CLB DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY
From foundational skills to elite competition, CLB supports players at every level.
CLB In-House Baseball
Build Fundamentals. Love the Game.
CLB In-House Baseball is the foundation of our development pathway, designed for players of all skill levels.
With an emphasis on fundamentals, learning, and fun, players develop skills and confidence through practices, games, and instructional clinics.
This program creates a positive, supportive environment where players can grow, compete, and build a lifelong love for baseball.
Skill Level: Any
Travel: None
Cost: Low
Ages: 4-13
Time Commitment: 2-3 Events per week
Tryouts: All Players Accepted
Spring League: April - June
Fall League: August - October
Contact: inhouse@clbaseball.com
CLB Stars
Step Up to the Next Level.
CLB Stars is the in-house “all-star” experience for players ready for more competition and game play, while remaining rooted in the CLB community.
Selected from in-house AA, AAA, and Majors teams, Stars players compete in local games and tournaments at a higher level while continuing to develop skills, confidence, and leadership.
This program bridges the gap between in-house and full-time travel.
Skill Level: In-House All Stars
Travel: Local
Cost: Low
Ages: 8-12
Time Commitment: 1-2 Additional Days (In House Required)
Tryouts: Yes - April
Spring League: April - July
Contact: inhouse@clbaseball.com
Bulldogs Baseball
Compete, Commit, and Grow.
The CLB Bulldogs are Crystal Lake Baseball’s full-time travel teams for players seeking a higher level of competition and commitment.
Focused on development, accountability, and team play, Bulldogs teams compete in local leagues and tournaments while preparing players for the next stage of competitive baseball.
This program challenges players to grow both as athletes and teammates.
Skill Level: Intermediate
Travel: Full-Time Local Travel
Cost: Medium
Ages: 9-13
Time Commitment: 3-4 Events per week
Tryouts: Yes - Late July
Spring League: April - June
Contact: bulldogs@clbaseball.com
Windy City Hit Dogs
Preparing Players for Elite Baseball.
Launched in 2024 through a partnership with the Crystal Lake Cardinals NFP, the Windy City Hit Dogs serve as our full-time travel program for players competing at the AA, AAA, and Majors levels. This elite program represents the highest level of competition and academy-style baseball offered through Crystal Lake Baseball.
With 21 teams from 9U through college, elite coaching, and cutting-edge training, the Hit Dogs provide a proven pathway to high school, collegiate, and beyond.
98% of eligible players make their high school teams, 90% advance to play in college, and 5 players have reached the MLB as of 2025.
Skill Level: High
Travel: Full-Time Travel
Cost: Variable
Ages: 8-18
Time Commitment: 4-5 Events per week
Tryouts: Yes - June/July
Spring League: April - July
Contact: Admin@WindyCityHitDogs.com