Baseball Rules for
Brooklyn Park Athletic Association ~ Baseball 2016 General Rules and Information
Brooklyn Park Athletic Association
Baseball Rules for 9-10 Year-Old American League Version 1.3 Last Updated March 17, 2016 Page 1 of 6
Last review March 17, 2016
Brooklyn Park Athletic Association ~ Baseball 2016 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26.
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General Rules and Information Rules ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 3 Playing Time ........................................................................................................................................................................... 3 Game Length .......................................................................................................................................................................... 3 Run Rules ................................................................................................................................................................................ 3 Field Layout ............................................................................................................................................................................ 3 Pre-Game Warm-Up .............................................................................................................................................................. 3 Game Play ............................................................................................................................................................................... 3 Strike Zone.............................................................................................................................................................................. 4 Batting..................................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Bats.......................................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Pitching ................................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Visit to the Mound .................................................................................................................................................................. 4 Courtesy Runners ................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Leading Off and Stealing Bases ............................................................................................................................................. 4 Slide Rule ................................................................................................................................................................................ 5 Overthrows That Go Out of Play ........................................................................................................................................... 5 Dead Ball Rule ........................................................................................................................................................................ 5 Infield Fly Rule ....................................................................................................................................................................... 5 Substitutions on Other Teams ................................................................................................................................................ 5 Score Book .............................................................................................................................................................................. 5 Sportsmanship Rule ............................................................................................................................................................... 5 Umpires ................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Protests & Suspected Rule Violations .................................................................................................................................... 6 Tobacco and Alcohol .............................................................................................................................................................. 6 League Standings.................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Tournament Rules .................................................................................................................................................................. 6
Last review March 17, 2016
Brooklyn Park Athletic Association ~ Baseball 2016 General Rules and Information
1. Rules 1.1. High School Baseball Rules as published by the National Federation of High School Associations will govern play in all leagues and divisions except where Brooklyn Park Athletic Association rules, as stated below, override such rules.
2. Playing Time 2.1. There will be a continuous batting order in all divisions. No player will sit on the bench one inning more than any other player; this includes games shorter than six complete innings (the intent is equal play for all players). If a player is not being played for disciplinary reasons, the opposing coach will be notified before the start of the game. 2.2. During a game, the opposing coach must be notified of the removal of a player for disciplinary reasons. 2.3. No player may play the same position for more than 2 innings in a game. 2.4. All players must play at least one inning at an infield position per game. This mandatory player placement must occur within the first four innings (The intent of this rule is to emphasize that each coach should try to play all players at least two innings at an infield position per game). 2.5. Every player must play at least one inning at an outfield position per game. This mandatory player placement must occur within the first five innings. 2.6. Each coach is to review their team policy and expectations for missing practices and games at their initial team meeting.
3. Game Length 3.1. Game regulation length is 6 innings. 3.2. Games are official after 4 complete innings or 3½ innings if home team is ahead. 3.3. Evening games will start at 6:15 p.m. with no new inning starting after 8:15 p.m. For day games, or games played at Brookdale Park (field number 2 which is lighted), no new inning will start after 2 hours from the time the game starts. Umpire’s time is official. 3.4. If the game is tied, extra innings are played until either a winner is determined or game is called for darkness (or any other reason) or umpire calls the game a tie.
4. Run Rules 4.1. There will be a 5 run limit per inning except in the 6 th inning and beyond during which there will be no limit on runs. 4.2. The game will end if the home team is ahead by 10 or more runs (anytime while they are batting) after 4½ innings or the visiting team is ahead by 10 runs or more (before they bat) after 5 innings.
5. Field Layout League 9/10 year-old American
Bases 60 feet
Pitching Mound 46 feet
Pitcher Player pitch
Home Plate to 2nd Base Approx. 85 feet
6. Pre-Game Warm-Up 6.1. 6.2. 6.3. 6.4.
The home team has infield practice from 5:50 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The visiting team has infield practice from 6:00 p.m. to 6:10 p.m. No batting practice or pitching practice allowed on the infield. The defensive team has 2 minutes for the pitcher to throw up to 8 warm-up pitches between innings.
7. Game Play 7.1. Coaches and players are not allowed directly behind backstop during games. 7.2. One coach is allowed on the field for the team that is currently in the field prior to the mid-season tournament. This coach must stand behind the catcher and umpire and should help assist with passed balls which will help speed up the game. This coach is not allowed on the field after the mid-season tournament which is when stealing is allowed. Base coaches are allowed during the entire year for the team that is at bat. 7.3. The home team bench is considered to be along the 3 rd base line. 7.4. On a dropped third strike the batter is out. 7.5. The fielder always has the right of way when fielding a batted or thrown ball, whether or not he is in the base path. When not fielding a batted or thrown ball, a fielder must not stand in the base path. 7.6. Batter-training equipment (i.e. lightning sticks, ball-on-a-stick, etc.) must not be used during game play or between innings. Such equipment must be used under close adult supervision during practice time only. 7.7. If one team is short players, the other team will supply the required number of missing players as outfielders, from the bottom of their batting line-up. There will be no forfeits in this league or outs recorded for less than 9 players (10 players if there are four outfielders). 7.8. All defensive players, except the catcher, will need to have both feet in fair territory until the batter has made contact with the ball or the ball has crossed the plate. 7.9. We will start the season with four outfielders. After the mid-season tournament, only 3 outfielders will be placed in the outfield. Page 3 of 6
Last review March 17, 2016
Brooklyn Park Athletic Association ~ Baseball 2016 General Rules and Information
8. Strike Zone 8.1. The strike zone shall be from the top of the shoulders to the bottom of the knee, and one ball width either side of home plate (“big strike zone”), as called by the umpire.
9. Batting 9.1. All leagues will use continuous batting. All players must stay in the same batting order throughout the game. If a player shows up late for a game, that player must be placed at the end of the batting order. If a player shows up after a full batting rotation, the player may play only at their coach’s discretion and after notifying the opposing coach. 9.2. If a player is injured during a game and cannot take their turn at bat, that player will be taken off the batting rotation and will have to sit remainder of the game with no penalty. 9.3. There will be no penalty for stepping out of the batter’s box between pitches. The batter shall not leave his position in the batter’s box after the pitcher comes to the set position or starts his windup (the pitch counts if the batter leaves after this time). 9.4. The on-deck batter will be allowed to warm up in one of the two shared batting circles. If a right handed batter is batting, the on-deck batter will be allowed to use the on-deck circle located by the 3rd base dugout. If a left handed batter is batting, the on-deck batter will be allowed to use the on-deck circle located by the 1 st base dugout.
10. Bats 10.1. 10.2. 10.3. 10.4.
Any bat with the diameter greater than 2 1/4 inches is considered illegal and will not be allowed during game play. The 5-ounce bat rule will not be enforced. If an illegal bat is used during a game, the player is out and any play resulting from its use is nullified. Effective in 2014, all bats must have a 1.15 BPF (Bat Performance Factor) displayed on the barrel.
11. Pitching 11.1. A player may pitch no more than 2 innings per game and 4 innings in consecutive calendar days (i.e. 2 innings per game and no more than 4 innings during the mid-season tournament on consecutive days). All players that would like to pitch must have the opportunity to pitch one full inning (defined as 3 outs, 5 runs, or 35 pitches) during the season. 11.2. Any pitcher may leave the pitching position during a game and return again as the pitcher, but this move can be made only one time per game per player. An appearance as pitcher, even if only a single pitch to one batter, counts as an inning pitched (this however does not count as an infield position played as far as Rule 2.4 is concerned unless the pitcher plays the full inning: 3 outs or maximum runs are scored). 11.3. Use of an ineligible pitcher should be brought to the attention of the coach immediately and should be rectified. If a coach refuses to abide by the rule after being notified, it will result in forfeiture of that game. 11.4. Illegal pitches are not allowed in this league. They are defined as: 11.4.1.Curve balls, knuckle balls, or breaking balls 11.4.1.1. 1st offense - dead ball and pitch is called a ball. 11.4.1.2. 2nd offense - dead ball and pitch is called a ball and pitcher is not allowed to pitch remainder of game. 11.4.2.Fake pitches 11.4.2.1. Dead ball and no bases to the batter or any base runners. Warn the pitcher. 11.4.3.Intentional walks 11.4.3.1. Intentional walks will not be allowed and the pitcher should attempt to throw at the strike zone. Warn the pitcher.
12. Visit to the Mound 12.1. A 3rd trip by a coach to the same pitcher in the same inning will cause that pitchers automatic removal from the pitching position only, may play other positions during the remainder of the game. 12.2. The coach is prohibited from making a third visit to the mound while the same batter is at bat.
13. Courtesy Runners 13.1. Courtesy runners may not be used except in the event of an injury to a base runner. Injured player must be able to run their own bases next time at bat or taken out of the lineup for the remainder of the game with no penalty. 13.2. Courtesy runner for injured player will be the last out that was made.
14. Leading Off and Stealing Bases 14.1. The runner is encouraged lead off after the ball crosses the plate. Stealing (including advancing on wild pitches and passed balls) will be phased in during the year. 14.2. Games prior to mid-season tournament: 14.2.1.No stealing, may Lead off after the ball crosses the plate only. 14.2.2.Runners shall not advance on an overthrow by infielder or outfielder 14.2.3.Runners shall not advance on overthrows from the catcher to the pitcher or base. 14.2.4.Coaches are encouraged to coach runners to hustle back to the base after a lead-off. 14.2.5.No Stealing home (runners need to be walked or batted in to score). Page 4 of 6
Last review March 17, 2016
Brooklyn Park Athletic Association ~ Baseball 2016 General Rules and Information 14.3. Games after the mid-season tournament: 14.3.1.Stealing is allowed after the pitch crosses the plate 14.3.2.Runners may advance on an overthrow from the catcher to pitcher or base if runner not stealing. 14.3.3.Delay stealing is allowed 14.3.4.Runners may advance on any overthrow at any time with the exception of rule 14.3.4.1. 14.3.4.1. If a player is advancing towards 3rd and an overthrow occurs at third base, the player may not advance home unless the player is on or passed 3rd base at the time the ball leaves the field of play and goes out of play. Rule 17.2 will also be enforced for runners advancing towards 3rd base. 14.3.5.No stealing home (runners need to be walked or batted in to score) 14.3.6.League Commissioner and coaches may modify these rules as long as they are clear, understood by all and published to the 9/10 AL League website and to the BPBA board.
15. Slide Rule 15.1. The base runner must slide or attempt to avoid body contact when a tag is being attempted or on a force play to avoid collisions and possible injuries. 15.2. Violation results in the player being called out; the ball is dead. 15.3. A fielder may not block a base or home plate without the ball. If he does, the runner is safe (unless the ball is in flight). 15.4. Any runner is out when sliding headfirst while advancing a base. Does not apply when returning to a base from a rundown or pick off situation. 15.5. For safety, all runners should run through first base (the intent is to teach running through 1st base).
16. Overthrows That Go Out of Play 16.1. Prior to the mid-season tournament, runners will not advance on balls that go out of play. After the mid-season tournament the following rules will be in effect. 16.1.1.When ball is fielded, runner is allowed two bases (the base the player is approaching – even if one step short, plus one more) from the time the ball leaves the field of play. 16.1.2.If the runner is required to retouch a base, as in the case of a caught fly ball, the award shall be the base that the runner was required to retouch and one additional base.
17. Dead Ball Rule 17.1. If a player is already past a base and considered to be advancing to the next base when a dead ball is called, they are considered to be advancing to the next base and may continue. 17.2. Runners may not continue to advance once a batted ball to the outfield has been fielded and thrown back to an infielder located on the dirt portion of the infield (the ball needs to be in possession of an infielder). Purpose is to emphasize getting ball back to infield as quickly as possible and in the hands of an infielder.
18. Infield Fly Rule 18.1. Infield fly rule is in effect. 18.2. The definition of the infield fly rule is if there are runners on first and second, or first, second and third with less than two out, there is an infield fly possibility. If the batter then hits a fair fly ball (not a line drive or bunt) that COULD be caught by a defensive player stationed in the infield with ORDINARY EFFORT, an Infield Fly should be called. Keep in mind, “ordinary effort” can be very different between a 9year-old and an 18-year-old. One way to think of it is, “Is the fielder comfortable under the ball?” If so, you’ve got ordinary effort.
19. Substitutions on Other Teams 19.1. 19.2. 19.3. 19.4. 19.5.
Players will play on only one team, but will fill in for opposing teams with 9 or less players. Substitute players may come from 8/9 NL teams. Players may play up on a 11/12 NL team as a substitute. Players who are not registered players of BPAA Baseball may not participate as a substitute player. Players must have permission of their coach to play up.
20. Score Book 20.1. All players on the roster who are playing will be listed in the scorebook. This will be the continuous batting order, whether they are playing in the field or not. 20.2. American League scorebooks must be done in pen, last names first followed by first name or initial.
21. Sportsmanship Rule 21.1. A player will be automatically ejected from the game for flagrantly throwing his bat or helmet, or for displaying poor sportsmanship. No Warning. Umpire’s discretion. 21.2. Coaches, players, or fans are not to direct any verbal abuse, profanity, or other form of ridicule at an umpire or another player. A coach or player doing so will be warned, if it is repeated, the umpire may elect to declare the game a forfeit to non-offending team or eject the offending coach or player. Page 5 of 6
Last review March 17, 2016
Brooklyn Park Athletic Association ~ Baseball 2016 General Rules and Information
22. Umpires 22.1. All umpire’s decisions are final. No protests on judgment calls will be allowed during game. 22.2. Balls and strikes are not subject to review; the umpire’s call is final. 22.3. Any possible rule violations shall be directed in a professional manner to the umpire at the game. The coach must show in writing, via the High School Rule Book or BPAA Baseball Association Rules before the next play begins. Umpire will then review the rules and determine if a rule has been violated. 22.4. Board approved and supported umpires will be furnished for all games.
23. Protests & Suspected Rule Violations 23.1. Protest must be made in writing to the Baseball Committee Chairperson (BPBA President). The Protest Committee will review protests. No protests are allowed on judgment calls. Any head coach filing a protest will submit the written protest within 24 hours along with $10.00 cash to the chairperson. If the protest is upheld, money will be refunded. If coach loses the protest, the money will be donated to the baseball program. 23.2. Suspected rules violations should be discussed with the coaches, umpires and commissioners. Should, after having the violation brought to their attention, a coach willingly continues to violate the rule, disciplinary action, including forfeiture of games may occur.
24. Tobacco and Alcohol 24.1. The use of tobacco and alcoholic beverages in any form is prohibited on the playing field, benches or dugouts. Tobacco is prohibited on all school properties. Alcohol is prohibited on all Brooklyn Park park properties. Coaches and umpires are strongly urged to enforce this rule.
25. League Standings 25.1. League standings will be based on points accumulated: 25.1.1.3 points for each win 25.1.2.2 points for each tie 25.1.3.1 point for a loss 25.2. Tie breakers will be decided by: 25.2.1.Head to head win / loss record 25.2.2.Head to head run differential (runs scored minus runs against) 25.2.3.Total run differential (runs scored minus runs against) 25.2.4.Coin toss 25.2.5.In the case where a tie involves more than two teams, the head to head tie breaker (Rule 25.2.1 or Rule 25.2.2) will not be used. The tie breaking procedures will begin with total run differential (Rule 25.2.3) and will continue in succession until the position for the 1 st 2nd, and 3rd (etc.) place teams have been determined for that group of tied teams. Once the group of 3 or more tied teams are placed, the normal tie breaking procedure will continue starting with Rule 25.2.1 for 2 teams that are tied in the standings. 25.3. Standings listed on-line are not considered final. Not all tie breaker rules are able to be implemented in the online system. League Commissioner will publish official standings at the mid-season tournament and post season tournament if different than that of the online system.
26. Tournament Rules 26.1. Mid-Season Tournament 26.1.1.The Mid-Season tournament will consist of at least 2 pool play games followed by a ranked one game playoff. Pools will be formed based on standings following the last game prior to the tournament with teams with odd places in standings forming Pool 1 and even places forming Pool 2. After pool play is completed top team in each pool (using standings rules and tie breakers in Section 25) will play each other (1vs1, 2vs 2, etc.). 26.2. End of Season Tournament 26.2.1.The End of Season Tournament will consist of a double elimination tournament with a minimum of 3 games per team. Brackets will be published by the league commissioner. Brackets will be formed based on the League Standings at the end of the Regular Season. 26.3. Rules 26.3.1.Rules for games will be the same as listed above. This includes, but is not limited to, substitute players (see Section 19).
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Last review March 17, 2016
Brooklyn Park Athletic Association
Baseball Rules for 9-10 Year-Old American League Version 1.3 Last Updated March 17, 2016 Page 1 of 6
Last review March 17, 2016
Brooklyn Park Athletic Association ~ Baseball 2016 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26.
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General Rules and Information Rules ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 3 Playing Time ........................................................................................................................................................................... 3 Game Length .......................................................................................................................................................................... 3 Run Rules ................................................................................................................................................................................ 3 Field Layout ............................................................................................................................................................................ 3 Pre-Game Warm-Up .............................................................................................................................................................. 3 Game Play ............................................................................................................................................................................... 3 Strike Zone.............................................................................................................................................................................. 4 Batting..................................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Bats.......................................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Pitching ................................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Visit to the Mound .................................................................................................................................................................. 4 Courtesy Runners ................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Leading Off and Stealing Bases ............................................................................................................................................. 4 Slide Rule ................................................................................................................................................................................ 5 Overthrows That Go Out of Play ........................................................................................................................................... 5 Dead Ball Rule ........................................................................................................................................................................ 5 Infield Fly Rule ....................................................................................................................................................................... 5 Substitutions on Other Teams ................................................................................................................................................ 5 Score Book .............................................................................................................................................................................. 5 Sportsmanship Rule ............................................................................................................................................................... 5 Umpires ................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Protests & Suspected Rule Violations .................................................................................................................................... 6 Tobacco and Alcohol .............................................................................................................................................................. 6 League Standings.................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Tournament Rules .................................................................................................................................................................. 6
Last review March 17, 2016
Brooklyn Park Athletic Association ~ Baseball 2016 General Rules and Information
1. Rules 1.1. High School Baseball Rules as published by the National Federation of High School Associations will govern play in all leagues and divisions except where Brooklyn Park Athletic Association rules, as stated below, override such rules.
2. Playing Time 2.1. There will be a continuous batting order in all divisions. No player will sit on the bench one inning more than any other player; this includes games shorter than six complete innings (the intent is equal play for all players). If a player is not being played for disciplinary reasons, the opposing coach will be notified before the start of the game. 2.2. During a game, the opposing coach must be notified of the removal of a player for disciplinary reasons. 2.3. No player may play the same position for more than 2 innings in a game. 2.4. All players must play at least one inning at an infield position per game. This mandatory player placement must occur within the first four innings (The intent of this rule is to emphasize that each coach should try to play all players at least two innings at an infield position per game). 2.5. Every player must play at least one inning at an outfield position per game. This mandatory player placement must occur within the first five innings. 2.6. Each coach is to review their team policy and expectations for missing practices and games at their initial team meeting.
3. Game Length 3.1. Game regulation length is 6 innings. 3.2. Games are official after 4 complete innings or 3½ innings if home team is ahead. 3.3. Evening games will start at 6:15 p.m. with no new inning starting after 8:15 p.m. For day games, or games played at Brookdale Park (field number 2 which is lighted), no new inning will start after 2 hours from the time the game starts. Umpire’s time is official. 3.4. If the game is tied, extra innings are played until either a winner is determined or game is called for darkness (or any other reason) or umpire calls the game a tie.
4. Run Rules 4.1. There will be a 5 run limit per inning except in the 6 th inning and beyond during which there will be no limit on runs. 4.2. The game will end if the home team is ahead by 10 or more runs (anytime while they are batting) after 4½ innings or the visiting team is ahead by 10 runs or more (before they bat) after 5 innings.
5. Field Layout League 9/10 year-old American
Bases 60 feet
Pitching Mound 46 feet
Pitcher Player pitch
Home Plate to 2nd Base Approx. 85 feet
6. Pre-Game Warm-Up 6.1. 6.2. 6.3. 6.4.
The home team has infield practice from 5:50 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The visiting team has infield practice from 6:00 p.m. to 6:10 p.m. No batting practice or pitching practice allowed on the infield. The defensive team has 2 minutes for the pitcher to throw up to 8 warm-up pitches between innings.
7. Game Play 7.1. Coaches and players are not allowed directly behind backstop during games. 7.2. One coach is allowed on the field for the team that is currently in the field prior to the mid-season tournament. This coach must stand behind the catcher and umpire and should help assist with passed balls which will help speed up the game. This coach is not allowed on the field after the mid-season tournament which is when stealing is allowed. Base coaches are allowed during the entire year for the team that is at bat. 7.3. The home team bench is considered to be along the 3 rd base line. 7.4. On a dropped third strike the batter is out. 7.5. The fielder always has the right of way when fielding a batted or thrown ball, whether or not he is in the base path. When not fielding a batted or thrown ball, a fielder must not stand in the base path. 7.6. Batter-training equipment (i.e. lightning sticks, ball-on-a-stick, etc.) must not be used during game play or between innings. Such equipment must be used under close adult supervision during practice time only. 7.7. If one team is short players, the other team will supply the required number of missing players as outfielders, from the bottom of their batting line-up. There will be no forfeits in this league or outs recorded for less than 9 players (10 players if there are four outfielders). 7.8. All defensive players, except the catcher, will need to have both feet in fair territory until the batter has made contact with the ball or the ball has crossed the plate. 7.9. We will start the season with four outfielders. After the mid-season tournament, only 3 outfielders will be placed in the outfield. Page 3 of 6
Last review March 17, 2016
Brooklyn Park Athletic Association ~ Baseball 2016 General Rules and Information
8. Strike Zone 8.1. The strike zone shall be from the top of the shoulders to the bottom of the knee, and one ball width either side of home plate (“big strike zone”), as called by the umpire.
9. Batting 9.1. All leagues will use continuous batting. All players must stay in the same batting order throughout the game. If a player shows up late for a game, that player must be placed at the end of the batting order. If a player shows up after a full batting rotation, the player may play only at their coach’s discretion and after notifying the opposing coach. 9.2. If a player is injured during a game and cannot take their turn at bat, that player will be taken off the batting rotation and will have to sit remainder of the game with no penalty. 9.3. There will be no penalty for stepping out of the batter’s box between pitches. The batter shall not leave his position in the batter’s box after the pitcher comes to the set position or starts his windup (the pitch counts if the batter leaves after this time). 9.4. The on-deck batter will be allowed to warm up in one of the two shared batting circles. If a right handed batter is batting, the on-deck batter will be allowed to use the on-deck circle located by the 3rd base dugout. If a left handed batter is batting, the on-deck batter will be allowed to use the on-deck circle located by the 1 st base dugout.
10. Bats 10.1. 10.2. 10.3. 10.4.
Any bat with the diameter greater than 2 1/4 inches is considered illegal and will not be allowed during game play. The 5-ounce bat rule will not be enforced. If an illegal bat is used during a game, the player is out and any play resulting from its use is nullified. Effective in 2014, all bats must have a 1.15 BPF (Bat Performance Factor) displayed on the barrel.
11. Pitching 11.1. A player may pitch no more than 2 innings per game and 4 innings in consecutive calendar days (i.e. 2 innings per game and no more than 4 innings during the mid-season tournament on consecutive days). All players that would like to pitch must have the opportunity to pitch one full inning (defined as 3 outs, 5 runs, or 35 pitches) during the season. 11.2. Any pitcher may leave the pitching position during a game and return again as the pitcher, but this move can be made only one time per game per player. An appearance as pitcher, even if only a single pitch to one batter, counts as an inning pitched (this however does not count as an infield position played as far as Rule 2.4 is concerned unless the pitcher plays the full inning: 3 outs or maximum runs are scored). 11.3. Use of an ineligible pitcher should be brought to the attention of the coach immediately and should be rectified. If a coach refuses to abide by the rule after being notified, it will result in forfeiture of that game. 11.4. Illegal pitches are not allowed in this league. They are defined as: 11.4.1.Curve balls, knuckle balls, or breaking balls 11.4.1.1. 1st offense - dead ball and pitch is called a ball. 11.4.1.2. 2nd offense - dead ball and pitch is called a ball and pitcher is not allowed to pitch remainder of game. 11.4.2.Fake pitches 11.4.2.1. Dead ball and no bases to the batter or any base runners. Warn the pitcher. 11.4.3.Intentional walks 11.4.3.1. Intentional walks will not be allowed and the pitcher should attempt to throw at the strike zone. Warn the pitcher.
12. Visit to the Mound 12.1. A 3rd trip by a coach to the same pitcher in the same inning will cause that pitchers automatic removal from the pitching position only, may play other positions during the remainder of the game. 12.2. The coach is prohibited from making a third visit to the mound while the same batter is at bat.
13. Courtesy Runners 13.1. Courtesy runners may not be used except in the event of an injury to a base runner. Injured player must be able to run their own bases next time at bat or taken out of the lineup for the remainder of the game with no penalty. 13.2. Courtesy runner for injured player will be the last out that was made.
14. Leading Off and Stealing Bases 14.1. The runner is encouraged lead off after the ball crosses the plate. Stealing (including advancing on wild pitches and passed balls) will be phased in during the year. 14.2. Games prior to mid-season tournament: 14.2.1.No stealing, may Lead off after the ball crosses the plate only. 14.2.2.Runners shall not advance on an overthrow by infielder or outfielder 14.2.3.Runners shall not advance on overthrows from the catcher to the pitcher or base. 14.2.4.Coaches are encouraged to coach runners to hustle back to the base after a lead-off. 14.2.5.No Stealing home (runners need to be walked or batted in to score). Page 4 of 6
Last review March 17, 2016
Brooklyn Park Athletic Association ~ Baseball 2016 General Rules and Information 14.3. Games after the mid-season tournament: 14.3.1.Stealing is allowed after the pitch crosses the plate 14.3.2.Runners may advance on an overthrow from the catcher to pitcher or base if runner not stealing. 14.3.3.Delay stealing is allowed 14.3.4.Runners may advance on any overthrow at any time with the exception of rule 14.3.4.1. 14.3.4.1. If a player is advancing towards 3rd and an overthrow occurs at third base, the player may not advance home unless the player is on or passed 3rd base at the time the ball leaves the field of play and goes out of play. Rule 17.2 will also be enforced for runners advancing towards 3rd base. 14.3.5.No stealing home (runners need to be walked or batted in to score) 14.3.6.League Commissioner and coaches may modify these rules as long as they are clear, understood by all and published to the 9/10 AL League website and to the BPBA board.
15. Slide Rule 15.1. The base runner must slide or attempt to avoid body contact when a tag is being attempted or on a force play to avoid collisions and possible injuries. 15.2. Violation results in the player being called out; the ball is dead. 15.3. A fielder may not block a base or home plate without the ball. If he does, the runner is safe (unless the ball is in flight). 15.4. Any runner is out when sliding headfirst while advancing a base. Does not apply when returning to a base from a rundown or pick off situation. 15.5. For safety, all runners should run through first base (the intent is to teach running through 1st base).
16. Overthrows That Go Out of Play 16.1. Prior to the mid-season tournament, runners will not advance on balls that go out of play. After the mid-season tournament the following rules will be in effect. 16.1.1.When ball is fielded, runner is allowed two bases (the base the player is approaching – even if one step short, plus one more) from the time the ball leaves the field of play. 16.1.2.If the runner is required to retouch a base, as in the case of a caught fly ball, the award shall be the base that the runner was required to retouch and one additional base.
17. Dead Ball Rule 17.1. If a player is already past a base and considered to be advancing to the next base when a dead ball is called, they are considered to be advancing to the next base and may continue. 17.2. Runners may not continue to advance once a batted ball to the outfield has been fielded and thrown back to an infielder located on the dirt portion of the infield (the ball needs to be in possession of an infielder). Purpose is to emphasize getting ball back to infield as quickly as possible and in the hands of an infielder.
18. Infield Fly Rule 18.1. Infield fly rule is in effect. 18.2. The definition of the infield fly rule is if there are runners on first and second, or first, second and third with less than two out, there is an infield fly possibility. If the batter then hits a fair fly ball (not a line drive or bunt) that COULD be caught by a defensive player stationed in the infield with ORDINARY EFFORT, an Infield Fly should be called. Keep in mind, “ordinary effort” can be very different between a 9year-old and an 18-year-old. One way to think of it is, “Is the fielder comfortable under the ball?” If so, you’ve got ordinary effort.
19. Substitutions on Other Teams 19.1. 19.2. 19.3. 19.4. 19.5.
Players will play on only one team, but will fill in for opposing teams with 9 or less players. Substitute players may come from 8/9 NL teams. Players may play up on a 11/12 NL team as a substitute. Players who are not registered players of BPAA Baseball may not participate as a substitute player. Players must have permission of their coach to play up.
20. Score Book 20.1. All players on the roster who are playing will be listed in the scorebook. This will be the continuous batting order, whether they are playing in the field or not. 20.2. American League scorebooks must be done in pen, last names first followed by first name or initial.
21. Sportsmanship Rule 21.1. A player will be automatically ejected from the game for flagrantly throwing his bat or helmet, or for displaying poor sportsmanship. No Warning. Umpire’s discretion. 21.2. Coaches, players, or fans are not to direct any verbal abuse, profanity, or other form of ridicule at an umpire or another player. A coach or player doing so will be warned, if it is repeated, the umpire may elect to declare the game a forfeit to non-offending team or eject the offending coach or player. Page 5 of 6
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Brooklyn Park Athletic Association ~ Baseball 2016 General Rules and Information
22. Umpires 22.1. All umpire’s decisions are final. No protests on judgment calls will be allowed during game. 22.2. Balls and strikes are not subject to review; the umpire’s call is final. 22.3. Any possible rule violations shall be directed in a professional manner to the umpire at the game. The coach must show in writing, via the High School Rule Book or BPAA Baseball Association Rules before the next play begins. Umpire will then review the rules and determine if a rule has been violated. 22.4. Board approved and supported umpires will be furnished for all games.
23. Protests & Suspected Rule Violations 23.1. Protest must be made in writing to the Baseball Committee Chairperson (BPBA President). The Protest Committee will review protests. No protests are allowed on judgment calls. Any head coach filing a protest will submit the written protest within 24 hours along with $10.00 cash to the chairperson. If the protest is upheld, money will be refunded. If coach loses the protest, the money will be donated to the baseball program. 23.2. Suspected rules violations should be discussed with the coaches, umpires and commissioners. Should, after having the violation brought to their attention, a coach willingly continues to violate the rule, disciplinary action, including forfeiture of games may occur.
24. Tobacco and Alcohol 24.1. The use of tobacco and alcoholic beverages in any form is prohibited on the playing field, benches or dugouts. Tobacco is prohibited on all school properties. Alcohol is prohibited on all Brooklyn Park park properties. Coaches and umpires are strongly urged to enforce this rule.
25. League Standings 25.1. League standings will be based on points accumulated: 25.1.1.3 points for each win 25.1.2.2 points for each tie 25.1.3.1 point for a loss 25.2. Tie breakers will be decided by: 25.2.1.Head to head win / loss record 25.2.2.Head to head run differential (runs scored minus runs against) 25.2.3.Total run differential (runs scored minus runs against) 25.2.4.Coin toss 25.2.5.In the case where a tie involves more than two teams, the head to head tie breaker (Rule 25.2.1 or Rule 25.2.2) will not be used. The tie breaking procedures will begin with total run differential (Rule 25.2.3) and will continue in succession until the position for the 1 st 2nd, and 3rd (etc.) place teams have been determined for that group of tied teams. Once the group of 3 or more tied teams are placed, the normal tie breaking procedure will continue starting with Rule 25.2.1 for 2 teams that are tied in the standings. 25.3. Standings listed on-line are not considered final. Not all tie breaker rules are able to be implemented in the online system. League Commissioner will publish official standings at the mid-season tournament and post season tournament if different than that of the online system.
26. Tournament Rules 26.1. Mid-Season Tournament 26.1.1.The Mid-Season tournament will consist of at least 2 pool play games followed by a ranked one game playoff. Pools will be formed based on standings following the last game prior to the tournament with teams with odd places in standings forming Pool 1 and even places forming Pool 2. After pool play is completed top team in each pool (using standings rules and tie breakers in Section 25) will play each other (1vs1, 2vs 2, etc.). 26.2. End of Season Tournament 26.2.1.The End of Season Tournament will consist of a double elimination tournament with a minimum of 3 games per team. Brackets will be published by the league commissioner. Brackets will be formed based on the League Standings at the end of the Regular Season. 26.3. Rules 26.3.1.Rules for games will be the same as listed above. This includes, but is not limited to, substitute players (see Section 19).
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