[Blacksmith]

Myself and a few LL/PW coaches were talking the other day about ball players and how much its changed over the years..The discussion turned to AAU,Travel ball,all stars etc. Some of the guys believe that for a kid to get a chance that travel ball and aau play is almost essential to get noticed now a days. Ill admit Im not expert on the subject as growing up there was no such thing for us..Even at that travel ball is very expensive and many people cant swing it or parents work wont allow it.
What do you guys think? Is hard work and talent alone good enough now? Will a player who is no more talented than another player get looked at harder just because the play aau/travel ball?