Frequently asked questions

Q) What is MSBL/MABL?
MSBL/MABL is a national organization with more than 3,200 teams and 45,000 members who play organized baseball in local leagues. Kenosha MSBL was formed as an affiliate in 2006, and Kenosha MABL is being launched in 2008. Regionally, Madison, Milwaukee, Chicago and the Fox Cities also have established MSBL/MABL leagues.

Q) What is the difference between the MSBL and MABL leagues?
Kenosha MSBL, which is for players 25 and older (our oldest player is 52 years old), features a wide range of players and skill levels from guys who haven’t picked up a ball and bat since their little league days to retired professional athletes. Kenosha MABL is for players between the ages of 18 and 24 years old; it is comprised of players who have played little league baseball to those who may have just come off a college season.

Q) How much does it cost to play?
The total cost per player varies per team, based on the number of players on your team, uniform costs and sponsorships. Each player is required to pay a $50 league fee. Although additional costs for uniforms and equipment can reach $200 per player, these costs can be significantly lowered by obtaining sponsorships. Additionally, your cost tends to be lower the longer you stay with one team, assuming the team keeps the same uniforms and equipment each season.

Q) Why are the costs so high?
Actually, it’s inexpensive. You are playing a major league-style game on regulation baseball diamonds. Your fees go toward professional umpires, field rental, insurance, professional uniforms and equipment, in addition to organizing MSBL-sponsored events and benefits for the community.

Q) Kenosha MSBL/MABL allows just two sponsors per team. Why is that?
This rule is intended to protect the league’s integrity and eliminate any danger of teams taking advantage of too many sponsors and then not being able to support those businesses in return. We are proud of the positive reputation we've begun to build in the community and this is a way to ensure that continues. There is no limit, however, on the amount a sponsor can donate to a team.

Q) It’s been years since I’ve played. How competitive is the league?
Some of our players have not touched a baseball since little league or high school. The league is comprised of a wide range of people in the community who have varied skills and professions, including police officers, teachers and business owners. The overall goal of the league is to provide an organization and create an enjoyable game for anyone who simply enjoys playing baseball.

Q) Where are games played?
MSBL Kenosha games are played at Carthage College, Simmons Field and Nash Park.

Q) When are the games played?
MSBL games are played on Sundays and Monday nights. Rainout games are typically played on weeknights.

Q) How long are the games?
All games are nine innings or two hours and 30 minutes from the official start of the game, with no new inning starting after two hours and 15 minutes.

Q) Can I join as an individual, or do I need to assemble my own team to play?
We welcome individual players as well as groups that want to join the league with complete teams. If you do not yet have a team, we can find one for you to join.

Q) I can't commit to play full-time. Can I play some games?
We are looking for part-time players, too. If you can't commit full-time we will need to pick up guys for individual games when teams are short. To do this you must complete a player consent form, pay the $50 fee, have a uniform and pay any fees the team requests. Fees for part-time players will be significantly less than full-time players and it will be based on the number of games you play.

Q) Who should I contact about playing?
Anyone who is 25 years and older and interested in joining Kenosha MSBL should contact MSBL Commissioner Ched Ballard at (262) 948-0289 or (262) 455-5517 or by e-mail at cballard@msblkenosha.com. Anyone who is between the ages of 18 and 24 years old and interested in joining Kenosha MABL should contact MABL Commissioner Angelo Marrone by e-mail at amarrone@msblkenosha.com.