If your teen is skilled at playing baseball, that is likely a skill worth cultivating. Surely, you'll want them to play on their school's team, and you may also allow them to join a travel team or two. However, an even more intensive option for teen baseball players is attending a baseball training academy. At these academies, students spend anywhere from several weeks to several months focusing purely on baseball. It's an intense process, but it can be a wise choice for some teen players. Consider the following pros and cons as you decide whether it's worth sending your teenager to a baseball training academy.

Pro: They'll get instruction from high-level coaches.

Many high school coaches are great, but some are fairly average when it comes to baseball skills. If your child's high school coaching isn't overly stellar, sending them to a baseball training academy can be a good way to access top-of-the-line coaches. These programs generally only hire people who have real experience playing and coaching baseball at a high level, such as for college teams or in the minor leagues. This coaching can help bring your teen's skills to the next level.

Con: These programs are time-consuming.

Most baseball training programs take place over the summer, so kids do not have to leave school to attend. However, the programs are still time-consuming, and participating often means your child won't get to do other summery things, like get a job or spend long hours with their friends.

Pro: Your child may meet people who can get them into a good college program.

If your teen wants to play baseball in college, then attending a training academy is a good way to get their foot in the door. Sometimes, college scouts visit these programs. Or, the instructor may have connections at a certain school. This can not only help your child get into a program, but may help them get scholarship money too.

Con: These programs can be expensive.

Some baseball training programs offer a couple of scholarships, but for the most part, parents are responsible for paying their kids' way. These programs can be expensive, so if your teen's interest in baseball is a passing phase, attending may not be the best investment.

Consider the pros and cons above, and you should get a better idea of whether sending your teen to a baseball training academy is a wise step for their future.

For more information, contact a baseball training academy near you.