SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO LITTLE LEAGUE: 2008 SJCLL Local Rules
For the 2008 Official Little League Baseball Rule Changes, please CLICK HERE.(Adobe format)
Changes to the 2008 SJCLL Local Rules are indicated in RED.
CODE OF ETHICS
THE MANAGERS
Each manager and coach in the San Juan Capistrano Little League is expected to respect a code of ethics that brings honor to the game of baseball, to San Juan Little League, and to Little League Baseball. Therefore, each manager and coach is expected …
1. To reflect an understanding of the age group they supervise.
2. To demonstrate that they have an appreciation of the philosohpy of Little League Baseball, and cooperate with others in making the program a mutual benefit to all youngsters.
3. To show by example that they respect the judgment and the position of authority of the umpire. They instill in their players respect for the authority of adult leaders in the league.
4. To exercise their leadership role adequately by leaving the ballgame in the hands of the players.
5. To provide an opportunity for each youngster to participate (within the guidelines of San Juan Little League and of Little League Baseball).
6. To encourage all players at every opportunity.
7. To instill a desire to win and improve, striving to impart as much baseball knowledge as possible to each player.
8. To encourage good health habits, good grooming, and care of the uniform.
9. To be instrumental in shaping acceptable patterns of behavior whether the team wins or loses.
10. To know the playing rules of Little League Baseball and to be able to interpret them correctly. To play by the rules and adhere to their intent, instilling in the players a respect for the rules of the game.
11. To be well acquainted with the player selection system used in San Juan Little League and select players for the team according to their abilities.
12. To be cautious and use sound, reasonable judgment in a protest situation.
13. To have knowledge of first aid and safety.
RULES ENFORCEMENT FOR MANAGERS, PLAYERS & PARENTS
BASIC PREMISE
We are all here for the children. We want them to have fun, to learn baseball, to learn about winning and losing, and how to participate in a team sport. We want to accentuate the positive, and to show our children the value of good sportsmanship, and pride in job well done. The SJCLL Code of Conduct is defined on the next several pages under the headings Expectations for Managers, Parents, and Players. It is expected that this code be made available to each parent, and that it be explained carefully to each child at your first team meeting. The Board of Directors does not intend to “police” each baseball game, but hopes that each manager and parent could take it upon himself/herself to help us achieve our objective of a great and rewarding year in Little League Baseball.
RULES ENFORCEMENT
Penalties for rule violations are specified in these Local Rules and the Little League Baseball of America rulebook. These rules will be enforced by the elected Board of Directors of SJCLL upon all participants including players, managers, coaches and parents. Any participant ejected from a game will miss the remainder of that game and the entire following game. The Board, in its discretion, may impose such additional penalty it deems appropriate.
EXPECTATIONS OF A MANAGER
INTRODUCTION One of the tougher challenges managers, coaches, and parents typically face is finding the proper mix of competitiveness, participation, and fun. This goal is supported by your SJCLL Board of Directors. Managers are responsible for knowing and adhering to the Little League Baseball of America Rules and these San Juan Capistrano Little League Local Rules. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action.
EXPECTATIONS
1. As a manager or coach, your objective will not only be to teach the skills of baseball and to strive to win, but to instill good sportsmanship, honesty, camaraderie, courage, and respect for the youth of our community.
2. You are responsible for the actions and behavior of your team’s ballplayers and parents both at practices and at games. Lead by example both in baseball understanding and temperament.
3. Mischief, horseplay, and insubordination have no place in baseball. Maintain discipline with a sense of understanding. Behavioral enforcement should be conducted without bias and disciplinary action is dealt fairly. Be consistent and treat every ballplayer fairly.
4. Be punctual to both practices and games and insist players, coaches and parents be the same.
5. Instruct through positives.
6. The rules governing “playing time” are well detailed in the official rules and regulations of Little League Baseball of America and are supplemented by these Local Rules. Strict adherence is required as a condition of managing and coaching. The SJCLL Board of Directors further encourages a practice of equal playing time for all ballplayers inclusive of both infield and outfield play. While this may not represent the best strategy for winning the most games, it does in fact best represent the fundamental purpose of Little League Baseball. If you feel that infield play for a particular ballplayer poses an unacceptable safety risk, speak with the ballplayer’s parents and with your Division Administrator. Remember, the goal is to educate and have fun.
7. During the game, you have the right to ask for a time-out once play has stopped. But remember, a time out is not in effect until an umpire has granted it; if he/she grants its. Do not leave the dugout until the time-out has been called by the umpire and you have been given permission to enter the field.
8. As a manager, you have the right to have an umpire’s call clarified, or, to state your position on a rule of play. You may not however, question any calls made in the umpire’s judgment. This includes, but is not limited to pitches called ball or strike, batted balls called fair or foul, and base runners called safe or out. In short, judgment calls made by the umpire are final and may not be argued or protested. You are also responsible for controlling the parent(s) who berates or continually questions the umpire’s call. This is not part of baseball tradition and will not be tolerated.
9. Keep your ballplayers hustling between innings and pay heed to the time limitations and constraints invoked by official rules and regulations.
10. Any questions and complaints involving players, parents, and play should be directed to your Division Administrator. The Division Administrator serves as a liaison to the SJCLL Board of Directors.
11. Never implement disciplinary action in anger. Not only is an angry response typically an overreaction, it is often perceived by the ballplayer as belittling and does little to strengthen behavioral conformance.
12. If a disciplinary problem continually recurs, and in your opinion unmanageable, speak with the ballplayer’s parents first. If this is unsuccessful in addressing the problem, make the SJCLL Board of Directors aware of the problem through your Division Administrator. Collectively, we will find a viable solution to the problem.
MANAGERS AND COACHES ARE SUBJECT TO DISCIPLINE FOR THE FOLLOWING OFFENSES:
1.)Improper behavior as detailed in the official rules and regulations of Little League. Baseball or the SJCLL Bylaws, or, as established by the SJCLL Board of Directors.
2.)Use of tobacco on or in the immediate vicinity of the practice or playing fields.
3.)Use of profane language or gestures.
4.)Repetitive absence from practices, games, or scheduled meetings.
EXPECTATIONS OF A PLAYER
1. Behavioral boundaries and penalties for ballplayers are well specified in the official rules and regulations of Little League. Infractions of conduct include, but are not limited to, the following:
a) Abusive or profane language.
b) Throwing equipment.
c) Exhibition of violence or otherwise disorderly behavior.
d) Inappropriate or repetitive questioning of a manager’s decision or an umpire’s call.
A player may be ejected from the game for any of the above infractions. Any ejected player will miss the remainder of the game and the entire following game.
2. Enforcement action for the above lies with the umpires and managers. The SJCLL Board of Directors may use its discretion in the assessment of any infraction, and any disciplinary or corrective action.
EXPECTATIONS OF A PARENT
Little League is a supervised program, and the team manager will be your child’s supervisor for the season. At the beginning of the season, flexibility and adjustment on your part will be in order because no team managers have identical instructional agendas and priorities. Please help by adhering to the following guidelines:
1. The manager is responsible for the actions and behavior of the team both at practices and games. Support their authority both on and off the field.
2. Parents are also responsible in making the season successful. We need parent participation and volunteers. Each parent must volunteer in the total effort for the season to be successful. Please do your part! Some of the activities that your manager will be seeking assistance with the field pre-preparation, practice assistance, transportation assistance, score keeping, phone networking, base coaching, snack preparation, snack bar duties, fund-raising and umpiring.
3. Participation fees are collected for field usage, insurance, uniforms, and equipment.
4. Mind the practice and game schedules outlined by your team manager. Get your child to practice and games on time. Pick them up on time. Whether it is a practice or a game, let your manager know if your child cannot make it.
5. Parents are not allowed in the dugout or field of play at the time during a game. Many a parent likes to watch the ball game near the dugout for the convenience of talking to or instructing their child. Talking to your child distracts all those in the dugout. Please leave the instructional duties to the manager and coaches.
6. At all of our leagues’ divisional levels, the umpires are volunteers. REMEMBER – THEY ARE VOLUNTEERS. Umpires do make mistakes. Give them the courtesy of your support and respect. The SJCLL Board of Directors will not tolerate any action from spectators, spoken or otherwise, that serves to pester, ridicule, repudiate, undermine, berate, or slander an umpire.
7. In Little League, boundaries of conduct and behavior apply to managers, coaches, parents and players alike. Any questions and complaints to this end should be directed to the manager if a player is at issue or to the Division Administration if a manager or coach is at issue.
FIELD MAINTENANCE
BEFORE GAMES – HOME TEAM
1. Drag infield dirt surfaces: •Baseline •Home Plate Area(s)
2. Repack and rake out: •Mound •Batter's Box •All Low Spots
3.Water-down all dirt areas of infield - DO NOT SOAK.
4. Chalk •Baseline •Coach’s Box •Batter’s Box •Running Lane (First Base)
5. Use all bases marked for your field.
6. Arrange for a Scoreboard Scorekeeper (AA and up).
AFTER GAMES – VISITING TEAM
1. Mound and batter’s box: •Repack and rake •Water down
2. Put Away •Bases, helmets, all tools and equipment in proper storage areas. •(Saturday - Last game of the day on each field is responsible.)
3. Take down speakers and electrical cord and put these with the P.A. System in the Snack Bar (where applicable).
4. Police dugouts and bleachers area (with parents' & players' help).
5. Empty trash cans in dumpster in parking lot.
6. Lock equipment room door and storage shed - CHECK TWICE!
7. If your game is the first of the day, return the golf cart to the shed and attach the battery charger. Make sure you turn the charger on after you plug it in. Note - NO ONE is allowed on the golf carts at anytime unless they have a valid driver’s license.
8. Both teams are responsible for the care of the field before and after a game. If everybody pitches in and help get the job done then both teams will have time for warm-ups.
9. SATURDAY GAMES: The two teams who have just finished playing must drag and water the field and mark it for the next game. Yes, this means that the two same teams who play the first game must do it twice- but everybody will be in the same position throughout the season.
MAINTENANCE OF THE FIELDS MUST BE AND IS A PRIORITY!
Any questions concerning the care of the fields should be directed towards the Field Maintenance person listed in the directory.
BATTING CAGE USAGE
The batting cages and pitching machines are available for use by all teams. To assure safety, proper use of equipment and fairness, we have developed some guidelines to follow. These are to promote use, not to restrict it. Please observe them.
1. A reservation book is maintained in the equipment room, to which all managers have access. Please adhere to the following guideline
a. The batting cage and pitching machine may be reserved no more than one week in advance by all teams. Each team is limited to reserve the cage one time per week. A schedule will be posted inside the storage bin.
b. On Game Days, the teams playing on the Old Major Field have exclusive use of the batting cage one hour before their game.
2. The batting cage and pitching machine may be reserved for a maximum of one hour at a time, and reservations must be made on the hour.
3. Only adults may operate the pitching machine.
4. Only one adult and one player should be in the batting cage at any time. The batting cage is a facility in which all of us can take pride. It is the result of much hard work and generosity. Your cooperation and advance planning will assure its maximum utilization and provide you with an excellent teaching tool.
GOLF CARTS
Please note two important Rules regarding the Operation of Golf Carts:
1. The adult who takes the cart out of the equipment room assumes all liability for the cart and its drivers.
2. No one may operate a cart without a valid driver’s license. Misuse and abuse of the golf carts will result in loss of privileges. The golf carts are provided to make your job easier in preparing the fields. Should the Board of Directors become aware of any Team(s) that allows unlicensed drivers access to the carts, the Board may elect to remove the carts from duty.
STANDING RULES AND BYLAWS
All matters contained herein are intended to further establish basic ground rules and responsibilities so that all those youth participating may have a more uniform, meaningful, and interesting experience. These Rules and Bylaws shall be reviewed and updated by the Board of Directors annually.
I. LEGAL AND FINANCIAL
A. The principal address for business transactions for the League shall be: San Juan Capistrano Little League P.O. Box 458 San Juan Capistrano, CA 92693
B. The financial books shall be reviewed by the Public Accountant or Certified Public Accountant at the end of each fiscal year and/ or whenever the Treasurer or Directors may deem it necessary.
1. The fiscal year shall be August 1 through July 31 of each year. Tax forms are to be filed no later than December 15 of each year.
2. All League checking accounts require two authorized signatures. 3. The Snack Bar Manager will:
a. Turn over to the League Treasurer any funds over the $1,000.00 maximum operating fund.
b. Submit a financial report each month to the Board of Directors.
C. Elections: Elections will be held in August. Each of the parents or guardian of the child participating in the Little League Program has the right to cast one ballot for as many as 12 candidates. These candidates must be registered prior to July15. The parents or guardians must be present to cast their ballot. The 12 candidates who have the most votes will make up the Board of Directors. The elected board may appoint other Board members. If an elected member cannot fulfill his or her term then the Board will appoint another person to fill that position.
II. DESCRIPTION OF LEAGUES / DIVISIONS
A. Rosters
1. The number of leagues, teams and the number of players representing a full roster for each division shall be prescribed by the Board of Directors each year prior to the draft. That number will prevail through the season.
2. San Juan Capistrano Little League shall have the following divisions: League Ages: Big League: 16- 18 Year Olds Seniors 14- 16 Year Olds Juniors 13- 14 Year Olds Majors: 10-12 Year-Olds Triple A: 9-11 Year-Olds Double A: 8-10 Year-Olds Single A: 7-8 Year-Olds T - Ball 5-6 Year-Olds Challenger: 5-18 Year-Olds
3. San Juan Capistrano Little League shall have a continuous playing schedule as determined by the Player Agent. Whenever possible, each team shall play every other team in its league an equal number of games.
III. SELECTION OF MANAGERS AND COACHES
A. Manager Selection: The President and respective Division Administrator will review the nominations for managers. The President will submit the list of nominated managers to the Board of Directors for approval.
B. Criteria to be used in the selection process shall include, but not be limited to:
1. Ability to manage and relate to children of Little League age.
2. Past experience in SJCLL or other similar experience.
3. May have a personal interview with the Board of Directors.
4. Treatment and return of league equipment and participation in field maintenance work.
5. Attitudes towards fulfillment of umpire requirements.
6. Attitudes towards attending required meetings.
7. Attitudes towards and support of league fund raising events.
8. Selection and conduct of coach.
9. Conduct of team.
10. Adherence to Little League rules.
C. Managers of this League shall not manage or coach in another Youth Baseball League during the Season commencing the first day of tryouts and ending with the last League Championship game.
D. All managers and coaches are required to fill out and submit volunteer forms and submit to a background check per Little League regulations.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF MANAGERS
A. Managers shall select a full participating coach subject to the Board’s approval, no later than 14 days after the draft. Names of coaches shall be turned into the Division Administrator.
B. Each division’s managers and coaches will maintain their field as called upon to do so by their Division Administrator.
C. All Managers shall be required to collect and turn in equipment and uniforms at the end of the regular playing season. Upon completion of tournament play, teams will submit their uniforms.
D. All managers, coaches and parents are to conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner at all times. Profanity, alcohol, drugs and/or unsportsmanlike conduct in front of player will result in disciplinary action. There will be no use of tobacco of any form during the game.
E. Managers or coaches on the Board of Directors may not vote on issues related to their division. Board members who are managers or coaches may not vote on issues that would reflect their team over other teams in their division, or give their team a favorable advantage. Their votes should be reflected as abstaining in the minutes.
IV. REGISTRATION AND TRYOUTS
A. A registration will be held a prior to November. A make-up registration date may be scheduled by the Board of Directors. The registration fee shall be established annually by the Board of Directors.
B. Tryouts will be held during which all managers and coaches will observe the ability of each player. All players league age 8 through 18 must tryout, except Major and Junior League returning players.
1. It is the responsibility of all managers to notify the Board of the lack of skill or playing ability of a particular player which could be harmful or a safety risk in drafting that player to a particular division. The Board shall attempt to determine the player’s ability, consider safety factors and attempt to make all teams as equal as possible.
2. The tryouts will be run by the Player Agent, touching on various skills for the benefit of the drafting managers. The Player Agent shall, when possible, pick volunteers for the tryouts other than the managers and coaches.
3. Tryout skills shall include, but shall not be limited to:
a. Ground balls at shortstop and throws to 1st base.
b. Fly balls to the outfield and throws to 2nd base.
c. Batting abilities. d. Running abilities.
4. If a player does not tryout or have a reason approved by the Player Agent, he or she will not be eligible for the Major League draft.
V. DRAFTING RULES: ALL DIVISIONS
A. General Local Rules
1. The draft location and time will be announced as early as possible. The date and time will be determined by the Board.
2. The managers within each division will make their selections in an open verbal draft.
3. All trades shall be made through and with approval of the Player Agent on the evening of the draft. Later trades may be subject to Board approval.
B. Big League and Senior League (2 or more teams only)
1. Managers will draw numbers to determine the order of the player selection. Odd numbered rounds will use the order of selection starting with one (1). Even numbered will be in the reverse order until each team has a full roster.
C. Major and Junior Leagues
1. At no time shall a Major team have on its roster more than eight (8) players or less than five (5) players League Age 12. The balance of the team shall be comprised of players whose League Age is 10 and 11. (See Little League Regulations III C.)
2. All players League Age 10-12, who attend try-outs, are eligible for the Major league draft.
3. The Major and Junior league drafts will be conducted in accordance with the Little League draft system (Plan A) as more fully described in the Operating Manual. The essence of this procedure is that the last place team in a preceding season gets first choice in every round of the draft, the next to last place team gets the second choice, and the remaining teams select in the reverse order of standing. Standing is based upon regular season (non-Playoff or Tournament) won-lost records. In case of ties, a flip of a coin will determine who drafts first and subsequent round will be alternated.
4. Players once drafted to a Major or Junior League team in a previous season and still of league age will return to that same team. A player, who leaves our league for reasons other than injury, shall re-enter the draft.
5. The sibling of an existing team player is held in abeyance from the draft until the end of the third round. A manager must notify the Player Agent prior to the beginning of the draft in regards to a brother/sister selection.
6. The manager must declare his intention to draft his own child to the Player Agent. If the child is of league age 14, he/she must be selected prior to the completion of Round 3, if league age 13 by Round 4, if league age 12 by Round 3, if league age 11 by Round 4 and if league age 10, by Round 5.
7. At the completion of Round 4, the “Balance Roster Rounds” will commence. These rounds will continue until all teams have an equal complement of players. The team or teams with the least number of players makes a selection, and this constitutes a balancing round. When all teams are equal, draft selection returns to original drafting order.
8. The child that is both son/daughter of the manager and the brother/sister of an existing player will come under the child of the manager rule.
9. NOTE: Beginning with the 2005 season, SJCLL will discontinue the "titled" program in the Major and Junior Divisions. The 2005 draft in all Divisions will be a "serpentine" draft selecting all new teams in each Division.
D. Majors Draft Procedures
Each team is limited to the following restrictions in the draft, in trades, and in adding player’s mid-season:
12 year olds: All twelve-year-olds will play in the Majors unless otherwise approved by the board of directors. There will be a minimum of five (5) and a maximum of eight (8) twelve-year-olds per each Major team. If any Twelve-year-olds remain after the 11th round, then all the remaining names/numbers will be placed in a hat along with enough blank pieces of paper (to equal the number of teams drafting). For example, if there are five teams drafting and three remaining Twelve-year-olds, then five pieces of paper will placed in the hat (three with names and two blank). Managers then draw from the hat in the appropriate serpentine order.
11 year olds: No restrictions.
10 year olds: A maximum of two (2) per team.
9 year olds: No nine (9) year olds may play in the majors.
F. Triple A Draft Procedures Minor teams follow a serpentine draft procedure. For example, if there are six teams.
1st Round Order: 1-2-3-4-5-6
2nd Round Order: 6-5-4-3-2-1
3rd Round Order: 1-2-3-4-5-6
4th Round Order: 6-5-4-3-2-1
This continues for 12 rounds.
Important rules:
1. First draft is determined by drawing numbers out of a hat.
2. Manager’s child is taken in the 3rd round regardless of the age of the child.
3. Eleven-year-old players not taken by Majors must be drafted to Triple A teams. Managers are free to draft eleven-year-olds at any time. If any eleven-year-olds remain after the 11th round, then all the remaining names/numbers will be placed in a hat along with enough blank pieces of paper (to equal the number of teams drafting). For example, if there are five teams drafting and three remaining eleven year olds, then five pieces of paper will placed in the hat (three with names and two blank). Managers then draw from the hat in the appropriate serpentine order.
4. Coach’s child may not be held in abeyance. The Player Agent is responsible for all draft procedures. His word is final.
F. Double A Draft Procedures Minor teams follow a serpentine draft procedure. For example, if there are six teams.
1st Round Order: 1-2-3-4-5-6
2nd Round Order: 6-5-4-3-2-1
3rd Round Order: 1-2-3-4-5-6
4th Round Order: 6-5-4-3-2-1
This continues for 12 rounds.
Important rules:
1. First draft is determined by drawing numbers out of a hat.
2. Manager’s child is taken in the 3rd round regardless of the age of the child.
3. 10-year-old players not taken by Minors must be drafted to Double A teams. Managers are free to draft Ten-year-olds at any time. If any Ten-year-olds remain after the 11th round, then all the remaining names/numbers will be placed in a hat along with enough blank pieces of paper (to equal the number of teams drafting). For example, if there are five teams drafting and three remaining eleven year olds, then five pieces of paper will placed in the hat (three with names and two blank). Managers then draw from the hat in the appropriate serpentine order.
4. Coach’s child may not be held in abeyance. The Player Agent is responsible for all draft procedures. The Player Agent's word is final.
NOTE: League-age 7-year-olds will be eligible to play in the Double A Program only if they try-out and are approved by the committee responsible for testing league-age 7-year-olds. All other 7-year-olds will play in the Single A Program.
G. T- Ball and Single A All T-Ball and Single A teams will be assigned by the Player Agent and/or Division Administrators based primarily on geography.
VI. LOSS OF A PLAYER
Strict adherence of Player replacement rules and Notification of Loss of a Player is the responsibility of the Manager. Failure to comply can result suspension or termination of Manager.
A. Loss for Medical Reasons
If a team loses a player as a result of a medical situation, The Manager of the “injured” player’s team must notify the Player Agent of the medical situation within 24 hours after the manager becomes aware of the player’s medical situation that may necessitate the player to miss at least four (4) games. If an injury occurs during a game, practice, or as the result of baseball, the manager must notify the Player Agent and Safety Officer within 24 hours of said game or practice.
1. If, in the judgment of the Player Agent and subject to the Board's review, the injured” player will not be able to play for the remainder of the current season as a result of the medical situation, then the player must be replaced with another eligible player any time prior to but no later than the beginning of the fifth game in which the “injured” player is unable to play the minimum requirement per Little League rules because of the medical situation. NOTE: If the “injured” player is on a Major team, the player remains on that team unless the player fails to register with the league for the succeeding season and is released: or, for some other reason, the player becomes ineligible to play in the Major Division.
2. If, in the judgment of the Player Agent and subject to Board approval, the “injured” player is likely to return to play during his current season but will be unable to play the minimum requirement per Little League rules because of the medical situation for at least four (4) games, then the manager of the team that loses such a player may submit his election to the Player Agent to either: (1) Choose not to replace the “injured” player; or (2) Replace the “injured” player as provided below. The manager’s selection must be made by informing the Player Agent no later than midnight on the day of the fourth game in which the “injured” player is unable to play the minimum requirement. If the manager fails the make a selection, then the Board may make selection in accordance with what it deems to be in the best interest of the league and player. The manager’s selection will be approved if in the judgment of the Player Agent and the subject to Board approval the selection in the best interest of the league and of the player. In determining whether to approve the manager’s selection the Player Agent shall consult with the manager, the player, the player’s parents and, if applicable, any doctor or other person who may have helpful information. The Player Agent shall provide any such information to the Board upon request.
3. A manager may request that the Board review any decision of the Player Agent. The manager may also request a reconsideration of a player agent or Board decision if the manager believes that a change in the “injured” player’s status warrants such reconsideration. Any such review is at the discretion of the Board.
4. The above notwithstanding, the Board may review any player’s medical situation and any manager’s actions and alter the above procedures if the Board determines such alternate action is necessary to avoid abuse of this rule and/ or is in the best interest of the League and the player involved.
5. A written release from the “injured” player’s parents or a doctor must be received by the Board before an “injured” player who has been unable to play the minimum requirement per Little League rules for four or more games can return to play.
Selection of new player must be done through the Player Agent as follows:
BIG LEAGUE:
SENIORS:
JUNIORS: Waiting list
MAJORS: Triple A rosters
TRIPLE A: Double A rosters
DOUBLE A: Single A or Waiting list
Note: SINGLE A and T-Ball can add players from Waiting list
NO CONTACT IS TO BE MADE DIRECTLY TO PARENTS OR THE MANAGER.
6. SJCLL will follow the rules of the Little League Baseball in replacement of players. The Player Agent will create “Replacement List” of players who are eligible to be “drafted up.” Replacement players must be selected from this list. Players / player’s parents have the right to decline with no penalty.
B. Loss for Reason Other than Medical If a team loses a player for any reason other than medical, the manager shall notify the Player Agent within twenty-four (24) hours after he has become aware of the situation. The manager shall select a player as specified in Section A, above. This selection shall be made prior to the team’s third (3rd) game from said notification to the Player Agent. If the loss occurs during the last three (3) weeks of the season, the vacancy shall not be filled unless the Board of Directors determines that such action is in the player's and the League’s best interest.
C. Not more than one (1) player will be drafted up from a team during the season, unless all teams from that division have lost one (1) player.
VII. SJCLL LOCAL PLAYING RULES
A. Minimum Play Time All leagues shall adhere to the Player’s Minimum Innings “playing rule” as outlined in their respective Little League Rule Books. (Double A, Triple A and T-Ball, see Supplemental Rules).
Additions and exceptions are as follows:
1. If a player has been benched for disciplinary reasons, the umpire, official scorer and opposing manager must be notified immediately.
2. If a player has been benched for disciplinary reasons, the umpire, official scorer and opposing manager must be notified prior to the game. A written statement concerning this action must be presented to the Division Administrator within 48 hours of said game.
3. In all levels of SJCLL (T-Ball through Juniors) each player shall play a minimum of nine (9) defensive outs. These outs may be, but do not have to be, played consecutively. All levels shall play with a continuous batting order and have free defensive substitution (subject to the pitching rules). (Also see Junior supplemental rules)
4. Except as noted, all players present must be announced into the ballgame prior to the first pitch in the top of the fourth inning (5th Jr./Sr.). At the end of the third inning (4th Jr./Sr.), time will be called until both managers have installed all players who have not entered the ballgame as a defensive player. Play will not resume until this action has been completed and the official scorer has been notified.
5. Any player not completing the nine (9) defensive outs must be a starter in the next game they are present and must play a minimum nine (9) defensive outs, as well as make up the defensive outs the player did not play the previous game, before that player may be removed from the next game defensively.
6. No penalties will be imposed upon the manager if failure to comply with these rules is caused by a game not going 6 complete innings (7th Jr./ Sr.), however the player(s) affected must still play the required amount as set forth in paragraph 5.
7. EXCEPTION: If a SJCLL team is playing inter-league play with a team whose league observes only the Little League Baseball of America substitution and minimum playing time Rules, it shall be at the discretion of the SJCLL manager whether to follow these Local Rules or follow the Little League Baseball Rules. SJCLL managers are still encouraged to talk with the opposing manager in this situation in an attempt to follow our Local Rules, however, no penalty will be imposed and paragraph 5, above, will not apply.
B. Run Limits
1. Majors, Juniors and Seniors The Major, Junior and Senior Programs have no run limits or other local rules dealing with run limits.
2. Triple A Run Limits a. If a team scores seven runs, that team’s time at bat shall be declared over and they all take the field. This rule shall not apply to either team in the sixth or subsequent innings. In those innings, each team shall bat until it has been retired. This rule is in effect during daylight savings time. See pre-daylight savings time supplemental rule. b. Before daylight savings time, a team’s time at bat will be declared over after five runs have been scored. For the sixth and subsequent innings, see Pre-Daylight Savings time rules below.
3. Double A If a team scores five runs, that team’s time at bat shall be declared over and they all take the field. This rule shall not apply to either team in the sixth or subsequent innings. In those innings, each team shall bat until it has been retired.
4. Single A If a team scores five runs, that team’s time at bat shall be declared over and they all take the field. This rule shall not apply to either team in the sixth or subsequent innings. In those innings, each team shall bat until it has been retired.
5. T-Ball There is no run limit in T-Ball. Each team will bat through the order one time per inning.
6. Run-Limits Re: Home Runs for Single A, Double A, and Triple A When the run limit is reached in any inning, the inning ends and no additional runs may score. The only exception is for a home run over the fence. A home run over the fence will score all runners, even if the run limit is exceeded. If there is no fence, there can be no homes run; the inning ends when the run limit is reached.
C. Local Rules For Pre-Daylight Savings Time Schedule:
1. Triple A Five run maximum in an inning, except for the sixth and final inning. Four innings constitutes a complete game for Triple A all season. NOTE: This rule does not apply to Saturday games. Saturday games will fall under the seven run per inning rule. See above.
2. For Single A, Double A, Triple A & Majors Unless a game is played under lights, all games prior to daylight savings time will end no later than 6:05 P.M., from Feb. 23rd through March 8. It is the umpire’s decision to call the game, and that decision is final. If a game is called because of darkness before the completion of an inning, the final score reverts to the last completed inning. It is an official game with four complete innings.
D. Postponed or suspended games shall be played on the next Sunday afternoon except for games postponed or suspended on Saturday. These games shall be played the following Sunday. (Except for Holidays.)
E. Game Playing Time Limits: See: Supplemental Rules for each Division.
F. Forfeited Games - See Little League handbook Rule 4.15 thru 4.18.
G. Practice Fields: Fields and times will be determined by the Field and respective Division Administrators.
H. Infield Practice: Each team will get twenty (20) minutes for warm-ups prior to the start of the game. One hour before game time, home team has batting cage for one half hour (1/2). Visitors will have second (2nd) half (1/2) hour. Forty (40) minutes before game time visitors will have twenty (20) minutes for infield. Managers are responsible prior to infield warm-ups.
I. Field Maintenance - The home team shall be responsible for preparing the field. The umpire will not start the game until the field is prepared. The visiting team shall be responsible for cleaning up the field. This includes under the bleachers and surrounding areas.
VIII. EXHIBITION GAMES
A. Exhibition games are being played as an instructional tool. All exhibition games are played to allow players to play new positions or practice their existing positions. Wins and losses do not count for league play. Managers and coaches are encouraged to allow younger or lesser played players to play more and try new positions.
B. No pitcher can throw more than 2 innings in an exhibition game. A pitcher that pitches in an exhibition game cannot throw in a scheduled game during the same week. A week is considered Sunday through Saturday.
IX. INTER-LEAGUE PLAY
If any division is involved with inter-league play with neighboring leagues, any special circumstances will be agreed upon by all participating leagues and a signed agreement shall be attached to that year’s Rules and Bylaws.
X. ALL STAR TEAMS
A. Selection of Managers
We will have All Star Teams for Seniors, Junior, 12-year-old Majors, 11-year-old Majors and a 9 and 10-year-old Minors. The managers will be selected as follows:
1. Seniors: The Manager of the team that wins the division in the regular season.
2. Juniors: The Manager of the team that wins the division in the regular season.
3. 12-year old Majors: The Manager of the team that wins the division in the regular season or the Manager of the team that wins the SJCLL Intra-league Tournament (at the discretion of the regular season winner).
4. 11-year old Majors: The Manager of the team that wins the division in the regular season or the Manager of the team that wins the SJCLL Intra-league Tournament (at the discretion of the regular season winner).
5. 9 & 10-year-olds - This is considered to be a Major Tournament. The manager will be selected by the Board of Directors and may be chosen from any level.
6. In the event that the manager determined by the above criteria declines to take the team, the Board of Directors will select a replacement manager.
7. All Star Managers will select and submit for Board approval, the names of two (2) All Star coaches per team. Only a Manager and two (2) adult coaches will be permitted in the dugout during All Star games.
B. Selection of Players
1. All-Stars :
a. The President or designee shall hold a meeting of all managers from the respective Triple A (9-10 only), Major, Junior or Senior division for the purpose of selecting All Star Teams. Only the previously mentioned shall attend the meeting and only managers shall vote, except as outlined in this section.
b. Each manager shall nominate those players from his or her team he/she thinks worthy of being an All Star Player.
c. After the nominations, the President or designee shall hold a secret ballot with each manager voting on ten (10) players. Those players receiving a unanimous vote shall be selected from this round of balloting as All Stars.
d. To fill the balance of the roster, the managers shall again cast a secret ballot, this time voting for as many players as there are spots open to reach 10 players. Their top vote getter shall become an All Star. This process shall be repeated until the roster has 10 players. After 10 selections have been made, the All Star manager shall, at the discretion of the manager, pick between two (2) and four (4) additional players. Alternates are not allowed.
SUPPLEMENTAL T-BALL RULES
Games will be limited to 1 1/2 hours.
1. T-Ball uses the tee only. The batter shall run on any fairly hit ball and the defensive team shall play to put him or her out. The batter is not allowed to bunt.
2. All Players will be allowed on the field for defense.
3. Each player must play defensively in the infield and in the outfield, at least one inning each game.
4. A player may not play the same position for more than 2 innings per game, with consideration that every player has the opportunity to play every position, infield and outfield.
5. Two adults, manager’s discretion, will be allowed on the field with the defensive team. Managers and coaches may not interfere with play while a ball is alive.
6. Only one base will be allowed on overthrows.
7. When infielder gains control of a live ball, base runners may only advance to the base that they are headed towards (as long as the infielder holds the ball and does not make a throw).
8. The infield fly rule does not apply.
9. All players must be included in a continuous batting order. The batting order cannot be changed after the game has started. Players who arrive after the game has started must be placed at the end of the lineup.
10. A ball is playable when it is in fair territory beyond the 15 foot arc in front of the home plate.
11. A player who THROWS his bat must return to the plate, batter will be warned and may hit again. If the batter throws the bat again he will be called out.
12. The offensive team must notify the defensive team when the last batter in the inning is coming to the plate.
13. The games will be 4 innings or 1 1/2 hours in length, whichever comes first.
14. There must be at least 7 players by game time to field a team. Please call the opposing manager in advance if you are having trouble fielding a team.
15. The coaches on the field of the offensive team are responsible for making calls. Calls cannot be argued or protested. The manager of each team is responsible to see that his coaches make calls that are within the spirit of the T-Ball League. The coaches on the field in the coaching boxes may not touch any base runner.
16. The home team should occupy the third base dugout.
17. Both teams are responsible for setting up the field before games and cleaning up the field after games.
18. The home team shall supply the tee and game ball.
19. Managers - Kids playing baseball like to slide into the bases. Although we do not encourage coaching sliding at this age, we do feel you should educate players on the proper techniques of sliding. Safety is most important.
20. Please call the T-Ball Administrator if you have any questions or comments regarding the rules. Any ideas or suggestions for improving the T-Ball program are welcome.
SUPPLEMENTAL SINGLE A RULES
1. In Brief: SINGLE A – Machine Pitch
Games will be limited to 4 innings or 2 hours, (whichever occurs first).
a. Six- year-olds are allowed to play single A, if they have played at least one year of T-Ball.
b. No stealing.
c. No advancing on a passed ball.
d. 1 base limit on overthrows – one runner may score on an overthrow.
e. 5 pitches per batter rule.
f. 5 run per inning rule.
2. Run-Limits
RE: Home Runs
A home run for Single A, is when the ball goes over a fence or the runner scores by circling the bases. If an errors occur and the runner reaches home safely, then all runs will count, even if it exceeds the maximum run limit. However, the batter may be stopped simply by tagging home plate (just like a force out). If the batter is stopped, run total reverts back to maximum allowed.
3. In Single A, 5 pitches are delivered by the pitching machine to each batter. The batter may swing at all of the pitches regardless of the number of strikes. The batter shall run on any fairly hit ball and the defensive team shall play to put him or her out. The batter may not walk or be awarded first base by being hit by a pitch. The batter is not allowed to bunt. After the 5th pitch the batter is retired and declared out. NOTE: If the batter fouls off the last pitch he is entitled to remain at the plate until a hit, another foul, or an unhit pitch.
4. All Players will be allowed on the field for defense.
5. Defensive players must play traditional positions. That is, each team must have a catcher, pitcher, 5 infielders, and the balance are outfielders. Outfielders should not be brought in close to the infield, but should play at traditional depths.
6. The player in the pitcher position must stay behind the Pitching Machine until the ball is hit.
7. Each player must play defensively in the infield and in the outfield, at least one inning each game.
8. A player may not play the same position for more than 2 innings per game, with consideration that every player have the opportunity to play every position, infield and outfield.
9. Two adults, manager’s discretion, will be allowed on the field with the defensive team. Managers and coaches may not interfere with play while a ball is alive.
10. Only one base will be allowed on overthrows.
11. When infielder gains control of a live ball, base runners may only advance to the base that they are headed towards (as long as the infielder holds the ball and does not make a throw).
12. The infield fly rule does not apply.
13. All players must be included in a continuous batting order. The batting order cannot be changed after the game has started. Players who arrive after the game has started must be placed at the end of the lineup.
14. A player who THROWS his bat must return to the plate, batter will be warned and may hit again. If the batter throws the bat again he will be called out.
15. The offensive team must notify the defensive team when the last batter in the inning is coming to the plate.
16. The games will be 4 innings or 2 hours in length, whichever comes first.
17. There must be at least 7 players by game time to field a team. Please call the opposing manager in advance if you are having trouble fielding a team.
18. The coaches on the field of the offensive team are responsible for making calls. Calls cannot be argued or protested. The manager of each team is responsible to see that his coaches make calls that are within the spirit of the Single “A” League. The coaches on the field in the coaching boxes may not touch any base runner.
19. Both teams are responsible for setting up the field before games and cleaning up the field after games.
20. The home team shall supply the game ball.
21. Managers - Kids playing baseball like to slide into the bases. Although we do not encourage coaching sliding at this age, we do feel you should educate players on the proper techniques of sliding. Safety is most important.
SUPPLEMENTAL DOUBLE A RULES
Game Playing Time: No new inning shall begin after 2 hours.
I. In Brief: DOUBLE A – Kid Pitch
1st Half of the Season
1.When ball four is declared, the coach will come in to complete the bat. The batter will carry the strike count. The coach will have 3, 2 or 1 pitch(es) depending on the count. The umpire will consider all reasonable pitches strikes. Only one extra pitch will be allowed for an unreasonable pitch. If the batter does not hit fair or foul on the final strike, the batter is retired.
2. No stealing.
3. Okay to advance on a passed ball from 1st to 2nd and 2nd to 3rd. Runners may not advance during coach pitch.
4. No advancing to home on a passed ball.
5. 1 base limit on over-throws.
6. 5 run per inning rule. The side is retired with 5 runs or 3 outs, except for the last inning of the game. ( Coaches and the umpire will determine when the last inning of the game will be.)
2nd Half of the Season
1. There is no pitch limit per batter. Walks and strike-outs will be counted.
2. Same rules as above,except for #1.
II. There will be first, second, and third place trophies. Best overall record for the season determines first, second, and third places. Practice games or exhibition games do not count toward championship record. If two or more teams tie in the win column and one of those teams has a tie, then that tied game must be completed to determine overall winner.
III. Run-Limits
Re: Home Runs
When the run limit is reached in any inning, the inning ends and no additional runs may score. The only exception is for a home run over the fence. A home run over the fence will score all runners, even if the run limit is exceeded. If there is no fence, there can be no homerun; the inning ends when the run limit is reached.
IV. There will be no stealing in double A baseball. Runners must stop advancing on a batted ball when the ball is controlled by the pitcher in the area of the pitching mound within approximately a five foot radius or when thrown within the area of the pitching mound by a fielder in an attempt to return the ball to the pitcher.
V. No pitcher may throw more than 2 innings per game. If a pitcher throws a single pitch to a batter, this constitutes an inning pitched per Little League Rules. Check the Little League Minor Rulebook for other pitching restrictions.
VI. No infield fly rule.
VII. No eleven or twelve-year-old players will participate in the Double A Program.
VIII. All children participating in the Double A Program must play a minimum of 12 defensive outs in a six inning game, 6 of which must be in the infield with a minimum of 2 different infield positions. The only exception to this rule is for safety reasons. In this case the Administrator, Player Agent or the Safety Coordinator must be notified. In a shortened game (less than six innings), a player must play nine defensive outs, six of which must be in an infield position and a minimum of 2 different infield positions. Free substitution will be used allowing players to enter, exit, and re-enter the game freely.
IX. There will be 4 outfielders.
X. Infield positions are defined as first base, second base, third base, shortstop, catcher and pitcher.
XI. All players must be included in a continuous batting order. The batting order cannot be changed after the game has started. Players who arrive after the game has started must be placed at the end of the lineup.
XII. Games affected by darkness will be official after 3 innings.
XIII. Bunting is allowed except against coach pitching. All other rules are as defined in the Little League Rule Book.
SUPPLEMENTAL TRIPLE A RULES
Game Playing Time: No new inning shall start after 2 hours on weeknights no new inning shall start after 2 1/2 hours on the weekends.
A. All participants in Triple A must play a minimum of nine (9) defensive outs in a six inning game three outs of which must be in the infield. For games that are shortened due to weather or darkness, a minimum of six defensive outs must be played, three of which must be in the infield. Free substitution will be used. Players can enter and re-enter freely. (See “SJCLL LOCAL PLAYING RULES for more clarity.)
B. All players must be included in a continuous batting order. The batting order cannot be changed after the game has started. Players who arrive after the game has started must be placed at the end of the lineup.
C. Regular Season Championship:
1. There will be first, second and third place trophies. Best overall record for the season determines first, second, and third places. Practice games or exhibition games do not count toward championship record. If two teams tie in the win column and one of those teams has a tie, then that tied game must be completed to determine overall winner.
2. If there is a two-way tie for first place (identical won/loss record for the season), then first place trophies will be awarded to both teams. However, seeding for the TOC will determined by the following tie-breakers:
a. Best head-to-head record; if still tied, then
b. One play-off game; winner gets top seed.
3. If there is a three-way tie (identical won/loss record for the season), three teams will win first place trophies. TOC seeding will be determined by a three-team play-off.
a. Coin toss will determine play-off berths (“odd-man” gets the bye).
b. It is then a single elimination play-off. First two teams go to TOC.
SUPPLEMENTAL MAJOR RULES
Game Playing Time: No new inning shall start after 2 hours on weeknights no new inning shall start after 2 1/2 hours on the weekends.
A. All participants in Majors must play a minimum of nine (9) defensive outs in a six-inning game three outs of which must be in the infield. For games that are shortened due to weather or darkness, a minimum of six defensive outs must be played, three of which must be in the infield. Free substitution will be used. Players can enter and re-enter freely. (See “SJCLL LOCAL PLAYING RULES for more clarity.)
B. All players must be included in a continuous batting order. The batting order cannot be changed after the game has started. Players who arrive after the game has started must be placed at the end of the lineup
C. For inter-league play home team local rules will apply.
D. Regular Season Championship:
1. There will be first, second and third place trophies. Best overall record for the season determines first, second, and third places. Practice games or exhibition games do not count toward championship record. If two teams tie in the win column and one of those teams has a tie, then that tied game must be completed to determine overall winner.
2. If there is a two-way tie for first place (identical won/loss record for the season), then first place trophies will be awarded to both teams. However, seeding for the TOC will determined by the following tie-breakers: a. Best head-to-head record; if still tied, then b. One play-off game; winner gets top seed.
3. If there is a three-way tie (identical won/loss record for the season), three teams will win first place trophies. TOC seeding will be determined by a three-team play-off. a. Coin toss will determine play-off berths (“odd-man” gets the buy). b. It is then a single elimination play-off. First two teams go to TOC.
SUPPLEMENTAL JUNIOR RULES
Game Playing Time: No new inning shall begin after 2 1/2 hours.
A. All participants in the Junior division must play a minimum of nine (9) defensive outs in a seven inning game except as noted. Note: The District 68 Inter-league Rules will take precedent as set forth by the Junior Administrator.
D. Regular Season Championship:
1. There will be first, second and third place trophies. Best overall record for the season determines first, second, and third places. Practice games or exhibition games to not count toward championship record. If two teams tie in the win column and one of those teams has a tie, then that tied game must be completed to determine overall winner.
2. If there is a two-way tie for first place (identical won/loss record for the season), then first place trophies will be awarded to both teams. However, seeding for the TOC will determined by the following tie-breakers:
a. Best head-to-head record; if still tied, then
b. One play-off game; winner gets top seed.
3. If there is a three-way tie (identical won/loss record for the season), three teams will win first place trophies. TOC seeding will be determined by a three-team play-off.
a. Coin toss will determine play-off berths (“odd-man” gets the by).
b. It is then a single elimination play-off. First two teams go to TOC.
SJCLL INTRA-LEAGUE TOURNAMENT RULES
1. Organization
The Board of Directors shall appoint a League Tournament Director to organize and run intra-league tournaments in the Double A through Junior Divisions each year. The Intra-league Tournament shall begin after the end of the regular season, and shall end before the District 68 TOC begins. The Tournament Director shall select and train Division Administrators, Umpires and others knowledgeable in Little Baseball Tournament Rules to act as Assistant Tournament Directors. The Tournament Director shall assign an Assistant Tournament Director to be present throughout each Tournament game. The Tournament Director shall work with the Division Administrators to hold pre-tournament meetings to familiarize mangers with the Tournament Rules and format. Each Division Administrator shall communicate with the respective managers to keep track of the scores and determine the Tournament winner. The Tournament Director shall coordinate with the Field Coordinator and the Snack Bar Chairperson to arrange coverage for Tournament games. The Tournament Director shall also coordinate with District 68 Staff, and organize and run any post-season TOC or All Star Tournaments the Board of Directors might decide to host from time-to-time.
2. Format
All teams in the Double A through Junior Divisions shall be eligible to participate in the Intra-league Tournament. A double elimination format will be used at all levels. Seeding will be determined based on regular season records. If there is an odd number of teams, the regular season winner will receive a first round "bye." In the Double A Division, the Tournament will be conducted under the Double A regular season Rules. In the Triple A through Junior Divisions, the Tournaments will be conducted under the Little League Baseball of America Tournament Rules. Managers are responsible for knowing the differences between the regular season Rules and the Tournament Rules.
3. Protests
Any and all protests shall be handled immediately; if necessary the game will be suspended while the protest is being considered. If a manager believes an improper substitution has occurred, an ineligible player has entered the game, or the umpire has misinterpreted a playing Rule, that manager shall first ask for time-out, then approach the plate umpire with the specific protest.
