junior leagues
Revised: March 2018 Participating Programs: Macedon Marion North Rose-Wolcott Ontario Sodus Walworth Williamson
Playing Rules & Regulations Spring 2018 Season
Online: www.leaguelineup.com/nwcybl
twilight/junior leagues www.leaguelineup.com/nwcybl
Northern Wayne County Youth Softball League Playing Rules & Regulations
Northern Wayne County Youth
twilight/junior leagues
Parent/Guardian Code of Conduct
**Official ASA Rules Apply with Adaptations Below**
Baseball/Softball League
I hereby pledge to provide positive support, care and encouragement for my child’s participation in Youth Sports by following this code of conduct: • I will encourage good sportsmanship by demonstration positive, respectful support for all players, parents, coaches and officials at each practice, game or other youth event. • I will place the emotional and physical well‐being of the children ahead of any personal desire to win. • I will insist that my child play in safe and healthy environment. • I will demand a drug, alcohol and tobacco free environment at all youth events. I will refrain from their use at all youth events. • I will require that that my child’s coach be trained and qualified in the responsibilities of being a youth coach. • I will require that the coach abide by the Coaches’ Code of Ethics. • I will expect my child to respect other players, teammates, coaches, officials and parents regardless of race, sex, creed and ability. • I will provide prompt transportation for my child to and from youth events. • I will remember that the game is for the children. I am responsible to make it as fun for them as I can.
Section I: Coaches, Umpires, & Fans 1. All players, coaches, and parents are expected to follow the “Code of Conduct” at all times. This “Code of Conduct” provides a healthy and safe environment for all. 2. Any individual found in violation of the “Code of Conduct” may be asked to exit the premises by an umpire, league official, or town coordinator. 3. Player age designations are determined by the following: aa Twilight League: 9 & 10 years old (as of May 1st, 2018). bb Junior League: 11 to 13 years old (as of May 1st, 2018). bb Combined League: 9 to 12 years old (as of May 1st, 2018). 4. All team coaches must be at least 16 years of age (as of May 1st, 2018) 5. THE UMPIRES RULING IS ALWAYS FINAL. 6. Cheering must remain positive at all times. The use of any type of noise makers during a pitch is strictly prohibited. 7. Prior to each game each teams head coach and the umpire ARE REQUIRED to meet to discuss the following: aa Coaches have the option to decide NOT to steal on a passed ball in the Junior/Combined League. If both coaches agree not to steal on a passed ball this will be enforced during game play. Coaches may also amend the stealing rule to only prohibit stealing of home on a passed ball. Again, if this is agreed upon by both coaches then it will be enforced during the game. If both coaches are not in agreement then the default rule of stealing on all pitches and passed balls around the diamond will be the rule for game play. bb Both home and away coaches and the umpire must determine prior to the start of the game any and all time limits (this includes whether a game will need to end early and any field restrictions).
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__________________________________________ Parent/Guardian Signature __________________________________________ Parent/Guardian Signature 3/28/08
11
____________ Date ____________ Date
i.
Northern Wayne County Youth Baseball/Softball League Coaches Code of Conduct I hereby pledge to provide positive support, care and encouragement for my team by following this code of conduct: • I will place the emotional and physical well being of my players ahead of any personal desire to win. • I will remember to treat each player as an individual, remembering the emotional and physical development is not the same for every individual in the same age group. • I will do my very best to provide a safe playing situation for my players. • I promise to review and practice the necessary first‐aid principles needed to treat player injuries. • I will do my best to organize practices that are fun and challenging for all players. • I will demonstrate fair play and sportsmanship. • I will insure that I am knowledgeable in the rules of each sport that I coach, and that I will teach these rules to my players. • I will use those coaching techniques appropriate for each of the skills that I teach. • I will remember that I am a youth coach, and that the game is for children and not adults. • I understand that the umpires, just as coaches and players are attempting to perform to the best of their ability. • I understand that, neither I nor my players, parents, or spectators will address the umpire before, during, and after the game in a demeaning fashion. __________________________________________ ___________ Signature Date
Both home and away coaches and the umpire must determine any time limits for Saturday games. Saturday games may play under a predetermined time limit (preferably at least two hours) or play a full six inning game. ii. No weekday games will start an inning after 7:50pm. A determination of the final inning MUST be decided upon, agreed upon, and acknowledged by both teams prior to its start. Coaches and the umpire must be in dialogue about determining a final inning as the evening reaches it’s later stages. Should the final inning not be completed due to time constraints or darkness, the score will revert to the previous innings score. The unlimited run rule IS NOT in play in softball. Inning run restrictions remain across ALL innings. Coaches are asked to please relay any concerns and/or in-game issues with other teams, coaches, umpires, or interpretations of rules to their respective Town Coordinator(s). Town Coordinator(s) will then work together to establish an appropriate solution and/or plan of action regarding that concern or issue moving forward.
Section II: Game Play 1. Weekday games will begin at 6:05pm. aa If a team is unable to field a team by 6:25pm that team will forfeit the game. bb Forfeiture is determined by the umpire’s observance of the 6:25pm time rule. 2. No inning will start after 7:50pm. 3. If a game cannot be played due to weather, field availability, or any other reason, it is the home team’s responsibility to contact either the visiting coach or visiting town contact (via the information on www.leaguelineup.com/nwcybl) by 4:00pm on the day of the game to inform them of the cancellation. 4. Each team must have a minimum of 7 available players for Twilight or 8 for Juniors to start game play or that team will forfeit the game. In the event of a forfeiture both teams may agree to play a “scrimmage” by combining the available players. 5. In the event of an injury or early leave by a player, teams must finish the game with at least 7 players in the field. If a team cannot finish a game with at least 7 players the game will be declared a forfeiture at that point.
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6. All players in uniform for a game must be in the batting order at a given point during game play. aa No player may sit two consecutive innings (unless for disciplinary action). bb Player rotation is required. No player may play more than 3 innings at one position with the exception of C & 1B. cc Batting out of order will result in an automatic out. If out of order, the appropriate batter may be called upon before the current batter records a hit or walks. If this takes place, the appropriate batter must inherit the current ball/strike count at the time of proper replacement. dd In the event a team is short players, any additional players arriving to the field after the game has begun must be added to the end of the batting order. ee A new player cannot be added into the batting order after the team has gone through the order unless proper substitution procedures are observed. If a coach knows a player will be arriving late to a game it is encouraged they let the other team’s coach know to avoid any lineup confusion. 7. Game play consists of 10 defensive positions: 6 infielders and 4 outfielders. All outfield players must have both feet in the grass at all times. 8. Teams will observe the following maximum runs per inning guidelines: aa Twilight League: 4 runs per inning. bb Junior/Combined League: 5 runs per inning. i. In the event the allowed maximum runs per inning are achieved, the inning will end upon the scoring of that run (4th run per inning for Twilight, 5th run for Junior/Combined) regardless of how many outs have been recorded. All other runners are no longer considered in play and the inning is no longer considered active. ii. The only exception to the maximum runs per inning rule is as follows: In the event a player hits an outside the park home run (over a standing fence), all runners remain in play and their runs will extend past the maximum runs per inning guidelines. The inning will end when the batter crosses the plate. iii. THERE IS NO UNLIMITED RUN RULE IN THE FINAL INNING. 9. All weekday games are considered official after 4 1/2 innings (should the home team be ahead). aa The umpire has final say in calling a game. bb If after 4 innings a team is up by 15 or more runs, the “mercy rule” will be
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ball will be issued to the count. Runners will not advance. 10. Coaches may make no more than 3 total trips to the mound per pitcher. On the third trip to the mound that pitcher must be removed. 11. Coaches are restricted to no more than 2 visits per pitcher per inning. 12. During each game at least one inning must be pitched by a player on the lower level of the leagues age spectrum. aa Twilight: At least one inning pitched by a player aged 9. bb Juniors/Combined: At least one inning pitched by a player aged 11. 13. Hit by pitch limits: aa Twilight: Upon the 4th batter hit the pitcher must be removed. bb Junior/Combined: Upon the 3rd batter hit the pitcher must be removed.
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On an over or under throw back to the mound if runners remain on the bases players may ask and be granted time. At the Twilight level the umpire may declare a play dead as soon as eye contact is made from the catcher in an attempt to speed up the play of the game (should a weaker battery be in the game).
Section VI: Pitching 1. Pitchers are allowed a maximum of 3 consecutive innings per game. 2. Once a pitcher leaves the mound they MAY NOT re-enter the game as a pitcher (regardless of any limits met or not met). 3. Pitchers may only pitch at one level during the NWCYSL Season. When a pitcher throws their first pitch at a level that is the level they are considered a “legal” pitcher for the remainder of the season. 4. Pitchers may, however, pitch at an age appropriate level for any independent tournaments and/or all-star play provided those event rules do not prohibit a player who played in a higher age level during the season pitching at their appropriate age division for post-season play. 5. Pitchers who pitch in a modified game WILL NOT pitch in any NWCYSL game that same day. 6. Pitchers must have one foot on the rubber while and until the ball is released. 7. Pitching Distances: aa Twilight League: 30 Feet. Flat or fast pitches will be called balls unless the batter swings. The pitch must arc at least 3 feet after leaving the pitcher’s hand and must not rise higher than 10 feet (umpires will be instructed to look for daylight between the pitched ball and the catchers helmet in order to determine if the appropriate arc has been achieved. bb A pitcher in the Twilight League may throw from 40 feet if they wish to pitch flat and fast. That pitcher is to remain at the distance they begin unless both coaches agree to allow the pitcher to move if pitchers are consistently erratic or dangerous. cc Junior/Combined League: 40 feet. Pitches may be flat and fast. 8. Pitchers are allowed up to 7 warm-up pitches between innings. If a pitcher is ready after fewer than 7 pitches every attempt will be made to speed up the game and bring a batter to the plate. 9. Balks: aa First offense: Warning and explanation from the umpire. Following offenses: A
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enforced and the game will be called final. 10. The HOME TEAM is responsible for reporting game scores to be posted on the website. Game scores (run totals only) are reported to Kevin Weiss through email at [email protected]. 11. Any time a game is held at a neutral site it is the responsibility of the HOME TEAM to provide or arrange for umpires to be on site for the contest.
Section III: Equipment & Bats 1. All players must wear some form of “softball pants”. 2. All players must wear helmets with face guards when batting, on the base paths, or coaching a base. 3. Players must be free of all jewelry, Sunglasses are permitted so long as they are plastic. 4. Players may wear any form of plastic cleats. Metal spikes are not permitted. 5. The safety base will be used at all times for the base runner when a ball is hit in play. aa Batters who hit the ball in play will use the orange portion of the base. bb Fielders will use the white portion. cc In an attempt to advance a base on a ball hit to the outfield the runner may round the bag on the white portion. dd When the player has established himself and the play has finished they will return to the white portion of the base. 6. Bunting is allowed in both Twilight & Junior/Combined Leagues. 7. All games are played with an 11” ball.
Section IV: Batting & Base Running 1. A runner must slide or attempt to avoid contact with the fielder on a play at any base. No intentional contact is permitted. 2. Runners are prohibited from sliding head-first into a base while moving forward. This rule does not apply when a runner is returning to a base from a run down or pick-off situation. 3. A player must slide into home plate when there is a “reasonable” defensive attempt to make a play in the circled catchers area. If a player does not slide when a “reasonable” defensive attempt is made that runner will be called out regardless of the result of the play.
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aa Whether or not a slide is required will be left to the umpires decision. If a batting player throws a bat during an at bat a warning is given and the play remains live. Each team receives one warning. aa If a bat is thrown after a warning has been issued to the team that batter will be declared out and the play is dead. No runners will advance. A caught foul-tip 3rd strike is an out. On a called third strike, swinging or not, the batter is out regardless if the ball is caught by the catcher or not. Batters cannot advance on a dropped 3rd strike (runners however may at their discretion). A fielder may not be in the runners base path at any point unless they are actively fielding a ball in play. If a fielder is in the way of a base runner obstruction will be called. aa In the event of obstruction following the play the umpire will determine if any additional bases should be awarded to the base runner(s). If a ball is hit in the infield, and infielder has the right to play the ball. If a base runner interferes with this interference may be called. aa For instance, the first basemen has the right to play a ball hit to him, and a runner from first has the obligation to avoid that fielder. Running in front of a fielder playing at “normal” depth is accepted, but if the runner makes contact with the fielder interference should be called. bb It is also interference if a batted ball touches a runner while an infielder still has a chance to play it. However, if the ball has already touched any infielder, including the pitcher, the runner is not out (unless he deliberately touches the ball, such as by kicking it) and the ball remains live and in play. cc Interference makes the ball dead. Generally the runner who interferes is out, although in some cases the batter is out (or both the batter and the runner are out in the case o a runner who willfully interferes in order to break up a double play). No other runner may advance once interference is called. dd The ball is not automatically dead on catchers interference. If a play follows, the offense has the option of taking the penalty (batter gets first base, runners advance if forced) or the result of the play). On an overthrow, runners may advance at their own risk. aa Twilight League: The play is declared dead when the ball makes it back inside the baselines. The defense is not required to have control. A runner in motion will be granted the base closest to their progress at the discretion of the umpire. bb Junior/Combined League: Runners may advance until the ball is returned to the infield and a player is granted time by the umpire.
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Section V: Stealing 1. Stealing is NOT ALLOWED in the Twilight League. 2. Stealing IS ALLOWED at all bases in all live ball scenarios in the Junior/Combined League. aa Coaches have the option to decide NOT to steal on a passed ball in the Junior/ Combined League. If both coaches agree not to steal on a passed ball this will be enforced during game play. Coaches may also amend the stealing rule to only prohibit stealing of home on a passed ball. Again, if this agreed upon by both coaches then it will be enforced during the game. If both coaches are not in agreement then the default rule of stealing on all pitches and passed balls around the diamond will be the rule for game play. 3. In the event ages result in a Combined League scenario THERE IS NO LEADING OFF - the runner must remain with at least one foot on the base until a pitched ball either hits the catcher/catchers glove (or passes the catcher as wild pitch/passed ball). aa If leagues are split into two separate divisions (Twilight and Juniors) the Junior League MAY lead off. i. In the Junior League players may leave on the release of the ball from the pitcher. Please remember in the Combined League THERE IS NO LEADING. 4. If a player leaves the base early the team will receive a warning and the runner must return to the base. Subsequent offenses will result in the runner being called out. 5. After a ball has been pitched the catcher must stall the forward momentum of a base runner by establishing eye contact. At this point runners cannot advance any further on the base path (they must either freeze there or return to the base). aa The intent of this rule is to prevent “dancing” on the base paths. As soon as eye contact has been established the runner CANNOT advance any further on the base path and must return to the base as soon as the ball returns to the mound. bb Runners cannot start and stop on the base paths to attempt to “fake out” the catcher at any point. 6. The ball is CONSIDERED LIVE on the throw back to the pitcher. Should a throw back to the pitcher be an over or under throw resulting in the ball to end up anywhere outside the pitching circle runners may advance at their own risk. aa As soon as the pitcher has the ball secured in their possession ANYWHERE in the circle the play is considered dead until the next pitch.
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Playing Rules & Regulations Spring 2018 Season
Online: www.leaguelineup.com/nwcybl
twilight/junior leagues www.leaguelineup.com/nwcybl
Northern Wayne County Youth Softball League Playing Rules & Regulations
Northern Wayne County Youth
twilight/junior leagues
Parent/Guardian Code of Conduct
**Official ASA Rules Apply with Adaptations Below**
Baseball/Softball League
I hereby pledge to provide positive support, care and encouragement for my child’s participation in Youth Sports by following this code of conduct: • I will encourage good sportsmanship by demonstration positive, respectful support for all players, parents, coaches and officials at each practice, game or other youth event. • I will place the emotional and physical well‐being of the children ahead of any personal desire to win. • I will insist that my child play in safe and healthy environment. • I will demand a drug, alcohol and tobacco free environment at all youth events. I will refrain from their use at all youth events. • I will require that that my child’s coach be trained and qualified in the responsibilities of being a youth coach. • I will require that the coach abide by the Coaches’ Code of Ethics. • I will expect my child to respect other players, teammates, coaches, officials and parents regardless of race, sex, creed and ability. • I will provide prompt transportation for my child to and from youth events. • I will remember that the game is for the children. I am responsible to make it as fun for them as I can.
Section I: Coaches, Umpires, & Fans 1. All players, coaches, and parents are expected to follow the “Code of Conduct” at all times. This “Code of Conduct” provides a healthy and safe environment for all. 2. Any individual found in violation of the “Code of Conduct” may be asked to exit the premises by an umpire, league official, or town coordinator. 3. Player age designations are determined by the following: aa Twilight League: 9 & 10 years old (as of May 1st, 2018). bb Junior League: 11 to 13 years old (as of May 1st, 2018). bb Combined League: 9 to 12 years old (as of May 1st, 2018). 4. All team coaches must be at least 16 years of age (as of May 1st, 2018) 5. THE UMPIRES RULING IS ALWAYS FINAL. 6. Cheering must remain positive at all times. The use of any type of noise makers during a pitch is strictly prohibited. 7. Prior to each game each teams head coach and the umpire ARE REQUIRED to meet to discuss the following: aa Coaches have the option to decide NOT to steal on a passed ball in the Junior/Combined League. If both coaches agree not to steal on a passed ball this will be enforced during game play. Coaches may also amend the stealing rule to only prohibit stealing of home on a passed ball. Again, if this is agreed upon by both coaches then it will be enforced during the game. If both coaches are not in agreement then the default rule of stealing on all pitches and passed balls around the diamond will be the rule for game play. bb Both home and away coaches and the umpire must determine prior to the start of the game any and all time limits (this includes whether a game will need to end early and any field restrictions).
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__________________________________________ Parent/Guardian Signature __________________________________________ Parent/Guardian Signature 3/28/08
11
____________ Date ____________ Date
i.
Northern Wayne County Youth Baseball/Softball League Coaches Code of Conduct I hereby pledge to provide positive support, care and encouragement for my team by following this code of conduct: • I will place the emotional and physical well being of my players ahead of any personal desire to win. • I will remember to treat each player as an individual, remembering the emotional and physical development is not the same for every individual in the same age group. • I will do my very best to provide a safe playing situation for my players. • I promise to review and practice the necessary first‐aid principles needed to treat player injuries. • I will do my best to organize practices that are fun and challenging for all players. • I will demonstrate fair play and sportsmanship. • I will insure that I am knowledgeable in the rules of each sport that I coach, and that I will teach these rules to my players. • I will use those coaching techniques appropriate for each of the skills that I teach. • I will remember that I am a youth coach, and that the game is for children and not adults. • I understand that the umpires, just as coaches and players are attempting to perform to the best of their ability. • I understand that, neither I nor my players, parents, or spectators will address the umpire before, during, and after the game in a demeaning fashion. __________________________________________ ___________ Signature Date
Both home and away coaches and the umpire must determine any time limits for Saturday games. Saturday games may play under a predetermined time limit (preferably at least two hours) or play a full six inning game. ii. No weekday games will start an inning after 7:50pm. A determination of the final inning MUST be decided upon, agreed upon, and acknowledged by both teams prior to its start. Coaches and the umpire must be in dialogue about determining a final inning as the evening reaches it’s later stages. Should the final inning not be completed due to time constraints or darkness, the score will revert to the previous innings score. The unlimited run rule IS NOT in play in softball. Inning run restrictions remain across ALL innings. Coaches are asked to please relay any concerns and/or in-game issues with other teams, coaches, umpires, or interpretations of rules to their respective Town Coordinator(s). Town Coordinator(s) will then work together to establish an appropriate solution and/or plan of action regarding that concern or issue moving forward.
Section II: Game Play 1. Weekday games will begin at 6:05pm. aa If a team is unable to field a team by 6:25pm that team will forfeit the game. bb Forfeiture is determined by the umpire’s observance of the 6:25pm time rule. 2. No inning will start after 7:50pm. 3. If a game cannot be played due to weather, field availability, or any other reason, it is the home team’s responsibility to contact either the visiting coach or visiting town contact (via the information on www.leaguelineup.com/nwcybl) by 4:00pm on the day of the game to inform them of the cancellation. 4. Each team must have a minimum of 7 available players for Twilight or 8 for Juniors to start game play or that team will forfeit the game. In the event of a forfeiture both teams may agree to play a “scrimmage” by combining the available players. 5. In the event of an injury or early leave by a player, teams must finish the game with at least 7 players in the field. If a team cannot finish a game with at least 7 players the game will be declared a forfeiture at that point.
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6. All players in uniform for a game must be in the batting order at a given point during game play. aa No player may sit two consecutive innings (unless for disciplinary action). bb Player rotation is required. No player may play more than 3 innings at one position with the exception of C & 1B. cc Batting out of order will result in an automatic out. If out of order, the appropriate batter may be called upon before the current batter records a hit or walks. If this takes place, the appropriate batter must inherit the current ball/strike count at the time of proper replacement. dd In the event a team is short players, any additional players arriving to the field after the game has begun must be added to the end of the batting order. ee A new player cannot be added into the batting order after the team has gone through the order unless proper substitution procedures are observed. If a coach knows a player will be arriving late to a game it is encouraged they let the other team’s coach know to avoid any lineup confusion. 7. Game play consists of 10 defensive positions: 6 infielders and 4 outfielders. All outfield players must have both feet in the grass at all times. 8. Teams will observe the following maximum runs per inning guidelines: aa Twilight League: 4 runs per inning. bb Junior/Combined League: 5 runs per inning. i. In the event the allowed maximum runs per inning are achieved, the inning will end upon the scoring of that run (4th run per inning for Twilight, 5th run for Junior/Combined) regardless of how many outs have been recorded. All other runners are no longer considered in play and the inning is no longer considered active. ii. The only exception to the maximum runs per inning rule is as follows: In the event a player hits an outside the park home run (over a standing fence), all runners remain in play and their runs will extend past the maximum runs per inning guidelines. The inning will end when the batter crosses the plate. iii. THERE IS NO UNLIMITED RUN RULE IN THE FINAL INNING. 9. All weekday games are considered official after 4 1/2 innings (should the home team be ahead). aa The umpire has final say in calling a game. bb If after 4 innings a team is up by 15 or more runs, the “mercy rule” will be
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ball will be issued to the count. Runners will not advance. 10. Coaches may make no more than 3 total trips to the mound per pitcher. On the third trip to the mound that pitcher must be removed. 11. Coaches are restricted to no more than 2 visits per pitcher per inning. 12. During each game at least one inning must be pitched by a player on the lower level of the leagues age spectrum. aa Twilight: At least one inning pitched by a player aged 9. bb Juniors/Combined: At least one inning pitched by a player aged 11. 13. Hit by pitch limits: aa Twilight: Upon the 4th batter hit the pitcher must be removed. bb Junior/Combined: Upon the 3rd batter hit the pitcher must be removed.
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On an over or under throw back to the mound if runners remain on the bases players may ask and be granted time. At the Twilight level the umpire may declare a play dead as soon as eye contact is made from the catcher in an attempt to speed up the play of the game (should a weaker battery be in the game).
Section VI: Pitching 1. Pitchers are allowed a maximum of 3 consecutive innings per game. 2. Once a pitcher leaves the mound they MAY NOT re-enter the game as a pitcher (regardless of any limits met or not met). 3. Pitchers may only pitch at one level during the NWCYSL Season. When a pitcher throws their first pitch at a level that is the level they are considered a “legal” pitcher for the remainder of the season. 4. Pitchers may, however, pitch at an age appropriate level for any independent tournaments and/or all-star play provided those event rules do not prohibit a player who played in a higher age level during the season pitching at their appropriate age division for post-season play. 5. Pitchers who pitch in a modified game WILL NOT pitch in any NWCYSL game that same day. 6. Pitchers must have one foot on the rubber while and until the ball is released. 7. Pitching Distances: aa Twilight League: 30 Feet. Flat or fast pitches will be called balls unless the batter swings. The pitch must arc at least 3 feet after leaving the pitcher’s hand and must not rise higher than 10 feet (umpires will be instructed to look for daylight between the pitched ball and the catchers helmet in order to determine if the appropriate arc has been achieved. bb A pitcher in the Twilight League may throw from 40 feet if they wish to pitch flat and fast. That pitcher is to remain at the distance they begin unless both coaches agree to allow the pitcher to move if pitchers are consistently erratic or dangerous. cc Junior/Combined League: 40 feet. Pitches may be flat and fast. 8. Pitchers are allowed up to 7 warm-up pitches between innings. If a pitcher is ready after fewer than 7 pitches every attempt will be made to speed up the game and bring a batter to the plate. 9. Balks: aa First offense: Warning and explanation from the umpire. Following offenses: A
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enforced and the game will be called final. 10. The HOME TEAM is responsible for reporting game scores to be posted on the website. Game scores (run totals only) are reported to Kevin Weiss through email at [email protected]. 11. Any time a game is held at a neutral site it is the responsibility of the HOME TEAM to provide or arrange for umpires to be on site for the contest.
Section III: Equipment & Bats 1. All players must wear some form of “softball pants”. 2. All players must wear helmets with face guards when batting, on the base paths, or coaching a base. 3. Players must be free of all jewelry, Sunglasses are permitted so long as they are plastic. 4. Players may wear any form of plastic cleats. Metal spikes are not permitted. 5. The safety base will be used at all times for the base runner when a ball is hit in play. aa Batters who hit the ball in play will use the orange portion of the base. bb Fielders will use the white portion. cc In an attempt to advance a base on a ball hit to the outfield the runner may round the bag on the white portion. dd When the player has established himself and the play has finished they will return to the white portion of the base. 6. Bunting is allowed in both Twilight & Junior/Combined Leagues. 7. All games are played with an 11” ball.
Section IV: Batting & Base Running 1. A runner must slide or attempt to avoid contact with the fielder on a play at any base. No intentional contact is permitted. 2. Runners are prohibited from sliding head-first into a base while moving forward. This rule does not apply when a runner is returning to a base from a run down or pick-off situation. 3. A player must slide into home plate when there is a “reasonable” defensive attempt to make a play in the circled catchers area. If a player does not slide when a “reasonable” defensive attempt is made that runner will be called out regardless of the result of the play.
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aa Whether or not a slide is required will be left to the umpires decision. If a batting player throws a bat during an at bat a warning is given and the play remains live. Each team receives one warning. aa If a bat is thrown after a warning has been issued to the team that batter will be declared out and the play is dead. No runners will advance. A caught foul-tip 3rd strike is an out. On a called third strike, swinging or not, the batter is out regardless if the ball is caught by the catcher or not. Batters cannot advance on a dropped 3rd strike (runners however may at their discretion). A fielder may not be in the runners base path at any point unless they are actively fielding a ball in play. If a fielder is in the way of a base runner obstruction will be called. aa In the event of obstruction following the play the umpire will determine if any additional bases should be awarded to the base runner(s). If a ball is hit in the infield, and infielder has the right to play the ball. If a base runner interferes with this interference may be called. aa For instance, the first basemen has the right to play a ball hit to him, and a runner from first has the obligation to avoid that fielder. Running in front of a fielder playing at “normal” depth is accepted, but if the runner makes contact with the fielder interference should be called. bb It is also interference if a batted ball touches a runner while an infielder still has a chance to play it. However, if the ball has already touched any infielder, including the pitcher, the runner is not out (unless he deliberately touches the ball, such as by kicking it) and the ball remains live and in play. cc Interference makes the ball dead. Generally the runner who interferes is out, although in some cases the batter is out (or both the batter and the runner are out in the case o a runner who willfully interferes in order to break up a double play). No other runner may advance once interference is called. dd The ball is not automatically dead on catchers interference. If a play follows, the offense has the option of taking the penalty (batter gets first base, runners advance if forced) or the result of the play). On an overthrow, runners may advance at their own risk. aa Twilight League: The play is declared dead when the ball makes it back inside the baselines. The defense is not required to have control. A runner in motion will be granted the base closest to their progress at the discretion of the umpire. bb Junior/Combined League: Runners may advance until the ball is returned to the infield and a player is granted time by the umpire.
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Section V: Stealing 1. Stealing is NOT ALLOWED in the Twilight League. 2. Stealing IS ALLOWED at all bases in all live ball scenarios in the Junior/Combined League. aa Coaches have the option to decide NOT to steal on a passed ball in the Junior/ Combined League. If both coaches agree not to steal on a passed ball this will be enforced during game play. Coaches may also amend the stealing rule to only prohibit stealing of home on a passed ball. Again, if this agreed upon by both coaches then it will be enforced during the game. If both coaches are not in agreement then the default rule of stealing on all pitches and passed balls around the diamond will be the rule for game play. 3. In the event ages result in a Combined League scenario THERE IS NO LEADING OFF - the runner must remain with at least one foot on the base until a pitched ball either hits the catcher/catchers glove (or passes the catcher as wild pitch/passed ball). aa If leagues are split into two separate divisions (Twilight and Juniors) the Junior League MAY lead off. i. In the Junior League players may leave on the release of the ball from the pitcher. Please remember in the Combined League THERE IS NO LEADING. 4. If a player leaves the base early the team will receive a warning and the runner must return to the base. Subsequent offenses will result in the runner being called out. 5. After a ball has been pitched the catcher must stall the forward momentum of a base runner by establishing eye contact. At this point runners cannot advance any further on the base path (they must either freeze there or return to the base). aa The intent of this rule is to prevent “dancing” on the base paths. As soon as eye contact has been established the runner CANNOT advance any further on the base path and must return to the base as soon as the ball returns to the mound. bb Runners cannot start and stop on the base paths to attempt to “fake out” the catcher at any point. 6. The ball is CONSIDERED LIVE on the throw back to the pitcher. Should a throw back to the pitcher be an over or under throw resulting in the ball to end up anywhere outside the pitching circle runners may advance at their own risk. aa As soon as the pitcher has the ball secured in their possession ANYWHERE in the circle the play is considered dead until the next pitch.
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