• AJB TBall Rules                                      
• AJB AA Rules
• AJB AAA Rules
• AJB Major Rules
• Softball Rules     
• Wissahickon Travel Baseball Rules                      

AJB TBall Team Composition and Position Rules  back to top

                          A couple of tips for the first time coaches:

• Each child will receive a hat and shirt. So will coaches. Our shirts will match the kids. There is usually an extra shirt and hat in the bag and this is for your team’s sponsor (if you have one).
• Tell the parents to put their child name on everything they bring; hats, gloves, bats, batting helmets, etc.
• Opening Day: We start at the Ambler Septa Train station and march towards Pickering Field for a ceremony where they announce each team. This is followed by a hot dog and drink for every player.
• The games are one hour long. There are a few practices before the games start.
  •  
    • For the first couple of games set aside 15 minutes for practice and the last 45 minutes for the game.
    • As we get further into the season, spend a few minutes warming up and the remainder for the game.
    • 3 innings is the maximum amount.
• Unless there is a lot of continuous rain, AJB does not close the fields and leave this pretty much up to the coaches to decide if a game is to be played. Just use common sense with this age group. Cold, damp, muddy field and a bunch of 5-6 year olds is not a good mix. Please get a hold of the coach that you are playing and decide if you are playing.

Batting Team

• For the first half of the season, have the kids hit off the tee. This includes the returning T-Ball kids from last year. This is a good time to teach them the mechanics of swinging and this will help with their hand eye coordination.
• The second half of the season we will switch to coach pitch. The batting team’s coach does the pitching. Every child is to try the coach pitch. If after 6 pitches the child is not hitting, then go back to the Tee. Don’t make a big deal of going back to the T. Just take the T and put it on home plate and tell the kids to swing. If after trying coach pitch, the child wants to hit off the T, that’s fine. Just have them try the coach pitch. Just don’t force the issue. This will come with time.
• Please limit the coach pitches to 6 as this will keep the pace of the game going. Keep in mind that the kids who are fielding are patiently waiting and will get bored. The child who is batting also does not want too many swinging misses either.
• Our goal by the end of the season is to have each child making contact with the ball from the coach pitch.
• Every child bats once per inning. Every child gets on base after hitting the ball. Just one base per hit. No one gets out.
• The last batter gets to hit a Grand Slam and all the runners come home. The fielding team should wait till the batter has crossed the plate before coming off the field.
• Make sure that each child gets a chance to hit the Grand Slam through out the season.
• Have one of the assistant coaches or parent help with getting the kids on the bench ready to bat by putting on a batting helmet on the next two batters, etc.

Fielding Team

• Coaches are on the field with the fielding team. Spread out. Have one coach cover the 1st  Base side, one at 2nd base and the other at 3rd base.  
• Have the kids lined up in a semi-circle that is spread out from 1st base to 3rd base. Don’t worry about playing outfield positions as very few hits make it to the outfield.
• Tell the kids that each one will get a turn fielding a hit ball. Try to prevent the kids piling on one another as someone will get hurt. Try to keep track as to who fielded a ball and who did not. Split the field in two and have the 1st base coach keep track of the kids from 1st to 2nd and the 3rd base coach keep track of the kids from 2nd to 3rd. Tell them who is getting the next ball.
• The fielding team should try to get the batter out by making a throw to first base. We want the kids to understand that after they field the ball where to throw it. Please make sure the first baseman is aware of this and is ready.
• Remember if you do get the runner out, that the runner is always safe. Just call it a tie.
• Most importantly, have fun!

This is recreational and instructional league. The most important thing to remember is to LET THE KIDS HAVE FUN. 

Simplified Rules

• 90 minutes is the time limit.  No new inning shall be started more than 90 minutes after the scheduled start of the game (regardless of when the game may actually have started).
•  5 Innings maximum 
• The distance from the rubber to home plate is 46 feet and the distance between bases is 60 feet.
• No stealing or leading is allowed.
• No Dropped Third Strikes. 

Pitching

• Machine pitch will be used for the first half of the season.
• Coaches will pitch for the last half of the season
• No players will be allowed to pitch.
• There will be a fielding pitcher, who is to be positioned behind the line of the pitching rubber on either side of the machine or coach.

Balls and strikes 

• Ball and strikes will not be called except for swinging strikes and foul balls. A batter is entitled to six (6) swinging strikes (including foul balls).
• A strikeout is not counted as an out.
• 3 Outs or Batting Through the Line Up
• The inning will be over when there are 3 outs or the entire batting team has batted.

Balls in Play

• A batted ball is in play if it comes to rest in fair territory a distance of at least 10 feet from home plate, as delineated by the arc of a chalk line to be placed 10 feet from the plate.
• A batted ball which hits the pitching machine will be in play, unless it goes into foul territory before reaching first or third base in fair territory.
• No sliding of any form is allowed.
•  Throwing the Bat – A warning will be issued.  If this continues, then the batter will be called out. 
• Ending a Play in the Field
• A play ends when a ball is returned to the hands of the pitcher and the pitcher is on the mound.  The runners must either return to the last base which they safely touched (if less than halfway to the next base) or stop at the next base (if more than halfway to that base). 

Fielding Positions       

• Ten (10) fielders will be used in the standard positions with four (4) outfielders.
• Infielders must remain in their normal positions and may not be played on the outfield grass, and may not be played on the infield grass or more than three (3) feet inside the baseline (whichever is less).
• Outfielders must be on the grass at least 15 feet beyond the edge of the infield dirt.

Overthrows into Foul Territory

• In the case of an overthrow going out of play, the runners may advance to the base to which they were advancing when the overthrow occurred, plus the next base. 

Coaches on the Field During Play 

•  Coach are allowed to be in the outfield to provide instructions to the players on the fielding team.  

AJB AAA DIVISION RULES  back to top 

I.     Team Composition and Position Rules

(A)   Except as stated in subsections (B) and (C) , below, in each game a team shall put    

         nine (9) fielders in the field, in the standard positions.

(i)                  At all times, the pitcher will be an actual pitching pitcher.

(ii)                Fielders may be “shifted” or “shaded”, according to the coaches’ desires, at any time and to any extent, except that, for reasons of safety, infielders may not be more than three (3) feet in front of the baseline at the beginning of any pitch.

(iii)               Except as stated in subparagraphs (a) through (d), below, there shall be no substitution for a player in the field of “switching” of positions of players in the field during any particular half-inning. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, players maybe substituted for or switched during a particular half-inning under the following circumstances:

(a)      Subject to the limitations on player pitching stated elsewhere in these rules, a coach may make a pitching change during a half-inning and in conjunction therewith may substitute for or switch positions of the other players in the field at such time if and to the extent that it occurs as a direct and immediate consequence of the pitching change (i.e., because the removed pitcher remains in the field in a different position than the position of the player who replaces the removed pitcher, necessitating the repositioning of other players already in the field.

(b)      In the case of an injury to the player in question.

(c)      When it becomes apparent that there is an undue risk of injury to a particular player who is playing a particular position, or an undue risk of injury to other players if that player continues to play particular position in which he or she started the half-inning.

(d)      For disciplinary reasons, ( i.e., a player is removed from the game by a coach or umpire bad conduct.

(B)       If  a team does not have nine (9) players for a scheduled game, then that team may try to utilize substitutes from the AA division(coach can contact AAA and AA division coordinator)

(C)      If, either at the scheduled beginning time of a game or within 10 minutes thereafter, a team has only eight (8) players, including any substitutes obtained,  then it may play with eight (8) players, playing only two players in the outfield.  All other field positions shall be occupied by a player.

(D)      If, within 10 minutes after the scheduled beginning time of a game, a team does not have at least eight (8) players, including substitutes obtained, then that team shall forfeit the game.  Other field use considerations permitting, the teams may exchange or interchange players and play an exhibition game.

II.                 Game Times and Durations

(A) AAA Division game will be over at the conclusion of the last inning of the game which begins less one hour and 45 minutes after the schedule start time of game.  If the game is not complete by two hours and 15 minutes, the game score reverts back to the last full inning and goes in the books as a complete game. (This is important on Saturdays when there is multiple game schedule)

(B)  Evening Games are under the same rules regarding game times.  In the event these requirements can not be met, because in the judgement of  the umpire and/or coaches of this particular game  darkness is affecting visibility for the players to safely see the ball.  The umpire may call a game on account of darkness.  The game score will revert to the last full inning.

(C)  Weather conditions- Not withstanding the time limits set forth in section   

(1)   II(A) may not have been reached in a particular game.  The coaches of 

(2)   the teams in question and/or umpire shall use their best mature            

(3)   judgement to determine when weather conditions affecting visibility or

(4)   adversely affect the safety of the players, shall agree to shorten the game                    

(5)   or call the game.  The results of the game shall be determined in

(6)   accordance with rule II(D)(F).

(D)  Number of Innings in a Game

(1)      Subject to the time limitation rules of Rule II (A) –(B), games                 

in AAA Division shall consist of up to (but not more than) six (6) innings.

(a)    A game is an official game if at least three (3) innings (or 2 ½  innings, if the home team is ahead at that time)  have been played by the time it must be concluded, either because of weather conditions of because of the time limitation rule.

(b)   The score of a game which must be concluded before the conclusion of a full inning shall revert to the last full inning of play, except that is a half-inning has been concluded and the home team is ahead at that time, the score will revert to the score as of the conclusion of the last half-inning.

(E) Last Inning Determinations

(1)In the event that a game will have to be concluded before the full  six innings can be played, because of the time limitation rule, the coaches shall mutually agree, at the beginning of an inning, that such inning shall be played as if it were the last inning.

(2)      In no event shall a failure of the coaches to agree, at the beginning of a particular inning, that the inning shall be played as the last inning, be a reason for exceeding the time or innings limitations rules.

       (F) Tie Games, Continuation of Suspended Games, and Extra Innings

(3)      Except in the case of playoff games, games which are official

but which are tied at the time they must be concluded are recorded as a tie.  There shall be no extra inning games during the regular season.

(4)      Games which are not concluded and which are not official are

to be played on other day, picking up from the last full inning which had been completed prior to the game being suspended.  If the game cannot be completed, the game will be recorded as a tie.          

III.               Rules of Play

(A)         Playing Field Dimensions

(1)      For AAA Division, the distance from the rubber to home plate

Shall be 46 feet and the distance between bases shall be 60 feet.

(B)         Throwing the bat

                                  (1)  A batter who, in the judgement of the umpire, has clearly

                                          thrown the bat after swinging, shall be automatically out.

                  (C)    Infield Fly Rule

(1)   The infield fly rule shall apply only in Major division.  There is no infield fly rule in AAA division.

             (D)   Batters hit by Pitched Balls

(1)      Unless, in the judgement of the umpire, a batter could and

should have avoided being hit with a pitched ball, a batter hit by a pitched ball may advance to first base or may remain at bat, at the option of the player and his coach.

(a)    A coach may not exercise the option to have the batter remain at bat, but must allow the batter to take first base, if the pitch has struck the batter with more than minimal force.

            (E)    Overthrows into foul Territory

                                    (1)   The coaches shall decide the limits of foul territory within                                                                                     

                                             which an overthrown ball remains in play.

(2)      In the case of an overthrow going out of play, the runners

may advance to the base to which they were advancing when the overthrow occurred, plus the next base.

            (F)           Equipment Regulations and Safety Equipment  

(1)        A helmet must be worn at all times by any batter or

         baserunner, both in practice and in games.

(2)        The use of shoes with metal spikes is prohibited.

(3)        Batters may use only bats which are eligible and allowed to

be used in official Little League play under official Little League rules.

(4)        When pitches are made to the batter whether by players or

Coaches, a player playing the fielding position of catcher

must, both in practice and in games, wear the complement

of catching gear (mask/helmet, chest protector and shin guards) at all times while playing at that positions.  Personal protective devices (cups) shall be optional, but shall be recommended by the coach to any (male) catcher and his parents or guardians.

AJB MAJOR DIVISION RULES  back to top 

I.     Team Composition and Position Rules

(A)   Except as stated in subsections (B) and (C) , below, in each game a team shall put    

         nine (9) fielders in the field, in the standard positions.

(i)                 At all times, the pitcher will be an actual pitching pitcher.

(ii)               Fielders may be “shifted” or “shaded”, according to the coaches’ desires, at any time and to any extent, except that, for reasons of safety, infielders may not be more than ten (10) feet in front of the baseline at the beginning of any pitch.

(iii)             Except as stated in subparagraphs (a) through (d), below, there shall be no substitution for a player in the field of “switching” of positions of players in the field during any particular half-inning. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, players maybe substituted for or switched during a particular half-inning under the following circumstances:

(a)      Subject to the limitations on player pitching stated elsewhere in these rules, a coach may make a pitching change during a half-inning and in conjunction therewith may substitute for or switch positions of the other players in the field at such time if and to the extent that it occurs as a direct and immediate consequence of the pitching change (i.e., because the removed pitcher remains in the field in a different position than the position of the player who replaces the removed pitcher, necessitating the repositioning of other players already in the field.

(b)      In the case of an injury to the player in question.

(c)      When it becomes apparent that there is an undue risk of injury to a particular player who is playing a particular position, or an undue risk of injury to other players if that player continues to play particular position in which he or she started the half-inning.

(d)     For disciplinary reasons, ( i.e., a player is removed from the game by a coach or umpire bad conduct.

(B)      If  a team does not have nine (9) players for a scheduled game, then that team may try to utilize substitutes from the AAA division(coach can contact AAA and Major division coordinator)

(C)      If, either at the scheduled beginning time of a game or within 10 minutes thereafter, a team has only eight (8) players, including any substitutes obtained,  then it may play with eight (8) players, playing only two players in the outfield.  All other field positions shall be occupied by a player.

(D)      If, within 10 minutes after the scheduled beginning time of a game, a team does not have at least eight (8) players, including substitutes obtained, then that team shall forfeit the game.  Other field use considerations permitting, the teams may exchange or interchange players and play an exhibition game.

II.                Game Times and Durations

(A) Major Division game will be over at the conclusion of the last inning of the game which begins less than one hour and 45 minutes after the schedule start time of game.  If the game is not complete by two hours and 15 minutes, the game score reverts back to the last full inning and goes in the books as a complete game. (This is important on Saturdays when there is multiple game schedule)  There is one exception to this rule:

(1)      If there is no other game schedule for at least 3 ½  hours on that particular field,  the last inning of that can be completed without the two hour and 15 minute limitation.  This has to be agreed upon before the game start between both coaches and the umpire. 

(B)         Evening Games are under the same rules regarding game times.  In the event these requirements can not be met, because in the judgement of  the umpire and/or coaches of this particular game  darkness is affecting visibility for the players to safely see the ball.  The umpire may call a game on account of darkness.  The game score will revert to the last full inning.

(C)         Weather conditions- Not withstanding the time limits set forth in section   

                            II(A) may not have been reached in a particular game.  The coaches of 

                            the teams in question and/or umpire shall use their best mature             

                            judgement to determine when weather conditions affecting visibility or

                           adversely affect the safety of the players, shall agree to shorten the game                    

                           or call the game.  The results of the game shall be determined in

                            accordance with rule II(D)(F).

(D)        Number of Innings in a Game

(1)      Subject to the time limitation rules of Rule II (A) –(B), games                

in Majors Division shall consist of up to (but not more than) six (6) innings.

(a)    A game is an official game if at least four (4) innings (or 3 ½  innings, if the home team is ahead at that time)  have been played by the time it must be concluded, either because of weather conditions of because of the time limitation rule.

(b)   The score of a game which must be concluded before the conclusion of a full inning shall revert to the last full inning of play, except that is a half-inning has been concluded and the home team is ahead at that time, the score will revert to the score as of the conclusion of the last half-inning.

(E)         Last Inning Determinations

(1)      In the event that a game will have to be concluded before the full  six innings can be played, because of the time limitation rule, the coaches shall mutually agree, at the beginning of an inning, that such inning shall be played as if it were the last inning.

(2)      In no event shall a failure of the coaches to agree, at the beginning of a particular inning, that the inning shall be played as the last inning, be a reason for exceeding the time or innings limitations rules.

(F)          Tie Games, Continuation of Suspended Games, and Extra Innings

(1)      Except in the case of playoff games, games which are official

but which are tied at the time they must be concluded are recorded as a tie.  There shall be no extra inning games during the regular season.

(2)      Games which are not concluded and which are not official are

to be played on other day, picking up from the last full inning which had been completed prior to the game being suspended.  If the game cannot be completed, the game will be recorded as a tie.          

III.             Rules of Play

(A)        Playing Field Dimensions

(1)      For Majors Division, the distance from the rubber to home plate

Shall be 50 feet and the distance between bases shall be 75 feet.

(B)         Throwing the bat

                                  (1)  A batter who, in the judgement of the umpire, has clearly

                                          thrown the bat after swinging, shall be automatically out.

                  (C)    Infield Fly Rule

(1)   The infield fly rule shall apply only in Major division.

             (D)   Batters hit by Pitched Balls

(1)      Unless, in the judgement of the umpire, a batter could and

should have avoided being hit with a pitched ball, a batter hit by a pitched ball may advance to first base or may remain at bat, at the option of the player and his coach.

(a)    A coach may not exercise the option to have the batter remain at bat, but must allow the batter to take first base, if the pitch has struck the batter with more than minimal force.

            (E)    Overthrows into foul Territory

                                    (1)   The coaches shall decide the limits of foul territory within                                                                                     

                                             which an overthrown ball remains in play.

(2)      In the case of an overthrow going out of play, the runners

may advance to the base to which they were advancing when the overthrow occurred, plus the next base.

            (F)           Equipment Regulations and Safety Equipment  

(1)        A helmet must be worn at all times by any batter or

         baserunner, both in practice and in games.

(2)        The use of shoes with metal spikes is prohibited.

(3)        Batters may use only bats which are eligible and allowed to

be used in official Little League play under official Little League rules.

(4)        When pitches are made to the batter whether by players or

Coaches, a player playing the fielding position of catcher

must, both in practice and in games, wear the complement

of catching gear (mask/helmet, chest protector and shin guards) at all times while playing at that positions.  Personal protective devices (cups) shall be optional, but shall be recommended by the coach to any (male) catcher and his parents or guardians.

(G)              Specific Rules for Majors Division

(1)   Pitching

(a)    There shall be player pitching at all times.  Balls and

strikes will be called and will count toward walks or strikeouts.

(b)   Dropped third strike rule is in effect at all times as                              defined by the Major League Baseball rules.

(c)    No player may pitch for more than three (3) innings in any one game.  A pitcher must pitch consective innings if that pitcher pitches more than one inning during that particular game.(i.e.   player can not pitch the first inning than return to pitch the fifth inning.)

(d)   Player can not pitch more than 6 innings in any 3-day period.

(e)    If a player is removed as a pitcher during a course of a inning, the entire inning shall count as an inning both for that player and the player who replaces him or her.

(2)   Sliding, Blocking of Bases and Fielder/Runner Interference

(a)    Except in the case of the batter running from home plate to first base, a runner approaching any base (including a runner attempting to return to a base safely) must slide.  If the base is being covered (within 5 feet or less of the base) by a fielder and a throw is coming to such fielder as the runner is approaching the base; or, if the runner is not physically capable of sliding, in all events the runner may not run directly at the fielder but must attempt to avoid the fielder and reach the base safely without going outside of the baseline limitations.

(b)   A runner who fails to “slide or avoid” when required under this rule shall be called automatically out, if a collision occurs between the fielder and the runner, or if in the judgment of the umpire, the result of the runner’s actions was either (1) to create an actual and substantial danger of collision or (2) to interfere with the fielder, by blocking the flight path of the ball or the vision of the fielder or by creating a fear of collision on the part of the fielder.

(c)    Head first slides are prohibited and shall result in the runner being called automatically out.   The only exception to this rule is when a base runner is returning to a base on a pick off play from the pitcher. 

(d)   A fielder may not occupy or purport to be covering a base if a throw is not being made to that base when the baserunner is advancing toward and approaching that base (that is, the fielder may not either physically interfere with the runner’s progress by standing on the base or “deke” the runner into sliding.

                                                                                                                            i.      a violation of the subsection (d) is interference with the baserunner, and the baserunner shall be awarded the base to which in the judgment of the umpire the runner had a reasonable chance of advancing except for such interference.

(e)    A fielder may “straddle” the base, but may not have any part of his or her body in the basepath in front of the base as a runner is approaching unless and until he or she has the ball in his or her actual possession.

                                                                                                                          ii.      a violation of this subsection (e) is interference with the runner and the consequences shall be the same as described under subsection (d)(i) of this rule.

(f)    Failure of Runner to Touch a Base While Advancing to the next base – the rules of profession Major League Baseball shall apply.

(3)   Bunting

          Bunting is permitted subject to the same rules applicable to bunting in Professional Major League Baseball.  The only exception is that a player who signals their intention to bunt may not “swing away”.  If a batter violates this rule, the play is immediately called dead by the umpire and the batter is called out immediately.

(4)   Runs Limitations in Particular At-Bats

(a)    Except in the case of the last inning an at bat for a particular team which has not previously made three outs shall end at the end of the play in which the team scores its seventh run in that half-inning.

            (i)     Where on the same play in which a seventh run

                      scores, additional runs score while the ball is still

                      in play, such runs shall count.

(b)   In the last inning, there shall be no run limitations  and the batting team shall be entitled to bat until it has made three outs.

(5)   Play Off Games

(a)    Play off formats will be decided by the league by the end of the season.

(b)   All playoff games must complete six innings.  No play off games can end in a tie

                                  (6) Base Stealing    There is no limitations on base stealing except

                                                      for when there is a baserunners at first and third bases.

                                                       If runner at first attempts to steal second base, the

                                                       runner at third shall not advance on the catchers throw

                                                       to second to throw out baserunner.(This is essentially a

                                                       free throw for the catcher and this rule exists to

                                                       encourage the throw from the catcher whereas without

                                                        it, the throw would not happen in fear of the runner at

                                                        third easily scoring)

AJB Girls' Mini And Minor Softball Rules And Regulations  back to top 

2011   U12 LEVEL
INTER-COMMUNITY GIRLS SOFTBALL LEAGUE

INTER-COMMUNITY GIRLS SOFTBALL LEAGUE POLICIES
1.   Game start time is 6:00, a forfeit may be declared by the umpire at 6:15

2.   League standings are on a point system:
           2 points – WIN
           1 point – TIE
           Score on forfeits: Forfeits: 7 – 0

     Standings will be:
           Head to Head then Runs Allowed

3    A roster MUST be submitted to the league official for each team BEFORE the
season. Roster forms will be signed by the league President on the NO CHANGE
DATE and provided by the league. NO ADDITIONS OR CHANGES will be permitted to roster after April 30, 2011.

Organizational Commissioners will provide a copy of rosters to the League. Each team will be provided field maps and directions and a schedule at the league coaches meeting.
3a - Travel players can pitch however travel PITCHERS may not pitch

4.   There will be NO rescheduling of games for any reason other than weather.
• With the exception of UNSCHEDULED school events.
• School event rescheduling must be approved by league officials.
NOTE: If a manager coach can still field a team in spite of the above, games are to be played and NOT rescheduled.

• Each coach must agree with change. Each coach MUST speak to opposing coach to confirm any changes. Changes to ALL games must be cleared with league.

Contact: Rob Miller – Umpire in Charge
Home: 215-643-3398   Cell: 215-439-0067  e-mail: jokerla@aol.com
Alternate Emergency Number:  215-272-1605

In the event of RAIN or a PRE-APPROVED schedule change,
 the HOME team coach MUST contact:
(1) Rob Miller (Umpire Assigner);
(2) the opposing team coach;
(3) within 72 hours agree to a rescheduled date;
(4) call UMPIRE ASSIGNER to arrange for an umpire.

(5) If no date has been rescheduled after 72 hours, the League will reschedule the
game at the date/time/place chosen by the League. If not played, the team unable   to field a team will forfeit.

5.   Forfeits
     (A) A forfeit will be declared when a team cannot field the required number of
players (as noted in league rules) within 15 minutes of the scheduled start time or
at anytime during the game.
     (B) As declared by the Umpire.

6.  BOTH TEAMS will, within 24 hours of the game, telephone the division scorekeeper.                
The penalty for NOT reporting the score within the 24 hour period will be a LOSS for (both teams) not reporting the games. If the winners report the game – NO penalty will be applied.

The Scorekeepers by age group are:
U14 = Tom Flach  215-887-5613  tflach@reitmr.com
U12 =  Scott Windle  215-407-6151  sgwindle@yahoo.com

Coaches are required to relay to scorekeeper the following information:
(A) Name of teams and age of play.
(B) Date of game and field location.
(C) The final score.
NOTE: Division scorekeeper MUST notify a league official of a forfeit.

Code of Conduct:
1. All coaches, assistants, players and spectators involved in this program are expected to set a good example of sportsmanship and fair play to all UMPIRES, LEAGUE COMMISSIONERS, OPPOSING TEAMS AND COACHES. Abusive language or inappropriate conduct will NOT be tolerated.

2. Spectators will be removed from the game area and out of sight and sound of the umpire and players.

3. Players will be out of the game.

4. Coaches will be removed from the game and a 2 game suspension (minimum) will be issued. Team could forfeit the game in play at the umpire’s discretion.  Coaches will be brought before a league panel and suspension will be reviewed and discussed as to additional action to be taken.
5. Each team will have ONLY two (2) coaches listed on Rosters and they will be the coaches recognized by the league, per team.

6. The Umpires, on the field of play and during the game will only communicate with two (2) designated coaches. The two (2) coaches do not have to be the roster coaches during the game being played.

LEAGUE REVIEWS

1. Team HEAD coach is to notify their organization’s commissioner.

2. Individual organization commissioner will research the complaint and at the commissioners discretion can ask for a league review.

3. Commissioner will notify league for a review date. Only the head coach and assistant coach will attend league panel review along with their organization commissioner.

4. If the organization’s commissioner is a review board member, an alternate member from a non-participating organization will be appointed to the board of review.

5. The league review board’s decision is FINAL.

GENERAL RULES:

All divisions of the Inter-Community Girls Softball League will adhere to the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) 2011 rules as stated in the 2011 rule book unless otherwise stated below.

ASA RULES
¬
All items are referenced according to their place in the rule book.

POE refers to “Points of Emphasis”, which immediately follows the rules.

RULE   1. DEFINITIONS

APPEAL – POE
While ASA still recognizes a live ball appeal where you throw the ball to a base,
it is preferred to use the dead ball appeal. As soon as the play has ended, the
umpire will call time, and any infielder may verbally appeal by telling the umpire
which runner and which base she is appealing.

CATCH
Remember that to be considered a catch, the release of the ball must be intentional
and voluntary.  We often see a situation where two fielders are running at each
other to try to catch a ball, one catches it and, after taking one or more steps,
collides with the other fielder (or falls down), and the ball is knocked loose. This
is not a catch! It doesn’t matter how many steps she took.

FOUL TIP
The ball must not go higher than the batter’s head and must go directly to catcher’s hand or glove.  If the ball first hits any part of the catcher’s equipment or body other than her hand or glove, it is a foul ball and the ball is dead. With a foul tip, the ball remains live.

INFIELD FLY
• WHEN – Runners on 1st and 2nd, or bases loaded and LESS than 2 outs.
• WHAT – Batter is called out!
Runners may advance at their own risk. If the ball is caught, runner must tag up just like any other caught fly ball.

TRAPPED CATCH
If caught with the glove over the ball on the ground, it is not a catch until the glove is lifted off the ground with the ball firmly secured.

RULE 2. THE PLAYING FIELD

PITCHER’S RUBBER – Section 1
• Distance 35’
• Distance is measured from the back point of home plate to the front of the rubber.

1st and 3rd BASE DISTANCE – Section 3
• The 60’ distance is measured from the back point of home plate to the back
(outfield side) of the bag.
• 1st Base must be a double first base.  See page 8 for rules regarding double bag use.

FIELD OF PLAY
• Home team is responsible for field set up. Pitching rubber should be secured firmly into ground.
• Bases should be sliding. Field should be lined whenever possible.

RULE 3. EQUIPMENT

CATCHER’S HEADGEAR – Section 5 c
• Catcher’s helmet must have ear flaps. Skull cap (without ear flaps) is not acceptable.
• Any player warming up a pitcher MUST wear a mask with throat protector and approved helmet.

JEWELRY – Section 6 f
• NO JEWELRY!!! END OF STORY!!! Leave it at home
• Upon arrival to the plate for batting the Umpire may give a warning ONE TIME ONLY. If warning is ignored the batter will be called out at the plate.

RULE 4. PLAYERS AND SUBSTITUTES

BLOOD RULE – Section 7, POE
• Does not have to be an open wound. Dried blood on the uniform from a previous injury or game counts as blood.

RULE 5. THE GAME

CONFERENCES – Section 10, POE***
• Defensive: Three (3) per 7 inning game.
• Offensive: One (1) per inning between coach and each batter.
• It does not count as a conference if it occurs during the other team’s charged conference and you are ready to play when that conference is over.
RUN AHEAD RULE – Section 9
• 15 run rule after 3 innings
• 10 run rule after 5 innings
• ***If in the Umpire’s opinion the score is totally out of control prior to the RUN AHEAD RULE innings, the Umpire may at his/her discretion end the game***

RULE 6. PITCHING REGULATIONS

BEFORE THE PITCH –
• BOTH feet must be in contact with the pitcher’s rubber.

DRAGGING THE PIVOT FOOT – Section 3 l
• The pivot foot may drag away from the rubber before the pitch is released, as long as it does not come up off the ground or re-plant and push off a second time.

WARM UP PITCHES – Section 9
• Most of us know that we are limited to 3 pitches, but almost everyone forgets that part that says
• “NOT MORE THAN ONE MINUTE MAY BE USED”. This is the second biggest reason that the games drag on forever! The pitchers often wait for infielders, or have to wait for the catcher to suit up. If the catcher is not ready, have a coach or parent (or a properly equipped player), warm up the pitcher.
• Pitchers may only pitch a MAXIMUM of four (4) innings in a game.
***Remember that ONE (1) pitch constitutes an inning.

Pitchers HIT Batters:
• A pitcher who hits two (2) batters in any inning is removed from the pitching mound for the remainder of the inning.
• A pitcher who hits four (4) batters in a game is removed from the pitching mound for the remainder of the game. The player may continue in the game in any other position.

WHILE WE’RE AT IT!!!!
• The biggest delay in the game is waiting for the catcher to suit up. ASSIGN SOMEONE at every game to help the catcher get her gear on. This is new to many of the girls, so help them every inning.

SPEED UP RULE:
• Courtesy runner MUST be used when the catcher reaches first base safe, and there are two (2) outs. Pinch runner will be your last batted out.

RULE 7. BATTING (Exception to ASA) League Rule
12 & Under:
Everyone bats.  Free substitutions in the field. All players are on the batting roster, with late arrivals added to the bottom of the line up upon arrival. Batting stays the same throughout the game. Any player removed from the line up before the end of the game - ***without notification prior to the start of the game, becomes an out when that batter comes up to the plate.

***Exception: (1) Opposing coach and umpire are notified prior to the start of the game
(2) Injury – occurring during the game play – a player cannot return to the game

CHECKING SIGNS WITH BASE COACH – Section 3 C
• The batter may not step out of the box after every pitch to get the sign from the base coach. Read this rule for exceptions.

RULE 8. BATTER – RUNNER & RUNNER

BALL RETURNED TO PITCHER WITHIN 8’ CIRCLE – Section 8U
• Many coaches confuse this rule with that of the younger age groups play. Returning the ball to the pitcher does NOT stop play! What it does is force the runner(s) to immediately return to the last base touched or proceed to the next base. Runners may not stand still between bases or move back and forth unless the pitcher throws the ball, fakes a throw or leaves the 8’ circle.
• If the runner does not commit to a base, when the ball is returned to the 8’ circle and hang out between the bases - runner will be called out.

RULE 9. PROTESTS – ASA Rule 9, Section 1-7
• WHEN – You must notify the umpire before the next pitch
• WHAT – Only a misinterpretation or misapplication of the rules may be protested. Anything involving umpire’s judgment (even if you don’t like it) is not subject to protest.
• ACTION – If you end up winning the game – no protest!!! If you lose, protesting COACH should contact Robert Miller. 
Home: 215-643-3398   Cell: 215-439-0067  e-mail: jokerla@aol.com

INTERFERENCE, OBSTRUCTION & COLLISIONS – POE
Whenever a base runner and a fielder crash into each other, it is always one of the
above. POE has detailed and easily understood explanations of interference and obstruction. However, it is important to understand that there are times when two players collide, sometimes hard, and it is neither interference nor obstruction. It is just a collision and there is NO penalty.

TIME OUT
I often hear a coach tell me that play should have stopped at a certain point in the game because he/she called time. Most of the time this is because that coach wanted to stop play before, in my judgment, all action was over. Simple rule to remember – Coaches request time – Umpires grant time!!!

Rules for use of the Double First Base
The Double First Base was designed to prevent collisions and therefore assure the safety of the players.  ASA, Pony, NASF and NSA mandated it’s use in 2002.

ICGLS has made it an option for 2003 and 2004 and made it mandatory in 2005 (2005 was based on each organizations budget). For the 2006 Travel level the double bag will be implemented and ALL organizations will be required to use it.  It is mandatory in ICGSL since 2007.

Below are the rules for proper use. Be sure that your players and coaches understand all of the rules. The umpire will go over the use at ground rules if requested. Set the base with white portion in fair territory, and orange portion in foul territory.

ASA Rule 8 Section 2 Article M
1. A batted ball hitting or bounding over the white portion will be declared fair. A ball hitting or bounding over the colored portion is foul.

2. When a play is being made on a batter-runner, the defense MUST use the WHITE portion of the base. The batter-runner MUST use the COLORED portion of the base. If the batter-runner touches only the white portion of the base she will be declared safe UNLESS the defense appeals prior to the batter-runner returning to the base. Once the runner returns to the white, no appeal can be made. (The easy way is to tag the runner before she returns to the base.)

3. On any force out attempt from the foul side of first base, or an errant throw pulling the fielder off the base into foul ground, the fielder and the batter-runner may use either portion of the base.

4. On extra base hits or balls hit to the outfield when there is no play being made at the double base, the runner may touch either portion of the base. If the runner returns to the base the WHITE portion must be used.

5. When tagging up on a fly ball, the WHITE portion must be used.

6. On an attempted pick off play, the runner must return to the WHITE portion of the base.

7. If the batter-runner touches only the white portion of the base and collides with the fielder about to catch a thrown ball while on the white, INTERFERENCE is ruled. The ball is dead, the runner is called out, and all other runners must return to the base last occupied at the interference.

LEAGUE EXCEPTIONS TO ASA RULES
1. NEW 2011 - 9 Players in the field – Outfielder must be a minimum 10’ behind the infield cutout at the start of a play (pitch).

2. Game ball shall be 12”, ASA certified regulation softball

3. Bats must have ASA stamp

4. No exposed jewelry (no earrings). Umpires will give 1 warning to remove exposed jewelry. If a girl returns to the plate with jewelry after her warning, the team will receive an out for that player.

5. No inning can start after 1 hr. 45 mins.

6. Game can start and end with 8 players. 
• If 8 players are present at game time, game must begin.
• Umpires will NOT wait for forfeit time to start.

7. Forfeit if team cannot field 8 players.
• 15 minutes after scheduled start time.

8. A MUST: Courtesy runner (last batted out) for catcher with 2 outs.

9. RUN AHEAD RULE:
• 15 run rule after 3 innings
• 10 run rule after 5 innings

10. Lightning will end the game – no waiting for it to pass.

11. Umpire may call a game for darkness –score will revert to score at end of prior completed inning.

12. League rules to overrule book rules. Don’t get caught in a bind over league rule. If coaches disagree about a league rule, state the book rule. Ask home team coach how he/she wants league rule enforced, and then follow it. Tell visiting team he/she can protest and have umpire sign the score book to show protest in effect.

13. Player age is determined as of January 1st of Playing season.

COURTESY RULE: 
Courtesy runner for the pitcher and catcher can be made anytime during the game – once the batter reaches a base safely. If less than TWO (2) outs the pinch runner MUST be a player off your bench and not in the game. If you only have 10 players – the pinch runner will be the last batted out. The runner for the catcher – with two outs – MUST be the player who made the last BATTED OUT.

League Rule:
A courtesy runner MUST be used for the catcher when there are two outs.
*** See speed up rule. ***

12 & UNDER: Additional Exceptions to ASA rules:
1. 4 innings constitutes a legal game if game is called early due to curfew
WEATHER or DARKNESS (umpires call)

2. Stealing rule:
• NEW 2011  - Stealing home is only allowable if you have a less than a 3 run lead.
• IF AHEAD BY 3 RUNS - You may ONLY come home on a ball “HIT” in the fair play area of the playing field OR when forced home due to bases loaded and a walk occurs or hit batter.
• NO CONTINUOUS WALKS – a walk is a walk and first base is the only base you will get.

3. Everyone bats – all players are listed in the lineup.

4. 10 batters maximum per inning – 10th batter cannot walk.
(A) Exception: If bases are loaded and batter received 4 balls (or) is hit by pitch.
(1) have batter take 1st – force in run and end inning
(2) continue to try to hit

5. If 10th batter puts ball in play with less than 2 outs, allow play to continue to natural conclusion.  (Force out at 1st does not prevent a runner on 3rd from scoring. Fly out does not prevent runner from tagging up and scoring).

6. Players arriving late MUST be added to the bottom of the batting order.

7. If, while attempting to throw out a stealing runner, the ball is overthrown or passes the fielder, the runner CANNOT advance any further than the base she is attempting to steal. This rule is to encourage the catcher to attempt the throw without penalty.

8. A dropped third strike will result in the batter being called OUT.  NO ADVANCE to first base is allowed. Base runners may advance at their own risk within the provisions of the stealing rule and overthrow rule.

2011
U14 LEVEL
INTER-COMMUNITY GIRLS SOFTBALL LEAGUE

INTER-COMMUNITY GIRLS SOFTBALL LEAGUE POLICIES

1. Game start time is 6:00, a forfeit may be declared by the umpire at 6:15.

2.  League standings are on a point system:
2 points – WIN
1 point – TIE
Score on forfeits: Forfeits: 7 – 0

Standings will be:
Head to Head then Runs Allowed

3. A roster MUST be submitted to the league official for each team BEFORE the season. Roster forms will be signed by the league President on the NO CHANGE DATE and provided by the league. NO ADDITIONS OR CHANGES will be permitted to roster after April 30, 2011.

Organizational Commissioners will provide a copy of rosters to the League. Each team will be provided field maps and directions and a schedule at the league coaches meeting.
3a - Travel players can pitch however travel PITCHERS may not pitch

4. There will be NO rescheduling of games for any reason other than weather, with the exception of UNSCHEDULED School events.
a. School event rescheduling must be approved by league officials.
NOTE: If a manager coach can still field a team in spite of the above, games are to be played and NOT rescheduled.

• Each coach must agree with change. Each coach MUST speak to opposing coach to confirm any changes. Changes to ALL games must be cleared with league.

Contact: Rob Miller – Umpire Assigner
Home: 215-643-3398   Cell: 215-439-0067   
e-mail: jokerla@aol.com
Alternate Contact number:  215-272-1605

  In the event of RAIN (NO later than 5:00 PM) or a PRE-APPROVED rescheduled game the HOME team coach MUST contact:
(1) Rob Miller (Umpire Assigner);
(2) the opposing team coach;
(3) within 72 hours agree to a rescheduled date;
(4) contact UMPIRE ASSIGNER to schedule an umpire
(5)  If no date has been rescheduled after 72 hours, the League will reschedule the game at the date/time/place chosen by the League.  If not played, the team unable to field a team will forfeit.

5. Forfeits
(A) A forfeit will be declared when a team cannot field the required number of     
       players (as noted in league rules) within 15 minutes of the scheduled start time or
       at anytime during the game.
     (B) As declared by the Umpire.

6. BOTH TEAMS will, within 24 hours of the game, telephone the division scorekeeper 
    The penalty for NOT reporting the score within the 24 hour period will be a LOSS for
    (both teams) not reporting the games. If the winners report the game – NO penalty will
    be applied.
  
The Scorekeepers by age group are:
U14 = Tom Flach  215-887-5613  tflach@reitmr.com
U12 =  Scott Windle  215-407-6151  sgwindle@yahoo.com

Coaches are required to relay to scorekeeper the following information:
(A) Name of teams and age of play.
(B) Date of game and field location.
(C) The final score.
NOTE: Division scorekeeper MUST notify a league official of a forfeit.

Code of Conduct:
• All coaches, assistants, players and spectators involved in this program are expected to set a good example of sportsmanship and fair play to all UMPIRES, LEAGUE COMMISSIONERS, OPPOSING TEAMS AND COACHES. Abusive language or inappropriate conduct will NOT be tolerated.

1. Spectators will be removed from the game area and out of sight and sound of the umpire and players.
2. Players will be out of the game.
3. Coaches will be removed from the game and a 2 game suspension (minimum) will be issued. Team could forfeit the game in play at the umpire’s discretion.  Coaches will be brought before a league panel and suspension will be reviewed and discussed as to additional action to be taken.
4. Each team will have ONLY two (2) coaches listed on Rosters and they will be the coaches recognized by the league, per team.

5. The Umpires, on the field of play and during the game will only communicate with two (2) designated coaches. The two (2) coaches do not have to be the roster coaches during the game being played.

LEAGUE REVIEWS
1. Team HEAD coach is to notify their organization’s commissioner.

2. Individual organization commissioner will research the complaint and at the commissioners discretion can ask for a league review.

3. Commissioner will notify league for a review date. Only the head coach and assistant coach will attend league panel review along with their organization commissioner.

4. If the organization’s commissioner is a review board member, an alternate member from a non-participating organization will be appointed to the board of review.

5. The league review board’s decision is FINAL.

GENERAL RULES:

All divisions of the Inter-Community Girls Softball League will adhere to the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) 2011 rules as stated in the 2011 rule book unless otherwise stated below.
________________________________________________________________________
ASA RULES

All items are referenced according to their place in the rule book.

POE refers to “Points of Emphasis”, which immediately follows the rules.

RULE 1. DEFINITIONS

APPEAL – POE
While ASA still recognizes a live ball appeal where you throw the ball to a base, it is preferred to use the dead ball appeal. As soon as the play has ended, the
umpire will call time, and any infielder may verbally appeal by telling the umpire which runner and which base she is appealing.

CATCH
Remember that to be considered a catch, the release of the ball must be intentional and voluntary.  We often see a situation where two fielders are running at each other to try to catch a ball, one catches it and, after taking one or more steps, collides with the other fielder (or falls down), and the ball is knocked loose. This is not a catch! It doesn’t matter how many steps she took.

FOUL TIP
The ball must not go higher than the batter’s head and must go directly to
catcher’s hand or glove.  If the ball first hits any part of the catcher’s equipment or body other than her hand or glove, it is a foul ball and the ball is dead. With a foul tip, the ball remains live.

INFIELD FLY
• WHEN – Runners on 1st and 2nd, or bases loaded and LESS than 2 outs.
• WHAT – Batter is called out!
Runners may advance at their own risk. If the ball is caught, runner must tag up just like any other caught fly ball.

TRAPPED CATCH
If caught with the glove over the ball on the ground, it is not a catch until the glove is lifted off the ground with the ball firmly secured.

RULE 2.  THE PLAYING FIELD

PITCHER’S RUBBER – Section 1
• Distance 40’
• Distance is measured from the back point of home plate to the front of the rubber.

1st and 3rd BASE DISTANCE – Section 3
• The 60’ distance is measured from the back point of home plate to the back (outfield side) of the bag.
• 1st Base must be a double first base.  See page 8 for rules regarding double bag use.

FIELD OF PLAY
• Home team is responsible for field set up. Pitching rubber should be secured firmly into ground.
• Bases should be sliding. Field should be lined whenever possible.

RULE 3.  EQUIPMENT

CATCHER’S HEADGEAR – Section 5 c
• Catcher’s helmet must have ear flaps. Skull cap (without ear flaps) is not acceptable.
• Any player warming up a pitcher MUST wear a mask with throat protector and approved helmet.

JEWELRY – Section 6 f
• NO JEWELRY!!! END OF STORY!!! Leave it at home
• Upon arrival to the plate for batting the Umpire may give a warning ONE TIME ONLY.  If warning is ignored the batter will be called out at the plate.

RULE 4.   PLAYERS AND SUBSTITUTES

BLOOD RULE – Section 7, POE
• Does not have to be an open wound. Dried blood on the uniform from a previous injury or game counts as blood.

RULE 5.   THE GAME

CONFERENCES – Section 10, POE***
• Defensive: Three (3) per 7 inning game.
• Offensive: One (1) per inning between coach and each batter.
• It does not count as a conference if it occurs during the other team’s charged conference and you are ready to play when that conference is over.

RUN AHEAD RULE – Section 9
• 15 run rule after 3 innings
• 10 run rule after 5 innings
• ***If in the Umpire’s opinion the score is totally out of control prior to the RUN AHEAD RULE innings, the Umpire may at his/her discretion end the game***

RULE 6.   PITCHING REGULATIONS

BEFORE THE PITCH – Section ___
• BOTH feet must be in contact with the pitcher’s rubber.

DRAGGING THE PIVOT FOOT – Section 3 l
• The pivot foot may drag away from the rubber before the pitch is released, as long as it does not come up off the ground or re-plant and push off a second time.

WARM UP PITCHES – Section 9
• Most of us know that we are limited to 3 pitches, but almost everyone forgets that part that says “NOT MORE THAN ONE MINUTE MAY BE USED”. This is the second biggest reason that the games drag on forever! The pitchers often wait for infielders, or have to wait for the catcher to suit up. If the catcher is not ready, have a coach or parent (or a properly equipped player), warm up the pitcher.

WHILE WE’RE AT IT!!!!
• The biggest delay in the game is waiting for the catcher to suit up. ASSIGN SOMEONE at every game to help the catcher get her gear on. This is new to many of the girls, so help them every inning.

SPEED UP RULE:
• Courtesy runner MUST be used when the catcher reaches first base safe, and there are two (2) outs. Pinch runner will be the last batted out.
**Exception:
(1) Opposing coach and umpire are notified prior to the start of the game**
(2) Injury – occurring during game play – a player cannot return to game**

CHECKING SIGNS WITH BASE COACH – Section 3C
• The batter may not step out of the box after every pitch to get the sign from the base coach. Read this rule for exceptions.

RULE 7. BATTING (Exception to ASA) League Rule

9  (or coaches option to bat 10) batters on the line up at the beginning of the game (starters)

Substitutes may enter the game and play in any position on the field. When a Starter is a reported substitute, that girl goes into the line up and remains in the same spot in the line up for the remainder of the game. Girls may go in and out of the game very inning if necessary.

RULE 8.   BATTER – RUNNER & RUNNER

DROPPED THIRD STRIKE – SECTION 1b (ALSO RULE 7 – SECTION 6L)
• WHEN - Less than 2 outs and 1st base is un-occupied, or any time there are 2 outs
• WHAT – Same as batted ball/batter becomes batter-runner and must be tagged or put out at 1st base

BALL RETURNED TO PITCHER WITHIN 8’ CIRCLE – Section 8 U
• Many coaches confuse this rule with that of the younger age groups play. Returning the ball to the pitcher does NOT stop play! What it does is force the runner(s) to immediately return to the last base touched or proceed to the next base. Runners may not stand still between bases or move back and forth unless the pitcher throws the ball, fakes a throw or leaves the 8’ circle. If the runner does not commit to a base, when the ball is returned to the 8’ circle and hang out between the bases - runner will be called out.

RULE 9. PROTESTS – ASA Rule 9, Section 1-7
• WHEN – You must notify the umpire before the next pitch
• WHAT – Only a misinterpretation or misapplication of the rules may be protested. Anything involving umpire’s judgment (even if you don’t like it) is not subject to protest.
• ACTION – If you end up winning the game – no protest!!! If you lose, protesting COACH should contact Robert Miller. 
Home: 215-643-3398   Cell: 215-439-0067  e-mail: jokerla@aol.com

INTERFERENCE, OBSTRUCTION & COLLISIONS – POE
• Whenever a base runner and a fielder crash into each other, it is always one of the above. POE has detailed and easily understood explanations of interference and obstruction. However, it is important to understand that there are times when two players collide, sometimes hard, and it is neither interference nor obstruction. It is just a collision and there is NO penalty.

TIME OUT
• I often hear a coach tell me that play should have stopped at a certain point in the game because he/she called time. Most of the time this is because that coach wanted to stop play before, in my judgment, all action was over. Simple rule to remember – Coaches request time – Umpires grant time!!!

Rules for use of the Double First Base

The Double First Base was designed to prevent collisions and therefore assure the safety of the players. ASA, Pony, NASF and NSA mandated its use in 2002.

ICGSL has made it an option for 2003 and 2004 and made it mandatory in 2005 (2005 was based on each organizations budget). For the 2006 Travel level the double bag will be implemented and ALL organizations will be required to use it. It has been mandatory in ICGSL since 2007.

Below are the rules for proper use. Be sure that your players and coaches understand all of the rules. The umpire will go over the use at ground rules if requested. Set the base with white portion in fair territory, and orange portion in foul territory.

ASA Rule 8 Section 2 Article M
1. A batted ball hitting or bounding over the white portion will be declared fair. A ball hitting or bounding over the colored portion is foul.

2. When a play is being made on a batter-runner, the defense MUST use the WHITE portion of the base. The batter-runner MUST use the COLORED portion of the base. If the batter-runner touches only the white portion of the base she will be declared safe UNLESS the defense appeals prior to the batter-runner returning to the base. Once the runner returns to the white, no appeal can be made. (The easy way is to tag the runner before she returns to the base.)

3. On any force out attempt from the foul side of first base, or an errant throw pulling the fielder off the base into foul ground, the fielder and the batter-runner may use either portion of the base.

4. On extra base hits or balls hit to the outfield when there is no play being made at the double base, the runner may touch either portion of the base. If the runner returns to the base the WHITE portion must be used.

5. When tagging up on a fly ball, the WHITE portion must be used.

6. On an attempted pick off play, the runner must return to the WHITE portion of the base.

7. If the batter-runner touches only the white portion of the base and collides with the fielder about to catch a thrown ball while on the white, INTERFERENCE is ruled. The ball is dead, the runner is called out, and all other runners must return to the base last occupied at the interference.

LEAGUE EXCEPTIONS TO ASA RULES

1. NEW 2011 - 9 Players in the field – Outfielder must be a minimum 10’ behind the infield cutout at the start of a play (pitch). Coaches have the option to bat 9 or 10 batters at the start of the game.

1. Game ball shall be 12”, ASA certified regulation softball

2. Bats must have ASA stamp

3. No exposed jewelry (no earrings). Umpires will give 1 warning to remove exposed jewelry. If a girl returns to the plate with jewelry after her warning, the team will receive an out for that player.

4. No inning can start after 1 hr. 45 mins.

5. Game can start and end with 8 players.
• If 8 players are present at game time, game must begin.
• Umpires will NOT wait for forfeit time to start.

6.  Forfeit if team cannot field 8 players.
• 15 minutes after scheduled start time.

7. MUST: Courtesy runner (last out) for catcher with 2 outs.**See speed up rule

8. RUN AHEAD RULE:
• 15 run rule after 3 innings
• 10 run rule after 5 innings

9.  Lightning will end the game – no waiting for it to pass.

10. Umpire may call a game for darkness – score will revert to score at end of prior completed inning.

11. League rules to overrule book rules. Don’t get caught in a bind over league rule. If coaches disagree about a league rule, state the book rule. Ask home team coach how he/she wants league rule enforced, and then follow it. Tell visiting team he/she can protest and have umpire sign the score book to show protest in effect.

12. Player age is determined as of January 1st of playing season.

COURTESY RULE League rule
Courtesy runner for the pitcher and catcher can be made anytime during the game – once the batter reaches a base safely. If less than TWO (2) outs the courtesy runner MUST be a player off your bench and not in the game. If you only have 10 players – the pinch runner will be the last batted out. The runner for the catcher – with two outs – MUST be the player who made the last BATTED OUT.

Wissahickon Baseball Travel Team Rules  back to top 

The Rules of Play for Wissahickon Travel teams follow the rules of Montco Baseball.

MONTCO YOUTH BASEBALL LEAGUES     

Regulations and Playing Rules .     

 Section 1 -TEAM PLAYERS ROSTER - MANAGERS - COACHES – FIELD LOCATIONS .

1.1 Any player that played for a MYBL Organization one year and wants to move to a different MYBL Organization the next year must be granted a Waiver by the MYBL Board of Directors. The Organization that the player wants to move to must request the Waiver at a scheduled meeting of the Board of Directors. The Waiver request must be voted on and approved by a 2/3 majority of the Board of Directors present. .

1.2 Complete player rosters for all teams entered and playing in the MYBL will be prepared in triplicate.  These rosters must include the players NAME, ADDRESS, BIRTH DATE, TELEPHONE NUMBER, AND NAME OF SCHOOL ATTENDING One copy of this roster is submitted to the President, a second copy is sent to the League's Scheduling Committee Chairman, and the third is kept with the Team Manager's score book and is brought to every game. Rosters should be submitted by the coaches meeting, prior to the start of the season. Any team that does not submit a roster at least 24 hours before the first league game will forfeit all games until the roster is submitted. Players may not be added to a team’s roster past the midpoint of the team’s original schedule, or after a date specific if set by the Commissioner at the start of the season. . 

1.3 Managers' and coaches' NAMES, ADDRESSES, TELEPHONE NUMBERS AND HOME FIELD LOCATIONS, must be submitted to the President on or before the March Board Meeting. The Scheduling Committee should also be notified at this time of any field or schedule limitations. The League schedules cannot be complete until this information is received. .

1.4 League and Age Limit Classification Senior and Intermediate Leagues .........................................Cannot be 17 before May 1st Junior League………………………………………………. Cannot be 15 before May 1st Prep Leagues .....................................................................Cannot be 14 before May 1st Midget League ...................................................................Cannot be 13 before May 1st Bantam League...................................................................Cannot be 12 before May 1st Rookie League....................................................................Cannot be 11 before May 1st Peanut League ...................................................................Cannot be 10 before May 1^st  Above dates refer to current year. Birth certificates are required for all players participating in the MYBL. Any player who will reach an age above the maximum indicated is not eligible to play in that particular league. There is no minimum age in any league. A player can register and play in only one league. Exception: A player may participate in more than one league if a team in a higher age classification is in need of a ninth and/or tenth player. All such players must be identified to the opposing teams head coach, at the ground rules meeting, prior to the start of the game or they will otherwise be treated as illegal players. No younger player brought up may start ahead of a player on a team’s regular roster. A player may also be moved up on a permanent basis providing this is done prior to the midway point of league schedule, and is approved by the Commissioner. Once moved up on a permanent basis, a player cannot return to the lower classification. If this should be done without the approval of the Commissioner, it will result in the forfeiture of all games played by the team in violation. . 

1.5 At the conclusion of player’s season (regular and playoffs) no player can play on any other Montco baseball team unless qualified to do so under the exception rule of section 1.4 above. .

1.6 Each team will be allowed to roster eighteen (18) players. . 

1.7 All teams will be fully and similarly uniformed and all games will be professionally umpired.  Under special circumstances, where an umpire is not available, the teams may decide prior to the game to play with umpires supplied by one or both of the teams.  Once the game begins neither team may reverse that decision and the outcome is binding. .

1.8 The playing rules will be the Official Major League Baseball Rules as published by Triumph Book except as modified by MYBL. .

1.9 Extra Player Rule: The extra player must be declared by the Manager at the lineup before the game. The extra player can bat anywhere in the ten (10) batter lineup. The nine (9) fielders may be made up of any of the ten (10) starters and may change every inning. An injured, ill or ejected player with no eligible substitute, in the extra player lineup, results in an out at the missing spot in the batting order. All MONTCO Leagues can use the Extra Player Rule, it is up to the individual team manager if he/she want to use it. .                                                  

SECTION 2 -PLAYING FIELDS .

2.1 Senior, Intermediate, Junior and Prep Leagues: The field, and all dimensions will be of regulation size, as specified by The Official Major League Baseball Rules. . 

2.2 Midget and Bantam Leagues: The distance between all bases will be 75 feet and the distance between home plate and the front side of the pitcher's plate will be 50 feet. Home plate, bases and the pitcher's plate will be identical sizes with those required by The Official Major League Baseball Rules. . 

2.3 Peanut and Rookie Leagues: The distance between bases will be 60 feet and the distance between home plate and the front side of the pitcher's plate will be 45 feet. .                                                      

SECTION 3 – SCHEDULE . 

3.1 It will be the responsibility of the Scheduling Committee of each League, as appointed by the President, to arrange an equitable playing schedule. This can only be accomplished through the cooperation of the member teams, clubs and organizations. .                                                      

SECTION 4 –EQUIPMENT . 

4.1 All regulation baseball equipment and accessories are legal and may be used at the team's discretion with the following exception(s): Players in the Peanut, Rookie, Bantam and Midget Leagues are not permitted to wear shoes with metal spikes. .

4.2 The MYBL requires that each team have available a sufficient supply of DOUBLE EARFLAP BATTING HELMETS. Batters must wear these helmets, and PROTECTIVE HELMETS must be worn by ALL BASE RUNNERS AND CATCHERS. Catchers are required to wear a heavy duty cup, and it is recommended that all players wear a cup for their protection. Catchers are to wear masks with extended throat protector cage orseparate throat protector during the game as well as while warming-up pitchers. Ball boys are to be equipped with protective helmets when operating on the field. Penalty: The batter or runner will be warned of violation of the above rules and will be ejected if he refuses to comply. A catcher will be disqualified if he refuses to comply. Chin straps, properly worn, is required on all helmets for games in the Peanut, Rookie, Bantam, and Midget Leagues. . 

4.3 All players and coaches below the age of 19 are required to wear protective helmets while participating in the coaches' boxes. Those who refuse will be disqualified from further participation. . 

4.4 All players and coaches below the age of 19 are required to wear a catcher's mask with throat protection while warming up pitchers on or off the playing field. Those who refuse will be disqualified from further participation. . 

4.5 It will be the responsibility of the home team to furnish all baseballs in suitable condition in the opinionof the Umpire-in-Chief, including at least one new baseball. Any first-class baseball acceptable in high school play is permitted; however, synthetic covered balls are not permitted. . 

4.6 A player must wear the MYLB patch on his uniform (left sleeve or breast) or he cannot participate in the game. . 

4.7 Any equipment judged by the Umpire to be potentially dangerous, is illegal. Jewelry is prohibited, with the exceptions of medical alert tags taped to the body visibly. . 

4.8 First Aid kits must be carried to all games by every team, home or away. . 

• Maximum length - 33"
• Maximum diameter - 2 1/4"

• Current PIAA Baseball Rules
• Maximum length/weight differential of minus 3 (-3)
• Maximum length - 36"
• Maximum diameter - 2 5/8"

SECTION 5 – GAMES 

5.1  Length of Games:

• Peanut and Rookie Leagues - 6 innings
• Bantam, Midget, Prep, Junior, Intermediate and Senior Leagues - 7 innings

5.2 In case of a tie, extra innings will be played, provided that at the time, natural conditions permit it. It is also a regulation game, if called by the Umpire-in-Chief because of darkness, rain or other causes provided four or more equal innings have been played (three and one-half innings, if the home team has scored more runs at the end of its third inning than the visiting team has scored in its four complete innings). A game that is not regulation will be suspended, to be resumed from point of suspension at a later date with all records in tact.  .

 5.3 If a regulation game ends in a tie for any reason, it will be counted as a half win and half loss for each team in determining league standings. A tie game called for any reason in a playoff will be a suspended game and resumed as directed by the Commissioner. 

5.4 There are no time limits for Bantam, Midget, Prep, Junior, Intermediate or Senior Leagues. Games will not be scheduled on a field less than two hours apart, however, two and one half hours to three hours is preferable. The home team coach should address any time limits on a field prior to the game, during the ground rule meeting with the opposing coach and umpires. If there is a time limit, no new inning will begin 15 minutes prior to that time. Should the time limit expire and the inning is not complete, the score will revert back to the last full inning. The umpire may count the inning as being complete if in their judgment either team purposely delayed the inning from being completed. If there is no mention of a time limit it should be assumed that the game will be played to the completion. Games may be shortened as provided in paragraph5.2 above.  

5.5 Lineup “cards” must be exchanged by the teams prior to the start of the game. Lineup “cards” should include the last names of all the players eligible for the game along with their player number. It should indicate the starting lineup, their beginning positions, and all eligible substitutes. Players may not be added to the lineup card once the game begins. Any time a player is entered or re-entered into the game that team must give those changes to the opposing teams coach or scorekeeper. Scorekeepers must record all player changes in their official books. This does not include position changes.  

5.6 A Rookie, Bantam or Midget game will end in the fifth inning (or later) when a team is 15 (or more) runs behind. A Prep, Junior, Intermediate or Senior game will end in the fifth inning (or later) when a team is 10 (or more) runs behind and batted as many times as the team that is ahead.  

5.7 Game results - – The winning team’s manager or coach shall call in or email the final score of the game and the game number to the Scheduling Chairman, or their designee, within 48 hours after each game. In the case of a tie game, the home team shall report the score. A team will not be credited with a win until the score is reported.  If a team continually fails to report scores on a timely basis disciplinary action can be taken by theCommissioner, which can include forfeiture of games.  

5.8 Lightening - Umpire in Charge will stop a game at the first sign of lightening and the game will not be continued that day. The game will have to be rescheduled if not official.  

5.9 Postponements - The home team manager or coach shall contact the Scheduling Chairman as early as possible if a game will be postponed. Unless the Scheduling Chairman is notified, the umpire(s) will have to make an unnecessary trip that will cost the home team one-half the umpire's fee. The Montco League Agreement with the umpire services specifies that if the umpire is not notified before he leaves for the game,he is entitled to be paid one-half of the game fee.  

5.10 Game Times - Starting times for games will be:

• Week Nights: 6:00 p.m. (regular season games)
• Sundays and Holidays: 1:00 p.m. or later or by agreement between the coaches. Coaches to express
• inability to play earlier on Sundays on their field schedule submissions.
• Playoff Games: 5:45 p.m. (week nights)
• Saturday: Regular Season - dependent upon field availability
• Play-off Games: Set by the Scheduling Chairman based on field availability.

 5.11 Rescheduling of Games: All postponed games must be rescheduled by the teams involved within two days. Both coaches will arrive at a mutually agreeable date and then contact the Scheduling Chairman for approval. If the two teams cannot agree on a scheduling date, or the home team makes no attempt to reschedule the game, then the Scheduling Chairman will reschedule the game at a date, time and location of hischoosing and both teams must play. Penalty for failure to comply will be a forfeit. If both teams refuse to play, each team will receive a loss. No games will be rescheduled during the last week of the season without prior approval by the League Commissioner.  

5.12 All scheduled league games must be played as scheduled unless the Commissioner rules otherwise.  

SECTION 6 - PLAYERS/MANAGERS/COACHES  

6.1 Any of the nine starting players may be withdrawn from the game and re-enter once, provided such player occupies the same batting order position whenever he is in the line-up. A substitute player, once withdrawn, may not re-enter the game.  

6.2 If a player(s) becomes sick and/or injured so that he cannot continue, or is ejected and no legal substitute remains to replace him, an abnormal substitution may be made as follows: the opposing team's manager or captain shall choose a substitute (non-starter) not otherwise eligible because of having been once removed from the game to replace the injured player. If no such substitute is available, any starting player who is not in the current line-up may be chosen by the opposing team. Such an abnormal substitute must be otherwise eligible to play and may not have been previously ejected from the game by an umpire. An injured player replaced under these circumstances may not return to the game.  

6.3 The offensive manager, at his discretion, may use a courtesy runner (any eligible player not in the current line-up) for the pitcher and/or catcher to speed up the game. The number of outs is not material.  

6.4 A runner cannot leap or jump over another player at home plate. When a defensive player has the ball and is waiting to tag the runner, the runner must slide or legally avoid the tag. If the runner crashes into the defensive player, he is declared out whether the ball is held or not. The ball is immediately dead and other runners must return to the last base legally touched at the time of the collision. A player shall not maliciously run into a fielder. Penalty-offender is banished from the game. 

6.5 A fielder may not fake a tag without the ball on any runner or he will be charged with obstruction.  

6.6 Restrictions for maximum innings pitched by an individual player per game:

• Peanut and Rookie - Three innings per game
• Bantam and Midget - Four innings per game
• Prep - Five innings per game

• Junior, Intermediate and Senior - No restrictions

NOTE: Delivery of a single pitch shall count as one inning pitched. The above restrictions apply to consecutive and non consecutive innings pitched per game. Teams are strongly encouraged to track and limit the number of pitches a pitcher throws, both in a game and per week.  

6.7 A player can re-enter as a pitcher or any position only once during a game. A pitcher removed as a pitcher by rule (a manager's or coaches second visit to the pitcher mount in an inning) cannot re-enter as a pitcher during that game.  6.8 Hit Batter Rule: No pitcher may hit three batters in one inning or a total of five batters in a game. If, or when

either of these situations occurs, the pitcher must be immediately removed from the pitching position.  He may continue to play at another defensive position, but he is not permitted to pitch again during that game. 

SECTION 7 - Supplemental Rules for the Peanut and Rookie Leagues  

7.1 Six inning games.  

7.2 Extra Player Rule can be used.  

7.3 A new inning cannot start after the game has gone two (2) hours.  

7.4 Pitchers can pitch a maximum of three (3) per game. 

7.5 Batter cannot advance to first on a dropped third strike.  

7.6 Fifteen Run Rule will occur in the fourth inning or later, when a team is 15 (or more) runs behind and has batted as many times as the team that is ahead. 

7.7 Runner(s) may not leave the base until the pitch reaches home plate. If the runner(s) leave the base early and the pitch is not hit, they must return to their original base. If the runner(s) leave the base early and the pitch is hit, they can only advance as far as one base beyond the base gained by the batter.  

7.8 A runner on third base when play begins may only score when a batted ball is put into play or a bases loaded walk or hit batter.  

7.9 Runner(s) starting on first or second base may only score by batter’s performance (i.e. hit ball).  

7.10 Runner(s) starting on first or second base may advance as far as they want if the ball is put into play by a batted ball.  

SECTION 8 - FORFEITURE AND PROTEST  

8.1 A team failing to field at least nine uniformed players will forfeit the game after fifteen (15) minutes beyond the scheduled game time.  

8.2 Playing ineligible players will result in the forfeiture of all games in which such players participated.  

8.3 The umpire-in-chief may declare a game forfeited when a team fails to appear on the field 15 minutes after the umpire has called "Play Ball", at the appointed hour for the beginning of a game, unless such delayed appearance is in the umpire's judgment unavoidable. In the event that neither team appears within 15 minutes of the appointed hour, a loss will be recorded for both team regardless of whether a game is played or not.  

8.4 If a team in any league forfeits or withdraws a team the following fines will be enforced:

• $20.00 - For withdrawing before the season but after schedules have been made
• $20.00 - and umpire fees if forfeiting team is the away team
• $30.00 - and umpire fees if forfeiting team is the away team. For the second regular season
• forfeit.
• $50.00 - and umpire fees if forfeiting team is away team. For third or more regular season forfeit.

 8.5 A team that forfeits three (3) games is out of the League, at their level, for the balance of that season. All games scheduled for the forfeiting team become wins for their opponents regardless if they were played prior to a team being removed from the League. 

8.6 A protest that involves an umpire's judgment of play is not permitted. Only protests that are based upon an interpretation of a rule will be considered.  In order to be able to file a protest the following events must occur:A) at the time of the play in question, and before the next pitch, the manager must state to the umpire-in-chief and the opposing manager that they are playing the rest of the game under protest.  If the event in question occurs at the end of the game the protesting manager must state the protest to the umpire-in-charge and the opposing manager prior to them leaving the field.B) Protesting manager and opposing manager shall mark in their books the place where the protest occurred.C) Protesting manager will have the umpire-in-chief sign the book at that time.D) Protesting manager will send his written protest to the Baseball Commissioner, containing all relevant facts and rules regarding the protest, within 24 hours from the completion of the game along with a check for $20.00.E) The Baseball Commissioner will forward the written protest to the Competition Committee for their review and ruling.F) If the Competition Committee rules in favor of the protesting team, the $20.00 will be refunded.  

SECTION 9 – EJECTIONS  

9.1 Disciplinary action for managers/coaches or players ejected from games are as follows:

• Managers/Coaches: Automatic two game suspension. If deemed necessary, additional disciplinary action will be determined by the Competition Committee.
• Players: Automatic one game suspension. If deemed necessary, additional disciplinary action will be determined by the Commissioner of Baseball.

 9.2 It is responsibility of the head coach or manager to report (to the Baseball Commissioner, or their designee) and self enforce all ejections for players and coaches on their team, including themselves. If the head coach fails to report or enforce all ejections they will subject to a two game suspension and further disciplinary action by the Competition Committee if deemed appropriate. Inappropriate behavior of the coaches and players off the field can lead to suspensions by the Baseball Commissioner and/or the Competition Committee.  

SECTION 10 - UMPIRE SERVICE  

10.1 The umpire service and the assignment of the umpires will be the responsibility of the Umpire Coordinator.  

10.2 The HOME TEAM SCORE BOOK MUST BE SIGNED BY ALL UMPIRES; this will be the responsibility of the home team manager.  

10.3 The Umpire Associates and the scheduling committee must be notified at least TWO HOURS PRIOR TO THE SCHEDULED GAME TIME of any cancellation of a REGULARLY SCHEDULED OR PLAYOFF GAME.  

10.4 Any protest must be made immediately (before the next pitch or play) and a written copy of the protest must be forwarded to the Competition Committee and Commissioner.  

10.5 The umpire service will assign one umpire for each Rookie, Bantam, and Midget games. Two umpires will be assigned to each Prep, Junior, Intermediate and Senior games. All playoff games will have two umpires assigned.  

10.6 If an umpire refuses to sign a score book upon the request of a manager, refuses to divulge his name, or in some other manner proves to be uncooperative the umpire may be banished from the MYBL. If this situation should occur, the MYBL also has no financial obligation to pay the umpire. 

10.7 The umpire will have the authority to eject or banish B from the game or the field B any player, manager, coach or spectator for the following reasons and/or violations: UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT, PROFANITY, FISTICUFFS, and UNNECESSARY ARGUING, BAITING and NEEDLING of the umpire or opposing team member. 

10.8 In the event no umpire appears, the game will be rescheduled, unless both managers agree to play with substitute umpires; then the game will be official.  

10.9 The Umpire Association will be, made aware of these RULES and REGULATIONS. The MYBL and the Commissioner will expect 100% cooperation from the Umpire Association and all umpires.  

SECTION 11 -LEAGUE STANDINGS-PLAYOFFS-CHAMPIONSHIPS  

11.1 Players who appear on a team roster with an appropriate birth certificates are eligible for that team’s playoff games if they have played in fifty (50%) percent or more of the actual games played during the regular season. Players must be officially entered into the game to count toward participation. This would not include courtesy runners for the pitcher or catcher. Players entered into the game must be given to the opposing teams coach or scorekeeper at the time of entry.  

11.2 The POINT SYSTEMS will be used in order to determine the league standings throughout the year. The team accumulating the greatest number of points after the completion of its league schedule shall be declared the league of divisional champion. Points will be awarded as follows:

• TWO (2) Points for each WIN
• ONE (1) Point for each TIE
• No (0) points for each LOSS

 11.3 For tie breaker system see 11.9 below  

11.4 League formats-As presented by the Commissioner and adopted by the Board prior to the start of the season.  

11.5 Playoff formats-As presented by the Commissioner and adopted by the Board prior to the start of the season.  

11.6 No player will be eligible to participate in any PLAYOFF or CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES unless his name appears on the CURRENT YEAR TEAM ROSTER and has played the necessary amount of games as stated in section 11.1.  The Commissioner will rule on all eligibility questions.  

11.7 To be eligible for CHAMPIONSHIP PLAYOFFS a team must have completed its full schedule. The Commissioner may adjust this rule due to weather or schedule revisions.  

11.8 ALL PLAYOFF GAMES must be started promptly at 5:45 P.M. on weekdays. Playoff games must be played to the full seven (7) innings unless shortened by Montco League Rules.  All playoff games started and not completed will be considered a suspended game.  Suspended games must be completed at a site determined by the Commissioner before another playoff game is played.  

11.9 Two (2) umpires will be assigned by the umpire service to each playoff game. Playoff umpires costs are equally supported by each franchise within its league, equally divided and billed by MYBL treasurer.  

11.10 “Tie breaker” systemA. Place in own division, as determined by point system (Win=2 points, Loss=0 points, Tie=1 point).B. Overall winning percentage (Tie = 1/2 Win).C. Winning percentage in own division when the teams are not in the same division, use next tie-breaker.  (Tie = 1/2 Win).D. Season’s record against team(s) tied (in case of 3-, 4-, 5-, or 6-way tie aggregate “performance against” record will be used). When only one game has been played between the teams use next tie-breaker.E. Overall strength points (sum of all points earned by teams you defeated; ties earn one-half of those points.F. Strength points in own division.G. Coin toss. Note: In no case will a team be denied a place in playoffs because of items listed above. A special (one-game) playoff would be scheduled in this instance; home field advantage would, however, follow the above system.The above system is to be used to determine the following:(a) which team(s) gain “BYES” in preliminary playoff rounds.(b) the order of finish within divisions and its resultant playoff berth seeding. (c) Home-field advantage.  

Official Rules for Major League Baseball

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