Changes inserted to CSLL Local Rules for the 2009 Season
· Local Rule III, Pitch Counts: Insert:
Pitchers league age 16 and under must adhere to the following rest requirements:
(1) If a player pitches 61 or more pitches in a day, four (4) calendar days of rest must be observed.
(2) If a player pitches 41 - 60 pitches in a day, three (3) calendar days of rest must be observed.
(3) If a player pitches 21 - 40 pitches in a day, two (2) calendar days of rest must be observed.
(4) If a player pitches 1-20 pitches in a day, no (0) calendar day of rest is required.
Additionally, a pitcher who delivers 41 or more pitches in a game cannot play the position of catcher for the remainder of the day.
· Local Rule VI.2: Pitching Machine: Delete coach and umpire from rule so reads adult
· Local Rule IV.3.b: Last sentence should say “but” vice “put”.
· Local Rule IV.3.c:
o Insert new paragraph: Each Manager at the TB-1, ML-1 and ML-2 division will establish the position of adult Team Umpire. This adult will be used in event no umpire or only one umpire is assigned to a game. The Head Umpire will provide dedicated training to ensure a basic level of knowledge by the Team Umpires. If no CSLL umpire is assigned the adult team umpires will umpire from behind home plate with suitable protection. The volunteer will have the option of umpiring from behind the pitcher if no plate umpire is assigned.
· Local Rule V.3.b: Should say “due to inclement weather” vice “due inclement weather”.
· Local Rule II. 9. a, (2): Insert:
o Championship and Playoff games: The request for pool players shall require the approval of the Player Agent, Division VP and Executive VP. Due to the additional staffing required, as much advance notice as possible should be provided, nominally 3-4 days. The Division Player Agent shall maintain a complete and accurate list of eligible pool players.
CENTRAL SPRINGFIELD LITTLE LEAGUE
2009 LOCAL RULES
LINKS TO COMMONLY QUESTIONED RULES |
||||
SECTION II: LEAGUE TEAM SELECTION
3. THE DIVISIONS AND THE TEAMS
4. TRYOUTS AND DRAFT PREPARATION
f. Limitations
g. Exemptions
5. SENIOR LEAGUE, JUNIOR LEAGUE AND Little League (Majors) Division DRAFT SYSTEMS
a. Draft Order
c. Siblings
e. Bonus Picks
f. Senior League and Junior League Special Provisions
h. Trading
i. Title
6. MINOR LEAGUE PLAYER SELECTION GUIDELINES
e. Children of Managers and Coaches
f. Siblings
8. TEE BALL TEAM SELECTION PROCEDURES
(4) Siblings
(5) Trading
(6) Rosters
9. LOSS OF PLAYERS AND REPLACEMENTS:
a. Senior League, Junior League, Little League (Majors) Division and Minor League
(1) Permanent Loss of Player(s)
b. Tee Ball
(1) Permanent Loss of Player(s)
1.SENIOR LEAGUE, JUNIOR LEAGUE & Little League (Majors) and Minor league divisions
a. Managers
d. Base Coaches
e. Umpiring
f. Pitch Count
2. POSTPONED, PROTESTED, FORFEITED AND TIED GAMES
b. Protests
c. Forfeits
d. Ties
a. General
b. Postponing Rescheduled Games
d. Exemptions
a. Pre-Game
b. Post-Game
5. GAME TIME AND RUN LIMITATIONS
a. General
(1) Curfew
(2) Clarification
(1) Time Limit
(2) Run Limit
c. Little League (Majors) Division
(1) Time Limit
(2) Run Limit
d. ML-1, ML-2 and TB-1 Division
(1) Time Limit
(2) Run Limit
6. CALLING GAME FOR DARKNESS/WEATHER
a. Darkness
b. Weather
c. Severe Weather Special Provisions
a. Catchers
d. Manager/Coach Positions; Equipment Restrictions on Field
f. Compliance
g. Suspensions and Resumed Games
a. Little League (Majors) Division and Minor League
b. Tee Ball
SECTION VI: TEE BALL PROCEDURES AND LOCAL RULES
e. Machine as a Defensive Player
h. Bunting
i. Handing the Ball to the Machine Operator
k. Appeals
n. Defensive Positioning Requirements
d. Umpires
1. TOURNAMENT MANAGERS AND COACHES
b. Interviews/Selection Process
2. SeNIOR LEAGUE, Junior League AND Little League PLAYER SELECTION
b. 11 Year olds
3. 10-11 AND 9-10 YEAR OLD DIVISION PLAYER SELECTION
a. Eligibility
b. Procedures
(1) Selection Committee Make-up
(2) Selection Committee Responsibilities
c. League-age Eleven (11) Restrictions
d. League-age Ten (10) Restrictions
CENTRAL SPRINGFIELD LITTLE LEAGUE
2008 LOCAL RULES
a. Central Springfield Little League, Inc. (CSLL) shall consist of the following:
(1) Senior League1: players league age fifteen (15) and sixteen (16).
(2) Junior League1: players league age thirteen (13) and fourteen (14).
(3) Little League (Majors) Division: players league age ten (10) through twelve (12)2.
(4) Minor League: players league age nine (9) through twelve (12). The Minor League shall be further broken down into two divisions, ML-1 (“AAA”) and ML-2 (“AA”). Players league age twelve (12) will not play in the ML-2 Division.
(5) Tee Ball: players league age five (5) through eight (8). Tee Ball shall be further broken down into two divisions, TB-1 (“A-Ball”) for seven (7) and eight (8)3 year olds, and TB-2 (“Tee Ball”) for five (5) and six (6) year olds4. Some inexperienced seven (7) year olds may be designated to TB-2 for safety purposes.
NOTE (1): As an option, the Board of Directors may restructure the Senior and Junior Leagues to any approved age alignment as listed in the OR&PR. This decision will be made by majority vote following registration and prior to the team selection process, and shall be based upon the population of thirteen (13) through sixteen (16) year olds who have registered. Under no circumstances will any properly registered fifteen (15) and sixteen (16) year olds be left off a Senior League team when CSLL allows fourteen (14) year olds to play in the Senior League.
NOTE (2): All league age twelve (12) players shall be required to play in Little League Majors except if a parent requests, and the Board of Directors and the District Administrator approves a waiver to restrict the child to ML-1.
NOTE (3): Any league age eight (8) player that has completed two (2) spring seasons at TB-1 may choose to move up to Little League Minors. These players shall be restricted to ML-2 (AA).
NOTE (4): In rare circumstances, where safety and a player's well-being are at issue, the Board of Directors will consider a request for a six (6) year old to be eligible to play TB-1. Consideration will only be given if the child has completed at least two seasons (spring & fall) of TB-2. Requests will be reviewed by the Vice Presidents of TB-1 and TB-2 and the Player Agent. Final approval of the Board of Directors is required.
b. All CSLL regular season and post-season playoff games are intraleague. However, the Board of Directors may decide that the Senior and Junior Leagues will participate in interleague play with other local Senior and Junior leagues, respectively, within District 9. This decision will be made by majority vote, and shall be based upon the number of Senior and Junior League teams anticipated after registration of players.
a. All CSLL officials (division vice presidents, managers, coaches, umpires, etc.) must comply with the OR&PR as supplemented by these rules and procedures. League officials may not make up any additional rules, policies, or “gentlemen agreements” (i.e., no stealing of home on wild pitches) for the conduct of CSLL games. In the event a situation arises in a game that is not covered by the OR&PR and these rules and procedures, the game’s umpire-in-chief (UiC) shall make a final ruling under Rule 9.01(c) of the OR&PR.
b. In the event that the Board of Directors approves interleague participation as stated in Section I.3.b above, the Senior and Junior Leagues will comply with those rules as agreed upon by any District 9 Interleague Committee(s), with the exception of those specified in this document. The Senior and Junior League Vice President(s) will represent CSLL in the Interleague Committee(s).
a. Notice of registration shall be made to eligible players residing within CSLL's boundaries, and to players who legally played in CSLL the previous season but no longer live within league boundaries, as specified in Regulation II(d) in the OR&PR.
b. Each player desiring to participate in Little League Baseball shall be registered at a designated time and place. An acceptable proof-of-age document, including an original birth certificate, or military identification card must be furnished at this time. (Hospital birth or baptismal records, or passport are not acceptable.) Additionally, three (3) documents showing proof of residency, such as driver’s licenses, voter registration, mortgage/rent documents, utility bills, and school records, are required. A parent or guardian must register the child.
a. The number of teams in each division will be determined by the Board of Directors, based on the number of players registered and announced prior to tryouts. The League structure shall provide a 2 to 1 balance between the "Minors" and "Majors" operations (i.e., if there are eight (8) Majors teams, there can be no more than sixteen (16) teams in the ML-1 and ML-2 divisions combined).
b. The number of players per team in each division shall be determined by the Board of Directors and announced prior to the Senior League, Junior League, Little League (Majors) Division, and Minor League drafts, and the Tee Ball team assignments. At no time will the number of players per team violate the limits as specified in Regulation III (a) in the OR&PR.
a. Player Requirements: Each child league age nine (9) through sixteen (16), except those returning players already assigned to Little League (Majors) Division teams, shall be given the opportunity to participate in tryouts with children of the same league age. Two (2) tryouts will be conducted so that each child may demonstrate his/her ability prior to selection by draft to a team. A child must participate in one tryout, but may attend both sessions if desired. (NOTE: In the event the Board of Directors decides to conduct a complete re-draft in the Little League (Majors) Division, all players will be notified of such decision and must attend tryouts.)
b. Tryout Rosters: Prior to tryouts, the Player Agents will provide each team manager with two (2) copies of a tryout roster showing the name, league age of each candidate, and other pertinent information. Siblings shall be identified on the tryout roster.
c. Manager/Coach Requirements: Managers or their designated representatives shall attend tryouts and evaluate candidates' performance for their own reference.
d. Tryout Attendance: Any candidate league age ten (10) through twelve (12) failing to attend a tryout session shall not be eligible to participate in the Little League (Majors) Division, unless the parents or guardian of the child present an excuse that is accepted by a majority of the Board of Directors. Similarly, if the Board of Directors structures the Senior and Junior Leagues to allow children league age fourteen (14) in both divisions, any candidate league age fourteen (14) failing to attend a tryout session shall not be eligible to participate in the Senior League unless an acceptable excuse is provided. This restriction is for the duration of the regular season; as such, the player will not be eligible for call-up to fill a vacated roster spot (see Regulation III (d) in the OR&PR for call-up procedures).
e. Parental Restriction: Parents may restrict a child or children from being drafted/placed above a specified division, i.e., no higher than ML-1. Such restrictions shall be made to the Player Agent. The restrictions shall not override the mandatory age constraints noted in Section II.6.c; i.e., a player league age twelve (12) may not be restricted to ML-2. However, parents may withdraw the restrictions by informing the Player Agent in writing not later than 48 hours prior to the appropriate drafts.
f. Limitations: After a child has been drafted/selected for a team, parents may NOT affect the selection by subsequently requesting/withdrawing a restriction. Once a player is drafted/selected for a team, he/she shall play for that team the rest of the season, unless called up as a permanent replacement as specified in Section II.9, or placed into a lower division for safety reasons. Such safety moves must be requested by the player’s manager to the Player Agent and eventually approved by the Board of Directors.
g. Exemptions: Each child league age five (5) through eight (8) will not be subjected to a draft and, thus, will not tryout.
a. Little League (Majors) Draft Order: The draft order will be the reverse of the final season Little League (Majors) Division standings from the preceding regular season. The team that finished in last place during the preceding season will pick a player first, followed by the team that finished next to last/lowest, etc. At the completion of each round, the order will remain the same with the last/lowest place team drafting first in the next round.
b. Children of Managers: A manager who has a child or children eligible for the draft and who wishes to draft that child or children for his/her team must state so in writing to the Player Agent 48 hours prior to the draft. All claimed managers' children options will be announced prior to the appropriate draft round. If so stated, the manager-parent is required to exercise the option prior to the close of specific draft rounds depending on the league age of the player or players as shown below. If options are not submitted in writing, the manager's child or children are eligible to be drafted by any team. (NOTE: Coach options are NOT allowed in the Senior League, Junior League, or Little League (Majors) Division drafts.)
DRAFT ROUND FOR EXERCISINGMANAGER'S CHILD/CHILDREN OPTION |
||
LEAGUE AGE |
DIVISION |
DRAFT ROUND |
|
16 |
|
3 |
|
15 |
SENIORS |
4 |
|
14* |
|
5* |
|
|
|
|
|
14 |
JUNIORS |
3 |
|
13 |
|
4 |
|
|
|
|
|
12 |
|
3 |
|
11 |
MAJORS |
4 |
|
10 |
|
5 |
* Applicable if the Board of Directors allows players league age fourteen (14) to participate in Senior League.
c. Siblings: If parents request it, a manager may exercise an option on siblings who are subject to the draft. When the first child is drafted and the manager declares a sibling option, the manager must take the sibling in the next round. A manager may option a sibling of a current member of the manager's Little League (Majors) Division team. This option must be exercised within the first three (3) rounds. Sibling options shall not violate age restrictions set forth by the OR&PR and by the next section below. (NOTE: Managers are the final decision authority on sibling options; parents may NOT force that a sibling be drafted solely for their convenience. The decision to exercise a sibling option must consider the sibling’s playing ability. Parents may request that siblings NOT play together.)
d. Ineligible Candidates: There shall be no more than two players league age ten (10) on a Little League (Majors) Division team. Players league age nine (9) are ineligible for participation in the Little League (Majors) Division. Any candidate who did not participate in the spring tryouts shall not be available for the draft in the Senior League, Junior League or Little League (Majors) Division unless excused by the Board of Directors as stated in Section II.4.d. If an excuse is granted, the candidate will be eligible for selection as a blind draw in the regular draft.
e. Bonus Picks: Each manager requiring eight (8) or more players prior to the draft to complete the roster will be allowed one bonus pick at the completion of round four (4). If more than one manager is allowed bonus picks under this Section, the order of rotation will be identical to that being followed in the draft.
f. Senior League and Junior League Special Provisions:
(1) In order to maintain league balance, the Senior League and Junior League will redraft each year.
(2) Senior League: All league age fifteen (15) and league age sixteen (16) players shall be drafted from a common pool. In the event that league age fourteen (14) players are allowed to play in the Senior League, they shall not be drafted until a complete round of fifteen (15) and sixteen (16) year olds cannot be completed, with the exception of children of managers as specified in Section II.5.b. Under no circumstances will any fifteen (15) or sixteen (16) year old players be left off of Senior League teams to accommodate fourteen (14) year olds.
(3) Junior League: At the conclusion of the Senior League draft, the Junior League draft shall commence. All league age thirteen (13) and league age fourteen (14) players, if applicable, shall be drafted from a common pool. The children of managers will be drafted in accordance with the provisions of Section II.5.b.
(4) Safety Restrictions: In the event that the Board of Directors structures the Junior League to be strictly thirteen (13) year olds, parents of fourteen (14) year olds may restrict their child/children to the Junior League. Such restrictions shall be made to the Player Agent. However, parents may withdraw the restrictions by informing the Player Agent not later than 48 hours prior to the appropriate drafts. (NOTE: Fifteen (15) year olds may not be restricted to the Junior League.)
g. Draft Completion: The Player Agent shall declare the draft completed one-half (1/2) hour after the final draft selection has been made.
h. Trading: Managers may exchange players for the current year until fourteen (14) days after the first scheduled regular season game. The contemplated trade must be discussed with the appropriate Division Vice President and his/her approval obtained prior to presenting the proposal to the Player Agent. Following the Division Vice President's approval, the manager involved shall then submit to the Player Agent a written statement concerning the conditions of the proposed trade. A trade is not consummated until the parties involved are notified in writing of final approval. The Board of Directors must approve all trades of players.
i. Title: Each player acquired shall for the duration of his/her Little League career be a permanent member of the Little League (Majors) Division team making the acquisition, unless released for any justifiable reason at the request of the manager or player. Such request shall be made in writing to the Player Agent at or before the scheduled registration for the upcoming season. A player's release shall require approval from the Board of Directors. If approval is granted, the player will be placed back into the draft. If approval is not granted, the player shall remain on the team that originally acquired him/her.
(NOTE 1: Any player released and placed back into the draft is subject to all policies and rules pertaining to tryouts. There is no guarantee that another Senior League, Junior League or Little League (Majors) Division team will draft such player.)
(NOTE 2: Any fourteen (14) year old who wishes to play in the Senior League, if the division is structured as such, is subject to all policies and rules pertaining to tryouts.
j. Written Rosters: Written rosters must be presented to the Player Agent at the time, date, and location indicated on the Annual Schedule of Events approved by the Board of Directors.
k. League Reduction: In the event the Little League (Majors) Division must be reduced in size from the previous season, the following procedures shall be used:
(1) The Board of Directors will determine which team(s) shall be deleted. Deletion should be based on factors such as fewest returning players and departure of previous season’s manager.
(2) Players who would have returned to the team(s) now deleted will be reassigned to new teams by a preliminary draft using the same draft order as specified in Section II.5.a. Once all affected players have been reassigned, the preliminary draft is completed and the regular draft will start. (NOTE: the regular draft starts anew with the last/lowest placed team selecting first, not the team that follows the last team to pick in the preliminary draft.)
(3) Should the manager of a team that was deleted wish to manage another team within the same division, the manager has no right to retain his/her players from the deleted team. Those players must be reassigned to new teams as specified in the previous Section. An exception to this involves the child of the manager. If the manager wishes to bring his/her child to his/her new team, the manager may do so, but must exercise the child option and use a draft pick as specified in Section II.5.b above.
l. League Expansion: In the event the Little League (Majors) Division must expand in size from the previous season, the Board of Directors shall use one of the options for league expansion cited in the latest Little League Operating Manual.
m. Division Redraft: In the event that the Board of Directors decides to conduct a complete redraft of the Little League (Majors) Divisions, all returning players shall go to the draft pool; there shall be no “title” players per Section II.V.i above. The complete redraft shall be accomplished in accordance with Draft System Plan B in the Little League Operating Manual.
a. Selection Order: The selection/rotation order shall be determined by the random drawing of numbers by the Minor League managers at a meeting prior to draft night.
b. Selection Rotation: Selection shall proceed with ML-1 managers selecting first. The selection rotation in the first round will be Team #1 through Team #X (the highest team number in each division). The second round will begin with Team #X and proceed through Team #1. The rotation continues in this first-to-last and last-to-first “serpentine" order until the team rosters have been completed in accordance with team sizes specified by the Board of Directors. Once the ML-1 teams are completed, the ML-2 managers select their players in the same manner.
c. Mandatory Age Constraints: All players league age twelve (12) that have been granted a waiver to not play Majors must be selected before the end of the ML-1 Division player selection. Players league age twelve (12) may not play in any divisions lower than ML-1. Additionally, players league age nine (9) through eleven (11) may not play in any divisions lower than ML-2.
d. Demotion Restrictions: A player who played in the ML-1 Division may not be “demoted” to the ML-2 Division the following season. The Player Agent must ensure all previous ML-1 Division players who were not drafted into the Little League (Majors) Division are selected to play in the ML-1 Division again unless restricted by the player’s parents for safety reasons.
e. Children of Managers and Coaches:
(1) A manager who has a child or children eligible for selection and who wishes to select that child or children for his/her team must state so in writing to the Player Agent prior to the start of player selection for the appropriate division. All claimed managers' child options will be announced prior to the appropriate selection round. If so stated, the manager-parent is required to exercise the option(s) prior to the close of a specific selection round depending on the league age of the player(s) as shown below. If the option(s) is not submitted in writing, the player(s) is eligible for selection by any manager at any level for which the player(s) is eligible.
|
SELECTION ROUND ON-OR-BEFORE OPTION MUST BE EXERCISED |
||
|
LEAGUE AGE |
ML-1 |
ML-2 |
|
12 |
3 |
- |
|
11 |
4 |
3 |
|
10 |
5 |
4 |
|
9 |
6 |
5 |
(NOTE: Option rounds will be slipped to follow completed rounds of "mandatory" twelve (12) year old players in ML-1 and eleven (11) year old players in ML-2 (as noted below in Sections II.6.g and II.6.h))
(2) In addition to the manager, one (1) active designated coach from each Minor League team may exercise the child option(s), providing such options do not conflict with these rules. The designated coach's option(s) must be submitted in writing to the Player Agent prior to the start of player selection for the appropriate division. The coach's child option(s) will be announced prior to the appropriate selection round. The coach's option must be exercised on or before the first selection round following any mandatory round of twelve (12) year olds for ML-1 and eleven (11) year olds for ML-2. If there is more than one coach's option, the child will be taken in the next round.
f. Siblings: Any manager may exercise an option on siblings who are subject to player selection. When the first child is selected and the manager declares a sibling option, the manager MUST take the sibling in the next round. Sibling options shall not violate age restrictions set forth by the OR&PR and Section II.6.c above. (NOTE: Managers are the final decision authority on sibling options; parents may NOT force that a sibling be drafted solely for their convenience. The decision to exercise a sibling option must consider the sibling’s playing ability. Parents may request that siblings NOT play together.)
g. ML-1 Selection: The ML-1 Division selection will begin with twelve (12) year olds only and continue until a round of twelve (12) year old selections cannot be completed, at which time the Player Agent will then declare the selection open to all eligible players. When the ML-1 player selections have progressed to where the number of remaining ML-1 draft selections equal the number of twelve (12) year old players remaining to be selected, the provision in Section II.6.c above will be invoked.
h. ML-2 Selection: The ML-2 Division selection will begin with eleven (11) year olds only and continue until a round of eleven (11) year olds cannot be completed, at which time the Player Agent will declare the selection open to all eligible players.
i. Written Rosters: Written rosters must be presented to the Player Agent at the time, date, and location indicated on the Annual Schedule of Events approved by the Board of Directors.
j. No Shows at Tryouts: Those candidates failing to attend one of the spring tryout sessions shall be selected as a "blind" draw for the appropriate Minor League level. All league age nine (9) through league age eleven (11) candidates and those league age twelve (12) players with an approved waiver shall be available for such "blind" selection to the ML-1 and ML-2 Divisions. There shall be three separate "hats" (selection pools) for such selections: one for league age twelve (12), one for league age eleven (11), one for league age ten (10) and one for league age nine (9). All other applicable Minor League Player Selection Guidelines shall apply to such candidates.
a. Following the Little League (Majors) Division Draft and Minor League Player Selection, managers will notify players as soon as possible. Managers will not reveal the round in which the player was drafted. After player notification, managers may trade players as previously stated in Section II.5.h, but only within divisions. For example, a player in ML-1 may not be traded for a player in ML-2.
b. Senior and Junior League managers will notify their respective players as soon as possible, but shall not reveal the round in which each player was drafted. Fourteen (14) year olds drafted by Senior League teams, if this option is exercised, will not be allowed to subsequently move down to Junior League teams via a trade.
a. TB-1 Division: All players league age seven (7) and eight (8) will be assigned to TB-1 teams by the Player Agent and the Division Vice President in conjunction with any Board of Directors’ approved committee. Assignments will be made based upon a balance of playing experience and an equal number of players per team. When skill level and safety provide a basis, league age seven (7) players may be assigned to the TB-2 Division. Under no circumstances will players league age seven (7) and eight (8) play in the Minor League, except as discussed in Note(4) of Section I.3. When possible, teams will be formed from a designated residential and/or school area. Parental special requests for certain managers, coaches and/or certain teammates for their children will not be honored.
b. TB-2 Division: All players league age five (5), six (6), and those league age seven (7) players designated to play in the TB-2 Division due to safety reasons will be assigned to TB-2 teams by the Player Agent and the Division Vice President in conjunction with any Board of Directors’ approved committee. Assignments will be made based upon a balance of playing experience and an equal number of players per team. Under no circumstances will players league age six (6) play in the TB-1 Division. To the extent possible, teams will be formed from a designated residential and/or school area, provided the balance referenced above is maintained. Parent special requests for certain managers, coaches and/or certain teammates for their children will not be honored.
a. Senior League, Junior League, Little League (Majors) Division and Minor League:
(1) Permanent Loss of Player(s): In the event a player is permanently removed or withdraws from a team during the regular season, Regulation III.d and IV of the OR&PR will apply. However, the replacement of a player during the regular season should be made as soon as possible, but not later than two weeks after the player has been officially withdrawn from the team. It is incumbent upon the Player Agent, the appropriate Division Vice President, and the manager to complete the player replacement as soon as possible. The replacement of a player(s) during the final fourteen (14) calendar days of the regular season is prohibited.
(2) Temporary Replacements: Reference Regulation V.c of the OR&PR. The Player Agent shall maintain a list of pool players who have expressed a desire to play for other teams within CSLL. Managers requiring a replacement for a rostered player temporarily missing shall request one through the Player Agent and Division Vice President, and shall not go directly to other managers for players. All requests for a temporary replacement must be made the day prior to the game. Only two temporary replacement players will be allowed per team for a game to make the minimum requirement of 9 players. Temporary replacement players will play the outfield positions and bat at the bottom of the lineup. Players may only play within their division (i.e., a Junior League player may not play on a Senior League team). If the Senior and/or Junior Leagues play an interleague schedule, CSLL teams shall not use other local leagues’ pool players, and CSLL players shall not play for teams in other local leagues. (NOTE: A game may not be started nor continued with less than nine (9) players on each team.)
Championship and Playoff Games: The request for pool players shall require the approval of the Player Agent, Division VP and Executive VP. Due to the additional staffing required, as much advance notice as possible should be provided, nominally 3-4 days. The Division Player Agent shall maintain a complete and accurate list of eligible pool players
(1) Permanent Loss of Player(s): In the event a player is permanently removed or withdraws from a team during the regular season, Regulation III.d and IV of the OR&PR will apply. The replacement of a player(s) is not mandatory during the final fourteen (14) calendar days of the regular season.
(2) Minimum Players Required: Reference Rules 1.01 and 4.16 of the OR&PR. If a game cannot be played because of the inability of either team to place nine (9) players on the field at the scheduled start time of the game, the Division Vice President will reschedule the game in accordance with the rescheduling policies contained in Section V.3 of this document. If a team anticipates having less than nine (9) players, the manager may request a pool player as described in Section II.9.a.(2) above. For additional guidance, see CSLL Local Policy 10. (NOTE: A game may not be started nor continued with less than nine (9) players on each team.)
a. If a player pitches 61 or more pitches in a day, four (4) calendar days of rest must be observed.
b. If a player pitches 41 - 60 pitches in a day, three (3) calendar days of rest must be observed.
c. If a player pitches 21 - 40 pitches in a day, two (2) calendar days of rest must be observed.
d. If a player pitches 1-20 pitches in a day, no (0) calendar day of rest is required.
Additionally, a pitcher who delivers 41 or more pitches in a game cannot play the position of catcher for the remainder of the day.
a. Arriving at least thirty (30) minutes before the start of games (or fifteen (15) minutes prior to the shift start on weekends) to ensure all game preparations as stated in Section V.4.a are in order.
b. Raising the U.S. Flag on the flagpole behind Field 2, and opening the league Boardroom.
c. Supervising the overall activities at the fields. This includes ensuring teams abide by the league rules and policies on pre-game warm-ups and batting cage use, preventing unsafe acts in and around the park, and checking with the concession stand for any issues.
d. Resolving conflicts among all CSLL participants including conflicts arising during the games. This includes asking belligerent fans who cause game stoppages to leave the park premises. However, the OD may not interfere in the playing of a game unless so requested by the UiC.
e. When necessary, or when requested by a game UiC, turning on the field lights.
f. When weather becomes an issue, monitoring the situation using any means necessary (TV in the Boardroom, telephonic contact with local authorities, etc.) Monitor the league’s lightning detector and stop all play when it registers a lightning strike in the 8-20 mile range. Assist the game UiCs in making the decision to call games due to weather. (NOTE: Do not allow teams to leave the park when weather causes a stoppage in play. Wait until the UiCs make a final determination that the fields are no longer playable. Refer to Section V.6.c for further guidance on severe weather procedures.)
g. At the conclusion of games, ensuring teams perform all post-game requirements as stated in Section V.4.b.
h. Ensuring all league assets (equipment sheds, Boardroom, pitching machines, etc.) are properly secured. Verifying the concession stand money count and annotating the tally sheet as appropriate. Assisting the concession stand manager by mopping the concession stand floor before closing. Ensuring the lights are off and park gate is locked upon departure, and accompanying the concession stand manager to the bank for the nightly revenue deposit.
a. Managers: Each manager, Tee Ball through Senior League, shall be appointed by the CSLL President and approved by the Board of Directors. The CSLL President and Board of Directors shall interview each candidate for a manager’s position prior to being appointed and approved.
b. Primary Coaches: Rule 1.01 of the OR&PR permits two (2) adult coaches during a game. While the coaches have equal status, to facilitate communication, identification, and the approval of coaches, one coach will be identified as the "designated coach" while the remaining coach will be identified as the "assistant coach." In the manager’s absence, only one of these two coaches may serve as manager during all league activities. Each designated and assistant coach, Tee Ball through Senior League, shall be appointed by the CSLL President and approved by the Board of Directors. The CSLL President and Board of Directors will perform the evaluation of coach candidates.
c. Practice Coaches: Above and beyond the two primary coaches, managers may designate any number of adults to assist as “practice coaches”. Managers must identify these coaches for approval by the Board of Directors. Adults not approved as coaches are not covered by CSLL insurance. Practice coaches are not eligible for selection as All-Star managers/coaches.
d. Base Coaches: Teams may use two (2) adult base coaches, provided the base coaches consist of a combination of the manager and approved coaches. However, managers must ensure one adult remains in the dugout at all times. The manager may not “pull a parent” out of the stands to act as base coach or dugout supervisor unless the parent is an approved primary/practice coach.
e. Umpiring: The manager, designated coach and assistant coach for each team shall each be required to umpire a minimum of two regular season games at the AA or A levels. Managers and Coaches may not umpire in their own divisions. Certified CSLL umpires may umpire in their own divisions.
f. Pitch Count: The manager or one of the on-field coaches shall keep the pitch count for their team. At the end of each half inning the pitch count(s) shall be reported to the Official Scorekeeper and noted in the score book. This pitch count is the official record and no other counts will be noted or discussed.
a. The CSLL Chief Umpire is responsible for recruiting and training of league umpires before the start of the season. Upon completion of umpire training, the Chief Umpire will provide the CSLL President with a list of umpires for appointment and Board of Directors’ approval.
b. During the season, the Umpire Scheduler is responsible for scheduling umpires for all scheduled games, except TB-2 Division. All games should have a minimum of two umpires, the plate umpire (UiC) and the base umpire. In the absence of a scheduled base umpire, each team may provide a substitute base umpire; these base umpires will exchange positions after three completed innings. Substitute base umpires are subject to the approval of the UiC, but at least one base umpire must be provided.
c. Each Manager at the TB-1, ML-1 and ML-2 division will establish the position of Adult Team Umpire. This adult will be used in event no umpire or only one umpire is assigned to a game. The Head Umpire will provide dedicated training to ensure a basic level of knowledge by the Team Umpires. If no CSLL umpire is assigned the Adult Team Umpire will umpire from behind home plate with suitable protection from behind the pitcher if preferable.
a. Scorekeepers are an integral part of all games at CSLL. It is imperative that each game's official scorekeeper knows what he/she is doing. The scorebook used by the official scorekeeper is an official record of the game, and will be referred to during discussions, disputes and protest situations. Incomplete and/or erroneous scoring of a game will not allow for an accurate log of what transpired on the field. Therefore, all designated team scorekeepers must attend the CSLL Scorekeeping Clinic held prior to the season.
b. The home-team manager provides the official scorekeeper for each game. The official scorekeeper must sit in the scorer's stand, if available; he/she may not sit in the team dugout. Only CSLL officials and official scorekeepers shall be allowed in the scorer's stand while a game is in progress (See exception in the next Section below). Managers must not use parents or children who are not properly trained as official scorekeepers.
c. The official scorekeeper is responsible for operating the electronic scoreboard (if available and operational). At the official scorekeeper's discretion, he/she may invite a parent or child into the scorer's stand to operate the scoreboard.
d. The official scorer should assume his/her duties at least fifteen minutes prior to game time so that he/she can prepare the scorebook as discussed in Section V.9.
e. During the conduct of games, official scorekeepers are to remain "neutral". Cheering for his/her team is not appropriate.
f. As stipulated in OR&PR, official scorekeepers are not allowed to point out batting-out-of-turn violations, but are required to prevent protest situations. This includes pointing out when an ineligible pitcher is taking the mound, or an illegal substitute is entering the game.
g. Between batters, the official scorer can consult with the umpire for clarifications or explanations necessary to accurately record the game in the official scorebook.
h. The official scorekeeper shall record in the scorebook the pitch count(s) as reported each half inning by the defensive manager. The scorekeeper shall notify the plate umpire immediately if the count is not reported. When a pitcher is within 10 pitches of their limit at the start of an inning the scorekeeper shall notify the plate umpire.
a. On occasion, CSLL will use public announcers during games. The public announcer shall sit in the scorers stand to perform his/her duties. The public announcer should not perform the duties of official scorekeeper, but may assist in the operation of the scoreboard.
b. The public announcer normally announces batters by name as they approach the plate. The public announcer shall use the batting order as written in the official scorebook to make the announcements. However, the announcer should see who is coming to bat and actually announce that batter’s name/number, even if such batter is batting out-of-turn. The announcer should not give away the fact that a batter is batting out-of-turn.
a. Postponements: Games shall not be postponed except for inclement weather, field conditions, or the inability to field nine (9) players. Managers should take full advantage of the pool player system as described in OR&PR Regulation V.c and clarified in Section II.9.a.(2) above so that teams always have the minimum number of players necessary to play. (NOTE: Refer to Rules 3.10, 4.16, and 4.17 in the OR&PR for additional guidance.)
b. Protests: Reference Rule 4.19 in the OR&PR. Should a manager protest a game, the manager will file a report within 24 hours to his/her Division Vice President. The game’s UiC will file an Umpire Incident report within 24 hours to the CSLL Chief Umpire. The President shall convene a five-member Protest Committee consisting of the President, League Vice President, Player Agent of the division involved, Chief Umpire, and a member of the Board’s Executive Committee. If the Vice President and/or Chief Umpire were involved in the protested game, the President shall select other members of the Executive Committee as needed. The Protest Committee will resolve the protest and either:
(1) Deny the protest and let the game results stand;
(2) Accept the protest but still let the game results stand if the Protest Committee feels the protest did not affect the overall outcome of the game;
(3) Accept the protest and replay the game from the point of protest, or;
(4) In the case of the use of an ineligible pitcher or player, award a forfeit to the offended team as discussed in the next Section.
The Protest Committee’s decision is final. A manager may not appeal the decision to District or higher authority.
c. Forfeits: CSLL officials shall take every action to prevent forfeits. In the event an umpire decides to prematurely end a game due to uncontrollable circumstances (i.e., reasons cited in Rule 4.15 and 9.01(f) of the OR&PR, etc.), the official scorekeeper shall annotate this in the scorebook. The scorekeeper shall ensure the game situation (score, base runners, number of outs, count on the batter, etc.) is properly indicated. The game UiC will file an Umpire Incident report within 24 hours through the CSLL Chief Umpire to the CSLL President. Final decision to award a forfeit or resume play from the point of suspension lies with the Board of Directors.
d. Ties: In the event of a tie game, the UiC shall be guided by Rules 4.11(e) and 4.12 of the OR&PR.
a. General: Games that have been postponed will be rescheduled by the Scheduling Officer, in cooperation with the Division Vice President, Chief Umpire and Concession Stand Manager, no later than the first available make-up date following the postponement (normally the first Sunday following the postponement). An exception to this policy requires approval by the Board of Directors. Managers WILL NOT reschedule games amongst themselves. If a manager knows he/she cannot field a team, he/she shall notify the Scheduler, Division Vice President, Chief Umpire, and Concession Stand Manager for rescheduling as stipulated in this Section. Games will not be rescheduled for personal convenience.
b. Postponing Rescheduled Games: If rescheduled postponed games are further postponed due to inclement weather or field conditions, they will be rescheduled on the first available make-up date. However, if a manager requests that a rescheduled postponed game be further postponed due to lack of players, coaches or the manager, the Division Vice President may deny this request and recommend forfeiture of the game to the other team. Final forfeiture decision lies with the Board of Directors. The potential absence of a manager, coach, or specific player(s) is not grounds for postponement.
c. Rescheduled Time Slots: Games rescheduled for Sunday will be played as follows:
|
GAME |
TIME |
|
1ST |
1:30 PM* |
|
2ND |
3:30 PM |
|
3RD |
5:30 PM |
* If Challenger games are scheduled for Sunday, the first rescheduled games will start at 3:30pm.
d. Exemptions: Make-up games will not be scheduled on Easter Sunday or Mother's Day unless absolutely necessary and only upon approval of the Board of Directors. This should only be considered when the number of make-up games required would cause CSLL to play games beyond the end of the regular season.
a. Pre-Game: One-half hour prior to a game during the week and the first scheduled game on Saturday or Sunday, the game field will be cleared of all players other than teams scheduled to play. Each team shall have ten (10) minutes sole possession of the field for infield/outfield practice with the visiting team taking their infield/outfield practice first. The playing field shall be cleared at least ten (10) minutes prior to scheduled game time to allow for field preparation. The home team shall be responsible for preparing the field for play. Field preparation entails lining the batter’s boxes, catcher’s box and first/third base lines, as well as providing the official scorebook, the electronic scoreboard control, first-aid kit, and two (2) baseballs for the game. (NOTE: Prior to the start of the second and subsequent scheduled games on Saturday or Sunday, and the second of back-to-back weekday games, the UiC may shorten the pre-game infield/outfield practice in the interest of maintaining the game schedule for the day.)
b. Post-Game: Each team will clean up its dugout and pick up all trash around the bleachers after every game before distributing drink tickets to the players. The team managers are responsible for ensuring that the official scorebook, electronic scoreboard control, and first-aid kit are returned to the league Boardroom (unless another game follows on that field), and that the trash barrels are emptied following EVERY game, including games played on weekends. Finally, the team managers (home and visitor) are responsible for brooming the infield, and raking the pitchers mound, first/third base paths and home-plate area following their game.
a. General: In order to keep games on schedule and avoid unduly long innings (e.g., due to many walks or errors), CSLL imposes time and run limits in specified circumstances.
(1) Curfew: CSLL abides by a curfew where no new inning shall start after 10 p.m. and a game cannot continue (“drop dead”) after 10:30 p.m. The curfew takes precedence over any and all other time limits specified in these local rules.
(2) Clarification: CSLL time limits are NOT “drop-dead” limits; rather, they specify that no new inning shall start at/after a certain amount of game duration. A new inning starts the moment the home team makes its third out in the bottom of the previous inning. In games with run limits, a new inning starts the moment the home team makes its third out or scores its last run in the bottom of the previous inning. (NOTE: the clock officially starts when the UiC calls “Play” to begin the game).
(3) Must Concede Rule: Reference Rule 4.10(e)(2) in the OR&PR, the 10-run “must concede” maximum differential rule will be used at CSLL for the Majors and Juniors Divisions.
(1) Time Limit: If the Senior and/or Junior Leagues play an interleague schedule, time limits will be in accordance with the rules as agreed upon by the District 9 Interleague Committee(s). However, if the Senior and/or Junior Leagues play an intraleague schedule, no new inning shall start at/after two hours (2:00) from the beginning of the game unless the score of the game is tied at that point. If the score is tied at the end of the seventh inning or after two hours, the game shall be continued into extra innings—weather and daylight permitting—until a winner is determined.
(2) Run Limit: There are no scoring limits in Senior and Junior League games.
c. Little League (Majors) Division:
(1) Time Limit: There is no time limit for Little League (Majors) Division games, except as imposed by the curfews described in Section V.5.a.1.
(2) Run Limit: There are no scoring limits in Little League (Majors) Division games.
d. ML-1, ML-2 and TB-1 Divisions:
(a) There shall be a time limit on ML-1, ML-2 and TB-1 Division games, but this limit applies only when at least four innings have been played (three and one-half if the home team is ahead) and the score of the game is not tied at the end of the inning.
(b) When a new inning starts after one hour and thirty minutes (1:30), the UiC will notify both managers that the new inning will be the “final regulation inning” of the game and all subsequent innings (if the score is tied) will be “extra innings.”
(c) If the game is tied at the conclusion of the “final regulation inning” or the sixth, the game shall continue into extra innings until a winner is determined. (Exception: CSLL’s evening curfew described in Section V.5.a.1. takes precedence over all time limit and game continuation provisions.)
(d) Time limits will not apply for the Championship Game of any post-season tournament.
(2) Run Limit: In ML-1, ML-2 and TB-1 a team is limited to no more than five (5) in a single inning (Rule 2.00-Inning in the OR&PR). Once a game becomes regulation (as defined in Rule 4.10(c) in the OR&PR), and the time and run limits will not allow a team to score a sufficient number of runs to tie or win the game, the manager shall concede the victory to the opponent.
e. TB-2 Division: See TB-2 Division Local Rules, Section VI.3.b.(7), for guidance regarding maximum innings and time limits on games.
f. Resumed Games: If a game is stopped before becoming a regulation game (as defined in Rule 4.10(c) in the OR&PR) due to darkness, curfew, or weather, the game will be concluded the next time the two teams meet as stipulated in Rule 4.12 of the OR&PR. The two teams shall finish the incomplete game before starting the regularly scheduled game. The appropriate time and run limit procedures shall apply.
g. Authorized Clock Stoppages: In the event that a time-limited game is delayed for weather, light failure, serious injury, or other extraordinary circumstance, the UiC shall stop the clock and inform the official scorekeeper of the elapsed game time. The official scorekeeper shall annotate the elapsed game time in the scorebook. When the game resumes, or if the game is eventually postponed and resumed at a later date, the clock shall pick up from the moment the game stopped. (NOTE: game delays due to player substitutions, minor injuries, equipment adjustments, or other ordinary reasons will not require clock stoppage. However, the UiC must be vigilant for unnecessary delays (i.e., multiple player substitutions, long pitching conferences, etc.) designed to take advantage of time limits, and add time to the clock at his/her discretion if he/she judges the manager is purposely delaying the game.)
h. Official Timekeeper: For time-limited games, the UiC is responsible for the official time. This responsibility will not be given to the game’s official scorekeeper, a team manager/coach, or game spectator. The UiC may either keep the time himself/herself, or delegate it to the base umpire.
c. Severe Weather Special Provisions: In the event of severe weather, league officials will take every precaution to ensure the safety of all league members. CSLL has a lightning detector that the OD will maintain as covered in Section IV.1.f. If any league official sees lightning, or the detector indicates a lightning strike in the 8-20 mile range, games will immediately cease. All game personnel will retreat into their respective dugouts, stay away from fences/backstops, and not handle metallic items such as bats. Games will not resume until at least ten (10) minutes after the last lightning strike is seen/detected. If conditions may become extremely dangerous, league officials should direct all game personnel to safer locations, such as cars or the league Boardroom. (NOTE: Nobody should leave the park until the UiC officially calls the game.)
a. Catchers: Rule 1.17 of the OR&PR shall apply to all catchers at all league levels. Furthermore, in accordance with LL Safety Policy, dangling-style throat guards are required for ALL catchers’ helmets/masks, including the new-styled hockey masks.
(1) Any player warming up a pitcher, whether a regular catcher or not, must wear a helmet/mask during the warm-up. Male catchers must also wear a cup while warming up a pitcher.
(2) During pre-game infield/outfield practice, the catcher (the player catching throws next to the coach) must wear a helmet/mask. In the LL spirit of maximizing the use of the players, an adult will not act as the catcher during pre-game infield/outfield unless there are no players available.
(3) When a pitcher warms up in the bullpen during the game, a player with batting helmet and glove will act as “protector” of the pitcher and catcher from batted balls and errant throws. This player must face the plate and have clear vision of the batter. In the event there are no additional players available, an adult coach may act as protector.
c. Batting Helmets: Managers and coaches will ensure that helmets are worn as prescribed in the OR&PR. Managers are responsible for ensuring that all equipment, especially helmets, is in acceptable condition. All batters and base runners will wear helmets with chinstraps properly fastened. Child base coaches, if used, shall also wear helmets. Players will keep their helmets on until they enter the dugout area.
d. Players in Casts: A player wearing any type of cast is not allowed on the playing field. This includes helping during pre-game and between-inning warm-ups, and acting as base coach. A player wearing a cast may sit in the dugout to support the team.
e. Lead Off Batter: The first batter of each half-inning who is permitted to be outside the dugout between half-innings, shall take a position at the home-plate end of the player’s dugout, well away from the foul line and field of play. The batter shall not stand near the plate to time the pitcher’s pitches. On-deck positions are only allowed for Senior and Junior Leagues. (NOTE: for safety reasons, this will not apply in TB-2).
a. Prior to each game, managers will prepare multiple copies of their respective team's lineup, using a CSLL-approved lineup card or form. If the manager uses a homemade form, it should follow a standard lineup as close as possible. The following information must appear on the lineup card:
(1) The name/division of the team (i.e., ML-1 Cubs).
(2) The date.
(3) The name of every player on the team roster (both present and absent players).
(a) Full names or reasonable abbreviations must be used (i.e., John Smith; J Smith; Smith, John; Smith, J; John S.)
(b) Players who are in the starting batting order are listed first.
(c) Reserve players, if any, are listed next.
(d) Players who are absent, or present but unable to play, are listed last. Next to each name, annotate the player's status. (i.e., sick, injured, on vacation, absent, restricted by parent from playing, etc.)
(4) Each player's uniform number.
(5) Each (starting) player's position (i.e., P, C, 1B, etc., or 1, 2, 3, etc.)
(6) In all Divisions, write each pitcher's (starter and relievers) age and eligibility for the day [i.e., Smith, J -- 11] (NOTE: The player's age is required due to restrictions on eleven (11) year old pitchers in the ML-2 Division.)
(7) The manager's signature.
b. The official scorekeeper will review the lineup cards, and return them to a manager for correction if necessary. The official scorekeeper will ensure that the lineups are in the official scorebook and that innings of eligibility for each pitcher are noted in the lineup.
c. The UiC, scorekeeper, and opposing manager must be informed of lineup changes during the course of the game and only at such time as a change is actually made. Even if the manager indicates changes on his/her lineup card in advance, the manager must still make an official announcement of such changes when they take place so that everybody is aware of them. Changes in lineups will be made without disruption to the game and timeouts will be held to a minimum.
d. During an inning, managers are not permitted on the field or in the scorer's stand for purposes of speaking with the scorekeeper for any reason except an official lineup change.
a. Manager/Coach Attire: All managers and coaches must be properly attired and conduct themselves in an exemplary manner. This includes the wearing of a proper shirt, trousers (Bermudas) and shoes, and using proper language at all times.
b. THE USE OF TOBACCO OR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES IN ANY FORM IS PROHIBITED ON THE PLAYING FIELD AND IN DUGOUTS. This is an official Little League Rule and will be enforced. Further, Fairfax County Park Authority prohibits the use of alcoholic beverages within any park facility.
c. Adults on Field: Only the manager and two (2) adult coaches listed on the official roster submitted to Little League Baseball, Inc. are allowed on the playing field. These individuals shall not leave the bench or dugout except as permitted by the OR&PR and these rules. Adults shall not warm up the pitcher during the pre-game warm-up and during the game as stipulated in the OR&PR. Other personnel (parents not designated as coaches, older siblings of players, other children, etc.) are not authorized on the field or in the dugouts during warm-ups and game time.
d. Manager/Coach Positions; Equipment Restrictions on Field: Managers and coaches may stand outside and directly in front of the dugouts during games. They may not leave the immediate vicinity of the dugout without requesting permission from an umpire. They will not sit on any type of chair or equipment (coolers, ball buckets, etc.) outside of the dugouts. Umpires may direct managers and coaches who fail to comply to remain inside the dugout for the game duration. One adult must remain in the dugout at all times.
e. Interaction with Game UiC: Only the manager is permitted to discuss a rule interpretation with an umpire. The manager is the person who attends the UiC’s plate conference prior to the game. If a manager sends a coach to attend the plate conference, the UiC shall remind that coach that he will become the manager for that game.
f. Compliance: Failure of a manager/coach to comply with Sections V.10.a through V.10.e above shall result in the manager/coach receiving a warning from the appropriate Division Vice President. A second failure to comply will result in the manager/coach appearing before the Board of Directors or a designated committee of the Board to show cause why he/she should not be removed as a manager/coach.
g. Suspensions and Resumed Games: If a manager, coach or player is ejected from a game, and that game is called and resumed on a later date, the disciplinary action still applies, and the appropriate Division Vice President shall advise the umpires of the resumed game of that fact.
a. Little League (Majors) Division and Minor League: The CSLL post-season championships format shall be determined by the Board of Directors no less than two weeks prior to the end of the regular season.
(NOTE 1): The post-season championship is an extension of the regular season, not a tournament. As such, all regular season rules in accordance with OR&PR and supplemented by these local rules apply. Pitching eligibility shall continue from the final scheduled regular season game.)
b. Tee Ball: There will be no post-season championships in the TB-1 and TB-2 divisions. The Board of Directors, under the provisions of Regulation IX(i) of the OR&PR, may organize a “Fun Tournament” to coincide with the Little League (Majors) Division and Minor League post-season championships, or may simply continue the regular season until the Little League (Majors) Division and Minor League post-season championships are complete.
c. Senior and Junior League: If the Senior and/or Junior Leagues play an interleague schedule, the Senior and Junior League post-season championship games will be in accordance with the rules as agreed upon by the District 9 Interleague Committees. Should the Committee decide not to have post-season play, if a post-season championship does not involve any of CSLL’s teams, or if the Senior and/or Junior Leagues play an intraleague schedule, the CSLL divisions may conduct their own championships if proposed by the Division Vice President and approved by the Board of Directors. The championship will be conducted as stipulated in the previous Section.
a. Machine Operators: Only pitching machines will be used in the TB-1 Division. Live pitching (i.e., coach pitch) will not be permitted. An adult will feed the machine while his/her team is at-bat.
b. Machine Setup: The home-team manager is responsible for the setup and teardown of the pitching machine as part of his/her field preparation responsibilities. The speed of the machine shall be set around 40 on the control knob so that the pitch trajectory is as level as possible. The adult is responsible for adjusting the pitching machine; it shall not be readjusted except at the umpire's direction.
c. Machine Adjustments: The pitching machine will only be adjusted at the end of a complete inning unless the machine establishes a bias to the detriment of the game (i.e., it begins to bounce or sail the pitch), and/or the machine issues a walk, or hits a batter, at which time an adult will make an immediate adjustment.
d. Pitching Procedures: The adult shall not make any motions (i.e., a windup pitching motion) that may distract any player. The adult shall wait until all players are ready, and then hold the ball high in the air before feeding it into the machine.
e. Machine as a Defensive Player: The pitching machine is considered a defensive player. All batted balls striking the machine will be treated the same as if they struck an actual pitcher.
f. Kid Pitcher Position: In the interest of safety, the player at the mound shall be positioned with one foot inside the pitching circle, and no closer to home plate than the nozzle of the pitching machine when the pitch is delivered and reaches the batter. The player shall stand on either side of the pitching machine until the ball leaves the machine, and then may move to in front of the machine while remaining in the circle. The player shall not run forward towards the batter when the ball leaves the pitching machine.
g. Intentional Walks: Intentional walks shall not be issued when the pitching machine is used.
h. Bunting: Bunting is not allowed.
i. Handing the Ball to the Machine Operator: The player must be inside the pitching circle and deliver the ball directly to the adult (i.e., the ball cannot be thrown or tossed to the operator from inside or outside the pitching circle). The adult will issue two warnings to the player if he/she violates this rule. A third offense by the same player will result in all runners advancing one base.
j. Dead Ball Situation: The ball is dead when a player has possession of the ball, is totally inside the pitching circle, and no runner is attempting to advance. The umpire will call Time when the ball is dead.
k. Appeals: Appeals shall be made prior to delivery of the next pitch. Once the ball is delivered to the adult, the ball is in play.
l. Ball Under the Machine: Should a live-batted ball settle under the legs of the pitching machine, the adult will immediately call Time and advance the batter and all runners one base. Should a live thrown ball settle under the machine, the adult will immediately call Time and place the base runners at the bases last touched when the ball settled under the machine. The area under the machine is not considered dead ball territory; therefore, the two-base award as specified in Rules 7.05(f) and (g) of the OR&PR does not apply.
m. Base Running Restrictions: Base runners shall not leave their bases unless the ball hits the backstop after getting past the catcher. The ball is live and runners shall advance at their own risk. If a runner disengages his/her base before the ball contacts the backstop, all runners are guilty of violating this rule and shall be returned to their previous bases. Any plays made on base runners after one disengages illegally shall be nullified unless a runner is put out. The out shall stand, and other base runners shall be returned to their previous bases. (NOTE: For games played at Franconia Park or other field that does not have a backstop at the regulation distance behind the plate, the umpires shall be the sole judges whether or not the ball would have struck the backstop. See additional guidance on TB-1 games at other fields in Section VI.2.n below. Also, see additional base running restrictions regarding the final (max) run of the inning in Section V.5.e.(3).)
n. Defensive Positioning Requirements: In the interest of maximizing opportunities for all players, each player on the roster shall play a minimum of two (2) and maximum of four (4) complete innings of infield per game. (EXCEPTION: A player may play the catcher position for more than four (4) complete innings; however, once that player plays four (4) or more innings at catcher, he/she may not move to an infield position. Also, a player who plays one or more innings in the infield may subsequently play the catcher position to the four (4) inning limit (i.e., a player who plays shortstop for two innings may subsequently play no more than two innings at catcher)). If a player has not met the one (1) inning requirement due to the game being shortened by time or run limits, that player must start in the infield the next game. Each player shall start at least one game at an infield position during the season. The penalty on the manager who fails to adhere to this requirement is the same as that stipulated in Regulation IV(i) of the OR&PR. (NOTE: Parents may restrict their child/children from this requirement due to safety considerations. The manager shall present a list of these restricted players’ names to the Player Agent and Division Vice President.)
o. Other Field Usage: If necessary due to the number of TB-1 teams in the league, games may be played on fields other than Carey Fields at Trailside Park. These fields must meet all specifications and standards as stipulated in the OR&PR except for the pitcher’s mound and backstop requirements. In the event that TB-1 games are played on a 90-foot diamond (i.e., Franconia Park), or a field without a pitcher’s mound (i.e., Lee High Park) the pitching machine shall be set up the normal 46 feet from the plate. The base umpire will use his/her judgment to determine compliance with the pitching circle requirements listed in Sections VI.2.f, VI.2.h, and VI.2.i above. The existing pitcher’s mound on the 90-foot diamond is considered live ball territory. (NOTE: TB-1 games will not be played on fields that do not meet OR&PR specifications and standards, such as the league’s practice fields.)
a. Game Preparation: The home team manager is responsible for marking the field, obtaining the first aid kit, and providing baseballs for each game.
(1) An arc will be marked in fair territory 15 feet in radius from home plate for the purpose of determining fair balls.
(2) Lines are to be marked or set on the field to demark the hash marks to the pitcher's rubber, and around the entire field to demark the short fielder's minimum distance mark (10 feet beyond the baseline).
(3) “Soft” baseballs will be used in all TB-2 games.
(1) The team in the field will consist of ten (10) players, playing the nine regular positions and a short field.
(2) The catcher will take a position behind the umpire and the batter and come forward only after the ball has been hit fair and the tee removed.
(3) No fielder will play within thirty (30) feet of home plate.
(4) The short fielder will play no closer than ten (10) feet beyond the baseline until the ball is hit fair from the tee.
(5) The pitcher will take a position on the pitching rubber until the ball is hit.
(6) A player may not play at the pitcher and/or first base position any more than two (2) innings TOTAL in any game. For example, Player "A" may play one inning at pitcher and one inning at first base, and Player "B" may play two innings at pitcher and is NOT ELIGIBLE to play first base. Playing at either position for one batter constitutes an inning for the purpose of this rule.
(7) Games will be a maximum of three (3) innings, except that no new inning will start after one hour and thirty minutes (1:30) has elapsed from the beginning of the game. If a game is called for weather, darkness, etc. it will be considered a complete game if three (3) complete innings have been played.
(8) The batting order shall be all of the players on the roster listed in the order they are to bat. The batting order will be exchanged between the managers prior to the start of the game. Late arriving players will be placed in the last available position of the original batting order.
(9) The offensive side is retired each inning after all players in the batting order have batted one time each.
(10) There are no strikeouts. The batter's turn at bat is not completed until the batter gets a hit or is put out.
(11) A foul ball is identical to conventional Minor League/Little League (Majors) Division baseball with two (2) exceptions:
(a) The ball is foul if the ball travels less than fifteen feet in fair territory from home plate as marked by the arc. As such, bunting is not permitted.
(b) The ball is foul if the batter hits the tee with the bat causing the ball to fall from the tee.
(12) The infield fly rule does not apply in TB-2.
(13) Free substitution of fielders is authorized anytime the ball is not in play.
(14) There shall be NO PROTESTS and NO FORFEITS in TB-2 games. If there is a dispute that cannot be settled by the managers after appealing to the umpires, it shall be taken to the Division Vice President. The Division Vice President (or designated representative) is the final arbiter of any dispute on the TB-2 playing field.
(1) Sliding is not permitted.
(2) The player occupying the defensive position of catcher must wear full protective equipment, including a catcher's mask with throat guard and protective helmet, shin guards and long model chest protector with neck collar. All male catchers must wear the plastic, metal or fiber protective cup.
(3) All batters, base runners, and child base coaches (optional for adult coaches) must wear protective helmets WITH CHIN STRAPS. Do not allow players to remove helmets until they are inside the team dugout.
(4) There shall be no "on deck" batters. For safety purposes, the leadoff batter for each half inning will remain in the dugout until called to the plate by the umpire.
d. Umpires: The two participating teams will provide the game’s umpires. League umpires shall not be provided for TB-2 games.
(1) The duties of the plate umpire are as follows:
(a) Start each batter by adjusting the tee to the height of the batter, insuring that the batter's feet are in the batter's box. When the batter and all fielders are ready, the plate umpire shall place the ball on the tee and call "PLAY BALL" to initiate play.
(b) Determine and verbally indicate if a ball is batted foul.
(c) Remove the tee from the home plate area after each hit.
(d) Call Time and raise both arms when:
(i) The pitcher possesses the ball in the dirt area around the mound.
(ii) The catcher possesses the ball inside the 15-foot arc.
(iii) A fielder possesses the ball and the runners hold their bases.
(e) At the discretion of the plate umpire, warn (notify the manager of the warning), and then call out any player who throws a bat or slides.
(2) The duties of the base umpire are as follows:
(a) Ensure that the fielders are in their proper positions before the plate umpire puts the ball in play.
(b) Warn, re-warn, and then call out any runners who leave the base before the ball is hit.
(c) Call Time and raise both arms when a fielder is in possession of the ball and the runners are holding their bases or when the plate umpire does so.
(d) Ensure that, on any attempted play at a base, the runner or runners will be permitted to advance at their own risk, BUT NOT MORE THAN ONE BASE.
(e) Make SAFE and OUT calls on the bases.
e. Conduct of TB-2 Fans: The plate umpire, Division Vice President, or other league official will ask fans to leave the TB-2 field if they are abusive or impede the sportsmanlike progress of any game. Games will be stopped until the offenders leave the field. POSITIVE CHEERING FOR ALL PLAYERS IS ENCOURAGED.
a. Candidate Requirements: Not later than four (4) weeks prior to the end of the season, those who wish to manage CSLL tournament teams may volunteer by informing the CSLL President of their desires. The manager candidates of the Senior League, Junior League and Little League tournament teams must have been Senior League, Junior League and Little League (Majors) Division managers or coaches, respectively, during the regular season. Manager candidates for the 10-11 and 9-10 Year Old Division tournament teams must have been managers or coaches in the Little League (Majors) Division or Minor League.
b. Interviews/Selection Process: The CSLL President shall convene a special meeting so that the Board of Directors may interview the manager candidates for the positions. Manager candidates will identify their respective choices for coaches during the interview process. Coaches must have been regular season managers or coaches as stipulated in the previous Section. Following the interviews, the CSLL President shall appoint and the Board of Directors shall approve the managers and coaches.
a. Voting Procedures: Approximately two (2) weeks prior to the end of the regular season, the Player Agent(s) and/or his/her designated representative will provide each Senior League, Junior League and Little League (Majors) Division player, manager, and coach an opportunity to vote for tournament team members in their respective leagues. The vote will be made on special ballots containing only the names of Senior League players league age fourteen (14), fifteen (15) and sixteen (16), Junior League players league age thirteen (13) and fourteen (14), and Little League (Majors) Division players league age eleven (11) and twelve (12). All players must have been members of their respective League teams for at least one-half of the regular season. Players, managers, and coaches may NOT vote for a player currently assigned to their own regular season team. Ballots will be placed in a container that will remain sealed (except for the ballot insertion slot) until the ballots are tabulated. Ballots must contain votes for at least six (6) players to be considered. (NOTE: Fourteen (14) year olds are eligible to play on either the Senior or Junior League tournament teams. As such, all eligible fourteen (14) year old players shall be listed on both ballots.)
b. 11 Year Olds: A league eleven (11) year player that does not wish to be considered for the Little League (Majors) Division tournament team must notify the Player Agent via a letter signed by the player and his/her parent(s) at least two weeks prior to the conducting of the voting. Once this decision is presented to the Player Agent it is irrevocable. The Player Agent will not include that players name on the ballot for the Little League (Majors) Division tournament team. The player remains eligible for selection to the 10-11 Year Old Division tournament team but there is no guarantee that the player will be selected.
c. Team Determination: The ballots will be tabulated by the Player Agent(s) who will be assisted by another CSLL Board member and supervised by the CSLL President and/or CSLL Executive Vice President. The eight (8) players receiving the highest number of votes in each League/Division will become tournament team members pending a verification of their eligibility and availability. The remaining positions on each of the tournament teams will be filled by players selected by the respective team manager and coaches following consultation with the Player Agent and CSLL President. The respective team manager and coaches shall select no less than four (4) and no more than six (6) players to close out the tournament team rosters. (NOTE: Any fourteen (14) year old who is one of the top eight (8) vote-getters for the Senior League tournament team will not be available for the Junior League tournament team. The Senior League tournament team manager shall complete his/her roster with fifteen (15) and sixteen (16) year olds, and any fourteen (14) year olds who played in the Senior League. Then, the Junior League tournament team manager may select any fourteen (14) year old not already on the Senior League team to complete his/her roster. EXCEPTION: In the event that no fourteen (14) year olds played in the Senior League, or there are no remaining fourteen (14) year olds who did play in the Senior League, the Senior League tournament team manager may select any fourteen (14) year olds who played in the Junior League to complete his/her roster, but only after the Junior League team roster is complete.)
d. Replacement Players: Should one or more of the tournament team players on a team be declared ineligible or unavailable for tournament play, the respective team manager and coaches, in consultation with the Player Agent and CSLL President, may select a replacement player for the respective tournament team.
e. Validation Requirements: Following the selection of tournament teams, it shall be the responsibility of the CSLL President to review and certify the birth records of all players. Furthermore, it is the CSLL President’s responsibility to ensure that all information entered on each tournament team’s Eligibility Affidavit is true and correct. During these administrative processes, only the CSLL President, CSLL Executive Vice President, Player Agent, Player Agent’s vote counting assistant, and tournament team managers and coaches (for their respective teams) will have access to the tournament team player information.
a. Eligibility: All league age ten (10) and eleven (11) players in CSLL are eligible for the 10-11 Year Old Division tournament team. Likewise, all league age nine (9) and ten (10) year old players in CSLL are eligible for the 9-10 Year Old Division tournament team. All players must have been members of their respective division teams for at least one-half of the regular season.
b. Procedures: The tournament team players will be selected as follows:
(1) Selection Committee Make-up: Shortly after the start of the regular season, the CSLL President shall appoint for Board of Directors’ approval a five-member Selection Committee. The Selection Committee shall consist of a majority of non-board members. The Player Agent shall not be a member of the Selection Committee. It is preferred, but not required, that there are two Selection Committees, one for each tournament team.
(2) Selection Committee Responsibilities: The Selection Committee(s) shall be tasked to evaluate all nine (9), ten (10) and eleven (11) year old players by observing as many regular season Little League (Majors), ML-1 and ML-2 games, practices and clinics as possible. The Selection Committee(s) shall also conduct interviews with division vice presidents, managers and coaches in the three divisions, and umpires for further input. Prior to the final announcement of the 10-11 Year Old and 9-10 Year Old Division tournament team the Selection Committee(s) shall conduct two tryouts on/after the date authorized by Little League Baseball, Inc.
(3) Team Determination: No earlier than the same date that ballots are tabulated for the Senior League, Junior League and Little League tournament teams, the Selection Committee(s) shall select ten (10) players each to the 10-11 Year Old Division and 9-10 Year Old Division tournament teams. The results of these selections will be presented to the tournament team managers and coaches, Player Agent, CSLL President and/or CSLL Executive Vice President. The tournament team managers and coaches, in consultation with the Selection Committee(s), shall select the remaining players. The tournament team managers and coaches shall select no less than two (2) and no more than four (4) players to close out the tournament team rosters.
c. League-age Eleven (11) Restrictions: Players league age eleven (11) selected for the Little League tournament team are not eligible to participate on the 10-11 Year Old Division team.
d. League-age Ten (10) Restrictions: Players league age ten (10) selected for the 10-11 Year Old tournament team are not eligible to participate in the 9-10 Year Old Division team. A league age ten (10) year old player that is selected for the 10-11 Year Old Division Tournament Team may turn down that selection. Once this decision has been made it is irrevocable, and the player will no longer be eligible for consideration for any tournament team.
e. Replacement Players: If a tournament team roster drops below twelve (12) players (due to player ineligibility, availability for tournament play, or injury) the manager and coaches, in consultation with the Selection Committee, Player Agent, and CSLL President, may select a replacement player(s).
f. Validation Requirements: It is the responsibility of the CSLL President to review and certify the birth records and other pertinent information ensuring the eligibility of selected players. Furthermore it is the responsibility of the CSLL President to ensure the accuracy of all information entered on the tournament team's Eligibility Affidavit. During this process only the CSLL President, Player Agent, Selection Committee members and tournament team managers and coaches will have access to the tournament team player information.
SECTION VIII: BOARD APPROVAL
The foregoing Local Rules were reviewed and approved by the CSLL Board of Directors during a scheduled meeting on 16 December 2009.
Phil Grone
President