Classifications

Team classifications are based on power rankings, tournament results and overall team performance on the field.

Any team that is reforming from the 2025 season must start the 2026 season in the same classification (or higher) that they finished the 2025 season.

For purpose of classifications, if six (6) or more players from a 2025 team are on a 2026 team, they are considered the same team regardless of the TEAM NAME, MANAGER, COACHING STAFF or SPONSOR.

Classification is reviewed regularly throughout the season by the State Office and teams may be reclassified at any time by the Kentucky USSSA Baseball State Office or by the National Baseball Committee.

TEAM CLASSIFICATIONS

Major Classification
- Top 10% - 15% of the teams in the state
- Best teams in the state
- Can Compete with Major teams in region

AAA Classification
- Upper middle 20% - 35% of the teams in the state
- Traveling teams
- Tryout teams

AA Classification
- Lower middle 30% - 45% of the teams in the state
- Limited travel schedule
- Players from same local area

​A Classification
- Remaining 10% - 20% of the teams in the state
- School teams
- Limited playing schedule
- Local tournaments

Undoubtedly, not everyone will agree with classifications.  Any team wishing to appeal a reclassification may do so after playing a minimum of six to eight USSSA tournament games after January 1, 2026 against teams in their new classification.  Once the results for these games have been posted to the USSSA system, a review will be completed to determine if the team is competitive at the new level. 

The term "competitive" is and always will be subjective.  A team that plays a little below or above .500 in any classification is competitive. A team that loses every game by one run is also competitive. 

Do your part to help the accountability of the USSSA system. View the rosters of the teams in your age division before you play them to make sure that they are compliant with roster rules. Tournament directors are also being told this is a requirement of hosting USSSA events. The classified system of play works if you are part of the accountability mechanism. USSSA is the only organization in the country that can make classified play work as it should and monitor it.