It’s a lightning-fast, high-energy game that shares the same core principles as traditional baseball. But here’s what makes it special: it can be played anywhere, with just a rubber ball. No fancy equipment needed!
Baseball5 was born from a desire to make baseball more accessible to everyone, without compromising the uniqueness of the game. So, we stripped away all the complicated stuff and created a dynamic, mixed-gender team sport that’s all about instant fun.
Each team has five players – plus reserves – and depending on the format, a game can last between 15 and 20 minutes. Baseball5 is the epitome of a cool sport: it’s sustainable, inclusive, youth-focused, and makes non structured spaces come alive with athletic energy. It is a game for everyone that can be mastered in minutes. No need for extensive equipment, a dedicated venue, or even a pitcher. All you need is a ball!
So, how did Baseball5 come about?
In 2017, the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) launched a project for a new urban version of baseball and softball. The new five-on-five discipline, which only requires a ball to play, was based on the 'four corners' game that was born on the streets of Cuba. That summer, the WBSC and the French Baseball Softball Federation (FFBS) demonstrated Baseball5 at the Friendship Games in Bujumbura, Burundi. Later that year, Baseball5 received its first international acknowledgement when the concept was nominated for the Peace and Sport Award in the 'Sport Made Simple' category.
November of 2022 was a big milestone for the game, as the inaugural WBSC Baseball5 World Cup was held in Mexico City. Cuba defeated Japan in the finals to earn the title of World Champion. The second edition of the WBSC Baseball5World Cup will be held October 7-12 in Hong Kong and will feature 12 of the top teams in the world.
USA Baseball and GameMaster Athletic recently partnered up to create exclusive Baseball5 balls and game kits to be sold online and in select retail stores, which are available at USABaseballShop.com. For more information on Baseball5 and how to get involved, visit www.usabaseball5.com.
To learn more about Baseball5, where to buy a Baseball5 ball, or how to bring Baseball5 programming to your organization, send an email to Baseball5@usabaseball.com.
