I'm sorry for your DS. That sounds crazy - is he playing on a rec team or club? We have a parks and rec system of sports around here where "tryouts" are to more evenly place kids, not make cuts. Kids who excel in the rec league often move to club/travel but at 9, the rec program provides a hearty opportunity for all kids wanting to play. Is that an option?
If being with his friends is important to him, practice and being an alternate at games may be okay in his mind. Plus, you may see a lot of improvement from the practice. My kids didn't gravitate to baseball, but it seems private training started young in that sport for those playing anything other than town parks and rec ball. I do know a good deal about youth soccer and kicking the ball around your yard or local park each day goes a long way to developing confidence. Maybe spending some low pressure, fun time in the evening this week with a ball will make him feel better about tryouts. Good luck to your DS!
Mom to Two Wild and Crazy Boys and One Sweet Baby Girl