The regular season ended last week for little league players, capping a year that brought together kids from Marion, Mattapoisett, and Rochester for the first time.

Last fall, Old Rochester Little League merged with Rochester Youth Baseball to create a “true, tri-town youth baseball program,” according to league President Peter Johnson.

The move increased the number of league players from 250 to 400, which allowed league organizers to improve the program.

For the first two years of its existence, Old Rochester Little League offered four programs to accommodate players with varying skills. Johnson said the addition of Rochester Youth Baseball players let the league add a fifth program.

“I think it creates a much better experience for the younger age groups, in particular, because it allows them to play with their peers,” Johnson said. “The idea is to instill in kids a love of the game, but also develop their baseball skills.”

The change creates a new level of play for 7-9 year old kids where players are allowed to pitch. However, coaches can step in to help struggling pitchers at that level.

Johnson described that league, known as Triple A, as a “bridge” year for players.

“We want the kids to play baseball and pitch. But we also want to keep the game moving along,” he said.

The entire league is open to children 4-12 years old. The youngest members learn the game by playing tee-ball. For players 6-7 years old, only coaches may pitch. The oldest players, those who are 9-12 years old, play under regular baseball rules.

This week, playoff games began in Gifford Park in Rochester. Old Rochester teams compete in Massachusetts’ Little League District 7 playoffs for a trip to the 2013 Little League World Series. Held in South Williamsport, Penn., the event is televised on ESPN.

Last year, the league’s 10-year-old players advanced to the District 7 Championship, but lost to a Lakeville team that went on to win the Massachusetts state championship in their age division.

Aside from the new league structure, the big change came when little leaguers played alongside peers outside of their hometowns, Johnson said.

“One of the biggest benefits was brining all the kids together from the tri-town area, putting them all in one big pot, mixing it up, and allowing them to experience youth sports,” Johnson said.

Coach and parent Jared Maxwell agreed. Maxwell, whose son Landon plays for the Mudhens, said some tri-town residents remember growing up not knowing many people outside of their town.

“The social aspect has been one of the highlights for the kids,” Maxwell said.

Johnson reminded parents that the league would be offering baseball programs in the fall.

Teaching baseball is part of the league's mission, Johnson said, alongside building character in players.

“My goal is to see children develop both as baseball players, but more importantly, becoming productive members of the community, and learning the skills that will last a lifetime,” Johnson said. “Things like teamwork and learning how to win and lose graciously.”

For more information on Old Rochester Little League, visit http://orll.net/league.