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) 939-7640 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,
Celebration, Florida 34747
Assistant Executive
Directors
Gary Wallick, P.O. Box 660596, Arcadia, CA 91006
Jim Swint, P.O. Box 1985, Hutchinson, KS 67504
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,
Celebration, Fl 34747
USSSA National Headquarters
Telephone (321) 939-7640
Fax (321) 939-7647
E-mail: support@usssa.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 2. EQUIPMENT.....................................................................................................................6
RULE 3.
DEFINITIONS...................................................................................................................11
RULE 7. BATTING..........................................................................................................................26
RULE 8.
BASERUNNING...............................................................................................................29
.
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 |
3 |
|
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 64.
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. 5.A. 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. 2. B. 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. In these situations, the ball remains live and
in play, and other baserunners are in jeopardy. This does not apply to walks and home runs as the ball is dead in
those situations.
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
two division of play called Major and “AAA”. The “AAA” division will be allowed
three home runs per team, per game. Any
home run in excess of the limit in the “AAA” division will be ruled a dead ball
out. 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