Morristown Area American Little League: MAALL Rules

Rules

Farm Division Local Rules
Goals: To provide each player an enjoyable learning experience in which the basics of the game such as fielding, throwing, base running and hitting are emphasized. This should be accomplished in an environment in which each player is given an equal opportunity to develop their specific skill levels.

Defense: Up to ten players are allowed to play the field each inning. The infield is to be covered by the standard first, second, short stop and third baseman. A player may stand near the pitching mound however the safety of the players is the primary focus of the coaches and as such it is recommended that the coach who is pitching protect the player that is near the mound. As such, the player near the mound should be located behind the coach. All players must play at least two innings or six outs in the field. It is not necessary to have a player in the catcher’s position. In fact it is not recommended for games at this level of play. If a player is allowed to play this position the coaches must ensure that the appropriate distance from the batter is provided. The outfield may be covered by four fielders. It is recommended that all players are provided the opportunity to play the various field positions. Therefore, rotations are strongly recommended. During the initial games of the season it is recommended that the coaches ensure that they do not put a player at a position in which safety is a concern. To prevent defensive players from crowding the batter, no fielder may play closer that the pitcher’s mound. Coaches are allowed to be on the field to ensure that the players are both safe and to enhance the players understanding of the defensive positions. Coaches should not interfere with the game unless it is for safety reasons. If there are players on the bench a coach must remain with the players in the bench area.

Offense: Ball and strikes are not called; therefore a batter can not be awarded a walk. Each team will utilize a continuous batting order this means even if a player is not in the field from a defensive standpoint they will have an opportunity to hit in a given inning. It is recommended that the coaches adjust their order each games so each player is not always at the top or bottom of the order. The team at the plate will move back to the defensive positions either after three outs have been recorded or all team members had the opportunity to hit in that inning. When the last batter puts the ball in play the inning will end either when the ball is thrown to first base or if it is hit past the pitcher back to the coach pitching. Pitching: Managers or coaches are required to pitch to their own team players. A batter may elect to utilize the tee. If a batter elects the coach pitch option and is unsuccessful after six pitches, such player is to revert to the tee. If a player is hit by a pitch, he or she should not be awarded first base. The intent is to have the players hit and proceed to first base.

Umpire: At all times the team that is “up” will utilize one of their coaches as the umpire for that portion of the inning. Please remember we are dealing with some of youngest players it is not about the score but how they are learning the game.

Hour and Half Rule: Games are to have a maximum of six innings. No inning can begin after an hour and half from the start of the game. If an inning begins before the 1-1/2 hour time limit, Morristown American Little League it can continue until either on of the following has occurred: (a) three outs are recorded; (b) all players on the offensive team had an opportunity at the plate; (c) darkness.

Other Points: There is no bunting or stealing. Base runners can not steal a base. Only one base is to be awarded a base runner on an overthrow. Please note that multiple overthrows during one play are common and as such coaches must return runners to the appropriate bases. When last out is recorded the next pitch must be delivered within 2 minutes. This rule is intended to speed up the game for the kids and the fans. There is no penalty for noncompliance at the farm level, but coaches should strive to keep the game moving. Managers may keep score books; however there are no standings for this level of play. The league does not approve establishing any unofficial champion or playoff games. There is no on deck circle. Players are only allowed to swing bats when they are properly at the plate. There is no strike zone at this level of play.

Bench Behavior: The manger should appoint a bench coach during the games to ensure player safety. All players should remain seated in the bench area. Players may not wear jewelry, including necklaces and earrings. Only players and the designated coaches are allowed in the bench area and on the playing field during the game.

Skill Event: It would be appropriate for the mangers of the teams to agree to have a “Fun / Skill” day at the end of the season or in place a given game. This event should focus on select team skills such as fielding ground balls, throwing to a coach stationed at first base, hitting, base running and fielding high pops. Please remember at this age the intent is to increase the player’s basic skills, let them have fun and ensure their safety! Coaches are responsible for: All equipment provided to them at the beginning of the season. If equipment is damaged or lost it should be reported to the League’s Equipment Coordinator. Inspecting the playing field before each game to ensure that there are no safety hazards (holes etc…) in the filed of play. Ensuring that the playing area is not left with litter from the players after the end of each game or practice. Being organized and having a position plan for each inning and a batting roster posted in the dugout prior to start of game Reminders for Game Day: Up to two coaches may be positioned in the outfield to help instruct the defensive team. (Note: There needs to be a coach on the bench if there are players not in the field of play.) Coaches should encourage batters to swing at the ball and not walk. Have players run on and off the field. Provide encouragement and positive re-enforcement during the game! 

Minor “A” and “AA”
Goals: The purpose of these two divisions is to further the development of all players’ understanding of the rules of baseball as well as the fundamental skills needed to enjoy the game safely. As such, the coaches are required to provide practice plans and settings that focus on the fundamentals of the game for all players. Coaches are reminded that the games are to be played in a manner that promotes the development of the players’ skills as well as confidence. Both coaches and parents should understand that both divisions are developmental divisions and are used to prepare the players for competitive baseball at the higher levels. It is not the philosophy of “A” or “AA” level play to keep score or concern ourselves with game standings or scores.

Defense: Ten players are to play the field at all times. This would require four outfielders. The outfielders are all required to play the same depth from the infield (i.e. no short fielder behind a specific base). Players are to rotate to different positions during the game. No one dominant player is to play one position. No player is allowed to play the same position for more than two innings during a game. As such, all players are required to be rotated during the game and should not be limited to playing only infield or outfield positions in a given game It is recommended that coaches work with players to ensure that they develop confidence to play various positions. Players should not be put into a position in which they are not comfortable playing or for which the player’s safety is considered an issue. This point should be emphasized to all parents before the season begins.

Offense: There is to be a continuous batting order during the game for the entire team. After the end of the game the on deck batter will lead off in the next game. Nine batters are the maximum number of batters that can hit in any one given inning unless three outs are registered. The ninth batter should be announced by the coach. It is not acceptable for the defensive coach to call for an intentional walk of the ninth batter. Intentional walks are not allowed at either division. If the ninth batter is hit by a pitch the batter will be awarded first base and the inning will end. If the bases are full each base runner will move to the next open base. If the ninth batter gets a hit the play will not end until an out is made or until the pitcher gets the ball near the mound. Base runners can not proceed past third base if they are at third base or have not yet made it to third base before the ball reaches the pitcher. Base runners that are not more than halfway between third base and home plate by the time that the ball is returned to the pitcher position will be required to return to third base. The purpose of this rule is to avoid situations in which collisions can occur at home plate. Morristown American Little League Base runners must slide into a base (other than first base) in situations when the ball is thrown to that base and is arriving at the approximately the same time as the runner. This must be emphasized to the players in order to avoid collisions. Coach must assign a pinch runner for the catcher when there are two outs and the catcher is on base.

Pitching: It is the goal of the “AA” and “A” divisions to develop those players who want to pitch by providing instruction and guidance on proper pitching mechanics. A player (7-8 yrs old) may pitch no more than 50 pitches per day and no more than two innings per game. A player may not pitch in consecutive games and must have 2 full days of rest. Coaches should use good judgment in determining if a player should be replaced is they are struggling. A pitcher is to be replaced if he or she walks or hits 4 batters or any combination of the two instances totals 4. “A” division coaches should agree before the start of the game the number of innings that will be dedicated to player’s pitching and how many to coach pitch. Pitchers must adhere to the time limit of one-minute maximum for 8 warm-up pitches [rule 8.03] when taking the mound. Have pitchers warm up in a SAFE area between innings rather than taking all warm up pitches on the mound. The coach must manage activity, especially pitching and use of catcher, since those spots will really affect the speed of game. Pitchers should be able to throw strikes or meet minimum requirements to pitch. Not everyone will pitch. This is where the game slows down. Coach pitch (A division): Coaches must pitch from the rubber and utilize a wind-up. It is important that the coach present pitches that will appropriately challenge the players. Players may strike-out but may not walk.

Catching: The catcher needs to be able to catch. Find kids who can catch and train them throughout the season. The ball rolling to the backstop after each pitch is a one of the most significant contributors to the game slowing down. If a coach needs help with catching fundamentals, be sure to ask for help. There are coaches in the league who can provide great advice.

Morristown American Little League Hour and Half Rule: Games are to have a maximum of six innings. No inning can begin after an hour and half from the start of the game. If an inning begins before the 1-1/2 hour time limit, it can continue until either on of the following has occurred: (a) three outs are recorded; (b) all players on the offensive team had an opportunity at the plate; (c) darkness. Note at the AA and A level, the Little League Inc. 5 run maximum per inning rule is to be followed through the last inning of the game. In the last inning of the game teams can score more than five runs before three outs are registered or the last batter in the rotation is retired or hits.

End of Season Tournament: As noted it is not the intent of “AA” and “A” to track team standings or scores. As such, at the end of the season there is no schedule tournament for the “A” teams. It is suggested that the coaches consider a skill events with the teams as a means to end the season. The skill event can be focused on throwing, fielding ground balls, pitching accuracy, general fielding and throwing accuracy. For the “AA” bracket there will be an end of season tournament concept in which the teams will be provided an opportunity to play two additional games. The games will be paired based on the division coordinator randomly pulling the team names. The second series of games will be based on the Game A winner playing the Game B winner and the Game A loser playing the Game B loser. (If the coaches of the teams that did not win the first series games are not in favor of a second series game there is no need to hold this game).

Other Points: There is no bunting or stealing. Base runners can not steal a base. Only one base is to be awarded a base runner on an overthrow. Please note that multiple overthrows during one play are common and as such coaches must return runners to the appropriate bases. When last out is recorded the next pitch must be delivered within 1 minute and 30 seconds. This rule is intended to speed up the game for the kids and the fans. Managers may keep score books; however there are no standings for this level of play. It is not the philosophy of AA or A level play to keep score or concern ourselves with game standings or scores. No standings will be maintained during the season There is no on deck circle. Players are only allowed to swing bats when they are properly at the plate.

Morristown American Little League Bench Behavior: The manger should appoint a bench coach during the games to ensure player safety. All players should remain seated in the bench area. Players may not wear jewelry, including necklaces and earrings. Only players and the designated coaches are allowed in the bench area and on the playing field during the game. Players are responsible to know when they are batting, and the position they are playing the next time they take the field...also to have their hat and glove ready so they can run onto the field.

Coaches are responsible for: All equipment provided to them at the beginning of the season. If equipment is damaged, lost or doesn’t fit properly, it should be reported to the League’s Equipment Coordinator. Ensure catcher’s equipment fits properly and is adjusted prior to game start for each designated catcher. Being organized and having a position plan for each inning and a batting roster posted in the dugout prior to start of game. Inspecting the playing field before each game to ensure that there are no safety hazards (holes etc…) in the filed of play. Ensuring that the playing area is not left with litter from the players after the end of each game or practice. Providing a parent to act as an umpire (home teams only). The umpire is to be located behind third base in foul territory. In this capacity the parent is to call fair or foul balls down the third base line as well as whether or not a base runner is safe or out if a play is made at third base. The student umpire is responsible for calling balls and strikes as well as whether or not a base runner is safe or out at first, second and home plate. The parent is to support the student umpire and help ensure that the student umpire is treated with respect by the team players, coaches and spectators. Coordinating with the league scheduler as well as their division coordinator as it relates to the need to reschedule games due to rain-puts or field closures. The same holds for changes needed in the official practice schedule. Ensuring that the student umpires game validation sheet is signed at the end of each game. Providing evaluation reports for all players on their team. This will be coordinated by the division coordinators.

Reminders for Game Day: Up to two coaches may be positioned in the outfield to help instruct the defensive team. (Note: There needs to be a coach on the bench if there are players not in the field of play.) Coaches should encourage batters to swing at the ball and not walk. Encourage players to always run on and off the field when changing innings Provide encouragement and positive re-enforcement during the game! Do not allow players to taunt, tease, or bully a teammate or opponent.  

 “AAA”
Goals: The purpose of the “AAA” division is to further the development of all players’ understanding of the rules of baseball as well as the fundamental skills needed to enjoy the game safely. As such, the coaches are required to provide practice plans and settings that focus on the fundamentals of the game for all players. Coaches are reminded that the games are to be played in a manner that promotes the development of the players’ skills as well as confidence. The intent is to further develop players understanding of the defensive aspects of playing certain positions within the field as well as how they should respond to certain game situations. Both coaches and parents should understand that the “AAA” division will introduce the players to limited base stealing as well as player-only pitching.

Defense: Ten players are to play in the field. This will include four outfielders which must be positioned at a similar dept, playing a short fielder behind a base etc is not permitted. A player must play a minimum of four full innings in the field (12 defensive outs). A manager is free to substitute at any time. With the exception of the pitcher, players may return to the game in any defensive position. No player is allowed to play the same position for more than three innings during a game. As such all players are required to be rotated during the game. Players should not be limited to playing only infield or outfield positions in a given game. An effort should be made to provide each player with the opportunity to play every position during the season.

Offense A continuous batting order is to be utilized. All players will be in the batting order and will bat in sequence irrespective of whether he/she is playing a defensive position. The player that is in the on-deck circle at the end of the game is to lead off in the next game. Players may only steal third base. If there is a passed ball the player is not allowed to advance to home base. This is to encourage the catcher to make a play at third base. Players are not allowed to steal second base or home base. A player cannot attempt to advance to first base if the he or she is called out on a third strike and the catcher drops or misses the third strike. If a batter puts the ball into play and advances to first base and upon reaching first base makes a movement towards second base he or she can be called out if tagged by the defensive player. Bunting is permitted. Morristown American Little League Base runners are required to slide into the second, third and home base if there is a possibility that a tag will be applied or to ensure that a collision with the defensive player could occur. Coach must assign a pinch runner for the catcher when there are two outs and the catcher is on base.

Pitching Players may not pitch more than three innings per game. The Pitch Count Rule implemented by Little League, Inc. will be followed: 9-10 yrs = 75 pitches per day 11-12 yrs = 85 pitches per day Note: A pitcher who delivers 41 or more pitches in a game cannot play the position of catcher for the remainder of that day. Rest period: 66+ pitches in a day – 4 days of rest 51-65 pitches in a day – 3 days of rest 36-50 pitches in a day – 2 days of rest 21-35 pitches in a day – 1 day of rest 1-20 pitches in a day – 0 rest Intentional walks are not allowed. Players can not wear white sleeves while pitching. A pitcher is to be replaced if he or she walks or hits 4 batters or any combination of the two instances totals 4 in an inning. Once a pitcher is removed from the pitching position, he or she can not return to the pitcher position in the same game. A player who completes his or her maximum pitching requirements for a game can not re-enter the game in the catcher position. Pitchers must adhere to the time limit of one-minute maximum for 8 warm-up pitches [rule 8.03] when taking the mound. Have pitchers warm up in a SAFE area between innings rather than taking all warm up pitches on the mound. The coach must manage activity, especially pitching and use of catcher, since those spots will really affect the speed of game. Pitchers have to be able to throw strikes or meet requirement to pitch. Not everyone will pitch. This is where the game slows down. No activity. That also applies to the catcher since they need to be able to catch.

Catching: The catcher needs to be able to catch. Find kids who can catch and train them throughout the season. The ball rolling to the backstop after each pitch is a one of the most significant contributors to the game slowing down. If a coach needs help with catching fundamentals, be sure to ask for help. There are coaches in the league who can provide great advice.

Ending an Inning: An inning will end when 3 outs have been made or a team bats the number of players equal to the highest number of kids on either team. For example if one team has 12 Morristown American Little League players and the other 9 players during that game then each team is able to bat 12 players in one inning. When the last batter is up an announcement should be made. The inning is over as soon as the third out is registered or the ball is returned to the pitchers mound in the case of the play associated with the last batter. In a situation in which the last batter puts the ball into play a base runner that is proceeding to home plate will not score if the ball is returned to the pitcher before the runner reaches home plate. LL Inc utilizes a five run maximum rule per inning. This rule is in effect for innings 1 through 5 and is not utilized in the sixth inning or extra innings if needed and played within the two hour maximum playing time. Encourage players to always run on and off the field when changing innings. When last out is recorded the next pitch must be delivered within 1 minute and 30 seconds. This rule is intended to speed up the game for the kids and the fans.

Two Hour Rule: Games are scheduled for 6 innings. No inning can begin after two hours from the start of the game. If an inning begins before the two hour time limit, it must continue until the trailing team has three outs or the inning is finished. If the inning can not finish due to darkness the game shall be suspended and continued at a later date with the same game situation as at the time of the suspension. Ground Rules: In the absence of an adult in charge umpire, the “AAA” game should follow the lead of the major division game that is being played at the same time in regards to suspending a game due to darkness or inclement weather. The umpire of the AAA game can suspend the game or call the game if he or she feels that the conditions warrant such suspension of play.

Bench Behavior: The manger should appoint a bench coach during the games to ensure player safety. Players are responsible to know when they are batting, and the position they are playing the next time they take the field.....also to have their hat and glove ready so they can run onto the field. All players should remain seated in the bench area. Players may not wear jewelry, including necklaces and earrings. Only players and the designated coaches are allowed in the bench area and on the playing field during the game. Players that argue with or ridicule the umpire, taunt other players or demonstrate poor sportsmanship during the game or immediately following the game can be suspended for the next game. Players that throw their helmets or are found to be damaging MAALL equipment can be subject to a suspension.

Morristown American Little League Coaches are responsible for: All equipment provided to them at the beginning of the season. If equipment is damaged, lost, or doesn’t fit properly it should be reported to the League’s Equipment Coordinator. Ensure catcher’s equipment fits properly and is adjusted prior to game start for each designated catcher. Being organized and having a position plan for each inning and a batting roster posted in the dugout prior to start of game Inspecting the playing field before each game to ensure that there are no safety hazards (holes etc…) in the filed of play. Ensuring that the playing area is not left with litter from the players after the end of each game or practice. Providing a parent to act as an umpire (home teams only). The umpire is to be located behind third base in foul territory. In this capacity the parent is to call fair or foul balls down the third base line as well as whether or not a base runner is safe or out if a play is made at third base. The student umpire is responsible for calling balls and strikes as well as whether or not a base runner is safe or out at first, second and home plate. The parent is to support the student umpire and help ensure that the student umpire is treated with respect by the team players, coaches and spectators. Coordinating with the league scheduler as well as their division coordinator as it relates to the need to reschedule games due to rain-outs or field closures. The same holds for changes needed in the official practice schedule. Ensuring that the student umpires game validation sheet is signed at the end of each game. Providing evaluation reports for all players on their team. This will be coordinated by the division coordinators.

Playoffs Seeding will be based on regular season results with the team with the best record receiving the first seed. In case of a tie at the end of the regular season. The following tie breaker format will be utilized: + first based on head to head competition, + followed by the results common opponent results, + the final tie breaker will be based on a coin flip administered by the division coordinator. The playoff will be a single elimination format. Pitchers may not pitch more than 3 innings maximum per game. The Pitch Count Rule implemented by Little League, Inc. will be followed (see table above). All players are to be in the batting order and bat in sequence irrespective of whether she or he is playing a defensive position. Batting orders will reset at the end of each playoff game.

“MAJOR” Division Local Rules
Playoffs Seeding will be based on regular season results with the team with the best record receiving the first seed. · In case of a tie at the end of the regular season. The following tie breaker format will be utilized: o first based on head to head competition, o followed by the results common opponent results, o the final tie breaker will be based on a coin flip administered by the division coordinator.

Bench Behavior: The manger should appoint a bench coach during the games to ensure player safety. All players should remain seated in the bench area. Players may not wear jewelry, including necklaces and earrings. Only players and the designated coaches are allowed in the bench area and on the playing field during the game. Players that argue with or ridicule the umpire, taunt other players or demonstrate poor sportsmanship during the game or immediately following the game can be suspended for the next game. Players that throw their helmets or are found to be damaging MAALL equipment can be subject to a suspension. Coaches are responsible for All equipment provided to them at the beginning of the season. If equipment is damaged or lost it should be reported to the League’s Equipment Coordinator. Inspecting the playing field before each game to ensure that there are no safety hazards (holes etc…) in the filed of play. Ensuring that the playing area is not left with litter from the players after the end of each game or practice. Coordinating with the league scheduler as well as their division coordinator as it relates to the need to reschedule games due to rain-puts or field closures. The same holds for changes needed in the official practice schedule. Ensuring that the umpire is paid at the each game. Providing evaluation reports for all players on their team. This will be coordinated by the division coordinators.