Gulf Coast League

The Gulf Coast League (GCL) is a rookie-level minor league baseball league in the United States, primarily serving as an entry point for newly signed professional players. It is operated by Major League Baseball (MLB) and features young prospects honing their skills against other developing players. The league typically plays during the spring and summer months near the Gulf Coast, especially in Florida and Arizona. It provides a professional environment to evaluate and develop talent before advancing to higher minor league levels or major league play. The GCL emphasizes player development, instruction, and acclimatization to professional baseball.