mill?

Yes, you can. Many HS teams are loaded with talent and don’t have room due to depth. We often obtain players who fall into this category. We would enjoy the opportunity to evaluate and view your talent at tryouts.

How many kids make your roster?

We carry up to 14 players each year.

Is this a Varsity or JV team?

This is a varsity team.

What time are your games and practices?

Practices and games start at 3:30 or 4 pm depending on scheduling. Indoor practices will vary based on venue availability.

Are there tryout fees?

At this time there are no fees to try out for Pilot Mill Baseball.

How many games do you play in a season?

On average, we play 18-20 games a season. Our season starts in March and ends in May. Check the schedule for details.

I am transferring and cannot play at my new high school due to NCHSAA rules. Can I  play for Pilot Mill?

Yes, you can without penalties. We are an independent club team that does not fall under NCHSAA guidance. We have had several players join our team due to transfer rules.

I see there is an alumni game on the schedule…what is that?

Annually, we gather all former players to participate in an intrasquad baseball game with current team members. This is a tradition that has always been part of Pilot Mill Baseball.

How can I get on the team’s radar?

Email Coach Fortunato

Winter Workouts

  WHEN
Every Sunday in November, December, and January. Please contact Coach Fortunato to be placed on the email list for location and time.

  INFO
Depending on scheduling and weather, we may hold optional winter workouts for current and potential players.  We typically meet on Sunday afternoons for a couple of hours to focus on speed & agility, fundamentals, and strength conditioning. This is an opportunity for the team to get together and incentivize players to start getting ready for the Spring Season.

Tryouts 

Tryouts are over the first couple of practices in February. Please follow our calendar schedule for practice dates. Contact Coach Fortunato to provide information about your athlete.

WHERE
Please follow our calendar schedule for our current location practice.

  INFO
Players will be evaluated on their hitting, fielding, and speed.

What to Expect at Tryouts

Tryouts may include any or all of the following:

60-Yard Dash – A good time is anything below 7 seconds.

Outfield – Each player will receive a mixture of 3 to 5 grounders/fly balls and will throw to a base designated by the head coach. When throwing from the outfield we are looking for arm strength and accuracy.

Infield – Each infielder will receive between 3 to 5 ground balls which they will field and throw to first. We will be looking at mechanics, agility, along with quick hands delivering an accurate throw.

Catchers – Catchers will be delivered a pitch to record a pop time. Each catcher will go through the line about 3 times or will be given 3 to 5 throws. We will be evaluating catching mechanics and recording pop times.

Hitting / BP – Each player will hit 10-16 balls. Switch hitters will be allowed to hit 10-20. We are looking for line drives and hits in the gap which translates to extra bases for the team.

Pitching – Players will throw a variety of pitches for evaluation.  We will start with fastballs, then move over to changeups, curveballs/sliders, and ending with fastballs. We will be looking for velocity, pitch control, and mechanics.

WANT TO TRYOUT?

Email Coach Fortunato

The Alumni Game is a reunion of past players that play a 7 inning game against the current Pilot Mill team. At the end of each season, we invite our Alumni back for a game to reconnect, reminisce old times with one another and take the field for a couple hours of good fun & competitive baseball. 

Pilot Mill Baseball is about community and it is amazing to witness how players new and old seamlessly come together to have a great time. It’s a game marked on everyone’s calender and we look forward to seeing you there.