UNITED STATES SPECIALTY
SPORTS ASSOCIATION
2004 Official Slow Pitch Rule
Book and National By-laws
Official Slow Pitch Softball Rules Adopted,
Published, and Distributed by
UNITED STATES SPECIALTY SPORTS ASSOCIATION
Telephone (321) 939-7604 Fax (321) 939-7647
E-mail:
support@usssa.com
www.usssa.com
All Rights
Reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or utilized in
any form
or by any means without written permission from the publisher.
Copyright © 2004
ALL RIGHTS
RESERVED
UNITED STATES SPECIALTY
SPORTS ASSOCIATION
USSSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chairman, Executive Director
& CEO
Don DeDonatis, 215 Celebration Place, Suite 180,
Celebation, Florida 34747
Assistant Executive Directors
Jim Swint, P.O. Box 1985, Hutchinson, KS 67504
Director
of Equipment Standards
Gary Wallick, P.O. Box 660596, Arcadia, CA 91006
National President and Executive
Vice President
Danny Brown, 3861 Burrwood Court, Concord, CA 94521
Executive Vice Presidents USSSA
Slow Pitch Softball
Robert Boudreaux, 108 Innisbrook Dr., Broussard, LA 70518
Rick Fortuna, P.O. Box 1145, Liberty, MO 64068
Mark Linnemann, P.O. Box 75091, Cincinnati, OH 45275
Jim McCarron, 4827 Conduit Rd., Colonial Heights, VA 23834
Ron Neely, P.O. Box 531511, Grand Prairie, TX 75053
Jerry Stout, 215 Celebration Place, Suite 180,
Celebation, Fl 34747
USSSA National Headquarters
Telephone (321) 939-7604 Fax
(321) 939-7647
E-mail: usssahq@aol.com
www.usssa.com
USSSA Insurance Agent
Richard Chappell
Chappell Insurance Agency, Inc.
25807-A Cox Rd., Petersburg, VA 23803
Phone (800) 447-6797
Playing
Rules Committee
CHAIRMAN USSSA SLOW PITCH SOFTBALL
Rick Robertson, P.O. Box 15791, Baton Rouge, LA 70895
(225) 927-0620
ASSISTANT NATIONAL SLOW PITCH
UMPIRE-IN-CHIEF
John Hart, 29 Nardone Circle, Abington, MA 02351
(781) 871-0321
ASSISTANT NATIONAL SLOW PITCH
UMPIRE-IN-CHIEF
Danny Malone, 3617 Bond, Rowlett, TX 75088
(972) 412-0230
ASSISTANT NATIONAL SLOW PITCH
UMPIRE-IN-CHIEF
Dale McGregor, 19516-63rd. Place N.E.
Kenmore, WA 98028
(425) 481-2005
FOR ALL INQUIRIES PERTAINING
TO PLAYING RULE INTERPRETATIONS
Contact: Rick Robertson (National Slow Pitch Umpire-In-Chief)
P.O. Box 15791, Baton Rouge, LA 70895,
(225) 927-0620
E-mail: brusssa@bellsouth.net
IF
AN UNUSUAL OR DISPUTED PLAY OCCURS IN A GAME
describe
the incident in detail and send a self-addressed, stamped envelope
for
an answer or interpretation. Should you wish an
OFFICIAL
RULE BOOK, please send $5.50 to help
defray
mailing and handling costs.
PLAYING RULES TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
RULE 1. THE PLAYING FIELD.....................................................................................................5
RULE 2. EQUIPMENT.....................................................................................................................6
RULE 3. DEFINITIONS...................................................................................................................11
RULE 4. THE GAME.......................................................................................................................15
RULE 5. THE PLAYERS AND SUBSTITUTES............................................................................21
RULE 6. PITCHING RULE.............................................................................................................23
RULE 7. BATTING..........................................................................................................................26
RULE 8. BASERUNNING...............................................................................................................29
RULE 9. BALL IN PLAY AND BALL DEAD...............................................................................35
RULE 10. UMPIRES..........................................................................................................................37
RULE
11. SCORING..........................................................................................................................42
RULE
12. YOUTH PROGRAM.........................................................................................................46
RULE
13. MEN'S CLASS "B", "C", “D” AND "E" PROGRAMS....................................................49
RULE
14. MIXED TEAM RULES.....................................................................................................49
RULE
15. SIXTEEN-INCH RULES...................................................................................................51
RULE
16. MASTERS PROGRAM.....................................................................................................51
RULE
17. ONE PITCH RULES..........................................................................................................54
RULE
18. CORPORATE PROGRAM................................................................................................54
RULE
19. HISPANIC PROGRAM.....................................................................................................56
RULE
20. BLACK AMERICAN PROGRAM....................................................................................56
RULE
21. MILITARY PROGRAM....................................................................................................57
RULE
22. CHURCH PROGRAM.......................................................................................................58
RULE
23. LAW ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM................................................................................59
RULE
24. NATIVE AMERICAN PROGRAM..................................................................................60
RULE
25. INDOOR PROGRAM........................................................................................................61
RULE
26. WOMEN'S PROGRAM.....................................................................................................61
RULE
27. MEN'S MAJOR PROGRAM.............................................................................................61
RULE
28. MEN'S CLASS "A" PROGRAM.......................................................................................62
RULE
29. SLOW PITCH OVERHAND SOFTBALL..........................................................................62
.
USSSA SLOW PITCH SOFTBALL
The
Slow Pitch Softball Game
Official
Playing Rules
11 Inch, 12 Inch, and 16 Inch Games
Copyright USSSA 1968-2004
NOTE: all new rule changes are screened in gray throughout the rule book.
èThis marking means change
in wording or numbering for clarification only.
NOTE: Use of the word "he" in this publication is
intended to include both the masculine and feminine genders unless otherwise noted.
Sec. 2. SPECIAL GROUND RULES may be made by tournament Directors when
the field is less than the official minimum dimensions, which are:
A. In 12
inch the radius distance is 300 feet for men.
B. In 16 inch the radius is minimum 250 feet
for men and 235 feet for women. No maximum distance is set for the fence.
C. In Women's Class "A" and "B"
the radius distance will be a minimum of 275 feet to a maximum of 325 feet distance
for National or World Tournament play. Temporary fences cannot be used if a permanent
outfield fence is present.
D. In Women's Class "C" and "D,"
the radius distance will be a minimum of 250 feet to a maximum of 325 feet fence
distance for Regional, National, or World Tournament play.
EFFECT Sec. 2 A-D. It is optional at the State program level that
when an outfield fence or obstruction less than legal radius is of such height
to warrant consideration, a Tournament Director may determine whether or not to
award the batter fewer than 4 bases on a fair batted ball that goes over the fence.
Sec. 3. THE OFFICIAL DIAMONDS of the field shall be established for 11
inch and 12inch with:
1. Baselines of 65 feet for men, women, and mixed. In the Men's
Programs, 70 foot baselines are optional. EXCEPTION: Men's "A" World
Tournament will use 70 foot baselines; in all other Men's World Tournament play
65 foot baselines must be used. (Refer to Rule 27 for Men's Major baselines.)
2. Pitcher's distances of 50 feet for both
men and women.
Sec. 4. THE LAYOUT OF THE FIELD is shown in the accompanying diagram. First,
select the desired location of Home Plate (preferably toward Southwest) and drive
a stake in the ground. This will establish the rear corner of Home Plate. Fasten
a cord to this stake and tie knots at distances of 50, 65, 92 and 130 feet. Place
this cord along a line desired, and at the 50 foot marker place a stake. This
will be the middle of the front edge of the Pitcher's Plate. Further along this
cord drive a stake at the 91 foot 11 inch mark. This will be the outside corner
of Second Base. Place the 130 foot marker at the Second Base stake. Next, take
the cord at the 65 foot marker and walk to the right until the cord it taut, both
from Home to First and from Second to First, then drive a stake. This will mark
the outside corner of First Base. The line from Home to First becomes the First
Base Foul Line. Again, taking the cord at the 65 foot marker, walk across the
diamond until the cord is again taut between Second and Third, and Home and Third.
Then drive a stake to establish the outside corner of Third Base. The line between
Home and Third becomes the Third Base Foul Line. Both the First and Third Base
Foul Lines shall be extended to the far extremities of the Field. Home Plate,
First, Second, and Third Bases are all completely within the established Base
Lines, or Diamond.
Sec. 5. BATTER'S BOXES shall be provided on either side of Home
Plate, with the inside line of this Box 6 inches from Home Plate, and parallel
to the sideline. The Batter's Box shall be 5-1/2 feet long, extending 3 feet forward
and 2-1/2 feet toward the rear, measured from the center corner of Home Plate.
The Batter's Box shall be 3 feet wide, thus forming a rectangle of 5-1/2 feet by 3 feet. The lines marking the
Batter's Box are considered to be part
of the Batter's Box.
Sec. 6. THE CATCHER'S BOX shall be 10 feet long from the rear outside
corners of the Batter's Box on each side of Home Plate, thus forming a rectangle
10 feet long and 8 feet 5 inches wide.
Sec. 7. THE THREE FOOT LINE is drawn outside of and parallel to the First
Base Foul Line starting at the outside corner of First Base and extending halfway
toward Home Plate.
Sec. 8. THE COACHES' BOXES shall be established at both First and Third
Bases, 10 feet from and parallel to the
Base Lines. They shall be 10 feet long starting at the outside corners of the
Bases and extending toward Home Plate. The width of the Box shall be 3 feet, thus
forming a rectangle 10 feet long and 3 feet wide.
Sec. 1. DUE TO RAPIDLY EXPANDING
and advanced technologies
of softball equipment, all new equipment introduced to the game of Slow Pitch
Softball must be reviewed and approved by the USSSA Equipment Performance and
Safety Standards Committee. Each item approved shall be tested for one year. During
this time the item can be further evaluated in actual game playing situations.
The USSSA reserves the right to disapprove any equipment due to failure to meet
current safety standards as set by the USSSA Equipment Performance and Safety
Standards Committee.
Sec. 2. THE OFFICIAL BAT shall be round in cross section,
straight in length, and measure not more than 34 inches long including tape or
other grip additions to the bat, and not more than 2-1/4 inches in diameter at
its largest part and its weight shall not exceed 31-1/2 ounces, including tape
or grip addition to the bat. The bat shall have a safety grip of tape or some
other material to facilitate holding the bat during the batter's swing. The safety
grip shall be not less than 10 inches long, nor extend more than 15 inches from
the small end or handle end of the bat. Graphics, including BPF markings, must
be permanent and cannot be decals or any other method that can be easily removed
or added to the bat.
A. THE BAT may be made of hard wood of one
piece, or laminated from sections of hard wood bonded together with adhesive in
such a way that the grain directions of all the pieces are essentially parallel
to the length of the bat.
B. THE
BAT may also be made of aluminum or other metals, fiberglass, graphite, or a composite
material. The bat may be made in pieces from different materials but must have
a closed barrel end and may be modular with interchangeable parts, subject to
additional safety and tampering requirements as set forth in the standard USSSA
Bat Licensing Agreement. The knob portion must be welded, or mechanically attached
to the bat. Only USSSA approved bats, USSSA approved weighted bats, or USSSA approved
bat weight attachments may be used in loosening up. Nothing such as a donut or
fan may be used when loosening up.
C. Authorized bat manufacturers
shall mark their products with the words "Official Softball" or words
to that effect. If the words "Official Softball" are illegible or it
is a Little League bat, the bat should be declared legal if it is legal in all
other respects. When a bat does not meet the specifications as defined, has flat
spots or pronounced dents, or if in the Umpire's judgment, the bat has been altered,
the Umpire shall prohibit the use of the doubtful bat.
D. The
performance standard for all non-wooden bats will be a Bat Performance Factor
(BPF) of 1.20, or less under the ASTM BPF test as applied under the standard USSSA
Bat License Agreement. A list of those bats licensed and complying with this standard
and therefore legal in USSSA play shall be kept by USSSA and published and made
available by means including, but not limited to, the USSSA Website. Only bats
on the published list will be legal for USSSA play. In addition, no bat shall
be legal in USSSA play unless it is marked "USSSA BPF 1.20"; bats manufactured
before January 1, 2004, are to be marked "1.20 BPF" or BPF 1.20."
E. A USSSA
Director may at any time ask to inspect a bat that has been brought into the location
of a USSSA sanctioned event. The owner and/or user may either:
a) Allow
the Director to inspect the bat and reach a conclusion as to whether or not the
bat might be altered. If, after making the inspection, the Director in his discretion
decides that the bat might be an altered bat, the suspected offending owner and/or
user will be subject to Rule 7, Sec. 2B and either:
i.) Allow
the Director to send the bat to the USSSA Altered Bat Committee and/or Manufacturer
of the bat for a determination as to whether or not the bat is altered. NOTE:
During the time of the examination of the bat by the Manufacturer/Altered Bat
Committee, the USSSA, by the discretion of the USSSA Altered Bat Committee, may
suspend the suspected offending player pending the decision. If the Manufacturer
or the USSSA Altered Bat Committee determines that the bat has been altered, the
Altered Bat Committee may suspend a first time offender for up to two years from
USSSA play. For a second time offender, any suspension may be up to lifetime.
ii.) Accept
a one year (up to life for second time offenders) suspension from USSSA play with
no right to appeal.
F. After
examination of a bat to determine if it is altered, the bat shall be returned
to the owner. No owner and/or player altered bat suspensions will occur unless
the bat is determined to be altered.
Sec.
3. A. (USE THROUGH 2004)
THE OFFICIAL BALL to be
used shall be of Softball design with a flat surface. The center or core of the
ball shall be either solid or of Number 1 long-fiber KAPOK, free from seeds and
discoloration, or a mixture of granulated cork impregnated with either natural
or artificial rubber, molded into a sphere and then finish wound with a fine quality
twisted yarn. Or, it may be made of other materials approved by the USSSA. The
cover of selected horsehide or cowhide shall be cemented to the core and stitched
with cotton, linen, or nylon thread in either flat seam or any concealed stitch
type, which gives a flat surface. In the 11 Inch and 12 Inch program, ball stitching
must be either white or blue thread. However, if white thread is used the trademark,
logos, and other imprints shall be of royal blue indelible ink. Internal composition
of core must be clearly imprinted on the ball, also that the ball is an Official
Slow Pitch Softball. The ball must have the USSSA stamp on it.
1. (USE THROUGH 2004) The 12 Inch ball shall have a core wound with a fine quality twisted
yarn to 11-5/8 to 11-3/4 Inches in circumference. The completed ball shall be
11-7/8 to 12-1/8 inches in circumference and shall weigh between 6 and 7-1/4 ounces.
The flat seam style shall have not less than 88 stitches in each cover and sewed
by two-needle method. The molded two-piece softball will be an authentic facsimile
of said two-needle method.
2. (USE THROUGH 2004) The completed 11 inch ball shall be between 10-7/8 to 11-1/8 inches
in circumference and shall weigh between 5-7/8 and 61/8 ounces. The Women's program
will use an 11 Inch softball.
3. (USE THROUGH 2004)
A two-piece molded cover
ball in which the cover is bonded to the core and a one-piece molded ball are
approved. The balls must contain facsimile stitching, as specifically approved
by the USSSA and contain the USSSA stamp in indelible blue ink.
4. (USE THROUGH 2004) USSSA licensed softballs will not exceed a COR of 0.47.
5. (USE THROUGH 2004) USSSA licensed softballs shall not exceed a COR of 0.47 and there
will be two compressions allowed as follows: Max Range – 525 pounds and Mid Range
– 375 pounds. The compression will be Based on the ASTM Test Method for Compression
– Displacement of Baseballs and Softball (F-1888). In addition to the USSSA stamp
and COR, the balls shall be imprinted by the manufacturer as either Max Range
or Mid Range. NOTE: The ASTM Standard
Test for measuring bat performance requires that a 375 pound compression ball
shall be used in the test.
B. (EFFECTIVE JANUARY
1, 2005) THE OFFICIAL BALL to
be used shall be of a spherical design with a smooth surface. The center or core
of the ball shall be of a material and design traditionally used to make softballs
or other materials or design as approved by the USSSA. The cover shall be of horsehide,
cowhide, or other material approved by the USSSA and shall be cemented to the
core and stitched with cotton, linen, or nylon or any other material approved
by the USSSA. A molded cover ball or a molded ball without separate cover, or
a multiple layer core design or multiple material core design, may be approved
by the discretion of the USSSA on a case by case basis. The thread shall be in
either flat seam or concealed stitch type which gives a flat surface. The stitch
color must be blue. The internal composition of the core and the material of the
cover must be clearly printed on the ball and the words "Official Slow Pitch
Softball" must be clearly printed on the ball.
1. (EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2005) Size and weight: The
completed 12" ball shall have a circumference of 12" +/- 1/8" and
shall be 6.6 ounces +/- 0.3 ounces. The seam shall have not less than 88 stitches
in each cover, or 88 simulated stitches in molded cover balls. The completed 11"
ball shall be 11" +/- 1/8" in circumference and weigh 6 ounces
+/- 0.2 ounces and shall otherwise be proportional to the 12" ball.
The Women's Program and the Mixed Program shall use the 11" DISTANCE ball
for Women. The Men's Program shall use the DISTANCE, ELITE, OR MAJORS 12"
ball.
2. (EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2005) Name, Logo, COR, and Compression
12" Balls. There shall be no COR or compression information on the ball.
a. THE DISTANCE BALL :
i.) Shall
have a white or optic yellow cover,
ii.) Shall
have "USSSA DISTANCE" in 1/8" minimum letters and a USSSA logo
of at least 1-1/8" diameter,
iii.)
Letters and Logo in gray color, applied to be indelible,
iv.) COR
under ASTM test as applied in the USSSA Standard Ball License Agreement shall
be 46.25 +/- 0.75, and
v.) Compression under the ASTM
test as applied under the USSSA Standard Ball Licensing Agreement shall be 455
+/- 45 pounds.
b. THE ELITE BALL:
i.) Shall have white or optic
yellow cover,
ii.) Shall have "USSSA ELITE"
in 1/8" minimum letters and the USSSA logo of at least 1-1/8" diameter,
iii.) Letters and Logo in blue
color, applied to be indelible,
iv.) COR under ASTM test as applied
in the USSSA Standard Ball License Agreement shall be 43.25 +/- 0.75, and
v.) Compression under the ASTM
test as applied under the USSSA Standard Ball Licensing Agreement shall be 355
+/- 45 pounds.
c. THE MAJORS BALL:
i.) Shall have A white cover only,
ii.) Shall have "USSSA MAJORS"
in 1/8" minimum letters and the USSSA logo of at least 1-1/8" diameter,
iii.) Letters and Logo in blue
color, applied to be indelible,
iv.) COR under ASTM test as applied
in the USSSA Standard Ball License Agreement shall be 39.25 +/- 0.75, and
v.) Compression under the ASTM
test as applied under the USSSA Standard Ball Licensing Agreement shall be 260
+/- 45 pounds.
3. (EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2005) Name, Logo, COR, and Compression
for 11" balls: There shall be no COR or Compression information on the
ball.
THE DISTANCE BALL:
i.) Shall have a white or optic
yellow cover ONLY,
ii.) Shall have "USSSA DISTANCE"
in 1/8" minimum letters and a USSSA logo of at least 1-1/8" diameter,
iii.) Letters and Logo in blue color, applied to be indelible,
iv.) COR under ASTM test as applied
in the USSSA Standard Ball License Agreement shall be 46.25 +/- 0.75, and
v.) Compression under the ASTM
test as applied under the USSSA Standard Ball Licensing Agreement shall be 455
+/- 45 pounds.
4. NOTE: TRANSITION RULE: Balls meeting Sec. 3.B. shall not be
legal in USSSA play until October 15, 2004. Balls meeting Sec. 3.A shall not be
legal in USSSA play after March 1, 2005.
5. (EFFECTIVE JANUARY
1, 2005) Mixed Program: Effective
January 1, 2005, the DISTANCE ball shall not be used as the 12" ball in the
Mixed Program.
Sec. 4. THE HOME PLATE shall be made of rubber or other suitable
materials. It shall be a five-sided figure, 17 inches across the front edge of
the Plate facing the Pitcher. The two sides shall be perpendicular to the front
edge and shall be 8-1/2 inches long, extending forward toward the Pitcher's Plate.
The sides of the Plate, from the rear corner, along with the Base line, shall
be 12 inches long and set completely within the Base Lines, where they form a
90 degree angle with the point pointing toward the Catcher. The Home Plate is
always a part of Fair Territory. The black border that outlines the plate is NOT
to be considered Home Plate.
Sec. 5. THE PITCHER'S PLATE
shall be made of rubber or wood. It shall
be 24 inches long and 6 inches wide. The front edge of this plate shall be centered
on the direct line from Home Plate to Second Base. The top of the Plate shall
be level with the flat surface of the ground. The front edge of the Plate shall
be of Legal distance as measured from the extreme rear corner of Home Plate.
Sec. 6. THE BASES other than the Home Plate, shall be 15 inches
square and not more than 3 inches high. They shall be made of canvas bags, plastic
or other suitable materials filled with soft padding. They shall be WHITE or ORANGE
in color. All BASES must be securely fastened at their designated places.
NOTE:
A Safety Base is optional.
The Safe Base shall be 15 inches by 30 inches and not more than 3 inches high.
The Safe Base should be positioned such that the white portion is located where
First Base would be normally be (in Fair Territory) and the colored portion (red
or orange) should be in Foul Territory. Any Batted Ball hitting the white portion
should be fair and any ball hitting the red or orange portion should be foul.
On the initial throw to First Base from the infield or outfield, the Batter-runner
MUST TOUCH the red or
orange portion of the base but not the white. If legally appealed by the Defense
during a live ball situation, the Runner will be called out. The defensive Player
MUST always touch the white portion. This rule is in effect only on the initial
play at First Base. This does not include:
1. Returning to the base after over running,
2. Running on a base hit to the outfield (Runner may touch the red
or white part), or
3. Re-tag to advance on a fly ball.
EFFECT:
If the Base Runner uses the orange portion at any time after the first attempt
at First Base and is not in contact with the white portion, then he is considered
off the base.
Sec. 7. LEGALLY ADOPTED GLOVES may be worn by any Fielder.
A. Catchers and First Basemen may wear a glove or mitt of any size,
all other Players are restricted to a finger type glove with the space between
the thumb and forefinger not exceeding more than 4-1/2 inches at the top. The
webbing shall not be constructed to form any type net or tray.
B. Multicolored gloves are legal.
Sec. 8. A SHOE shall be considered legal if it is made with
either leather or canvas uppers or similar materials. The soles may have soft
or hard rubber cleats. Metal cleats are prohibited. Shoe sole or heel projections
other than the standard shoe plate are prohibited. The all-purpose molded cleat
softball shoe is legal. All Players must wear shoes.
Sec. 9. Catchers may wear MASKS.
EFFECT Sec. 9 TO PREVENT INJURY
it is strongly recommended that all protective equipment be worn.
Sec. 10. UNIFORMS, including similar headpieces or CAPS, when
required, should be adopted using similar colors and materials. If caps are worn
they must be worn with the visor facing forward. Exception: The catcher while
playing defense.
A. All participants in a game should wear
the adopted the TEAM UNIFORM. Managers and Coaches, when on the field should wear
the adopted full Uniform, or a Cap and Jacket, which include the Team's emblems
and colors, to readily identify them as a member of the Team. Individual numerals
on each uniform are optional. NOTE: Refer to By-laws for
uniform requirements in National and higher tournaments.
EFFECT Sec. 10 A. While participating in Tournaments, Players should
be uniformly dressed.
B. All exposed jewelry or items that are
judged to be hazardous or potentially
dangerous by the umpire may not be worn during the game.
C. In all programs, Batting Helmets may be worn by Players/Coaches
at any time.
Sec. 11. EQUIPMENT shall not be allowed to remain on the playing
field during the playing of the game, either on Fair or Foul Territory, with the
exception of an official warm-up bat or official warm-up device which may be kept
in proximity to the on-deck circle during a team's turn at bat.
EFFECT
Sec. 11. A bat dropped by the Batter-runner in Foul Territory, or any mask, cap,
etc. dropped incidental to making a play will be considered as foreign to the
normal playing area and Foul Ball rulings will be made accordingly.
ALTERED BAT is one
that has had its physical structure changed, including, but not limited to:
1. The bat has had the surface of the barrel or the taper
changed in any way such as by sandpapering or applying a solvent to the surface
such as fingernail polish remover or by any other means,
2. The bat has had the plug or the knob removed/replaced or
changed in any way, and
3. The bat has had
anything removed or added or inserted to the inside or outside of the bat other
than tape at the handle or knob. Other examples of an altered bat would be changing
or replacing manufacturers' markings or replacing the handle of the metal bat
with a wooden handle. Replacing the safety grip with another safety grip is not
considered altering a bat.
NOTE: Cracked, worn, or
damaged bats are not altered bats, but will also be removed from play by Directors
and Umpires. Such cracked, worn, or damaged bats will not result in a player suspension
unless the player returned the offending bat into USSSA play after it has been
removed or the bat is also altered. Paint or lettering wear shall not result in
a bat being considered an altered bat as long as the bat can be identified and
has the appropriate BPF marking. However, the Director or Umpire may remove from
play a cracked, worn, or damaged bat.
APPEAL PLAY refers to a play in which the Umpire cannot
make a ruling until a decision is requested by the Defensive or Offensive Team.
This appeal must be made before the next legal pitch, intentional walk, illegal
Pitcher action, or before all Fielders have left Fair Territory.
BALL refers to a Pitch that does not enter the
Strike Zone in flight, nor conforms to the fairly delivered Pitch stipulations,
and is not struck at by the Batter.
BASE refers to one of the four stations, which
must be touched by a Runner in accordance with the rules that follow, to legally
score a run. The term is most often applied to the bags marking the designated
spots.
BASE PATH refers to an imaginary line 3 feet to either
side of a direct line between two Bases. The Runner is restricted to the 3 foot
line in some cases.
BASE ON BALLS permits a Batter to gain First Base, without
liability to be put out and is awarded by the Umpire when three pitches are adjudged
to be balls.
BASE–RUNNER
OR RUNNER is a Player of the Team
at bat, who has hit a Fair Ball or who has been awarded First Base for any reason
before he is put out.
BATTED BALL refers to any pitched ball that is hit by
the bat or that hits the bat, thus becoming either a Fair or Foul Ball. No intent
to hit the ball is necessary.
BATTER
refers to the Offensive
Player who takes a position in the Batter's Box.
BATTER–RUNNER
is the term identifying the Offensive Player who has just hit a Fair Ball
and applies until he is either put out or until the play on which he became a
Runner is ended.
BATTER'S BOX is the area within which the Batter takes
his position when it is his turn to bat.
BATTING ORDER is the official listing of Offensive Players
in the order in which they must bat.
BENCH OR DUGOUT
is the seating facility reserved for Team members in Uniform when they are
not actively engaged in participating in the game.
BLOCKED
BALL is a Batted or Thrown
Ball that is touched, stopped, or handled by a spectator or person not engaged
in the game, or that touches any object which is not part of the Legal official
equipment, or which hits or goes beyond a designated out-of-play area.
BUNT refers to a Batted Ball not swung at, but
is intentionally met with the bat and tapped slowly.
CALLED GAME is one that the Umpire-In-Chief terminates
play for any reason.
CATCH (LEGAL) is the act of a Fielder getting the ball
in flight (Refer to: IN FLIGHT) securely
in possession in his hand or glove and firmly holding it, provided he does not
use his cap, protector, a pocket, or other part of his Uniform, or the glove not
in its normal position on the hand to stop or catch the ball. It is not a catch,
however, if simultaneously or immediately following his contact with the ball,
he collides with a wall, a fence, another person, or if he falls down and, as
a result of any such collision, drops the ball. To establish the validity of the
catch, the Fielder shall hold the ball long enough so the Umpire is convinced
he had complete control of the ball, and any release of the ball by him was voluntary
and intentional. Dropping the ball while attempting to throw it shall not invalidate
the catch.
CATCHER refers to the Defensive Player who takes
his position behind Home Plate.
CATCHER'S BOX is that area where the Catcher must remain
while and until a pitched ball has reached or passed Home Plate, or is Batted.
CHOPPED BALL is a Batted Ball that the Batter strikes
downward so that it hits the ground within the infield, with a deliberate attempt
and downward chopping motion with the bat.
COACH refers to a member of the Team at bat. Only
one Coach is permitted in each Coaches' Box, to direct the Players of his own
Team while batting and running Bases.
CONFERENCE refers to a meeting that takes place anytime
a Team Representative delays the game or requests a suspension of play for any
reason and delivers a message (by any means) to any Player.
DEAD BALL is any ball not in play, or a live ball that
becomes dead during play.
DEFENSIVE TEAM is the Team that is playing Defensively in
the Field.
DOUBLE PLAY is a continuous play by the Defense where
two Offensive Players are legally put out without an intervening play or an error.
FAIR BALL is a Batted Ball that settles on Fair Territory
between Home Plate and First Base, or Home Plate and Third Base, or that is over
Fair Territory, including any part of First or Third Bases when bounding to the
Outfield, or that first touches any base, other than Home Plate, or that first
touches a Player or Umpire over Fair Territory, or which first touches the ground
or an object in Fair Territory, or over Fair Territory, beyond First and Third
Bases, or that while over and above Fair Territory passes out of the Playing Field,
that is, over and beyond the outside fence.
FAIR TERRITORY is that part of the Playing Area within and
including the First and Third Base Foul Lines, from the Home Plate to the bottom
of the extreme playing area fence and then extending perpendicularly upward.
FAKE TAG is making the motions of a tag without the
ball. This may be considered obstruction, and the offender may be ejected.
FIELDER refers to any Player of the Defensive Team
playing in the field.
FLY BALL refers to any ball Batted into the air and
before it strikes some object other than a Fielder.
FORCE OUT refers to when a Runner is tagged by a Fielder
with the ball (while on or off a Base) or a Fielder holds the ball on the Base
to which a Runner is forced to advance before the Runner can reach that Base and
before any succeeding Runner is put out.
FOUL BALL is any Batted Ball that stops or settles
in Foul Territory without first being touched in Fair Territory, or which
is first touched in Foul Territory, or that first touches some
out-of-play object or area in Foul Territory, or that first touches
Foul Ground beyond First and Third Base, or which does not conform to the requirements
that would make it a Fair Ball.
NOTE:
An untouched Batted Ball
that strikes the Pitcher's Plate and rebounds into Foul Territory where it is
touched or stops is a foul ball.
FOUL TIP is a Batted Ball that goes directly from
the bat not higher than the Batter's head, to the Catcher's hands and is legally
caught. First contact from bat must be Catcher's hands.
HOME TEAM is the Team on whose grounds the game is
being played; or, if the game is scheduled on neutral grounds, it is decided by
mutual agreement or a toss of a coin. Home Team bats in the last half of the innings.
ILLEGAL BAT refers to one that does not meet the requirement/specifications
of Rule 2, Sec. 2.
ILLEGALLY BATTED BALL is one Batted Fair or Foul by the Batter
when either one or both of his feet are in contact with the ground COMPLETELY
outside the lines of the Batter's Box, or when his foot is in contact with Home
Plate, or when the ball is batted with an Illegal Bat.
ILLEGALLY CAUGHT BALL occurs when a Fielder catches a Batted or
Thrown Ball with a glove, a mask, a cap, or with any part of his clothing detached
from the proper position on the Fielder's body.
IN FLIGHT describes any Batted Ball, a Thrown or Pitched
Ball, which has not yet touched the ground or some object other than a Fielder.
IN JEOPARDY is a term indicating that the ball is live
and in play and that an Offensive Player may be out under these rules.
INFIELD is that portion of the Field within the Baselines
and also includes the areas of the Field normally covered by Infielders in defensive
positions.
INFIELD FLY is a Fair Batted Ball (not a line drive)
that can be caught in flight by an Infielder with ordinary effort. Any Defensive
Player may catch the ball in the Infield Area.
INNING is that portion of a Game within which teams
alternate on Defense and Offense, and each team is allowed three outs during its
time at bat.
INTERFERENCE is an act where Players or others interfere
with a Player's opportunities. There are three types of interference:
A. Offensive Interference – When a Player
interferes with or impedes or confuses a Defensive Player while he is attempting
to make a play. This can occur by either physical or vocal actions.
B. Spectator Interference – Occurs when a
person not engaged in the game touches a live Batted or Thrown Ball which could
prevent a Blocked Ball to occur, or when a person not engaged in the Game physically
interferes with a Player's opportunities.
C. Umpire Interference – Occurs when a Fair-Batted
Ball strikes the Umpire on Fair Ground before passing a Fielder other than the
Pitcher.
LEGAL TOUCH – Refer to TAG for details.
LINE DRIVE is a Fly Ball that is batted sharply and
directly into the Playing Field. NOTE:
A Line Drive should never be considered an Infield Fly.
LIVE
BALL occurs when the Umpire
signals Play Ball. The ball remains live until the ball becomes dead for any reason
as stated in these rules.
MANAGER
refers to a person appointed
by the Team to be responsible for the Team's actions on the Field. Also, the Manager
represents the Team when communicating with the Umpire and the opposing Team.
A Player may be designated as a Manager.
OBSTRUCTION
A. Obstruction is the act of a Fielder while not in possession of
the ball, or not in the act of fielding a Batted Ball, or taking a proper position
to receive a Thrown Ball (Thrown Ball must already be in flight) which impedes
the progress of a Runner who is legally running the Bases.
B. Obstruction is the act of a Fielder which impedes the Batter from
striking at a Pitched Ball.
C. The obstruction does not have to be intentional
and may be vocal.
OFFENSIVE TEAM refers to a Team during its half inning while
it is at bat.
OUT refers to one of the three requirements of
an Offensive Team each inning.
OUTFIELD is that portion of the Field beyond the lines
of the Infield and extending to the extremities of the Playing Field. This usually
refers to the area between the Foul Lines.
OUTFIELDER refers to the Defensive Player occupying a position in the Outfield, which
is the most distant from the Home Plate.
OVER SLIDE or OVER
SLIDING is the act of a Runner when his slide to a Base is with such momentum
that he loses contact with the Base, and he is thus placed in jeopardy. This does
not apply to the Batter-runner, as he is first approaching First Base.
OVERTHROW is a ball thrown from one Fielder toward
another and which, for any reason, goes into Foul Territory and stays within the
boundaries of the Playing Field. This ball always remains live unless it becomes
a Ground Rule Blocked Ball.
PENALTY is the application of the rules following
an illegal act or violation.
PERSON refers to an Umpire or Player includes all of his body, his clothing, or his
equipment.
PITCH refers to any delivery of the ball to the
Batter by the Pitcher.
PITCHER is the Fielder designated to deliver the
Pitch to the Batter.
PITCHER / INFIELDER – The Pitcher becomes an Infielder when,
after releasing the Pitch to the Batter, he has a reasonable opportunity to field
a Batted Ball.
PIVOT FOOT is the foot, when placed on the Pitcher's
Plate by the Pitcher, that must maintain constant contact with the Pitcher's Plate
until the Pitched Ball is released.
PLAY OR PLAY BALL is the term used by the Umpire to indicate
that play shall begin or continue after a dead ball interval.
QUICK RETURN PITCH is a Pitch made by a Pitcher with the obvious
attempt to catch the Batter off guard and balance. This could be when the Batter
first takes his position in the Batter's Box and before he is ready, or when the
Batter is still off balance from the previous pitch.
RETOUCH
is the act of a Runner in
returning a touch to a Base as legally required.
ROSTER –
in all National and World tournament play, a team shall not exceed 20 Players.
SACRIFICE
FLY is any caught Fair Fly
Ball that permits a Runner to SCORE a run after a caught fly ball is first touched.
STRIKE ZONE is that space directly above Home Plate that
is not higher than the Batter's highest shoulder, nor lower than the bottom of
the Batter's front knee, when the Batter assumes his natural batting stance. Any
part of the Pitched Ball that passes through this zone is a strike.
SUSPENDED GAME is a game called before being completed which
is to be completed at a later date.
TAG is the action of a Fielder touching a Base
with any part of his body while holding the ball firmly and securely in his hand
or glove. Also, Tag refers to touching the Runner with the ball, or with the glove
holding the ball, while continuously holding the ball firmly and securely during
and immediately following the tag.
THROW refers to the act of propelling the ball
with the hand or arm toward a given objective and is always distinguished from
the Pitch.
TIME is the announcement by the Umpire of a legal
interruption of play, during which interval the ball becomes and remains dead
until legally put back into play.
TOUCH refers to touching an Umpire or Player or
Person. This includes any part of his body, his clothing, or his equipment.
TEAM REPRESENTATIVE is any person affiliated with the Offensive
or Defensive Team, including Sponsors, Managers, Coaches, and Players in a Game.
TRIPLE PLAY refers to any continuous play made by the
Defense in which three Runners are put out, provided that there is no error made
between the outs.
TURN AT BAT begins when it is any individual Player's
turn to bat, such as his name listed at the top of the Offensive Team's Batting
Order at the beginning of an inning; or when the Batter listed immediately preceding
him in the Batting Order completes his turn at bat by being put out or becoming
a Runner.
Sec.
1. THE CHOICE OF FIRST OR LAST BAT in the inning shall be decided by a toss of a coin, unless otherwise
stated in the rules of the Organization under which the schedule of Games is to
be played.
Sec.
2. THE FITNESS OF THE GROUND for the beginning of the Game shall be decided by the Home Team.
If no Home Team has been previously designated, such as in Tournament Play, the
Umpire, with the advice of the Tournament Director, makes the decision. After
the Umpire has started a Game, he shall be the sole judge as to the fitness of
the ground, or the intensity of the weather, for continuing play.
Sec.
3. A REGULATION GAME shall
consist of seven innings, unless otherwise listed below.
A. Seven full innings are not played if the
Team second at bat scores more runs in six innings or before the third out is
made in their half of the seventh inning.
B. A Game that is TIED at the end of seven innings shall be continued, by playing additional
innings until one Team has scored more runs than the other at the end of a completed
inning, or the Team second at bat scores more runs in their half of the uncompleted
extra inning.
C. A Game called by the Umpire, during regular
season play which can not be resumed within 30 minutes, may be regulation if four
or more innings have been played, or if the Team second at bat has scored as many
or more runs during the uncompleted fourth inning, or after three full innings,
than the Team first at bat has scored in their four complete innings.
D. A regulation Game shall be declared if
the score is TIED when the Game is
called, after four or more completed innings, or if the Team second at bat has
equaled the score of the first Team at bat, while batting during any uncompleted
inning.
EFFECT Sec. 3 C-D. The Umpire is empowered
to call a Game at any time because of rain, darkness, panic, or for any other
cause which puts the Umpire, Players, or the Patrons in peril.
E. The Run Rules which awards a win to a
Team that is ahead in a Game after five or more completed innings are played as
follows: NOTE: EXCEPTION – Men's Class
"A" 25 runs after 3 innings, 20 runs after 4 innings, and 15 or more
runs after five completed innings in all tournaments; all other programs 15 or
more runs in National, National Invitational, and World tournaments. (See Rule
12, Youth, Rule 14, Mixed, Rule 15, 16 Inch, and Rule 27, Men's Major for Run
Rule.) At the state program level (other than Men's "A") a predetermined
Run Rule may be adopted. In the Women's A, B, C, & D programs there will be
a 10 Run Rule in a Game after 4-1/2 innings if the home Team is ahead or after
5 or more completed innings.
F. Flip/Flop Rule--All Programs: In the inning when the
Run Rule for that particular program is exceeded (after the second inning) and
the home Team is losing, the home Team will remain at bat and become the visiting
Team. If the Team (new visiting Team) does not score enough runs to reduce the
run difference below the Run Rule the Game is over. If they reduce the run difference
to below the Run Rule then the new home Team will bat. If they subsequently score
enough runs to exceed the Run Rule the Game will be over, if they do not the Game
will continue under that format. If the situation reverses, the Teams would flip/flop
again.
Sec.
4. THE WINNER OF THE GAME shall
be the Team that scores the most runs in a regulation Game.
A. The total number of runs scored legally
when the Game is called at the end of any completed inning after four shall be
the score.
B. When the Team second at bat has equaled
or scored more runs during any uncompleted innings after four, the runs are all
counted and the score is either tied or one Team wins.
C. If the Team second at bat has not scored
more runs, or does not score as many or more runs in the half of the uncompleted
inning to tie or win the Game, the Game reverts to the last inning that was fully
completed.
Sec.
5. ONE RUN SHALL BE SCORED each
time a Base Runner legally touches First, Second, Third, and Home Bases before
the third out of an inning, unless the third out is the result of a force out,
or the Batter-runner is out before reaching first base.
Base Runners may advance and a run may score
only on a legally batted ball, on a play, on an overthrow, or on an error resulting
from plays that started with, and immediately follow the batted ball, or when
the bases are full, so that runners are forced to move up, or advance, by reason
of the batter being awarded First Base by the Umpire in accordance with these
Rules.
Sec.
6. A RUN SHALL NOT BE SCORED if the third out of an inning is the result of:
A. The Batter-runner being put out legally
before touching First Base.
B. A Base Runner forced out at any base.
C. A Base Runner being called out for leaving
a base too soon on a Pitched Ball.
D. A preceding Base Runner being called out
for failure to touch a base.
Sec.
7. A BASE RUNNER SHALL NOT SCORE A RUN ahead of a Base Runner preceding him in the Team's batting order
if the preceding runner has not been put out.
EFFECT Sec. 7. A preceding runner appealed
out for missing a base does not affect the following runners on a first or second
out. However, no preceding runner crossing Home Plate may return to touch any
missed base after a following runner has scored. If the Fielding Team appeals
a preceding runner missing a base, which is allowed, the following runner's score
is counted unless the appealed out is the third out of the inning. If no appeal
is made, then all the runs scored are counted.
Sec.
8. THE FOLLOWING HOME RUN RULES WILL BE USED FOR DESIGNATED PROGRAMS.
A. Over-the-fence Home Runs are limited in
selected USSSA programs. All fair untouched fly balls over-the-fence in excess
of the limit will be ruled an out.
EFFECT Sec. 8. A.
1. Any time the batter is ruled out because of an over-the-fence Home Run
in excess of the limit, the ball is
dead and no runners can advance.
2. Any fair fly ball touched by a defensive
player which then goes over the fence in Fair Territory will be declared a four
base award and is not to be included in the total of over the fence Home Runs.
3. A Home Run will be charged for any untouched
fair fly ball hit over the fence in Fair Territory, whether or not runs score.
The following are Home Run limitations per
Game and per Team, by Program.
| PROGRAM | HOME
RUNS PERMITTED |
| Men's Major | 16 |
| Men's Class A | 8 |
| Men's Class B | 4 |
| Men's Class C | 2 |
| Men's Class D | 0 |
| Men's Class E | 0 |
| Men's Corporate Class A | 7 |
| Men's Corporate Class B | 3 |
| Men's Corporate Recreational | 0 |
| Men's Law Enforcement A | 9 |
| Men's Law Enforcement B | 3 |
| Men's Church Class A | 5 |
| Men's Church Class B | 3 |
| Men's Church Class C | 1 |
| Masters | See Rule 16, Sec 4 |
| Men's
Hispanic Competitive | 5 |
| Men's
Hispanic Recreation | 0 |
| Women's
Hispanic Competitive | Unlimited |
| Women's
Hispanic Recreation | 0 |
| Mixed A Male | 5 |
| Mixed A Female | 5 |
| Mixed B Male | 3 |
| Mixed B Female | 3 |
| Mixed C Male | 2 |
| Mixed C Female | 2 |
| Mixed D | 0 |
| Women's Class C | 0 |
| Women's Class D | 0 |
| Women's Corporate Recreational | 0 |
| Military Varsity A | 7 |
| Military Varsity B | 3 |
| Military Intramural | 1 |
| Men's
Black American Major | 8 |
| Men's
Black American Competitive | 5 |
| Men's
Black American Recreational | 2 |
| Women's
Black American Competitive | 5 |
| Women's
Black American Recreation | 2 |
| Men's Native American Competitive | 5 |
| Men's Native American Recreational | 0 |
| Mixed Native American Male | 5 |
| Women's Native American | 0 |
B. The following Home Run limit will be used
in Men's Major National Invitational Tournaments: when a Men's Major Team plays
another Men's Major Team, the Major Home Run Rule will be used. When a Men's Major
Team plays a Men's A Team or below, the Home Run limit will be 12 Home Runs per
Game, per Team. In all other Games during the tournament, the Home Run limit will
be 8 Home Runs per Game, per Team.
C. When Combining Mixed "B" and
"C" Teams in a Tournament, the Mixed "C" Home Run Rule will
be used.
D. The
following Home Run Rule (H.R.) limit will be used in the Black American National
Invitational and World Qualifying Tournaments:
1. Major
plays a Major -- 8 H.R. limit
2. Major
plays Competitive -- 6 H.R. limit
3. Major
plays a Recreation 4 -- H.R. limit
4. Competitive
plays Competitive -- 5 H.R. limit
5. Competitive
plays Recreation-- 3 H.R. limit
6. Recreational
plays Recreation -- 2 H.R. limit
Women's
Program:
1. Competitive
plays Competitive -- 5 H.R. limit
2. Competitive
plays Recreation -- 3 H.R. limit
3. Recreation
plays Recreation -- 2 H.R. limit
E. In
the Men's Class "E" Program, any Batter who hits an untouched fair fly
ball over the fence in fair territory will be declared out. Each subsequent time
that position in the lineup is due to bat, the batter shall automatically be declared
out. The player shall remain in the game for defensive purposes only. This applies
to any substitute in that batting position.
Sec.
9. A FORFEITED GAME shall
be declared by the Umpire in favor of the Team not at fault in the following cases:
The score will be 7-0 in favor of the Team not at fault.
A. If a Team fails to appear on the Field,
or being on the Field, refuses to begin the Game for which it had been scheduled,
at the time the Game was assigned.
B. If after a Game has begun a Team refuses
to play or resume play as directed by the Umpire.
C. If a Team uses tactics noticeably designed
to delay or hasten the playing of a Game.
D. If an ejected player does not leave the
field immediately when ordered to do so.
E. If for any reason a Team does not have
the designated number of Players to begin or continue the Game.
F. If, after a warning by the Umpire, any
one of these Rules are willfully violated.
G. State Programs may adopt a grace period
before a forfeit is declared in a Tournament.
EFFECT Sec. 9. A-G. The Umpire is instructed
and cautioned to employ his best discretion to avoid forfeiture of any Game, within
the scope of good reasoning.
Sec.
10. A SUSPENDED GAME can
result in Tournament Play, if the Umpire stops play for any reason such as power
failure of light, protested Game in accordance with these rules, or any act of
God, etc. that precludes immediate continuance of the Game to the conclusion of
the full seven innings, or as required. In all sanctioned Tournament Play, the
Game must be played the complete 7 innings, or 6-1/2 innings with the home Team
ahead.
EFFECT Sec. 10. When a Suspended Game is
resumed, it must be resumed under the conditions that prevailed PRIOR to the interruption
that caused the Suspended Game.
Sec.
11. A PROTESTED GAME can
result when there is a difference of opinion on the field between the protesting
Team and the Umpire regarding the application or interpretation of either Official
Printed Playing Rules, or Specially Adopted Ground Rules.
EFFECT Sec. 11. When a Protest, not involving
the Umpire's judgment, is registered with the Umpire on the field immediately,
and before any succeeding Pitch, the Game assumes the status of a Suspended Game
until the Protest is allowed or disallowed.
A. Conditions governing acceptance of Protests
during playing of a Game.
1. Based on an Umpire's judgment such as
whether a batted ball was Fair or Foul, a Pitched Ball was a Ball or Strike, a
Base Runner was Safe or Out, or when any other situation is completely within
the Umpire's scope to make the decision, is not to be accepted for consideration.
2. Based on alleged misinterpretation or
application of the playing rules should be accepted for consideration and decision.
3. The intention to Protest a Rule must be
made known by the Manager or Captain of the Protesting Team to the Umpire immediately,
and before the next Pitch is made to a batter. This is to enable all concerned,
that is, Umpires, Scorekeepers and the opposing Team to take notice of the exact
conditions prevailing on the Field at the time of the Protest. The Umpire receiving
the Protest shall immediately notify all concerned, including the Public Announcer.
4. In Tournament Play, all protests must
be settled before any play can be resumed as a Suspended Game except protests
concerning player eligibility. If a player eligibility protest is lodged during
Tournament Play and cannot be resolved at the time of the protest, the Game shall
be completed. If the eligibility question cannot be resolved until the tournament
is completed and it is subsequently found that the involved player or players
are ineligible, the Team shall be placed last in the tournament standings and
the standings shall be adjusted accordingly.
5. In Tournament Play, when an ineligible
player is discovered during the Game, the offending Team loses the Game, is ejected
from the tournament, placed last in the standings and forfeits all awards, sponsor
travel money and berths that would have been awarded at that tournament. If this
ineligible player is discovered after the completion of the Game (but during the
tournament) the Game shall stand as played. However the offending Team is ejected
from the tournament and assumes the same penalties as above.
6. If
a bat is protested as being altered during a game, the suspected offending player
may either:
1.) Allow
the Director to inspect the bat and reach an initial conclusion on whether or
not the bat may be altered. If, after making an inspection, the Director in his
discretion decides that the bat may be altered, the suspected offending owner
and/or user will be subject to Rule 7, Sec. 2.B. and either:
a.) Allow
the Director to send the bat the USSSA Altered Bat Committee and/or the Manufacturer
of the bat for a determination to find out if the bat has been altered. NOTE:
During the time of the examination of the bat, the USSSA, in the discretion of
the Altered Bat Committee, may suspend the suspected offending player pending
the decision. If the Manufacturer of the bat or the Altered Bat Committee determines
the bat has been altered, the Altered Bat Committee may suspend a first time offender
for up to two years from USSSA play. For a second time offender, a suspension
may be up to lifetime.
b.) Accept
a one year (up to lifetime for a second time offender) suspension from USSSA play
with no right of appeal.
2.) Withhold
the bat from inspection and accept a one year (up to lifetime for a second time
offender) suspension from USSSA play with no right of appeal.
7. Any Rule Protests must be made before the
next legal pitch, intentional walk, illegal pitcher action, or before all fielders
have left fair territory.
B. In the absence of a League Rule fixing
a time limit, protests that arise, other than during the playing of the Game must
be filed within a reasonable time. Forty-eight hours from the end of a Game is
suggested as maximum time limit for filing a written protest.
1. A formal Protest should contain the following
information:
a. The date, time, and place of the Game.
b. Names of the Umpires and Scorekeeper.
c. The Rule and Section of the Official rules,
or Local League Rules adopted General Rules under which the Protest is being filed.
d. The decision and/or conditions surrounding
the cause for the Protest.
e. All essential facts involved in the matter
of the Protest.
2. The decision made on a Protested Game
may result in:
a. The protest is found invalid and Game's
score stands as played.
b. Protest allowed, Game resumed at point
of Protest, as a Suspended Game.
c. Protest allowed, Game forfeited in favor
of the Team not at fault.
C. Highly technical protests and those which
could, or did not have any effect on the playing
of the Game, or the final results, should be discouraged or disallowed.
RULE
5. THE PLAYERS AND SUBSTITUTES
Sec.
1. A TEAM shall consist
of at least ten players, whose positions shall be designated as: (1) Pitcher,
(2) Catcher, (3) First Basemen, (4) Second Basemen, (5) Third Basemen, (6) Shortstop,
(7) Left Fielder, (8) Center Fielder, (9) Right Fielder, (10) Short Fielder (usually
Left Center) and may have an (11) Additional Hitter. (See Rule 5. Sec. 6). Some
programs can start and/or finish the Game with nine players, see Rules 12 through
29 for these programs.
A. Other than the Pitcher and Catcher, players
in the Field may be stationed anywhere they choose on Fair Ground as each pitch
is made.
B. The Pitcher, in delivering
the ball, must be in Legal Position at the Pitcher's Plate.
C. As each pitch is delivered,
the Catcher must be in the Catcher's Box.
Sec.
2. A TEAM must have the
designated legal number of players to start or to continue a Game. NOTE: Local governed Leagues may designate
this number during regular season play.
Sec.
3. A PLAYER or a SUBSTITUTE shall be officially in the Game when his name has been entered on
the Official Score Sheet, and in possession of the Official Scorer, or who has
been announced as a Substitute by his Manager. A Substitute may take the place
of a player whose name is on his Team's batting order. The following regulations
govern the Substitution of Players:
A. The manager of the Team making the Substitution
or the Substitute should immediately notify the Umpire.
B. If for any reason the Umpire is not notified
of the Substitution and the change is not announced, the Substitute will be considered
in the Game as follows:
1. If the batter, when he takes his place in the Batter's Box.
2. If a fielder, when he takes the place of the fielder substituted
for.
3. If a runner, when he takes the Base Runner's
place on the base he was holding.
4. If a pitcher, when he occupies the Pitcher's Plate and delivers
a practice pitch.
C. Whether a Substitute is announced or not,
when he assumes one of the above replacements of a player, any play made by or
on this player shall be Legal. THERE IS NO PENALTY APPLIED FOR THIS UNANNOUNCED
SUBSTITUTE.
D. Each Pitcher whose name is entered on
the original lineup and batting order, or who is announced as a Substitute Pitcher,
or who takes a position on the Pitcher's Plate and delivers ONE PRACTICE PITCH,
must then pitch to the first batter facing him until the batter has completed
that turn at bat, or the side has been retired.
E. Any other player may be substituted for
or removed from the Game whenever the ball is dead.
F. If an ejected player is discovered participating
in the Game he was ejected from, the Game is declared a forfeit.
Sec. 4. CONTINUED PARTICIPATION DUE TO INJURY,
BLEEDING OR OPEN WOUND.
A. Player/Substitute, Manager, Coach, Trainer,
Batboy or other Team member or Umpire who is bleeding or who has an open wound
shall be prohibited from participating further in the Game until the bleeding
is stopped and the wound covered.
1. If treatment can be administered in a
reasonable amount of time, the individual would not have to leave the Game. The
amount of time is determined by the Umpire's judgment.
2. If excessive time is involved, the re-entry
rule would apply to players.
3. If there is an excessive amount of blood
on the uniform or if a bandage becomes blood soaked, in the judgment of the umpire,
the uniform/bandage must be changed before the individual may participate.
NOTE: See suggested Communicable Disease Procedure
PAGE Number XX
Sec.
5. RE-ENTRY:
A. Is permitted in all programs. Any of the
starting players may withdraw and re-enter once, provided such player occupies
the same batting position whenever he is in the lineup. A substitute who is withdrawn
may not re-enter.
EFFECT Sec. 5A. All re-entry by any starter
must be reported to the Umpire and Scorekeeper at the time of re-entry. THERE
IS TO BE NO PENALTY FOR UNANNOUNCED, PROPER RE-ENTRY.
B.
IMPROPER RE-ENTRY: The act
of an improper re-entry is handled as a protest by the offended Team. Improper
re-entry is a violation after a pitch is made. Examples of improper re-entry are:
1. Starter who re-enters in an incorrect
batting position.
2. Starter who re-enters a second time.
3. A substitute who re-enters the Game.
EFFECT Sec. 5.B.
1. If an improper re-entry is discovered
by the Defense while the player is playing Offensively, the following penalties
will be enforced:
A. If the improper re-entry is discovered
while he is at bat, player is ejected and a proper substitute assumes any accumulated
balls and strikes.
B. If the improper re-entry is discovered
after he has completed his time at bat, but before a pitch has been made to a
succeeding batter, he is called out, and the player is ejected from the Game.
All Base Runners, if they have advanced, must return to the base occupied at the
time the improper re-entry took a position in the Batter's Box.
C. If the improper re-entry is not discovered
until a pitch is made to the next batter or the improper re-entry enters as a
substitute runner, the player is ejected. All play that occurred while the improper
re-entry was in the Game will stand.
2. If an improper re-entry is discovered
by the Offense while the player is playing defensively, the following penalties
will be enforced:
A. If the improper re-entry is discovered
after he makes a play on a fair-batted ball (catch or throw) or a play on a foul
fly ball before the next pitch, revert back to the previous pitch, the batter
and each Base Runner are advanced one base. The improper player is ejected.
B. If the improper re-entry is discovered
after a pitch, which did not result in a batted ball on which the improper player
made a play, the improper player is ejected (this includes the pitcher).
Sec.
6. ADDITIONAL HITTER (A.H.) rule can be used in the entire program. A Team may insert an Additional
Hitter into its lineup. The batting order must remain constant; however, any 10
of the 11 players can take a defensive position throughout the Game. If an A.H.
is used, the Team must finish with 11 players or the Game is forfeited unless
the program uses the shorthanded rule. (See Rule 12 and above). In the mixed program
when the A.H. is used a male and female A.H. must be used. If an additional hitter
is inserted into the lineup after the Game has started the player will be ejected.
Sec.
7. NO DEFENSIVE PLAYER shall
take a position in the batter's line of vision and with deliberate attempt, act
unsportsmanslike in any manner in an effort to distract the batter. EFFECT Sec 7. The Umpire shall first warn
the offender, and then eject any player from the Game who repeats the offense.
Sec.
8. THERE SHALL BE not more
than two Coaches for the Team at bat to give words of assistance and directions
to the member of their own Team. One Coach shall be stationed in each Coaching
Box at First and Third Bases. They may remain in that box.
There shall not be more than one charged
offensive conference between players and coaches or other players each inning.
Any additional request shall be denied.
Sec.
9. MANAGERS, COACHES, PLAYERS, SUBSTITUTES, TRAINERS, BAT BOYS, or other Team member or occupant of the bench,
SHALL NOT, from any place including Coaches' Boxes:
A. Incite, or try to incite by word, or sign,
or demonstration either opponents and/or spectators.
B. Use language that will in any manner refers
to or reflects upon opposing players , the Umpires, Players, or Spectators. NOTE: Use of profane or abusive language or taunting will not be tolerated.
EFFECT Sec. 9 A-B. Players violating Sections
A or B above can be ejected from the Game without warning.
C. Shall not argue Balls and Strikes calls.
D. Be outside the vicinity of the designated
dugout (bench) area if not a batter, Base Runner on deck batter, in the Coaches'
Boxes, or one of the ten players on defense.
E. Commit any act that could be considered
unsportsmanslike conduct.
F. Carelessly throw a bat.
EFFECT Sec. 9. C-F. For a first offense,
the violator may be warned that to repeat the offense will cause prompt ejection
from the Game. All flagrant offenses (including a first offense) shall cause the
offender to be immediately removed from the Game and playing area. An ejected
player must leave the park immediately and take no further part in the Game, remaining
away from his Team's bench or bullpen.
Sec.
10. WHEN TEAM MEMBERS continue
to harass the Umpires from the bench, and he is unable to detect the offenders,
the Umpire shall first give warnings, and then if repeated, tell the Manager to
send all Substitutes out of sight of the field, while giving the Manager the privilege
of sending for as many Substitute players as he may need, as he needs them to
finish the Game.
Sec. 1. AT NO TIME during the progress of the Game shall the
Pitcher be allowed to use tape or any other substance, including a glove, upon
the pitching hand or fingers; nor shall any foreign substance be applied to the
ball, provided that, under supervision and control of the Umpire, a bag containing
powdered resin may be used to dry the hands.
Sec. 2. AT THE BEGINNING of an inning or when a Pitcher relieves another
Pitcher, one minute may be used to deliver not more than THREE PRACTICE PITCHES
to the Catcher or some other Teammate.
Sec. 3. LEGAL POSITIONS OF
THE PITCHER'S FEET.
A. Preliminary to Pitching,
the Pitcher shall take a position with his/her pivot foot firmly on the ground
and in contact with the pitching rubber. The pivot foot must be in contact with
the Pitcher's Plate when the pitched ball is released.
B. The other foot (free foot) has no restriction
on position and may be placed on, in front of, to the rear of, or to the side
of the Pitcher's Plate. After taking the initial position, the Pitcher may take
more than one step with the free foot, in any direction of his choice, provided
that it is taken prior to, simultaneously with or during the actions of delivering
the pitched ball.
C. After the release of the Pitch, there
are no restrictions on Pitcher's subsequent movements, or the fielding positions
he may assume as a Defensive Player.
Sec. 4. PITCHER'S LEGAL MOTIONS
ALLOWED IN ACTUAL DELIVERY OF THE PITCH.
A. After assuming the pitching position, the Pitcher must present
the ball in FRONT OF HIS BODY (for at least one second) in either one or both
hands before starting the delivery motions.
B. The Pitcher
may hold or grip the ball in any manner before delivery.
C. Only a
definite underhand motion is permitted in the delivery of the Pitch.
D. The Pitcher may release the pitched ball in any manner when delivering
the Pitch. This includes any and all types of delivery.
EFFECT
Sec. A-D. After the Pitcher presents the ball, he may make any windup or arm motions
desired, either in front of his body, above his head or behind his back, including
stops and pauses in these motions.
E. Once the Pitcher begins his delivery motions, the umpire shall
not give a call or signal for "Time" unless something unusual occurs.
F. The pitched ball must be released within 5 seconds from the time
the Pitcher has the ball and the batter has taken his position in the Batter's
Box. From this point, the Umpire shall not give a call or signal for "Time"
unless something unusual occurs.
G. Pitcher must face Home Plate on delivery
of pitch.
(NOTE Sec. 4. A-E. Realizing that the Pitcher
does not fool very many batters to the extent that they can not hit the ball,
it is desired that Pitchers not be handicapped by technicalities, when they do
develop a new Technique or delivery that, perhaps, will add to the pleasure and
appeal to the spectators, as long as the Pitcher adheres to the basic Pitching
Rules.)
Sec. 5. TYPE OF PITCH PERMITTED.
A. The ball
must be Pitched underhanded at Slow Speed.
B. The Pitched Ball must arc at least 3 feet after leaving the Pitcher's
hand and before it passes any part of Home Plate.
C. The Pitched
Ball shall not rise higher than 10 feet above the ground.
EFFECT
Sec. 5. A-C. The speed of the Pitch and height of the pitched ball are left entirely
to the judgment of the Umpire (NOTE:
For sake of uniformity in decisions, any doubtful Pitch should be ruled as an
unfairly delivered pitch). The Umpire shall warn a Pitcher who delivers a Pitch
with EXCESSIVE SPEED that repeating such EXCESSIVE SPEED PITCH will cause the
Pitcher's removal from the Pitcher's position for the remainder of the Game. A
Pitch that does not arc the full 3 feet as required (flat level pitch) may not
be an EXCESSIVE SPEED PITCH, but merely an Unfairly delivered Pitch.
Sec. 6. THE CATCHER MUST:
A. Be in and remain in
the lines of the Catcher's Box when the Pitcher is in position and remain until
a pitched ball has reached or passed home plate, or is batted.
EFFECT
Sec. 6. A. An unfairly delivered pitch.
B. Immediately return each pitch not hit directly to the Pitcher.
EFFECT
Sec. 6. B. Ball shall be awarded to the batter.
Sec. 7. NO PITCH shall be declared immediately when:
A. The Pitcher pitches during a dead ball interval.
B. A base runner is called out for leaving
a base too soon.
Sec. 8. A FAIRLY DELIVERED
PITCHED BALL includes all
pitches that the Pitcher delivers in accordance with the several preceding paragraphs
and provisions of the Pitching Rule.
Sec. 9. UNFAIRLY DELIVERED
PITCHED BALLS INCLUDE:
A. Any Pitched ball that does not conform
to all requirements of a Fairly Delivered Pitched Ball.
B. All pitches made by the Pitcher when not conforming to pitching
restrictions.
C. Delivering a Pitch from other than the Pitcher's Plate and Pitcher's
Position.
D. A quick-return Pitch.
E. The Pitcher failing to face Home Plate on delivery of the pitch.
EFFECT Sec. 9. A-E. In each case, an unfairly delivered ball shall
be declared a ball by the Umpire provided, however, that if the batter strikes
at any unfairly delivered Pitch, it shall be declared a Strike with no penalty
for the unfairly delivered Pitch. The ball remains in play if batted by the batter.
(NOTE Sec. 9. A-E. These unfairly delivered pitches may not be so
declared until the pitched ball reaches or crosses the plate.)
Sec. 10. ILLEGAL PITCHER'S
ACTIONS INCLUDE:
A. Holding
the ball by the Pitcher longer than 5 seconds.
B. Throwing the ball by the Pitcher to any fielder, unless making
preliminary warm-up Pitches, or making an effort to complete an appeal play, or
while the ball is dead.
EFFECT:
Sec. 10. A-B. The Umpire should immediately indicate "DEAD BALL" and
award a ball to the Batter.
Sec. 11. APPEALING WHILE THE
BALL IS LIVE (before Umpire
calls "Time"): Any fielder can appeal a runner once. During a live ball
appeal, the Defensive Team must verbally state their appeal and touch the runner
or the base which they are appealing. Ball is live and all runners may advance
with liability of being put out.
Sec. 12. APPEALING AFTER BALL
IS DEAD:
Umpire signals "Play Ball"; the Pitcher announces which
runner and base he is appealing. The ball is now live only for the purpose of
making an appeal.
EFFECT: Sec. 12.
1. The Defensive Team can have only one attempted appeal per runner.
2. No runner may advance on an appeal play after time has been called.
3. No runner is out if he steps off the base during an appeal.
4. When a ball is thrown into a dead ball area, the Team forfeits
their right for a second appeal on any runner.
Sec.
13. Any second conference with the same Pitcher
in an inning will require the removal of that Pitcher from that position for the
remainder of the Game.
Sec. 1. THE BATTING ORDER of each Team must be listed and delivered
to the OFFICIAL SCOREKEEPER, by the MANAGER or Team representative. SHOULD an
Official Scorekeeper not be assigned to the Game, the BATTING ORDER must be delivered
to the Umpire-In-Chief, prior to the starting time of the Game. After each Team
has submitted its own Batting Order, both lineups shall be made available to both
Teams, for their inspection and knowledge.
EFFECT Sec. 1. Each Manager must have submitted his own Team's lineup,
before he can have access to the lineup of his Opponents. The Umpire may forfeit
the Game if there is unwarranted delay in providing a lineup for batting order
purposes.
A. The batting order thus submitted must be followed throughout the
Game, unless a Substitute replaces a Player. When this occurs, the Substitute
must take the turn in the regular order at bat of the Player he replaces.
B. Each Player of the side at bat shall become the Batter and enter
the Batter's Box in the order in which his name appears on the score sheet .
C. The first Batter in each following inning shall be the Batter,
whose name follows that of the Player who last completed a turn at bat in the
preceding inning.
D. A Batter completes a time at bat when he has either been put out
or has become Base Runner.
E. When a third out of an inning is made before the Batter can complete
his turn at bat, the same Batter will be the first Batter in the next inning,
and all previous called balls and strikes will be canceled.
EFFECT
Sec. 1. A-E. Batting out of order is an appealed play by the Defense.
1. If an incorrect Batter is discovered before
he completes his turn at bat, the correct Batter may take his proper place, assuming
any accumulated balls and strikes.
2. If the mistake is discovered after the
incorrect Batter has completed the turn at bat, and before a Pitch has been made
to a succeeding Batter, the Batter who should have batted is called out. All Base
Runners, if they have advanced, must return to the base occupied at the time the
incorrect Batter took a position in the Batter's Box. The next Batter is the Player
whose name follows that of the Batter called out for failure to bat. This may
even be carried over to the first Batter of the next inning, if the appealed out
was the third out.
3. If the mistake was not discovered until
a Pitch is made to the next Batter, the turn at bat of the incorrect Batter is
then Legal. All bases advanced or runs scored are counted, the next following
Batter shall be the one whose name follows that of the incorrect Batter who just
finished a time at bat. No one is called out for failure to bat, and Players missing
their turn at bat have lost that turn and do not bat again until reached in the
regular Batter rotation.
EFFECT Sec. 1. E. 2-3. For purposes of interpretation,
an intentional walk to a next Batter or illegal Pitcher's action shall be considered
the same as a Pitch deliver to the Batter.
4. No Base Runner shall be removed from the
base he is occupying to bat in his proper place. He just misses his turn at bat
with no penalty. The Batter following him in the batting order becomes the legal
Batter.
Sec. 2. THE BATTER IS OUT IF:
A. He bats
illegally. (Refer to RULE 3.)
B. He hits the ball with an illegal or altered bat. The Umpire must
discover this illegal action before the next pitch, either by observation or because
of an appeal from the Defensive Team.
EFFECT Sec. 2B. If the Batter hits the ball with an altered bat,
the ball is dead, the Batter is out, and he is ejected from the Game/Tournament,
and immediately report to the State Director for consideration of disbarment proceedings.
C. He bunts or chops the ball deliberately downward (either fair
or Foul).
D. He has a second strike.
1. He hits
second Foul after one strike, then the ball is dead.
E. He steps across the plate with the Pitcher in pitching position.
F. He intentionally interferes with the Catcher attempting a play.
G. Any Member of his Team interferes with a Fielder attempting to
make a play on a Foul fly ball
H. He hits a fair fly ball or line drive that an Infielder intentionally
drops, with a Runner on first, Runner on first and second, first, second and third,
or on first and third with less than two outs. NOTE: A trapped ball that hits the ground
is never ruled intentionally dropped.
EFFECT
Sec. 2. H. The Umpire shall immediately call the Batter out (in a forceful manner)
and the ball is dead.
I. He hits a fly ball that is legally caught.
J. He hits an infield fly, with Runners on first and second, or on
first, second and third bases with less than two out.
EFFECT
Sec. 2. I-J. The ball remains live and in play, and the Runners are in jeopardy.
1. If a declared infield fly falls to the ground untouched and bounces
Foul before passing first or third bases, it is a Foul Ball.
2. If a fly ball falls to the ground untouched outside the Foul lines
then bounces fair, before reaching first or third bases it is an infield fly.
3. NOTE: Umpire should always call "INFIELD
FLY– IF FAIR" to protect himself.
Sec. 3. A STRIKE IS CALLED BY THE UMPIRE:
A. For each fairly delivered pitched ball by the Pitcher that passes
through the Strike Zone before touching the ground.
EFFECT
Sec. 3. A. An Umpire should not let the Batter's position, either in the front
part, or the rear of the Batter's Box, be of influence in calling strikes. Each
pitch should be adjudged according to the height of any part of the ball as it
is crossing only above or over any part of the Home Plate. Any individual who
repeatedly argues balls and strikes will be ejected.
1. The Strike Zone is only that part, or any part of the area, over
Home Plate that is lower than the top of the Batter's highest shoulder, or higher
than the bottom of his FRONT KNEE.
B. For each Pitch struck at and missed by the Batter.
C. For a
batted ball striking the Batter, while he is in the Batter's Box with no strikes.
D. For each
Foul Tip. The Batter is out if this is the second strike.
E. For a
Foul Ball not caught on the fly with no strikes.
F. The Umpire shall not give a call or signal
for "TIME" when a Batter steps out of position after a Pitcher has started
his delivery motions.
EFFECT
Sec. 3. F. If the Pitcher pitches, the Umpire shall call "STRIKE" on each such pitch. The Batter may take his proper
position after any such pitch (within 10 seconds) and regular ball and strike
count shall continue.
G. When the Batter delays entering the Batter's Box after the Umpire
signals Play Ball. After 10 seconds the umpire shall declare dead ball and a strike
shall be called on the Batter.
Sec. 4. A BALL IS CALLED BY THE UMPIRE on each Pitch not swung at by Batter if:
A. The pitched
ball does not enter the Strike Zone.
B. The ball strikes the ground before passing completely across Home
Plate, or any part of the plate.
C. A pitched
ball strikes any part of Home Plate.
D. Any unfairly
delivered pitch is made and not struck at.
E. There
is an illegal Pitcher action.
F. A pitched ball is not released within 5 seconds from the time
the Pitcher has the ball and the Batter has taken his position in the Batter's
Box.
G. The Catcher
fails to return each pitch that is not hit directly to the Pitcher.
EFFECT
Sec. 4. A-G. The pitched ball is dead after each ball, strike or illegal Pitcher
action and must be returned immediately to the Pitcher (unless an out occurs).
Any individual who repeatedly argues balls and strikes will be ejected.
Sec.
5. A FAIR BATTED BALL is
a legally batted ball that is immediately in play.
EFFECT Sec. 5. 1. A batted ball which first falls to the ground in
Foul territory and then rolls or bounces into Fair territory, before passing First
or Third Bases, and without having touched some object other than the ground,
is a Fair ball. A batted ball first touching the ground in Fair territory, then
rolling into Foul territory and then again rolling into Fair territory, is also
a Fair ball provided the ball did not touch anything while over Foul territory
other than the ground.
2. A Fair or Foul ball shall be judged according to the position
of the ball, relative to FOUL LINES including the FOUL POLE, and not whether the
Fielder is on or over the Fair or Foul territory at the time the ball is first
touched.
3. When a batted ball passes out of the field over a fence the Umpire
shall declare it fair or Foul, according to position of the ball, as it leaves
the playing field.
4. When a batted ball hits any object including a Fielder and is
ruled a Fair ball under the rules, it is always treated as a Fair ball regardless
of what happens to the ball or where it may go.
5. A fly ball
falling beyond First or Third Base is judged at point of first contact.
Sec. 6. A FOUL BALL is a legally batted ball which does not conform
to the provisions or rules that would cause it to be a Fair ball.
EFFECT Sec. 6. A batted ball which first strikes any person, object,
fence, bench, screen, bat or other equipment, or which goes into pre-determined
out-of-play area if Foul territory, remains a Foul ball regardless of where it
may go.
1. It is a strike unless the Batter already has one strike.
2. A Foul fly may be caught, thus putting the Runners in jeopardy.
(Refer to 7-2D for exception).
3. A Foul ball not caught is a dead ball, and the Runners must return
to their base.
Sec. 1. A BASE RUNNER WHILE
ADVANCING OR RETURNING MUST TOUCH EACH BASE IN LEGAL ORDER: viz., First, Second, Third, and Home Base.
EFFECT Sec. 1. A Base Runner can only acquire the right to an advanced base by touching it before having been put out and shall be entitled to hold such base until he touches the next base legally, or if forced to leave the base because the Batter becomes a Base Runner and thus forces him to leave his base.
Sec. 2. THE BATTER BECOMES
A BATTER-RUNNER INSTANTLY WHEN HE HITS A FAIR BALL.
EFFECT
Sec. 2. The Batter-runner is in jeopardy immediately:
1. If a fair batted ball strikes the Umpire or Base Runner while
off base before passing a Fielder, other than the Pitcher. The ball is dead immediately
and the Batter is entitled to First Base without liability to be put out.
2. If the Fair batted ball hits the Umpire or Base Runner after passing
a Fielder other than the Pitcher, or touches any Fielder including the Pitcher,
it remains in play with all Runners being in jeopardy.
3. The Pitcher becomes an Infielder after releasing the pitch to
the Batter, and in the opinion of the Umpire has a reasonable opportunity to field
a Batted ball. (This will be considered an Umpire's judgment.)
Sec. 3. THE BATTER IS AWARDED
FIRST BASE:
A. When three balls are called by the Umpire.
B. When the Pitcher tells the Umpire to intentionally walk a Batter.
Effect
Sec. 3. A-B. Batter is awarded First Base only. The ball is dead.
C. If the Catcher or other Fielder obstructs
or prevents him from striking at a pitched ball. The Offensive Manager has the
option to accept obstruction or result of the play.
EFFECT
Sec. 3. C. When a Batter is obstructed, the Batter is awarded First Base because
of the obstruction, EXCEPT that if the Batter succeeds in hitting the Pitch and
reaches First safely, and no preceding Runner is put out before advancing at least
one advanced base, the obstruction should not be called or enforced. If the obstruction
is not enforced, the ball remains live and in play.
Sec. 4. A BATTER-BASE RUNNER IS OUT under the following circumstances.
A. When he is hit by his own batted ball in Fair territory, after
leaving Batter's Box.
B. When he
drops the bat in Fair territory and it makes contact with a Fair Ball by moving
into the ball.
C. When a fly ball is legally caught, with the Fielder's feet within
the established boundaries of the field.
E. When, after a Fair Ball, a Fielder holds
the ball on First Base before he touches or passes that base.
F. When, after reaching First Base safely,
he over runs or over slides that base, and then makes an attempt to start to Second
Base before returning to First Base.
EFFECT
Sec. 4. F. The Runner is in jeopardy and must be tagged or put out.
G. When, after hitting a fair
ball, and while the ball is still live, the Batter-runner carries the bat and
touches first base or runs beyond first base while carrying the bat.
H. When, after hitting a fair
ball, and while the ball is still live, the Batter-runner goes into dead ball
territory.
EFFECT Sec. 4. G-H. Ball is dead.
I. When he runs out of the 3 foot line and
interferes with a Fielder taking the throw or making a play at First Base.
J. When he interferes with a Fielder attempting
to field a batted ball or intentionally interferes with a thrown ball. If this
interference in the judgment of the Umpire is an obvious attempt to prevent a
double play, the Base Runner closest to Home Plate shall also be called out.
Sec.
5. BASE RUNNERS ARE OUT under the following circumstances:
A. When a Base Runner fails to keep contact with the base to which
he is entitled, until a pitched ball touches the ground, has reached or passed
Home Plate, or is batted.
EFFECT
Sec. 5. A. No Pitch is declared, the ball is dead and the Runner out.
B. When the Base Runner interferes with a Fielder attempting to field
a batted ball, or intentionally interferes with a Fielder catching a ball, or
throwing a ball, or with a thrown ball.
EFFECT
Sec. 5. B. If the interference is not ruled intentional, the Batter-runner is
entitled to go to First Base. If, in the opinion of the Umpire, the interference
is an obvious attempt to prevent a double play, the immediate succeeding Runner
shall also be called out. When a Base Runner interferes after he is out or after
scoring, the most advanced Runner shall be declared out.
C. When a Base Runner is struck by a fair
batted ball on fair ground while off his base and before it touches a Fielder,
or passes a Fielder.
D. When a Base Runner intentionally kicks
a live ball, or intentionally interferes with a ball in play, whether or not the
Runner is in contact with his base.
E. When a Base Runner runs bases in reverse order other than when
permitted to.
F. When a Base Runner fails to
attempt to advance and goes into dead ball territory.
EFFECT
Sec. 5. B-F. It is a Dead Ball immediately, and the involved Base Runner is out.
G. When a Base Runner who has been put out,
continues to run the base thus simulating a live base Runner and thereby draws
a throw to retire him a second time.
H. When members of the Team at bat stand or
collect at or around a base toward which a Base Runner is advancing, thereby confusing
the Fielders in adding to the difficulty in making a play.
I. When a Coach intentionally interferes with a live, batted
ball or thrown ball.
J. When a Coach runs in the direction of Home
Plate or any other base, on or near a baseline, while the Fielder is attempting
to make a play on a batted ball or on a thrown ball, and thereby draws a throw
in his direction.
K. When a Base Runner is attempting to score
and the next Batter or other Team members interfere with the attempted play.
EFFECT
Sec. 5. G-K. The infraction constitutes INTERFERENCE. All play stops; the ball
is dead, and the MOST ADVANCED RUNNER IS CALLED OUT. NOTE: In "I," immediately above, Team members include the
Batboy and all other persons who are on the Team's bench.
L. When anyone other than another Runner physically
assists him while the ball is in play.
M. When, while the ball is in play, he is
legally touched with the ball in the hands of a Fielder while not in contact with
a base.
N. When, on a force out, a Fielder tags him
with the ball (while on or off a base) or holds the ball on the base to which
the Base Runner is forced to advance before the Base Runner can reach the base.
O. When running toward any base, he runs more
than 3 feet from a direct line between a base and the base he is trying for to
avoid being tagged with the ball in the hands of a Fielder.
P. When a Base Runner PHYSICALLY PASSES a
preceding Runner before that Runner has been put out.
Q. When he positions himself behind, and not in contact with,
the base to get a running start.
EFFECT Sec. 5. L-Q. In these situations,
the ball remains live and in play, and other base Runners are in jeopardy.
R. When a Base Runner
fails to return to touch the base to which he is entitled when play is resumed
after any suspension of play caused by a dead ball situation, if the Fielder legally
holds the ball on that base.
S. When a Base Runner leaves his base to advance
to the next base before a fly ball has been touched or touches some object, provided
that if the fly ball is caught and returned to a Fielder and legally held on the
base left, or if a Fielder touches the Runner with the ball before the Runner
returns to retouch his original base.
EFFECT
Sec. 5. R-S. These are appeal plays and the Defensive Team loses its right to
make an appeal on any of these situations if the appeal is not made known before
the next Legal pitch, or Illegal Pitcher action, Intentional Walk, or before all
Fielders have left fair territory.
1. Unless there are two outs, this status
of a following Runner is not affected by a preceding Runner's violation or failure
to comply.
2. If, on appeal, a preceding Runner is the
THIRD OUT no following Runner shall be allowed to score.
3. If, the appealed out is the THIRD OUT,
and is the result of a Force Out, neither the preceding nor following Runners
shall score.
4. If the appealed out is the third out,
and is the result of the Batter-runner not touching First Base, preceding Runners
shall not score.
5. On any appealed play not a force out,
all Runners in advance of Runner being appealed out, who touch Home Plate legally
before actual physical completion of the THIRD APPEALED OUT in any inning shall
be counted. Succeeding Runners cannot score.
T. When a Base Runner fails to touch an intervening
base or bases in regular or reverse order while the ball is in play, and the ball
is held legally on the missed base or the Runner is legally touched with the ball
while off the base.
U. When a Defensive Player clearly has the
ball and is waiting for the Runner and the Runner deliberately and forcefully
runs into the Defensive Player, the Runner is declared out.
EFFECT Sec. 5.U.
The offender shall be ejected, the ball is dead and all other Runners must return
to the last base touched at the time of the collision.
Sec. 6. BASE RUNNERS ARE ENTITLED
TO ADVANCE WITH LIABILITY TO BE OUT:
A. When any live ball continues to be in play.
EFFECT
Sec. 6. A.
1. The Umpire shall call "TIME" when Base Runners cease
to try to advance, because the Fielders have the ball ahead of them and all immediate
play is apparently completed.
2. Base Runners must return to the last base touched and entitled
to, immediately when play is stopped in accordance with the above stipulations,
they are to remain until able to leave this base legally on the next pitched ball.
B. When, during a live ball play, following a batted ball, the ball
is overthrown in either Fair or Foul territory and does not become a blocked ball.
C. When any legally caught fly ball is first touched by a Fielder.
D. When a live thrown ball strikes the person of an Umpire or Base
Runner.
E. When a Fair batted ball, or a live thrown ball, accidentally strikes
a Coach.
F. When another Base Runner physically passes
a preceding Base Runner.
G. When a preceding Base Runner fails to touch a base as required.
EFFECT
Sec. 6. B-G. In all these cases the ball remains live with all Runners continuing
to be in jeopardy.
H. When a Fielder deliberately contacts or
catches a batted or thrown ball with his cap, glove, or any part of his Uniform
or Equipment, while it is detached from its proper place on the Fielder's person.
EFFECT
Sec. 6. H.
1. On a Fair batted ball, or
a ball over Foul ground in a situation that might become a Fair Ball, all Base
Runners are entitled to advance 3 bases from the time of the Pitch.
2. On a thrown ball all Base Runners are entitled to advance 2 bases.
3. In each case, the Runners may advance further at their own risk,
being in jeopardy after reaching the awarded bases. NOTE: If, in the opinion of the Umpire, a Fair batted ball would have
cleared the outfield fence if not interfered with, the Batter shall be awarded
a Home Run.
Sec. 7. BASE RUNNERS ARE ENTITLED
TO ADVANCE WITHOUT LIABILITY TO BE PUT OUT:
A. When a Fair batted ball goes over the fence or into a stand without
touching the ground, the Batter shall be entitled to a Home Run.
EFFECT
Sec. 7. A. A Fair Ball that clears the fence before touching anything other than
a Fielder, and which is not caught, is a Home Run. This includes any ball hitting
the top of the fence and going over the fence.
1. When a batted ball, either Fair or Foul, is legally caught on
the fly while the Fielder's feet are still within the established lines of the
playing area, the Batter is out even though the Fielder's momentum may cause him
to fall over the fence, into a dugout; or patron areas, or cross a line, or marking
the out of play area, provided in the Umpire's judgment the catch was completed.
The ball is declared dead and each and every Runner is advanced one base after
the catch. If ball is carried intentionally into a dead ball area, two bases are
awarded to each Base Runner.
B. When a Fair batted ball bounds or rolls into a stand over, under,
or through a fence or other boundary of the playing field, Base Runners are awarded
two bases, from the time of the Pitch.
EFFECT
Sec. 7. B. This award is made whether or not the batted ball is first touched
by a Fielder.
C. When a Fielder catches a ball with an illegal glove, the catch
is nullified.
EFFECT Sec. 7. C. The Umpire must discover this illegal action before
a next pitch, either by observation, or because of an appeal from the Offensive
Team. The result of this shall be to revert to the previous Pitch, disallow the
catch, and charge an error to the Fielder. The ball is dead, and the Batter and
each Base Runner are advanced one base.
D. When forced
to advance because of the Batter being awarded First Base.
E. When he is obstructed by a Fielder between
the bases, or as he rounds a base, unless the Fielder is trying to field a batted
ball, or had the ball in his possession ready to tag the Runner.
EFFECT
Sec. 7. E. The obstructed Runner shall be awarded at least one base beyond the
base he had last legally touched before the obstruction. The Umpire should also
award the Runner all other advanced bases, he believes the Runner would have made,
had no obstruction occurred, without waiting for an appeal from the Offensive
Team. If the Runner continues beyond the base awarded by the obstruction, he then
becomes in jeopardy. The Ball remains live with all other Runners in jeopardy,
except any preceding Runners, forced by the award as penalty for obstruction,
shall advance without liability to be put out to the base which they are awarded.
F. When a
ball is live after a batted ball and is overthrown into foul territory and is
blocked.
EFFECT
Sec. 7. F. In all cases, when a blocked ball occurs on an overthrown live ball,
the ball is immediately dead. Each and every Base Runner is awarded two bases
from last base occupied, unless required to retouch.
1. When a FIRST throw is made by an Infielder
trying for a first play, the award is made from the Batter's and a Base Runner's
positions at the time of the Pitch.
2. When an Infielder makes any FIRST attempt at a play, and then
makes a Second attempted play or throw, or on any throw from the Outfield, the
award is made from the last base touched by a Runner at the time this Throw is
released. NOTE: Should more than one
Runner be between the same bases, the advanced Runner governs the award.
G. When an accident or incident occurs that prevents a Base Runner
from proceeding to a base to which he is entitled, as on a Home Run or other awarded
base, a Substitute Runner shall be permitted to take his place when a play is
resumed so to complete the play.
EFFECT Sec. 7. A-G. In each and every instance, when a Batter or
Runner is awarded one or more bases, each base must be touched in regular order
when advancing; otherwise, the Team in the Field may make an appeal on the Runner
at the missed base, which shall be allowed.
Sec. 8. A BASE RUNNER FORFEITS
EXEMPTION FROM LIABILITY TO BE PUT OUT, IF:
A. While the ball is in play, he fails to touch each base in legal
order before attempting to make the next base. Either the Batter-runner at First
Base, or any other Runner forced to advance because the Batter became a Base Runner
is considered as a forced out, should an appeal be made.
B. After reaching First Base, the Batter-runner's momentum causes
him to overrun or over slide First Base; the Batter-runner makes an attempt to
start toward Second Base before returning to retouch First Base.
C. After
dislodging in a base, the Runner attempts to continue to the next base.
EFFECT
Sec. 8 C. To avoid being in jeopardy, the Runner must either remain with the dislodged
base, or remain stationary at the base's proper location, that is, where the base
was originally located. If the Base Runner makes a start toward the next advanced
base, and then tries to return to the dislodged base, he is in jeopardy, and it
is entirely within the Umpire's judgment whether or not the Runner should be safe
or out.
Sec.
9. BASE RUNNERS MAY, AND SHALL, RETURN TO BASES AT VARIOUS TIMES:
A. Base Runners required to return, or attempting to return, when
the ball is in play must touch each base in regular legal reverse order, which
includes any intervening bases.
EFFECT Sec. 9. A. (NOTE:
the below are APPEAL PLAYS.)
1. Base Runners are in jeopardy until they return to their bases,
in order to comply with the several sections of these rules, when the ball is
live.
2. No Base Runner may return to a preceding base after the ball has
been declared dead if the Base Runner touches any succeeding base, or after a
following Runner has scored.
3. No Base Runner may return to retouch a missed base, after a following
Runner has scored.
B. Two Base Runners may not occupy the same base simultaneously.
EFFECT
Sec. 9. B. The first Runner touching a base shall be entitled to occupy it until
he has touched the next base legally, or is forced to leave the base due to the
Batter becoming a Base Runner. The following Runner may be put out by being tagged
with the ball even though both Runners are in contact with the same base.
C. A Base Runner shall not run bases in reverse order to confuse
the Fielders, or to make a travesty of the Game.
EFFECT
Sec. 9. C. The Base Runner shall be declared out by the Umpire, and the ball is
dead.
D. A Base Runner returning to a base to retag a base on a fly ball
caught and thrown by a Fielder to any base. If the ball is thrown by a Fielder
into the restricted area, the Base Runner shall be awarded the base he must retouch,
plus one base. Since the Base Runner is required to regain the base he first occupied,
he is awarded that base and only one more.
EFFECT
Sec. 9. D. If the Base Runner is in contact with the base, he will be awarded
two bases from the time of the throw. If he leaves the base too soon, he will
be awarded the base he must retouch plus one base. It may now become an APPEAL
PLAY and the Base Runner may be put out. The determining factor shall be whether
the Base Runner had possession of the Base at the time of the throw.
E. A Base Runner returning to a base on a ground ball or any time
Runners not required to retouch the bases; Runners are awarded two bases from
the last base occupied.
Sec. 10. BASE RUNNERS MUST
RETURN TO THEIR BASES:
A. When any Foul Ball is not legally caught.
B. When any illegally batted ball occurs.
C. When a proper Batter is out on appeal for failing to bat in order.
D. When an Offensive Player is called out for interference.
E. When an Umpire or Base Runner is struck
by a Fair batted ball, before it touches a Fielder, or passes any Fielder other
than the Pitcher.
F. When time out is called by the Umpire.
EFFECT
Sec 10. A-F.
1. The ball
is immediately dead.
2. Base Runners may be forced to advance, if the Batter is credited
with a hit as per "E" above thus awarded First Base, thereby forcing
other Runners to advance.
3. Base Runners
need not touch intervening bases, when required to return.
4. Base Runners
must be allowed sufficient time to return, when required.
Sec. 11. BASE STEALING OR ADVANCING
IS NOT PERMITTED AS A RESULT OF ANY PITCHED BALL NOT HIT:
Base Runners must keep in contact with their base and may leave it
ONLY when a pitched ball has reached or passed Home Plate, is batted, or hits
the ground.
EFFECT Sec. 11.
1. Each pitch not hit becomes dead and Base Runners must immediately
return to their base, as the Catcher is returning the ball to the Pitcher at his
position.
2. After a Runner has returned to his base,
he cannot leave it again, during a Pitched ball situation until the Pitched ball
again reaches Home Plate, is batted, or touches the ground.
Sec. 12. BASE RUNNERS ARE NOT
OUT
A. When a Batter-runner overruns or over slides First Base and immediately
returns to that base.
B. When a Base Runner is required to return to a base and is not
given sufficient time to return.
C. When a
Base Runner is touched with the ball not securely held by a Fielder.
D. When a Defensive Team does not attempt an appeal play until after
a next pitch is made
E. When a Base Runner holds his base until a Fly ball is touched,
and then attempts to advance.
F. When a Base Runner runs outside a baseline, and behind a Fielder
attempting to field a batted ball.
G. When a Base Runner runs outside the baseline, other than to avoid
a Fielder attempting to tag him with the ball.
H. When a Base Runner is hit by a batted
ball that has passed or touched a Fielder.
I. When a Base Runner makes contact with a Fielder, not entitled
to field the ball, when more than one Fielder is attempting to field a batted
ball.
J. When a
Base Runner sliding into a base, dislodges it from its proper position.
EFFECT
Sec. 12. J. If a Runner sliding into a base is adjudged to be safe by the Umpire
before dislodging the base, he remains safe by either staying at the position
the base is supposed to occupy, or by remaining in contact with the base. The
Runner puts himself in jeopardy when he attempts to advance to the next base.
If he then tries to return to the misplaced base, it is entirely within the Umpire's
jurisdiction to declare the Runner safe, or out, if he is tagged with the ball.
K. Following Runners are not required to touch a base, if the base
is several feet removed from its proper location.
EFFECT
Sec. 12. K. Following Runners may either touch the dislodged base, or touch the
original position of the base as if the base were in its proper location.
L. When, while in contact with the base, the Base Runner is hit with
a Fair batted ball unless the Umpire rules that the ball was intentionally interfered
with, or a Fielder interfered with, while attempting to field a batted ball.
EFFECT
Sec. 12 .L. The ball remains live with all Runners continuing to be in jeopardy.
RULE
9. BALL IN PLAY AND BALL DEAD
Sec. 1. THE BALL IS LEGALLY PUT IN PLAY BY
THE UMPIRE:
A. At the start of the Game when the Pitcher has the ball while standing
at the initial Pitcher position on the Pitcher's Plate, the Batter in the Batter's
Box, the Catcher in Catcher's Box and
the Umpire signals "play."
B. In each instance thereafter when the ball becomes dead, and the
above procedure is repeated.
Sec. 2. THE BALL IS LIVE AND IN PLAY:
A. When the
Pitcher has the ball in his possession at the Pitcher's Plate.
B. When the
Pitcher delivers the Pitch toward Home Plate.
C. When the
Batter hits the pitched ball legally.
D. As long
as there is a play resulting from a legally batted ball.
E. When a live ball strikes a photographer, groundskeeper, policeman,
or others when they are assigned to the field as part of the Game.
F. When a fly ball is legally caught (unless it is the second Foul
caught after one strike.)
G. At all
times during the enforcement of the Infield Fly Rule.
H. When any
thrown ball goes into Foul territory and is not blocked.
I. When a
fair-batted or thrown-live ball accidentally strikes the Coach.
J. When a
thrown ball strikes an Umpire or Offensive Player.
K. When a fair-batted ball strikes an Umpire or Base Runner after
touching a Fielder, or after passing any Fielder including the Pitcher/Infielder.
L. When a Fair Ball strikes the Umpire or Offensive Player on Foul
Ground.
M. When Base Runners have reached the base to which they are entitled
because the Fielder illegally touched or fielded a batted or thrown ball.
N. When obstruction is called, but the Runner obstructed cannot be
put out until he reaches the base to which he is entitled, because of the obstruction.
O. When a Base Runner must return to a base in reverse order while
the ball is live and in play.
P. When a Base Runner is called out for passing a preceding Runner.
Q. When a Base Runner acquires the right to a base by legally touching
it before being put out.
R. When a
base is dislodged while Base Runners are progressing around the bases.
S. When a
Base Runner is called out for being out of the baselines.
T. When a
Base Runner is forced or tagged out.
U. When an
Appeal Play is involved or enforced.
EFFECT Sec. 2. U. This applies during an Appeal Play situation, which
is attempted before the Umpire has called "TIME." However, after a DEAD
BALL interval, Base Runners may not advance during the execution of an Appeal
Play, made immediately after the ball is again put in play.
V. Whenever
the ball is not DEAD, as provided in Section 3 of this Rule.
Sec. 3. THE BALL IS DEAD AND NOT IN PLAY:
A. When No
Pitch is declared.
B. When an
illegal Pitcher's action is declared.
C. When a
Base Runner is called out for leaving a base too soon on a pitched ball.
D. After
each pitched ball and strike not batted.
E. When a
pitched ball touches any part of a batter's person.
F. When a
Batter bats illegally, or hits the ball with an illegal or altered bat.
G. When a
Batter deliberately BUNTS or CHOPS THE BALL DOWNWARD.
H. When the
Batter is hit by his own-batted ball, either fair or foul.
I. When a
Foul Ball is not caught on fly.
J. When a Batter steps completely across the Plate, with the Pitcher
on the Pitcher's Plate.
K. Intentionally
dropped fair fly ball or line drive, by an Infielder. (See 7-2H)
L. When the
Batter hits a second Foul after one strike. (See 7-2D)
EFFECT
Sec. 9. A-L. The Ball is immediately dead, and no Runner may advance a base.
M. When an
Offensive Team member causes interference.
N. When the Base Runner deliberately crashes into a Defensive Player
who is waiting to make a tag.
O. When a Base Runner is off a base and is hit with a fair-batted
ball, before the ball is touched by or passes through the Infielders.
P. When a
blocked ball occurs.
Q. When the
ball gets outside the established limits of the Playing Field.
R. When a
Coach intentionally interferes with a batted or live-thrown ball.
S. When a
ball is caught with an illegal glove in any manner.
T. When a
spectator or other person not in the Game causes interference.
U. When a batted ball hits an Umpire before the ball is touched by,
or passes through the Infielder, the Batter is awarded First Base. No Base Runners
may advance except to make room for the Batter-runner.
V. When "TIME"
is called for any reason by the Umpire.
W. When, after hitting a fair
ball, and while the ball is still live, the Batter-runner carries the bat and
touches first base or runs beyond first base while carrying the bat.
X. When, after hitting a fair
ball, and while the ball is still live, the Batter-runner goes into dead ball
territory.
EFFECT
Sec. 3. M-X. The Ball is immediately dead; however, the Runners are permitted
to retain any bases they may have advanced to, or any bases they may be awarded
at the time of, or because of, the interference.
Y. When there is obstruction on the batter, which is enforced.
Sec. 1. POWERS AND DUTIES: Umpires are the representatives of the Organization
or League for which they have been engaged or assigned to for a particular Game.
As such, they are AUTHORIZED AND REQUIRED to enforce every section and all parts
of these Rules.
EFFECT Sec. 1. Umpires have the power and should use it with discretion
to order a Manager, Coach, Captain, or player to do or to omit to do any act which,
in their judgment, is necessary to give force and effect to one and all of these
Rules and to assess penalties as prescribed within the Rule Book.
Sec. 2. GENERAL INFORMATION AND REGULATIONS
FOR UMPIRES:
A. The Umpire should not be connected in any way with either Team.
B. The Umpire should be sure of date, time, and location of the Game.
C. The Umpire should arrive at the field 20 minutes before the Game
time, and be prepared to work.
D. The official Umpire uniform, standard for sanctioned play, includes
approved and licensed products, which allow for freedom of movement. The official
uniform shall consist of:
1. Red broadcloth short-sleeved shirt or red pullover shirt. If a
T-shirt is worn under the Umpire shirt, it must be short sleeved and white in
color.
2. USSSA Umpire cap – It is to be an Adjustable, Long visor black
cap with red bill. This will include the USSSA embroidery on the cap and the official
licensed label inside.
3. Long black or grey pants with black socks.
4. Licensed black or grey shorts with official emblem. White over-the-calf
tube socks with two red stripes and USSSA identification, or short anklet socks
with one red stripe and USSSA identification is mandatory when wearing shorts.
5. A Black Ball Bag, when ball bags are necessary. Only the plate
Umpire is required to wear one.
6. A Black
belt.
7. A pair of
Black polished shoes and black shoelaces.
8. A Red windbreaker jacket, v-neck pullover, or black sweater may
be worn as outside apparel.
9. A Specially
designed uniform for World Tournaments.
NOTE: If more than one Umpire is used per Game,
they must be dressed in a similar fashion.
E. The Umpire shall have all necessary equipment
deemed proper, especially an Umpire's indicator for recording balls and strikes,
outs, a bat ring, and all protective personal items; such as an athletic supporter,
a mask, when required, and a small whiskbroom.
1. The official Umpire emblem of the Organization shall be worn one
inch from the shoulder seam on the RIGHT SLEEVE. This is mandatory in Association
Sanctioned Games. The official National Umpires' Clinic Emblem, if worn, must
be on the left sleeve one inch below the shoulder seam. NOTE: The licensed USSSA pullover shirt
will have the USSSA emblem on the left breast.
2. Pant lengths may be either of short or long length, WITH BELT
LOOPS, mostly depending on the climate, but must be standardized by local option
or Tournament adoption.
F. The Umpires
should introduce themselves to the Official Scorer and Managers.
G. The Umpires
should instruct the Scorer to obtain the official lineups.
H. The Umpires should inspect the playing field and equipment, and
supplement the Rule Book, with written Game and ground rules, indicating all out-of-play
areas or other exceptions to the Rule Book to both Managers.
I. The Umpires working behind the Catcher, judging balls and strikes
shall be designated Umpire-In-Chief, with the Umpires judging initial base decisions
designated as the Base Umpire.
J. Neither Umpire has the authority to set aside decisions made by
the other Umpire within the limits or scope of his respective duties as outlined
in these Rules.
K. Under no circumstances shall either Umpire seek to revise a decision
made by his associate, nor shall either Umpire criticize or interfere with the
duties of his associate, unless asked by him to do so.
L. An Umpire may consult with his associate at any time he desires
to do so, or when requested to do so by a Manager. However, the final decision
shall rest with the Umpire whose exclusive authority it was to make the decision,
and who requested the opinion of the other Umpires.
M. If different decisions should be made on one play by different
Umpires, the Umpire-In-Chief shall call all Umpires into consultation, with no
other person present. After consultation, the Umpire-in Chief shall determine
which decision shall prevail, based on which Umpire was in the best position and
which decision was most likely to be correct. Play shall then proceed as if only
one decision had been made.
N. The Umpires shall declare the batter or Base Runner safe or out
without waiting for an appeal for such decision, in all cases where such player
is safe or out in accordance with this set of Rules.
EFFECT
Sec. 2. N. Unless appealed to, an Umpire does not call a player out for having
left a base too soon on a Fly ball caught, failing to touch the base as required,
batting out of order; or making an attempted start to go to Second Base, or after
the Batter-runner has crossed First Base, as provided in these Rules. No appeal
will be considered or allowed after a next Pitch is made to a Batter, or during
a suspension of PLAY, when "TIME" is in effect.
O. Umpires must make any necessary, pertinent and proper report in
writing after a Game when requested, and where a verbal report is not considered
sufficient.
P. The duties of an Umpire do not include the filing of a Protest
for either Team, although the Umpire is required to defend any decision protested,
when requested.
Sec. 3. EITHER THE PLATE OR
BASE UMPIRE SHALL HAVE EQUAL AUTHORITY TO:
A. Call illegal
Pitcher's actions or unfairly delivered pitches.
B. Call a
Base Runner out for leaving a base too soon.
C. Remove
a Manager, Coach, Player, or Team follower for violating these Rules.
D. Call "TIME"
when played should be suspended.
E. Ordering
Field Lights turned on.
Sec. 4. SPECIFIC DUTIES OF
THE UMPIRE-IN-CHIEF:
A. He shall
have full responsibility for the proper conduct of the Game.
B. He shall
take his initial position behind the Catcher's position.
C. He shall
call each pitch not hit, a ball or strike.
D. He shall by agreement with, and in cooperation with, the Base
Umpire: call plays, batted balls fair or foul, illegally batted balls and legal
or illegally caught balls.
EFFECT
Sec. 4. D. On plays which necessitate the Base Umpire leaving the Infield, the
Plate Umpire shall move out and assume the duties of the Base Umpire that are
normally required such as Runners tagging the Bases, obstructions, interferences,
etc.
E. He shall
determine and declare whether:
1. A Batter
bats illegally.
2. A Batter
bunts or chops the pitched ball downward.
3. A fly ball
is an Infield or Outfield Fly.
4. A batted
ball touches the person of the Batter.
5. A Batter
strikes at the pitch.
F. He shall
render base decisions in the following instances:
1. On plays
on the Base Runner at Home Plate.
2. On an appeal, decide whether a Base Runner leaves Third Base too
soon on a caught fly ball.
3. If there is more than one Runner on base, take the plays and make
the decision on the Runner nearest the Home Plate, during plays on Runners.
4. With only two Umpires working, and there is a batted ball, go
to Third Base for any subsequent decision at that base, after initial decision
in the inning.
EFFECT
Sec. 4. F. Plays at the Home Plate are always to receive first considerations;
however, while the Base Umpire normally makes the FIRST DECISION at First, Second,
or Third if the FIRST DECISION or PLAY is made to either First or Second Base,
the Plate Umpire should position himself to make all subsequent decisions at Third
Base.
G. When a TIME LIMIT has been set prior to the Game starting time,
announce this fact before the Game is started, and state the time set to end the
Game. The Scorekeeper keeps this time, and total playing time of Games.
H. Check with the Official Scorer, advising that Official to have
Managers advise the Scorer about the Official Batting Order and any subsequent
substitutions made.
I. Should a dispute arise during, or immediately following, the Game
assist the Scorer to arrive at a correct decision and the score.
J. He alone
shall have the authority to declare a Game forfeited.
Sec. 5. SPECIFIC DUTIES OF
THE BASE UMPIRES:
A. He shall take such positions on the playing field which will give
him the best angles and positions for using his judgment in rendering base decisions.
This will be in agreement with and cooperation of the Umpire-In-Chief. Whenever
there are any Runners on base, he must position himself inside the diamond.
B. When a ball is batted, he normally should render all FIRST decision
to be made at any base, and then position himself to make all decisions at First
and Second Base, as well as Third Base, should situations dictate the Plate Umpire
remain or return to Home Plate.
C. He shall assist and cooperate with the Plate Umpire at all times
in every way to assure that all plays receive a proper and correct decision, and
that the playing field is fully observed during the playing of the Game.
D. He may and should be required to go into the outfield to call
certain Outfield decisions, when the Plate Umpire would be at a great disadvantage
making the call. Some of these plays would involve a trapped ball catch, Fly ball
hitting or clearing a fence, a Legal catch when a Fielder runs or falls into a
fence or obstruction and drops the ball because of such collision, and other plays,
especially when light conditions are not the best.
Sec. 6. RESPONSIBILITIES OF
AN UMPIRE ASSIGNED TO OFFICIATE BY HIMSELF extend to all parts of the field, his duties and jurisdiction
encompass all those duties normally covered when more than one Umpire is assigned.
While normally stationing himself behind the Catcher to call Balls and Strikes,
and moving out on batted balls, he may and shall take any position on the Field,
which will in his judgment enable him to best discharge his various miscellaneous
duties.
Sec. 7. UMPIRES CANNOT BE CHANGED
DURING THE PLAYING OF A GAME unless they become incapacitated due to any injury or illness.
Sec. 8. UMPIRE'S JUDGMENT DECISIONS
MAY NOT BE APPEALED on grounds that he was not correct:
A. On a decision involving a Ball or Strike.
B. That a batted ball was fair or foul.
C. That Base Runner was safe or out.
D. When a Game is called for darkness, rain, panic, or other logical
reasons.
EFFECT Sec. 8. A-D. No decision shall be
reversed by the Umpire, involving his judgment, except if he is convinced he was
in error. This could come from consulting another Umpire working with him, as
a result of his own requested conference.
Sec. 9. UMPIRES SHALL ENFORCE
ALL THESE RULES:
A. All rules governing the playing of the Game are to be followed
to the letter with no deviations from the Rule permitted.
EFFECT
Sec. 9. A. After a warning by an Umpire, the Umpire should remove the offender
from the Game, if the Offense is repeated. For Major Offense, remove offender
at once.
B. Each Umpire has AUTHORITY to rule on any point or situation, not
specifically covered in these Rules.
EFFECT
Sec. 9. B. Umpires should not necessarily penalize an entire Team because of the
actions of one or more individuals. The violators are to be removed from the Game.
C. Umpires may refuse to impose a penalty for a violation when the
impositions of such a penalty would benefit the Offending Team.
EFFECT
Sec. 9. C. As an example, a Catcher's obstruction with the Batter would result
in a Delay call.
D. Umpires should work together and cooperate in every effort to
assure correct decisions and fair rulings.
EFFECT Sec. 9. D. This applies in all situations, such as sharply
hit balls down the Foul Lines, tag plays on the Batter-runner, batted ball hitting
Base Runner, Runner leaving any base too soon, or trap type catches; darkness
or other weather conditions, players stalling or hastening the Game, or the Pitcher
and Batter continuing to try to annoy the other excessively. Other times include
Plate Umpire watching the Runner at First Base or other base, when more than one
Runner is on base for leaving too soon, or the Plate Umpire following a batted
ball down the Right Field Line, while observing the Runners at First Base, when
the base Umpire is in his proper position out near Second Base, when the ball
was batted. Base Umpire should adjust to cover Third Base, as well as Second Base,
when the Plate Umpire is delayed in getting to the best position. On other cooperation
positions, the Base Umpire should be prepared to cover Home Plate, if and when
the Plate Umpire gets trapped at Third Base while properly covering a play.
Sec. 10. UMPIRE'S SIGNALS AND
TERMS TO BE USED:
A. To indicate the PLAY shall begin or resumed, the Umpire shall
call "PLAY" and simultaneously make a beckoning motion for the Pitcher
to deliver the Pitch.
B. To indicate that the Pitcher should hold the Pitch, AND NOT DELIVER
because the Batter is not ready, he is to extend the ARM directly toward the Pitcher
when an OPEN PALM signaling the Pitcher to stop.
C. To indicate that the PITCH was a STRIKE, the Umpire shall raise
his RIGHT ARM upward above the shoulder, indicating the number of the STRIKE with
spread fingers while at the same instant calling "STRIKE" (and the number)
in a clear and decisive voice.
D. To indicate BALL, no arm signal is used. However, the Umpire shall
call "BALL" (and the number) in a clear and decisive voice.
E. On an INTENTIONAL WALK of the Batter by the Pitcher, the Umpire
merely makes such announcement to the Batter and Official Scorekeeper.
F. To indicate the TOTAL COUNT on the Batter, the Umpire always announces
the number of BALLS first and then the number of STRIKES. Also signal the count
with the hands, showing the number of BALLS on the left hand, and the number of
STRIKES on the right hand.
G. To indicate a FOUL BALL the Umpire should extend his ARMS horizontally
away from the diamond, according to the direction of the ball, while VERBALLY
declaring "FOUL" in a vociferous manner.
H. To indicate a FOUL TIP the Umpire should put both hands upward
while flicking the finger of one hand with the fingers of the other hand and clearly
STATING "FOUL TIP."
I. To indicate FAIR BALL, the Umpire shall gesticulate toward the
center of the diamond or Pitcher's plate. This for the guidance of his fellow
Umpire and the Player's information.
J. To indicate the Batter or Base Runner is OUT, the Umpire shall
raise his RIGHT HAND upward clearly above the shoulder, with the fingers "closed"
and DECLARE the batter "OUT."
K. To indicate that a Base Runner is SAFE
(or not out) the Umpire shall extend BOTH ARMS diagonally in front of his body
with the PALMS OPEN, AND TOWARD THE GROUND. A CALL OF "SAFE" is also
given simultaneously with the signal.
L. To indicate SUSPENSION of play, the UMPIRE
shall call "TIME" and at the same time extend BOTH HANDS skyward clearly
above his head. The other Umpires shall immediately acknowledge the Suspension
of play by similar signs and actions.
M. A DELAYED DEAD BALL will be indicated by the Umpire extending
his left arm horizontally.
N. A TRAPPED BALL shall be indicated by the
Umpire extending both arms diagonally in front of his body with palms open, and
toward the ground. Do not make a verbal call.
Sec. 11. SUSPENSIONS OF PLAY:
A. The Umpire may Suspend Play when in his
judgment, at any situation or condition justifies such action.
B. WHEN IN THE OPINION OF THE UMPIRE ALL IMMEDIATE PLAY RESULTING
FROM A BATTED BALL IS APPARENTLY COMPLETED, HE SHALL CALL "TIME."
EFFECT
Sec. 11. B. It is not necessary to return the ball to the Pitcher, after a batted
ball, to stop the Base Runners from advancing. When the Base Runners have ceased
trying to move forward, or trying for the next advanced base, because the Fielders
have the live ball ahead of or in such a position, so that the Runners have stopped
their advance. the Umpire shall call "TIME": especially when working
the Game as a SINGLE UMPIRE. In this case the Base Runner, even though he is off
his base, must then return to stay on the base which he has last touched, and
must remain on his base until he can legally leave the base.
C. Play shall be suspended whenever the Umpire leaves his proper
position to brush the Plate, or to perform other duties not directly connected
with the calling of decisions.
D. The Umpire shall suspend play whenever a Batter or Pitcher steps
out of position for a legitimate reason; the Umpire should not permit either to
continually repeat this action.
E. The Umpire shall not give a call or signal for "TIME"
when a Batter steps out of position after a Pitcher has started his delivery motions.
F. In case of injury or some incident, unforeseen
before a Batter hits a FAIR BALL, "TIME" shall not be called with the
ball in play until all plays in progress have been completed, or the Base Runners
have stopped at their bases.
G. Umpires shall not suspend play for any reason, during live ball
actions, at the request of Players, Coaches, or Mangers until all probable actions
have been completed.
Sec. 12. THE GREATEST UMPIRES KNOW
THE RULES, HUSTLE WHILE COVERING EACH PLAY, AND ARE ABLE TO HANDLE DIFFICULT SITUATIONS
WITH EASE AND DIPLOMACY.
Sec. 1. THE OFFICIAL SCORER
is appointed by the Tournament Manager (or
League) and shall keep records of each Game as outlined in the following Rules.
He shall have sole authority to make all decisions involving judgment. For example,
it is the Scorer's responsibility to determine whether a Batter's advance to First
Base is the result of a Hit or an Error. However, a Scorer shall not make a decision
which conflicts with the Official Playing Rules or with an Umpire's decision.
When no assigned Official Scorer is present, the Umpire shall appoint a Scorer
.
Sec. 2. THE BOX SCORE:
A. Each Player's name and the position or positions he has played
shall be listed in the order in which he batted or would have batted unless he
is removed, or the Game ends before his turn to bat.
B. Each player's
batting and fielding record must be tabulated.
1. The first column shall show the number of times each player batted
during the Game, but no players shall be charged with a turn at bat when
a. He hits
a Sacrifice Fly.
b. He is awarded
a base on balls.
c. He is awarded
First Base because of interference or obstruction.
2. The second column shall show the number
of runs, if any, made by each player.
3. The third column shall show the number
of safe hits, if any, made by each player.
4. The fourth column shall show the number
of putouts, if any, made by each player.
5. The fifth column shall show the number
of assists, if any, made by each player.
6. The sixth column shall show the number
of errors, if any, made by each player.
7. The name of each Player inserted into a Team's lineup as a Substitute
player or Runner shall be recorded and the subsequent record tabulated.
C. The score by innings for each Team shall follow the tabulated
batting and fielding records.
Sec 3. THE SUMMARY.
A. The summary shall follow the score by innings.
B. The summary shall list the following items in this order:
1. The final
score.
2. Runs batted
in and by whom.
3. Two base
hits and by whom.
4. Three base
hits and by whom.
5. Home Runs
and by whom.
6. Sacrifice
Flies and by whom.
7. Double plays
and Players participating in them.
8. Triple plays
and Players participating in them.
9. Number of
Runners left on base, including the Batter-runner.
10. Number
of Bases on Balls given by each Pitcher.
11. Number
of Batters struck out by each Pitcher.
12. Number
of hits and runs allowed by each Pitcher.
13. The name
of the winning Pitcher.
14. The name
of the losing Pitcher.
15. The number of innings or parts of innings pitched by each Pitcher.
A part of an inning is determined by the number of outs. One out is one-third
inning and two outs are two-thirds of an inning.
16. The length
of the Game with any unusual delays deducted.
17. The names
of the Umpires and Scorer.
Sec. 4. ALL INDIVIDUAL AND
TEAM RECORDS OF ANY TIE OR FORFEITED GAME, which has reached or exceeded legal length when ended, shall
become a part of the official Team or League averages except that no Pitcher shall
be credited with a victory or charged with a defeat.
Sec. 5. A RUN BATTED IN is a run scored because of one of the following
reasons:
A. A Base Hit.
B. A Sacrifice Fly.
C. A Foul Fly caught.
D. An infield putout or Fielder's choice.
E. A Base Runner forced home because of a base on balls or Catcher's
obstruction.
F. A Home Run and all runs batted in as a result.
Sec. 6. A BASE HIT is a batted ball that permits a Batter to
reach base safely.
A. When a Batter reaches First Base or any succeeding base safely
on a Fair Ball, which settles on Fair ground, clears a fence, or strikes the ground
before being touched by a Fielder.
B. When a Batter, in attempting to stretch the length of a hit, overslides
a base and is touched out, he is not credited with having made that base.
C. When the Batter ends the Game with a safe hit which drives in
the winning run, he will be credited with as many bases on the hit as was needed
to score the winning run.
D. When a Fair hit ball which has not been touched by a Fielder becomes
dead because of touching the person of an Umpire or Base Runner, before passing
the Infielders.
E. When a Fielder unsuccessfully attempts to retire a preceding Runner
and in the Scorer's judgment, the Batter-runner would not have been retired at
First by perfect fielding.
Sec. 7. A BASE HIT SHALL NOT BE SCORED in the following cases:
A. When a Base Runner is forced out by a batted ball, or would have
been forced out, except for a fielding error.
B. When a player fielding a batted ball retires
a preceding Runner with ordinary effort.
C. When a Fielder fails to retire a preceding
Runner, and in the Scorer's judgment, the Batter-runner could have been retired
at First Base.
Sec 8. THE LENGTH OF A BASE
HIT shall be determined
by the number of bases the Batter advances without the aid of an error, or because
of poor judgment by the fielding Team, or as a result of a play being made on
another Base Runner. However, if a ball is batted over the fence or out of the
park, a Home Run shall be credited.
Sec. 9. A SACRIFICE FLY IS
SCORED when, with less than
two outs, the Batter scores a Runner with a FAIR Fly, which is caught.
Sec. 10. PUTOUTS ARE SCORED in the following situations:
A. A putout credited to a Fielder each time he:
1. Catches
a Fly ball or a Line Drive.
2. Catches
a thrown ball, which retires a Batter or Base Runner.
3. Touches a Base Runner with the ball when the Base Runner is off
the base to which he is entitled.
4. Is nearest the Base Runner declared out, for being hit with a
batted ball, running out of a baseline to avoid being touched with the ball, as
a result of Runner out for interference, or for leaving a base too soon.
B. A putout is credited to the Catcher each time:
1. When a third
strike is called.
2. When the
Batter bunts or chops the ball.
3. When the
Batter bats illegally.
4. When the
Batter is struck with his own fair-batted ball.
5. When a Batter
fails to bat in correct order.
6. When the
Batter or other player interferes with the Catcher.
Sec. 11. ASSISTS ARE SCORED in the following situations:
A. To each player who throws the ball in any series of plays which
result in the putout of a Base Runner. Only one assist shall be given to any player
who handles the ball more than once in any one putout.
B. To each player who throws the ball in any series of plays in a
manner that would have resulted in a putout if an error had not been made by a
Teammate.
C. To a player, who by deflecting the batted ball aids in a putout.
D. To each player who handles the ball in a play which results in
a Base Runner being called out for interference or running out of a baseline.
Sec. 12. DO NOT CREDIT an assist to a Fielder who makes a bad throw
after which the Base Runner is putout on a subsequent play.
Sec. 13. ERRORS ARE RECORDED in the following situations:
A. For each player who commits a misplay, which prolongs the turn
at bat, or the life of the Base Runner.
B. For the Fielder who fails to touch the base after receiving the
ball to retire a Base Runner on a force out or when a Base Runner is compelled
to return to a base.
C. For a Catcher if a Batter is awarded First Base because of obstruction.
D. For the Fielder if a Base Runner advances a base because of his
failure to stop, or try to stop, a ball thrown accurately to a base unless there
was no reason for the throw. When more than one Fielder could have received the
throw, the Scorer must determine which Fielder gets the error.
E. For the
Fielder who fails to complete a double play because of dropping the ball.
F. For the
Fielder who is charged with obstruction.
Sec. 14. ERRORS ARE NOT CHARGED against Fielders in the following situations:
A. When a Fielder makes a wild throw trying to prevent a Base Runner
from advancing unless a Base Runner is able to advance one or more bases beyond
the one he would have reached had the thrown not been wild.
B. When a Fielder drops a Fly Ball, Line Drive, or Thrown Ball and
recovers the ball in time for a putout at any base.
Sec. 15. A PITCHER SHALL BE
CREDITED WITH A WIN in the
following situations:
A. When he is the starting Pitcher and has pitched at least FOUR
innings and his TEAM was not only in the lead when he is replaced but remains
in the lead the remainder of the Game.
B. When a Game is ended after FOUR innings of play and the starting
Pitcher has pitched at least three innings and his Team scores more runs than
the other Team when the Game is terminated.
Sec. 16. A PITCHER SHALL BE
CREDITED WITH A LOSS regardless
of the number of innings he has pitched if he is replaced when his Team is behind
in the Score, and his Team thereafter fails to tie the Score or to gain the lead.
Sec.
17. A STATISTICIAN SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR OR LEAGUE PRESIDENT
who shall maintain an accumulative record of all Batting, Fielding, and Pitching
records specified for every Player who appears in a Championship Game.
EFFECT
Sec 17. The Statistician shall prepare a tabulated report at the end of the Season
or Tournament, including all individual and Team records for all Games, and shall
submit his report to the Tournament or League Head. This report shall identify
each player by his first name and surname, and shall indicate as to each Batter
whether he bats right handed, left handed, or is a switch-hitter; and for each
Fielder and Pitcher, as to whether he throws right handed or left handed.
Sec. 18. TO COMPUTE AND DETERMINE PERCENTAGE
RECORDS.
A. To determine the percentage of Games won or lost, divide the number
of Games won by the total number of Games won or lost.
B. For batting average, divide the Total number of safe hits by the
Total times at bat.
C. For slugging percentage, divide the Total bases of all safe hits
by the Total times at bat.
D. For fielding average, divide the Total putouts and assists by
the Total of all putouts, assists, and errors, which are the Total chances.
E. For Pitcher's earned run average, multiply Total earned Runs charge
to his Pitching by seven, and divide this result by the Total of Innings pitched.
Sec. 19. TO ASSURE UNIFORMITY
IN ESTABLISHING BATTING, PITCHING, AND FIELDING CHAMPIONSHIPS, SUCH CHAMPIONS
SHALL MEET THE FOLLOWING MINIMUM PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.
A. The individual batting Champion shall be the Batter with the highest
percentage average, provided he is credited with as many total appearances at
the Plate in Championship Games as the number of Games scheduled for his Team
in the Season or Tourney, multiplied by 2.5 EXAMPLES: On a 15 Game schedule, 15
x 2.5 equals 37.5 or more times at bat required. If the schedule was for 40 Games,
40 x 2.5 equals 100 times at bat required, to be considered for the Batting Championship.
Total appearances at the Plate shall include Official times at bat, plus bases
on balls, Sacrifice Flies, and times awarded base because of interference.
B. The individual Pitching Champions shall be decided by the lowest
earned run percentage, provided that he has Pitched at least as many innings as
the number of Games scheduled for each Team in the League or Tourney that Season.
C. The Individual Fielding Champions shall be the Fielders with the
highest fielding average at each position.
1. A Fielder
must have participated at his position at lease two-thirds of the number of Games
scheduled for each Team in the League or Tournament that Season.
2. A Pitcher must have pitched at least as many innings as the number
of Games scheduled for each Team in its League or Tournament that Season.
Sec. 1. The Youth Program will be divided into the following age classifications:
Any boy or any girl who on or before 1 January
reaches the birthday listed below is not eligible to participate in that Division
Division
Boys & Girls 6 & Under Seventh Birthday
Boys & Girls 8 & Under Ninth Birthday
Boys & Girls 10 & Under Eleventh Birthday
Boys & Girls 12 & Under Thirteenth Birthday
Boys & Girls 14 & Under Fifteenth Birthday
Boys & Girls 16 & Under Seventeenth Birthday
Boys 18 & Under Nineteenth Birthday
Girls 19 & Under Twentieth Birthday
Sec. 2. Any player can play in a higher age classification but cannot
play in a lower age classification.
Sec. 3. Players cannot play in both age groups in the same area at
the same time.
Sec. 4. The Youth Program is designed for both girls and boys; however,
the boys' programs should be entirely separate from the girls' programs.
Sec.
5. Youth Program field dimensions:
| DIVISION | PITCHING | BASE
PATH | PLAYING
FIELD RADIUS |
| Boys
& Girls 6 & Under | 35' | 55' | 200' |
| Boys
& Girls 8 & Under | 35' | 55' | 200' |
| Girls
10 & Under | 40' | 60' | 200' |
| Boys
10 & Under | 40' | 65' | 225' |
| Boys
& Girls 12 & Under | 46' | 65' | 225' |
| Girls
14 & Under | 50' | 65' | 250' |
| Boys
14 & Under | 50' | 65' | 300' |
| Girls
16 & Under | 50' | 65' | 250' |
| Boys
16 & Under | 50' | 65' | 300' |
| Girls
19 & Under | 50' | 65' | 250' |
| Boys
18 & Under | 50' | 65' | 300' |
Sec. 6. A Team cannot be composed of more than 20 players.
Sec. 7. The Catcher must wear a mask and protective helmet (optional
in Boys 18 & Under Program), and it is strongly recommended to wear a chest
protector. In the Girls Youth Program, it is further strongly recommended that
all participants utilize available protective equipment.
Sec. 8. The Youth Program will use an 11 inch blue stitch softball
in all USSSA Tournaments. (Exception: The Boys 16 and Boys 18 & Under Program will use a 12 inch blue stitched
softball in all USSSA Tournaments.)
Sec. 9. The Batter is out if he has three strikes.
A. He hits second foul after two strikes. Ball is dead.
Sec. 10. Numbers on all uniforms are required at World
Tournament. In the Girls Youth Program, non-duplicating numbers on all jerseys
are required at all World Tournaments. The numbers must be a minimum of 3 inches
in size and clearly visible.
Sec. 11. The Batter is awarded First Base when four
balls are called by the Umpire.
Sec. 12. In all Youth Programs, Offensive Players
must wear a "NOCSAE" approved batting helmet with extended earflaps,
which cover both ears and temples when in the live ball area.
Sec.
13. The Run Rule in the
Youth Program awards a win to a Team that has a 15 run lead after four completed
innings or 3-1/2 innings, if the home Team is ahead or a 10 run lead after 5 completed
innings or 4-1/2 innings if the home Team is ahead.
Sec. 14. In the Youth Programs a minimum of 9 players
can start a Game. However, an out shall be declared when the tenth position in
the lineup is scheduled to bat. A tenth player may be added to the tenth position
any time before the end of a Game. Any Team that starts a Game with ten or eleven
players may drop to the minimum of nine players to finish the Game. All vacant
spot(s) in the lineup will be declared an out every time that lineup position
is due to bat. If a player is ejected from the Game for any reason, the ejected
player's Team must have a substitute available to replace the ejected player or
that Team will forfeit the Game. If a Team starts with 9 or 10 players they are
not allowed to add the eleventh player at a later time. Any player that leaves
the Game for any reason may not return to the Game. Exception: A player, who has
left the Game under the blood rule, may return.
Sec. 15. The following rules will be used in the Girls
8 & Under Program:
A. The Game will
consist of 6 innings, with a "Run Rule" being declared if a Team is
ahead by 12 runs after 4 innings (3½ if the Home Team is ahead), or 8 runs after
5 innings (4½ if the Home Team is ahead).
B. There will be no Infield Fly Rule in effect.
C. Each position in the batting order will be allowed at bat a maximum
of once per inning. The end of an inning will be declared when either 3 outs are
made or all Batters have batted one time.
D. Each Team will name a Coach to act as "Designated Pitcher"
to pitch to their Team.
E. The Designated Pitcher may be changed at any time during the Game
as long as another Coach takes that position, and the change is made without excessive
delay of the Game.
F. The designated Pitcher may carry a glove onto the field while
pitching. It is to be used for his own protection only.
G. While pitching, the Designated Pitcher may not coach his/her own
Team in any way. The Designated Pitcher may not distract the Defensive Players
in any way, either by action(s) or verbally. Violations of this rule will result
in the Designated Pitcher receiving one warning from the Umpire, and should a
second violation occur, he would be removed from the designated pitching position
for the remainder of the Game.
H. If the Designated Pitcher attempts to field/play the batted ball,
or he is hit by the batted ball before it passes a Fielder a dead ball will be
declared, the Batter Runner is called out, but the Runners may not advance.
I. Should the Designated Pitcher be hit by a thrown ball, the infraction
constitutes interference. All play stops, the ball is declared dead, the most
advanced Runner is called out, and remaining Base Runners must return to the last
base touched unless forced to advance.
J. Before any pitch is delivered, a Defensive
Player must be positioned parallel to the Pitcher's Plate, to the left or right
of the Designated Pitcher, maintaining sufficient distance so not to interfere
with the delivery of the pitch. Neither this Defensive Player nor any other Defensive
Player in the Game, other than the Catcher, shall be positioned closer to Home
Plate than the Pitcher's Plate. Any Defensive Player may move ahead of the to
field a ball once hit or thrown. There must be a line drawn in an arc from Foul
Line to Foul Line at the pitching distance to indicate this distance.
K. Balls and Strikes will be called by the Umpire, although no base
on balls will be awarded by the Umpire due to thrown pitches or intentional walks.
The Batter will be allowed 3 strikes or 5 pitches to hit the ball in fair territory.
If third strike results in a Foul Ball, the pitch is counted, but the Batter is
not out. After 3 strikes or 5 pitches, the Batter is out.
L. Any pitch that does not meet
the minimum 3 feet from the point of release requirement will be declared an ILLEGAL
PITCH/DEAD BALL. The pitch counts as one of their 5 pitches.
M. If the Teams are tied after 6 innings of play, they will begin the next inning
with the last Batter of the previous inning on second base and 2 outs.
Sec. 16. A Coach, Player, attendant, or bench personnel
shall not use tobacco products in any form in the confines of the playing field.
PENALTY: The Umpire shall issue a Team warning to the Team involved, any subsequent
offenders on that Team shall be ejected.
Sec. 17. All playing rules not specifically covered
in Rule 12 of this book shall be governed by the other Rules as outlined in Rules
1 through 11 of this book.
RULE
13. MEN'S CLASS "B," "C," "D," AND "E" PROGRAMS
Sec.
1.
A. Only one Major Player from the Major Player's List will be allowed
on a Men's Class "B" Team roster.
B. Any Player whose name appears on a Major Player's List shall not
be allowed to play at the Men's Class "C," "D," or "E" level.
Sec. 2. In the Men's Class "B," "C," "D,"
and "E" Programs,
a minimum of 9 Players can start a Game. However, an out shall be declared when
the tenth position in the lineup is scheduled to bat. A tenth Player may be added
to the tenth position any time before the end of a Game. Any Team that starts
a Game with 10 or 11 Players may drop to the minimum of 9 Players to finish the
Game. All vacant spot(s) in the lineup will be declared an out every time that
lineup position is due to bat. If a Player is ejected from the Game for any reason,
the ejected Player's Team must have a substitute available to replace the ejected
Player or that Team will forfeit the Game. If a Team starts with 9 or 10 Players
they are not allowed to add the eleventh Player at a later time. Any Player that
leaves the Game for any reason may not return to the Game. Exception: A Player
who has left the Game under the blood rule, may return.
Sec. 3. In the Men's Class "B" and "C" program,
the Tournament Director has the option (for catch-up purposes) of permitting the
following: On a fair fly ball hit over the fence for a Home Run, the Batter and
all Base Runners are credited with a score. The Batter and any Runner on base
do not need to advance and touch the bases. They should go directly to the dugout
area. This would eliminate any baserunning appeals.
Sec. 4. All playing rules not specifically covered in Rule 13 of this
book shall be governed by other rules as outlined in Rules 1 through 11 of the
USSSA Rule Book.
Sec. 1. Five male and five female Players must be in the lineup at
all times (six and six if A.H. is used). Any five male and any five female Players
must play Defense. Exception: A minimum of 9 Players can start a Game. However,
there must always be five females Players in the lineup. An out shall be declaring
the tenth position in the lineup when that position is scheduled to
bat. A tenth Player may be added in the tenth position of the lineup at any time
before the end of the Game. That added Player must be male.
Sec. 2. The 11 Inch softball will be used when a female is batting
and a 12 Inch softball will be used when a male is batting. It is an appeal play
when the wrong ball is pitched to a Batter. If the appeal is allowed, then the
Batter returns to bat with the same ball and strike count he/she has at the time
of the pitch. Also, any Base Runners must return to the base occupied at the time
of pitch.
Sec.
3. Male and female Players
must alternate in the batting order. NOTE: If a Team starts the Game with 9 Players, a female Player must
occupy the first position in the batting order.
Sec.
4. When a male Batter receives
a base on balls or intentional walk, he will be awarded First and Second Base
with the next female Batter having the option to walk or bat.
NOTE: If the next female chooses to walk, it
is not considered an intentional walk for the purpose of making an appeal.
Sec.
5. The winner of the Mixed
"D" Divisions in all Mixed National Tournaments and NIT's with seventeen
(17) or more Teams must compete the following year in a higher mixed classification.
Sec. 6. The Mixed Program shall feature four Divisions that will be
called Mixed "A," "B," "C," and "D."
A. Any male Player on the National Major Players List, or who competed
during the season on the Men's Class "Major" or "A" Teams,
shall be required to play in a Mixed "A" Division.
B. Mixed Teams that have male Players who competed during the season
of Men's Class "B" Teams and any female Players who competed during
the season on Women's Class "A" Teams shall be required to play in a
Division no lower than Mixed "B."
C. Mixed Teams that have male Players who competed during the season
on Men's Class "C" Teams and any female Players who competed during
the season on Women's Class "B" Teams shall be required to play in a
Division no lower than Mixed "C." D. Mixed Teams that play in the Mixed
"D" Division may not have Players who competed during the season on
Men's "Major," Class "A," "B," or "C"
Teams or Women's Class "A" or "B" Teams.
E. Teams or individuals that did not compete during the current season
shall be registered and classified for Mixed World, National or NIT play by their
respective Area or State Director.
Sec. 7. A Mixed Class "A" Team shall be allowed only one
male Player whose name appears on the association's Major Player List.
Sec. 8. The Run Rule in Mixed NIT's, National Tournaments, and World Tournaments that awards
a win to a Team ahead in a Game after 4 or more innings is 20 runs, or after 5
or more innings is 15 runs.
Sec.9. 12 inch
softballs in the Mixed program must have a COR of 0.44 or lower, and a compression
of 375 pounds, or lower.
Sec. 10. In the Mixed program, the Tournament director has the option of permitting
the following: On a fair fly ball hit over the fence for a Home Run, the Batter
and all Base Runners are credited with a score. The Batter and any Runner on base
do not need to advance and touch the bases. They should go directly to the dugout
area. This would eliminate any base running appeals.
Sec. 11. In the Mixed Class "C" program, after a Team reaches
its Home Run limit (2 Home Runs), any Batter who hits an untouched Fair Ball over
the fence will be declared out.
Sec. 12. Any Player male or female in the Mixed "D" Division, hitting
a Home Run over a fence of 300 feet or more, shall be ejected from the Game.
Sec. 13. All playing rules not specifically covered in Rule 14 in this book
shall be governed by the other rules in Rules 1 through 11 in this book.
Sec. 1. The official diamond of the field shall have baselines of
60 feet for men and women. Pitching distance shall be 38 feet for both men and
women. The Batter's Box shall be 6-1/2 feet long and 3 feet wide. The front line
of the Batter's Box shall be 4 feet forward from the center corner of Home Plate.
Sec. 2. The 16 Inch ball shall have the core wound with a fine quality
twisted yarn to 15-5/8 to 15 3/4 inches in circumference. The completed ball shall
be between 15-3/4 and 16-1/4 inches in circumference and shall weigh between 9
and 10 ounces.
Sec. 3. The Pitcher shall be allowed two fake deliveries, but on the
third motion the Pitcher must deliver the ball to Home Plate. The pitched ball
must be released within 10 seconds from the time the Pitcher receives the ball
at the Pitcher's position, near the plate.
Sec. 4. The Batter is out if he has two strikes.
A. He hits
two Foul Balls after one strike. Then the ball is dead.
Sec. 5. The Batter is awarded First Base when three balls are called
by the Umpire.
Sec. 6. Base stealing is not permitted. However, a Base Runner shall
be permitted to leadoff at anytime, but is subject to being thrown out. If a pick
off is made on a Runner at any base by the Catcher or Pitcher, the Runner may
advance only to the next unoccupied base at his own risk.
EFFECT Sec. 6. If a Base Runner advances to the next unoccupied base
prior to a pick off throw from the Pitcher or Catcher, the Runner is out and the
ball is dead.
Sec. 7. The ball must be returned to the Pitcher after each pitch
not hit except on pick off attempts by the Catcher.
Sec. 8. The Run Rule which awards a win to a Team ahead in a Game
after 5 more completed innings is 10 or more runs.
Sec.
9. A Pitcher must present
the ball to the Batter on the Pitching Rubber. After presenting the ball for one
second, the Pitcher may take one step in any direction. Once a Pitcher has taken
his step he must present the ball again before he pitches. The foot that the Pitcher
steps with becomes his pivot foot, and cannot move. The other foot may be placed
in any direction except in front of pivot foot.
Sec.
10. The main criteria for
classifying a 16 Inch softball Team is the overall strength of the Team both offensively
and Defensively. Depending on the strength of the Offense and Defense a Team with
no power hitters may be classified as Major, Class "A," or Recreational.
Sec. 11. All playing rules not specifically covered
in Rule 15 of this book shall be governed by the other rules as outlined in rules
1 through 11 of this book.
Sec.
1. Age requirements: Men's and Women's Masters Division. If
the Player reaches the below listed age
during the calendar year, he/she would be eligible to play in that Division.
DIVISION
35 & Over_________________________________________
_______35
40 & Over____________________________________________
____40
45 & Over ________________________________________________45
50 & Over________________________________________________ 50
55 & Over________________________________________________
55
60 & Over ________________________________________________60
65 & Over ________________________________________________65
70 & Over ________________________________________________70
Sec. 2. Non-duplicating numbers are required on all Teams' uniform
jerseys at all Men's and Women's Masters, NIT's, and World Tournaments. The numbers
must be a minimum of 3 inches in size and clearly visible. Jerseys and pants and/or
shorts must be similar in color. If hats are worn they must be similar.
Sec. 3. Courtesy Runner
A. In the Men's 35, 40, 45, and Women's 35 & over Divisions,
only one courtesy Runner per inning may be used. The courtesy Runner will be the
last recorded out. If it is the first inning and there are no outs, the courtesy
Runner will be the Player in the last position of the batting order.
B. In the Men's 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, and Women's 50, 55, 60, and 65
& over Divisions, a courtesy Runner may be used at any time. The courtesy
Runner may be any Player on the Team roster. The same courtesy Runner may not
be used more than once per inning, and any courtesy Runner caught running more
than once per inning or running when it is his/her turn to bat will be declared
out.
Sec. 4. Divisions of Play and Home Run Rule
A. The Men's Masters 35, 40, 45, and 70 and over programs will have
one Division of play. The Men's 35, 40, and 45 & over programs will be allowed
three Home Runs per Team, per Game. Any Home Run in excess of the limit allowed
will be ruled a dead ball out. There is no Home Run limit in the Men's 70 &
over Division.
B. The Men's Seniors 50, 55, 60, 65 and over programs will have one
Division of play called Major. The Major Division will be allowed seven Home Runs
per Team, per Game. Any Home Run in excess in the Men's Senior Major Division
will be ruled a single. All Runners advance one base.
Sec. 5. Men's Masters/Senior's Roster Rule:
a Men's 35, 40, 45, 50,
55, 60, 65 and over Team may only have Players on its roster that live in the
state the Team is registered in or any bordering state. EXCEPTION: Teams will be entitled to
one exception to this rule providing the player's name is not on the Association's
Major Player list and that the player has not competed during the season on a
Men's Class "Major," "A," or "B" Team.
Sec. 6. The Game may start with 9 Players; however, an out shall be
declared when the tenth position in the lineup is scheduled to bat. A tenth Player
may be added in the tenth position anytime before the end of the Game. A Team
that starts with 10, 11, or 12 Players may drop to a minimum of 9 Players to finish
a Game. All vacant spot(s) in the lineup will be declared an out every time that
lineup position is due to bat. If a Player is ejected from the Game for any reason
the Team must have a substitute available to replace the ejected Player or the
Team will forfeit the Game. If a Team starts with 9 or 10 Players they are not
allowed to add the eleventh or twelfth at a later time.
Sec. 7. A Team shall be awarded a win, by the Run Rule, if they are
ahead by 25 runs after three innings, 20 runs after four innings or 15 runs after
five or more complete innings.
Sec. 8. All participants in a Men's and Women's Master's World Tournament
must have a photo ID, with proof of age, and a check in prior to participating.
Sec.
9. For Masters 50 and over
A. In the Men's and Women's Seniors Programs a scoring plate will
be used. The scoring plate shall be located with its right corner 8 feet from
the back of Home Plate. The scoring plate shall be situated on the imaginary extension
of the First Base Foul Line. The scoring plate should be anchored to the ground
to prevent slippage and change of position during the Game. The Offensive Team
must always touch the scoring plate when scoring.
EFFECT Sec. 9A: If the Runner touches Home Plate the Runner is automatically
out. The Defensive team must always touch home plate for the out. if there is
an attempt by the Defensive Team to tag the Runner, the Runner is automatically
safe.
B. A commitment line will be used in the Men's and Women's Seniors
Programs. A commitment line shall be marked in Foul Territory halfway between
Home Plate and Third Base, on the Third Base foul line at a 90-degree angle to
the Third Base Foul Line. Once a Runner touches the ground on or past the commitment
line, defensive Players can put the Runner out by touching Home Plate while holding
the ball (they cannot touch Runner).
C. In the Men's Master's 50 & over and above programs, a strike
zone mat will be used. The mat will be 17 inches wide and 24 inches long measured
from the end of the mat to the tip of each side that abuts the backside of Home
Plate. The end of the mat that abuts Home Plate shall have a "V" shaped
notch that will conform to the outline of the backside of the plate. Together,
Home Plate and the strike zone mat will form a rectangular shape 17 inches x 32-1/2
inches. Any legal pitch that hits the plate or the mat shall be ruled a
strike.
D. A Safety Base is mandatory in the Men's and Women's Senior's Program.
(See Rule 2. Sec. 6. NOTE)
E. In the Men's Masters 50 and over programs, up to two additional
hitters may be used.
F. In the Men's 70 & Over Program, a
Team may use 11 Defensive Players.
G. Sliding or diving headfirst is not allowed when going to First
Base or at Home Plate. The Runner would be ruled out. Sliding or diving headfirst
is allowed when returning to First Base or at any time at Second or Third Base.
H. All Men's Masters 50, 55, 60, 65 and Over Teams must participate
in an NIT, Invitational, State, or any men's sanctioned/league play to qualify
for participation in the World Tournament.
I. All Men's Masters 50, 55, 60, 65, 70 and Over, Players must have,
or at least applied for, a Master's USSSA Photo ID card to participate in any
Masters sanctioned Tournament, except for the World Tournament. Any Team caught
participating in a Master's sanctioned Tournament with a Player that does not
have a USSSA Photo ID card will be ejected from the Tournament and placed last
in the standings. That Team would also forfeit their berth to participate in the
World Tournament.
J. In the Men's 50, 55, 60, 65, 70 and Over and the Women's 50, 55,
60, 65 and Over Divisions, the pitched ball must arc at least six feet from the
ground, but not more that ten feet from the ground after leaving the Pitcher's
hand and before it passes any part of Home Plate.
K. If a Men's Seniors 50 & 55 Major Division
has three or less Teams entered in the World Tournament, they can play in the
"AAA" Division using the "AAA" Home Run Rule. When the Divisions
combine, the Seniors Major excessive home run rule will be used.
Sec. 10. Women's Masters
A. The Women's 35, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65 & Over Programs will have one Division of
play. There is no limit on the number of Home Runs a Women's Masters Team can
hit per Game.
B. A Women's 35 & Over Team may have no more than 2 active Women's
Class "A" Players on their roster.
C. In the Women's 45,
50, 55, 60, 65 & Over Divisions, a Team can play 11 Defensive Players and
they can bat up to 12 on Offense.
D. A Women's 45
and Over team may have two players on its roster that are 43 to 44 years of age.
A Women's 50 & Over Team may have two Players on its roster that are 48 to
49 years of age. A 55 and Over Team can have two Players 53 to 54; a 60 and Over
Team can have two Players 58 to 59; and a 65 and Over Team can have two Players
63 to 64 years of age.
E. Overrunning is permitted in the Women's Senior (55 and Older Divisions): The Base Runner
is allowed to overrun Second and Third Bases without being put out as long as
she makes no attempt to advance to the next base. The Base Runner must retouch
Second or Third Base before advancing.
Sec. 11. Fence Distance
A. In the Men's Masters 60 and 65 Divisions, the radius distance
will be a minimum of 275 feet to a maximum of 325 feet fence distance for World
Tournament play.
B. In the Men's Masters 70 and 75 and Women's 50, 55, 60, 65 &
Over Divisions, the radius distance will be a minimum of 25 feet to a maximum
of 325 feet fence distance for World Tournament play.
Sec. 12. All playing rules not specifically covered
in Rule 16 of this book shall be governed by the other rules as outlined in rules
1 through 11 of this book.
Sec. 1. A One-pitch Game shall be seven innings.
Sec. 2. Batters will receive one pitch and will accept
the result of the pitch whether the ball is hit, taken for as a walk, or is a
strike out.
Sec. 3 No major Teams shall be allowed to participate
in the One-pitch National Invitational Tournaments.
Sec. 4. All playing rules not specifically covered
in Rule 17 of this book shall be governed by the other rules as outlined in Rules
1 through 11 of this book.
Sec.
1. Corporate Teams must
use the name of the corporation, business, government agency, etc., it represents
during Corporate competition. This provision does not preclude a Team from having
additional sponsors or from wearing a uniform displaying another sponsor's name.
Sec. 2. Under the "Corporate" umbrella
are included Union Local Teams, Trade Union Teams, Law Enforcement Teams, Airline
Industry Teams, Firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician/Paramedic Teams,
Women's Corporate, and Mixed Corporate Teams. The Corporate program will consist
of Class "A," Class "B," and Recreational Divisions.
Sec. 3. All Players of Corporate Teams that compete
in State, Area, National, or World Tournaments that are considered Corporate Tournaments
must meet one of the following eligibility criteria:
A. Be bona fide full-time employees of the Team sponsor at the time
the Tournament is Played. Corporate Teams will be allowed only 3 non-employees
on their rosters. If any of these non-employees are from a registered men's "B"
Team or above, the Team must compete in the Corporate "A" program. All
bona fide full-time employees with less than 60 days continuous service with a
Team sponsor will not be eligible to play in the Corporate Tournament. Employees
who might be on military duty shall be considered
eligible to compete. Industrial sponsors such as Corporations, Businesses, Government
Agencies, etc., that operate in more than one location within a State may be considered
as one sponsor. Such sponsor cannot combine with an out of state location.
B. Volunteer Firefighters, Emergency Medical Technicians/Paramedics,
and Reserve Law Enforcement Officers must have been a member of their respective
departments prior to January 1 of the current year and have a combined total of
100 hours of training or response service within 8 months preceding the Tournament
date.
Sec. 4. All Players participating in the Men's Class
"A" Corporate World Tournament or the Men's Class "B" Corporate
World Tournament, or the Women's Corporate World Tournament may not play in any
other Tournament on the same weekend that the Corporate World Tournaments are
held
Sec. 5. All Players of Local Union Teams that compete
in State, National, or World Tournaments that are considered Union Local Tournaments
must be bona fide Union members from the same local with a minimum of 60 days'
membership.
Sec. 6. Union Local Players or Teams may be eligible
to participate in the Corporate Program only if they meet the guidelines for Corporate
participation and eligibility.
Sec.
7. Union Local State, National,
or World Tournaments may not be held on the Labor Day weekend.
Sec.
8. Trade Union Local Teams
may participate in the Corporate program if they meet the following criteria:
A. All Team members are bona fide members
of the Trade Union they represent.
B. All Team members are covered under a negotiated Trade Union contract
providing wages and benefits.
C. All Players of the Trade Union Local Teams that compete in State,
National, or World Tournaments that are considered Corporate Teams must have 60
days' continuous service with the Trade Union Local they represent, prior to participating
in any Corporate Tournaments.
Sec. 9. Players qualified to compete in the National
or World Tournament, including the World Series, will also be eligible to compete
in the World Corporate Tournament provided all qualifications are met as outlined
in the above sections of Rule 18.
Sec. 10. A. The Teams participating in National or
World Corporate Tournaments must have their rosters signed by an executive of
the personnel department certifying that each Player is bona fide full-time employee
of the Team's sponsor and that each Player has been employed full- time for at
least 60 continuous days prior to the date of the Tournament.
B. Volunteer firefighters, emergency medical technicians/paramedics
and reserve law enforcement officers must have their rosters signed by their respective
department heads, certifying that the Player is a bona fide member of the department,
the date the Player joined the department, and the number of training hours attended
by the Player and the number of hours the Player served during responses.
Sec. 11. Any Player who signs a personal services
contract is not eligible to play in the Men's Corporate Class "B" Program
during the duration of such signed contract.
Sec.
12. In the Corporate Programs,
a minimum of 9 Players can start a Game. However, an out shall be declared when
the tenth position in the lineup is scheduled to bat. A tenth Player may be added
to the tenth position at any time before the end of a Game. Any Team that starts
a Game with 10 or 11 Players may drop to the minimum of 9 Players to finish the
Game. All vacant spot(s) in the lineup will be declared an out every time that
lineup position is due to bat. If a Player is ejected from the Game for any reason,
the ejected Player's Team must have a substitute available to replace the ejected
Player or that Team will forfeit the Game. If a Team starts with 9 or 10 Players
they are not allowed to add the eleventh Player at a later time. Any Player that
leaves the Game for any reason may not return to the Game.
Exception: A Player who has left the Game under the Blood Rule may
return.
Sec. 13. Teams must participate in at least one USSSA
Tournament or participate in a USSSA sanctioned corporate league to be eligible
to advance to the Corporate World Tournament.
Sec. 14. All playing rules not specifically covered
in Rule 18 of this book shall be governed by the other rules, as outlined in Rules
1 through 11 of the USSSA Rule Book.
Sec. 1. The Men's
and Women's Hispanic World Tournament will feature two Divisions, which will be
called Competitive and Recreation.
Sec.
2. Any Men's and Women's Hispanic Team that
has Players on its roster who played during the current season on Class "A,"
"B," or "C" Teams shall be shall be required to play in the Hispanic Competitive Division.
Sec. 3. An Hispanic Team playing in the
Men's Competitive Division may have one player on its roster whose name appears
on the Major Player's List.
Sec. 4. Hispanic Men's and Women's Recreation
Division Teams may have only players who compete in the Class "D" or
lower classification. No Player whose name appears on the Major Player's List
shall be allowed to compete in the Hispanic Men's and Women's Recreation Division.
Sec. 5. Any Player who signs a Personal Services Contract is not eligible
to play in the Men's Hispanic or
Women's Hispanic Recreation Division Programs during the duration of the
signed contract.
Sec. 6. In the Hispanic Programs a minimum of 9 Players can start a Game.
However, an out shall be declared when the tenth position in the lineup is scheduled
to bat. A tenth Player may be added to the tenth position any time before the
end of a Game. Any Team that starts a Game with 10 or 11 Players may drop to the
minimum of 9 Players to finish the Game. All vacant spot(s) in the lineup will
be declared an out every time that lineup position is due to bat. If a Player
is ejected from the Game for any reason, the ejected Players Team must have a
substitute available to replace the ejected Player or that Team will forfeit the
Game. If a Team starts with 9 or 10 Players they are not allowed to add the eleventh
Player at a later time. Any Player that leaves the Game for any reason may not
return to the Game.
Exception: A Player who has left the Game under the Blood Rule may
return.
Sec.
7. All playing rules not specifically covered
in Rule 19 of this book, shall be governed by the other rules, as outlined in
Rules 1 through 11 of the USSSA Rule Book.
Sec. 1. The Black
American World Tournament will feature 5 Divisions which will be called Men's
Major, Competitive, Recreation, and Women's Competitive and Recreation.
a.
Any Black American Men's Team registered Major, Class "A" or "B"
will be required to play in the Black American Major Division.
b. Any
Black American Men's Team registered Class "C" in the Open Program will
be required to play in the Black American Competitive Division.
c. Any
Black American Men's Team registered Class "D" or lower in the Open
Program will be required to play in the Black American Recreation Division.
d. Any
Black American Women's Team registered Class "A" or "B" in
the Open Program will be required to play in the Black American Competitive Division.
e. Any
Black American Women's Team registered in Class "C" or lower in the
Open Program will be required to play in the Black American Recreation Division.
f. All
teams will have the option to compete at a higher level if they choose to do so.
Sec. 2. Any Men's Black American Team that has Players
on its roster who Played during the current season on Class "A" or "B"
Teams shall be required to play the Black American Competitive Division.
Sec. 3. Black American Recreational Teams may have
only Players who compete in the Men's Class "C" or lower classification.
No Player whose name appears on the Major Player's List shall be allowed to compete
in the Black American Recreational Division.
Sec. 4. Black American Teams classified, as Competitive
shall only be allowed two (2) male Players whose name appears on the Association's
Major Player's List.
Sec. 5. Teams
participating in the Black American Program will be allowed to have only 5 players
that are not of black origin on the roster. Only 3 will be allowed to participate
in the game at the same time on offense or defense.
Sec. 6. Any Player who signs a Personal Services
Contract is not eligible to play in the Men's Black American Recreational Program
during the duration of such signed contract.
Sec. 7. In the Black American programs a minimum
of 9 Players can start a Game. However, an out shall be declared when the tenth
position in the lineup is scheduled to bat. A tenth Player may be added to the
tenth position any time before the end of a Game. Any Team that starts a Game
with 10 or 11 Players may drop to the minimum of 9 Players to finish the Game.
All vacant spot(s) in the lineup will be declared an out every time that lineup
position is due to bat. If a Player is ejected from the Game for any reason, the
ejected Player's Team must have a substitute available to replace the ejected
Player or that Team will forfeit the Game. If a Team starts with 9 or 10 Players
they are not allowed to add the eleventh Player at a later time. Any Player that
leaves the Game for any reason may not return to the Game.
Exception: A Player who has left the Game under the Blood Rule may
return.
Sec. 8. A team
in the Black American Major Division shall be awarded a win by the Run Rule if
they are ahead by 25 runs after 3 innings, 20 runs after 4 innings and 15 runs
after 5 innings. All other Divisions will be awarded a win if they are ahead by
20 runs after 3 innings, 15 runs after 4 innings, or 10 runs after 5 innings.
Sec. 9. All playing rules not specifically covered
in Rule 20 of this book shall be governed by the other rules, as outline in Rules
1 through 11 of the USSSA Rule Book.
Sec. 1. The Military Men's Program shall feature 3 Divisions: Military Varsity "A,"
"B," and Intramural.
Sec. 2. The Military Women's Program will consist of a Military Varsity Division.
Sec. 3. A bona fide Men's Military Team consists of Active Duty, Active
Duty dependents, Reserves, ROTC, National Guard, retired military personnel and Department
of Defense civilians. All Players must have a Department of Defense Identification
card. A bona fide Women's Military Team consists of Active Duty, Reserves, ROTC,
National Guard, retired military
and military dependents
18 years or older and Department of Defense employees providing direct support
to a military base. All
Players must have a government Identification card.
Sec. 4. For Teams participating in the Military World Tournament, Players
may participate in two Divisions of play, Varsity "A" or "B"
and their intramural Team. Intramural Teams are limited to a maximum of 4 Players
from the Varsity Team roster. The 4 Varsity Players must be so indicated on their
intramural roster prior to playing the first Tournament Game. If during Tournament
play there is a conflict in Games, the Player must choose which Team to play with.
TDY personnel are eligible to compete in the World Tournament if the TDY assignment
is 6 months or more in duration.
Sec. 5. A Team may combine with only one other Team.
Both of those Teams must be from the same state. The resulting Team must then
compete at the Varsity "A" Division.
Sec. 6. Teams must play in at least one USSSA Tournament
or participate in a USSSA sanctioned league to be eligible to advance to the Military World Tournament.
Sec.
7. An Intramural Team is
composed of eligible Players, all assigned to the same installation, base, post,
or ship which are able to participate in this installation's intramural program.
All Players are assigned to one of the following levels of command:
a. Air Force - Squadron or lower
b. Army - Company or lower
c. Navy - Command, Squadron or Unit of 1,000 or less
d. Marine Corps - Division or lower
e. Coast Guard - Group of 1,000 or less
Sec. 8. In the Military Program, a minimum of 9 Players can start
a Game. However, an out shall be declared when the tenth position in the lineup
is scheduled to bat. A tenth Player may be added to the tenth position any time
before the end of a Game. Any Team that starts a Game with 9 or 10 Players may
drop to the minimum of 9 Players to finish the Game. All vacant spot(s) in the
lineup will be declared an out every time that lineup position is due to bat.
If a Player is ejected from the Game for any reason, the ejected Player's Team
must have a substitute available to replace the ejected Player or that Team will
forfeit the Game. If a Team starts with 9 or 10 Players they are not allowed to
add the eleventh Player at a later time. Any Player that leaves the Game for any
reason may not return to the Game. Exception: A Player, who has left the Game
under the Blood Rule, may return.
Sec. 9. All playing rules not specifically covered
in Rule 21 of this book shall be governed by the other rules as outlined in Rules
1 through 11 of this Rule Book.
Sec. 1. A. Any Player of a Church Team that is competing
in a State, Area, National, or World Tournament that are considered exclusive
Church Tournaments must be active participants in the worship services of the
Church for which he is playing prior to June 1st of the current year.
B. State Directors or State Church Directors may contact the church
pastor or church official who signs the roster to certify roster is in compliance
with Section 1. A. above, prior to advancing Teams to State, National or World
Tournaments.
Sec. 2. Any Player who participates in the Church
National or World Tournaments must have participated previously in their State
Church Program during the current season.
Sec. 3. Any Player whose name appears on the Major
Players List or participates on a Team classified as Major will not be allowed
to play in the Church Class "B" and "C" Programs during that
season.
Sec. 4.