ONE Great Youth Sports Experience

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1 ONE Great Youth Sports Experience Revision A Official Program Rules Version 1.3 ONE Sports Nation - Many Great Programs A Home Run in Fun 2019 ONE Sports Nation. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Any use of materials in this document, including reproduction, modification, distribution or republication, without the prior written consent of ONE Sports Nation, LLC is strictly prohibited.

2 Field Day Baseball - Rules of the Game Table Of Contents Section 1 Section 2 - General Field Day Baseball Program Rules 1.1 Player Eligibility 1.2 Rules of Conduct (Players, Coaches & Spectators) 1.3 Equipment Rules 1.4 Field of Play 1.5 Appeals, Protests & Forfeitures 1.6 Player Safety 1.7 Definitions - T-Ball Rules (Ages: 6 & Under) 2.1 T-Ball General Rules 2.2 T-Ball Equipment 2.3 T-Ball Playing Field 2.4 T-Ball Batting 2.5 T-Ball Base Running 2.6 T-Ball Defense (Fielding) 2.7 T-Ball Coaching Section 3 - Rookie League - Coach Pitch Rules (Ages: 7-8) 3.1 Rookie General Rules 3.2 Rookie Equipment 3.3 Rookie Playing Field 3.4 Rookie Batting 3.5 Rookie Base Running 3.6 Rookie Defense (Fielding) 3.7 Rookie Coaching Section 4 - MINORs League Rules - Player Pitch (Ages: 9-10) 4.1 MINORs General Rules 4.2 MINORs Equipment 4.3 MINORs Playing Field 4.4 MINORs Batting 4.5 MINORs Base Running 4.6 MINORs Pitching 4.7 MINORs Defense (Fielding) 4.8 MINORs Substitutions Section 5 - MAJORs League Rules I & II - Player Pitch (Ages: 12U & 14U) 5.1 MAJORs General Rules 5.2 MAJORs Equipment 5.3 MAJORs Playing Field 5.4 MAJORs Batting 5.5 MAJORs Base Running 5.6 MAJORs Pitching 5.7 MAJORs Defense (Fielding) 5.8 MAJORs Substitutions Page 1

3 Section 7 Softball Rules (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U) 7.1 General Rules 7.2 Softball Equipment 7.3 Softball Playing Field 7.4 Softball Offense 7.5 Softball Defense 7.6 Softball Pitching 7.7 Softball Miscellaneous Rules Section 8 Softball Rules (Adult) 8.1 General Rules 8.2 Adult Softball Equipment 8.3 Adult Softball Playing Field 8.4 Adult Softball Offense 8.5 Adult Softball Defense 8.6 Adult Softball Pitching 8.7 Adult Softball Miscellaneous Rules A note from our founder Welcome to the Field Day Baseball program. Baseball promotes individual player development where everyone gets an opportunity to be a playmaker. Our program rules have been intentionally developed with the intent to match High School level rules as closely as possible with due consideration for player safety and player development. These rules are intended to promote proper instruction in the game of baseball and to form good player habits for the next level of competition. We encourage you to not only read these rules, but promote sportsmanship in the league by participating within the Spirit of the Game. This is not the MLB league: these are kids, coaches are volunteers, officials are human, and a positive player experience is not hinged on the outcome of any one contest. Always embrace and model our conduct expectations at ONE Sports Nation. ONE Sports Nation Co-Founder 2019 ONE Sports Nation. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Any use of materials in this document, including reproduction, modification, distribution or republication, without the prior written consent of ONE Sports Nation, LLC is strictly prohibited. Page 2

4 Section 1 - General League Rules 1.1 PLAYER ELIGIBILITY 1. Players shall be age eligible for the entire season if they are age eligible on the day of the first scheduled game in a season. (For example, a 7-8 player is eligible if they are 8 years old on the opening game day of the season even if they celebrate a ninth birthday the following day). 2. Only players rostered by Field Day Baseball may participate in organized team activities (such as practices and games) and only for the team rosters on which they are assigned. 3. An ineligible player is one who is legally a member of the team but who is ineligible to play in a particular game or games because of an infraction of the rules, or because of a previous violation or disciplinary action. It is the duty of the head coach to keep a record of his ineligible players. 4. An Illegal player is one that is not a legal member of the team (registered and rostered). Playing illegal players will result in forfeiture of the game. 5. A player may be rostered to only one team per season in each eligible age division. (For example, an age eligible 7-8 player may play on one team in each of the following age divisions: 7-8, 9-10,12 & Under, 14& Under). 6. Players may Play Up in higher age divisions, but are never allowed to Play Down - NO EXCEPTIONS 2018 ONE Sports Nation. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Any use of materials in this document, including reproduction, modification, distribution or republication, without the prior written consent of ONE Sports 1.2 RULES OF CONDUCT Nation, LLC is strictly prohibited. 1. Player Registration shall be open to any approved youth whose playing age is his/her actual age on the first scheduled game of the season. 2. Only rostered players or coaches of the team are permitted in the dugout or in the coach boxes. The coaches may moderately dispute any decision or may discuss any point with the umpires to the extent allowed by the rules of baseball, but if he/she at any time makes any derogatory remarks about, or to the opposing players, or the umpire he/she may immediately be ejected from the game in the umpire s sole discretion. 3. No spectator shall be allowed on the playing field during the playing of any game. In the event that the spectators enter the playing field, the umpire in chief will request to the head coaches that the field be immediately cleared under penalty of having the game forfeited. 4. No adult, other than coaches or game officials, will be allowed on the playing field during the game without the consent of the umpires. 5. No persons except the officially registered players of the team, the head coach and the assistant coaches shall be allowed on the bench or in the dugout during the playing of any game. 6. If any player, head coach or assistant coach conducts himself/herself in an unsportsmanlike manner he/she shall be removed from the game and playing field in the sole discretion of the umpire or league representatives. This includes the baiting or heckling of umpires, coaches and opposing players. 7. A baseball player, head coach, coach, umpire or game official will not be allowed to use tobacco products or profanity during the ballgame. If, in the opinion of the umpires, a player, head coach, assistant coach, scorekeeper or spectator, conducts himself/herself in an unsportsmanlike manner, violates the code of conduct or commits Page 3

5 any act which may maim or injure an opposing player, the person shall be ejected from the game. Players or coaches who are ejected may not return to the game. An ejected player or coach must immediately leave the dugout and the playing field and shall not participate further in the game. Field Day Baseball reserves the right to institute penalties based on the severity of the infraction for any player, coach or spectator that is ejected from a game up to and including game suspension or banishment from the league. 1.3 GENERAL EQUIPMENT RULES 1. NO METAL CLEATS SHALL BE ALLOWED. 2. Field Day Baseball strongly suggests that boys shall wear an athletic supporter or compressions shorts under the baseball pants. Parents assume full responsibility for this decision. 3. Catchers (boys) MUST wear a protective cup. 4. There is no bat restriction for the MINORs, MAJORs I and MAJORs II Divisions, except that all bats must be unaltered regulation (not softball, except for softball games) bats. Bats that are broken, cracked or dented shall be removed upon discovery without penalty. 5. Equipment must be kept in the respective team s dugout when not in use. 6. All batters and runners must wear batting helmets with full ear flaps. 7. All players must be in full baseball uniform (cap, numbered shirt or jersey, pants, socks) as provided by the league with shirts/jerseys tucked inside of the pants. Team uniforms shall be the same color. T-shirts (sleeves) of not more than two colors may be worn with the uniform. Pitchers may not wear T-shirts with white sleeves showing. The official baseball is the baseball approved by Field Day Baseball for each age division. 8. No person shall intentionally discolor or damage the game ball by rubbing it with soil, rosin, paraffin, sand paper, emery paper or any other foreign surface. This act shall be considered unsportsmanlike and subject to ejection, game forfeiture or league banishment. If the umpire can not locate the offender, any pitcher delivering such a damaged ball to the batter shall be held accountable ONE Sports Nation. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Any use of materials in this document, including reproduction, modification, distribution or republication, without the prior written consent of ONE Sports Nation, LLC is strictly prohibited. Page 4

6 1.4 FIELD OF PLAY 1. The Home team shall take the dugout along the 3rd base line, the Visiting team will take the dug out along the first base line. The home and visiting team assignment is listed in the game schedule. 2. The coaches box is a minimum of three (3) feet wide and six (6) feet long and no closer than six (6) feet to the base path. 3. Batters boxes will be drawn 4ft. wide and 6 ft. long and positioned 4 inches from the outside edge (white) portion of the plate (not the center). There should be 3 feet in front and 3 feet in back of the middle of home plate. 4. Field Dimensions may vary by venue. Baseball Diamond - General Field Layout Batter s Box 2018 ONE Sports Nation. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Any use of materials in this document, including reproduction, modification, distribution or republication, without the prior written consent of ONE Sports Nation, LLC is strictly prohibited. Page 5

7 Base Path Dimensions T- Ball (4-6): Base Paths = 50 feet (may vary based on facility used) Pitching Rubber = 39 feet Rookies (7-8): MINORs (9-10): MAJORs I (11-12): Base Paths = 60 feet (may vary based on facility used) Pitching Rubber = 46 feet Base Paths = 60 feet (may vary based on facility used) Pitching Rubber = 46 feet Base Paths = feet (may vary based on facility used) Pitching Rubber = 46 feet MAJORs II (13-14): Base Paths = 90 feet (may vary based on facility used) Pitching Rubber = 60-6 feet 2018 ONE Sports Nation. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Any use of materials in this document, including reproduction, modification, distribution or republication, without the prior written consent of ONE Sports Nation, LLC is strictly prohibited. Page 6

8 1.5 APPEALS, PROTESTS & FORFEITURES Appeals & Protests If a question should arise as to the interpretation of the playing rules, only the head coach may appeal. (a) An appeal play will be handled in this manner. The head coach will make his/her appeal to the plate umpire. The Plate Umpire will make a final determination. (b) Protest may be made only on a misinterpretation of a rule and ineligibility of a player or players or players. A protest which involves an umpire s judgment may not be made. The only legal protest is one in which violation of playing rules or the use of an illegal, ineligible player or an ineligible substitute is protested. (c) A protest based on the violation or misinterpretation of a rule must be made before the next legal pitch. All other protests including ineligibility or legality of a player must be made before the protesting team leaves the playing field Forfeiture (a) A team failing to field at least eight (8) rostered and uniformed players within fifteen (15) minutes after scheduled game time shall forfeit the game. (b) A forfeit shall count in league or tournament standings. (c) Playing illegal players or pitchers will result in forfeiture of games in which players or pitchers participate, if protested by the opposing head coach. Should both teams use illegal players or pitchers both teams will be credited with a loss. (d) A pitcher who has exceeded his allotted number of innings or who has not had his proper rest is illegal, and the game will be forfeited if protested. 1.6 PLAYER SAFETY In the judgment of the umpire, if any player is injured during a live ball and cannot continue to play, time will be called immediately and all players awarded one base. Any other injury deemed serious enough in judgment of the umpire will be handled in the same manner. The coach must not enter the field until time is called. NOTE: THIS IS A JUDGMENT CALL AND CANNOT BE APPEALED OR PROTESTED. 1.7 DEFINITIONS Ground Rule Double - A ruling in baseball made by the umpire when a ball becomes unplayable, or in the case of administrating a penalty. The batter shall be awarded a double (advancing to second base) and all preceding runners shall be allowed to advance two bases without the liability of being put out, with any runners on second or third bases advancing to home plate and scoring a run for their respective team. Foul Territory - the area outside the live playing area as defined by the first and third baselines extended to the outfield fence, and vertically in perpetuity. Page 7

9 Illegal Pitch - (1) A pitch delivered to the batter when the pitcher does not have the pivot foot in contact with eh pitcher s plate, or (2) a quick return pitch made with the obvious intent to catch the batter off balance. Strike - a legal pitch which meets any of the following conditions in the sole description of the home plate umpire.: a) a ball swung at by the batter and missed b) a ball passing through the strike zone regardless if the batter swings c) a ball fouled by the batter when there is less than two strikes in the pitch count d) a ball bunted foul on the third strike of the at bat e) a ball touching the batter s person in flight while in the strike zone f) a foul tipped ball that is live and in play Strike Zone - the area directly above home plate bounded by the height of the batters armpits and top of the batters knees when the batter assumes a natural stance during swinging at a pitch. The strike zone is determined in the sole discretion of the home plate umpire. Tag - the act by a fielder (1) to touch a base with any part of the body while holding the ball securely in a hand or glove, or (2) touching a player with the hand or glove containing the ball a player while holding it securely in said hand or glove ONE Sports Nation. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Any use of materials in this document, including reproduction, modification, distribution or republication, without the prior written consent of ONE Sports Nation, LLC is strictly prohibited. Page 8

10 Section 2 - Tee Ball (6 & Under) Game Description: Tee Ball (or T-Ball) is a non competitive program focused on FUNdamental play for kids 6 years old and under. The players are introduced to the basics of baseball, its rules, field and basic physical literacy skills. In addition to Section 1 - General League Rules, the following Rules Section 2 shall apply to Field Day Baseball s T-Ball Program. Where ambiguity exists, rules of this section shall preside: 2.1 T-BALL GENERAL GAME RULES Player Age Eligibility: A player s maximum age is six years old on the first day of games. Example: if a player is 6 years old on the first game day, and turns 7 the next day, he/she is eligible to play in the age division for the entire season Example: if a player turns 7 years old on the day of the first game, he/she may not play in T-Ball and will be required to play in the next higher age division for the season. (Rookies or higher) Roster Size League Commissioners determine the team rosters from the player pool of eligible players. Although there are no maximum or minimum roster limitations for T-Ball and Rookies, rosters should consist of up to 10 players, all of which may take the field to play defense, and all of which will take turns at bat. Playing time: All rostered players will take the field on defense for every inning. No player shall sit on the bench during defensive play except in the case of injury. Minimum Players: Six players must be present to field a team. If failure to field 6, a forfeit will be deemed necessary. If a team fields six players, and a player gets injured during the game resulting in only five players left, the game is forfeited and deemed no longer playable. Forfeits may be called by a league official or umpire Game Duration Each contest shall consist of regulation play only (no overtime), defined as having 3 innings, or lasting one hour and twenty minutes (1:20) in duration, whichever is reached first. If the time limit is reached in the bottom half of an inning, the batting team shall be allowed to complete the inning. The umpire may call time-out for injury or protest. These time-outs will not be charged to a team Starting the Game The game is divided into innings within which the teams alternate on offense and defense each allowed three put-outs durning their turn at bat. Each team s time at bat is considered a half inning, therefore a complete inning is one in which both teams have had an at-bat. The Home Team as indicated on Page 9 TEE-BALL

11 the game schedule shall be the first to take the field and the visiting team shall conduct the first at bat to begin the game de-marking the top half of the first inning. Play shall begin when the Umpire declares Play-Ball Contest Outcome The regulation game ends after both teams have completed their batting order in the final inning Required Rotation on Defense Rotating the players on defense is a great way to keep them engaged, each team must rotate its players on defense to ensure that players receive a fair opportunity to be a playmaker. The field shall be divided into two zones: infield and outfield. Each player must play one full inning in the outfield and one full inning in the infield during each contest. It is encouraged to rotate player positions during the inning to keep players engaged. (See figure below) Page 10 TEE-BALL

12 2.2 T-BALL EQUIPMENT Age appropriate equipment is important to the development of young players. The following equipment rules and restrictions are placed on the T-Ball program to promote good development in the participants. Field venues may vary based on availability The Baseball The officially adopted ball for T-Ball shall be a safety ball approved by Field Day Baseball. All balls will be reduced injury factor (RIF-5). The league will provide the game balls Protective Headgear Helmets must be worn at all times by players that are at-bat, waiting on-deck to bat, or base running. Helmets may be provided by the league, and each helmet shall consists of 2 ear flaps Catcher s Equipment Catchers are not required in the T-Ball program. The umpire and designated offensive coach shall assist the batters during offense. If used, catchers must wear a mask and helmet, protective chest gear and shin guards The Batting Tee An approved batting tee will be provided by the league for game play Bats Bats - all bats must be smooth and rounded with 2 ¼ or less size of a barrel and may not exceed 26 in length. Wood or Metal is allowed. Non-wood bats may develop dents from time to time. Bats with dents or edges deemed excessive by the official must be removed from play. Any bat that is deemed to have been altered is illegal and must be removed from play Player Equipment & Protective Gear A first baseman s mitt may be used by the first baseman and catcher only Prohibited Equipment Weighted batting donuts are not allowed. 2.3 T-BALL PLAYING FIELD There will be a fifteen (15) foot chalked arc from the first base line to the third base line drawn from the back point of home plate. The ball must travel on or past this line to be ruled a fair ball, if not it will be ruled a dead ball. The ball is ruled fair if it hits inside the arc and travels beyond the arc line. HITTING OF THE TEE WILL IN NO WAY BE A DETERMINING FACTOR AS TO WHETHER THE BALL IS FAIR OR FOUL. ONLY THE 15 FOOT ARC, and the Foul Lines shall determine fairness of a hit ball. It the ball is missed completely, but still travels past the arc because of the striking of the tee, it shall be ruled a Foul ball. (a) The pitching rubber is thirty-nine (39) ft. from the back point of home plate to the front of the pitching rubber. Page 11 TEE-BALL

13 (b) (c) (d) (e) The base paths should be fifty (50) ft. (may vary based on the facility). The playing fields should be a minimum of 120 ft. No bat girls/boys are allowed Fields may be modified as necessary based on the facility available for the venue Figure: T-Ball - Foul Ball Zone 15 Feet Page 12 TEE-BALL

14 2.4 BATTING Each team shall receive one at bat per inning. A team representative (coach) may assist the batter and position the tee to the batter s liking Batting Order: The batting order shall consist of all players on each team. Each player of the offensive team shall bat in the order that his/her name appears in his team s batting order. Once the game commences, the coach may not alter the batting line up. Each and every rostered player is in the batting line up regardless if they play the field. A continuous batting order must be held, if a player enters the game late, the player will inserted in the last position in the batting order. An out will be charged for an ejected player each time that player s at bat is reached in the batting order. The last batter is the Home Run batter, and all preceding base runners shall run home following the at bat. There will be automatically two (2) outs when the last batter in the line up comes to the plate. NOTE: The offensive team or scorekeeper must notify the umpire when the last batter comes to bat and the umpire shall notify the defensive team. The batting order shall be rotated between innings so that the final Home-Run batter of each inning is never duplicated in a single contest. First Inning: The first batter in the line up shall lead off the batting order. Second Inning: The third batter in the line up shall lead off the batting order. Third Inning: the Fifth batter in the line up shall lead off the batting order A batter completes their at bat when they have been put out or become a base runner On Deck Circle: The On-Deck position is not permitted in T-Ball program. The next batter in the line-up must have a helmet on, but may not leave the dug-out or pick up a bat until it is their atbat The Batter: The batter shall take position in the batter s box promptly when their position in the batting order has arrived. The batter takes a legal position with both feet inside the batter s box. The batter has completed their at-bat when they have become a base runner, or by being retired. Conducting the at bat shall be as follows: (a) The ball is in play once the umpire sets the ball on top of the tee. (b) Any ball struck and traveling on or past the 15 ft. arc shall be a fair ball, if the ball is touched in fair territory or passes first or third before going foul, even though part of the tee may have been struck. NOTE: Any ball in the judgment of the umpire that carries past the 15 ft. arc, but was not touched by the batter s bat will be called a foul. (c) NO BUNTING will be allowed, half-swings, as judged by the umpire, will be called a bunt. PENALTY: A strike will be called on the batter. If on the third strike, the batter will be called out. (d) A batter cannot be out of the batter s box when the ball is hit. This includes stepping on home plate. PENALTY: Batter is out. Page 13 TEE-BALL

15 (e) Bumping the ball off the tee during warm-up will be ruled a foul. (f) The batter may adjust his tee himself, if he so decides or the batting coach may ask the home plate umpire to adjust the tee for the batter with no penalty. (g) Player Safety: After one (1) warning per game per player for slinging (or throwing) the bat, the batter will be called out for each additional time that he slings his bat. Coaches should enforce this rule at practice to prevent poor game habits. (h) Player Safety: The tee will be removed by the umpire after each fair batted ball Retiring a Batter A batter is retired (or placed out ) as follows: (a) A fair or foul fly ball is legally caught by a fielder. (b) A ball hit fair, touches the batter before touching a fielder. (c) The batter intentionally deflects the course of the ball after hitting it while running to first base. (d) The batter is tagged, except that the batter may overrun first base after touching it. (e) The batter runs outside the base-path and interferes with the fielder taking a first base throw. (f) The batter is discovered using an illegal bat after taking position in the batter s box. (g) A batter bats out of sequence in the batting order. (coaches must appeal to the umpire on out of turn batters before the first pitch to the next batter is delivered, in which case the batter will be called out and the umpire will nullify any advancements made by the base runners as a result of the play). (h) A 60 second time limit, or 5 swing limit will be enforced for each batter. If the player fails to hit the ball past the arc on the 5th hit (or 60 seconds), then they will be deemed out. If the player fouls the 5th pitch, he/she may have an extra attempt (extended time limit) until the ball is hit into play (fair or failure to hit beyond the arc counts as into play) Strike Definition Batters will not strike out in T-Ball Division A batter shall become a base runner when: (a) a ball is hit fair. (b) (c) a fair ball touches an umpire or coach, the play shall be ruled dead and all players shall advance two bases. a fair ball, after touching the ground, bounds into the stands passes through, over or under a fence, shrubbery, vines. If the ball becomes unplayable, the play shall be ruled dead and all base runners shall advance two bases. Page 14 TEE-BALL

16 (d) a fair ball deflected by the fielder into the stands or over a fence making the ball unplayable. If the ball becomes unplayable, the play shall be ruled dead and all base runners shall advance two bases Base on Balls / Hit by Pitch There are no walks allowed. 2.5 BASE RUNNING Any batter that bats a fair ball is entitled to occupy first base unless being retired by the defense during the live ball, thereby forcing any lead runners to advance to the next base. All existing base runners are forced to advance on a fair batted ball unless the preceding base is unoccupied Scoring Base Runners continue to advance from 1st base to 2nd base, to 3rd base and home plate in progressive order. If a player reaches home plate without being retired, a run is scored for that team and the aggregate number of runs scored by each team will determine the contest outcome Advancing Bases During a live ball, a base runner is entitled to an unoccupied base if the runner touches the base before being retired by the defense. The runner continues to be entitled to that base until retired or forced to vacate the base for another base runner that becomes legally entitled to it. Base runners may not return to a previously occupied base once a subsequent base is established through the process of advancing bases. Two base runners may not occupy the same base. While the ball is live, the preceding runner is entitled to a base once it is established, thereby forcing the lead runner to advance at risk of retirement. The lead runner shall be deemed out if tagged while occupying the same base as a subsequent runner. In the interest of game time, Runners may not advance on a fielder s overthrow Base Stealing Base Stealing is not permitted in the T-Ball and Rookie Programs Retiring Base Runners by Defense Base runners may be retired by the defense if: (a) A base runner is tagged with a live ball while off base, or before reaching the next base. (b) A base runner leaves the occupied base before a fly ball is caught without retouching the base following the caught ball. Page 15 TEE-BALL

17 2.5.5 Retiring Base Runners by Penalty Base runners may be retired via penalty imposed by the Umpire if: (a) A base runner deliberately removes safety headgear. In the umpires sole discretion, the base runner may be given a warning and on any subsequent offense the player must be called out. (b) A base runner leave the entitled base before the ball is hit by the batter. No lead offs are allowed in the T-Ball program. (c) A base runner slides head first while advancing bases. (d) A base runner runs outside the base path by more than 3 to avoid being tagged by the defense. (e) A base runner (while not on base) is touched by a fair batted ball before it touches or passes a fielder. (f) A base runner deflects a live ball. (g) A base runner passes a leading runner that has not been retired. (h) A base runner misses touching a base during the advancement of bases. (i) A retired base runner interferes with a live ball, or play. The base runner shall be ruled out due to interference of a team mate. (j) A coach physically assists the runner to avoid being retired. (k) A base runner intentionally interferes with (i) an attempt by the defense to make a play on a batted ball or (ii) a thrown ball Base runners may advance without risk of being retired when directed to do so by the Umpire in the application of penalties or other game administration matters Leading Off Base runners may not lead off. Base runners must remain in contact with the established base until the batter causes the ball to be live. Page 16 TEE-BALL

18 2.6 T-BALL DEFENSE Each team shall play the field once per inning. There may be two coaches on the field assisting the defense at any time. At no time may a coach pick up a live ball and put it inside a fielder's hand or glove, nor may they pick up a live ball and throw to a base. If a coach deliberately interferes with a live ball, the Umpire shall declare the ball dead and base runners will be awarded an extra base. PENALTY: The coach must stay off the field for the remainder of that inning Fielding the Team All team members shall participate in defense by taking positions in the field. There will be six (6) set infielders that must remain in the infield until the ball is hit. All other players must play in the outfield. (or beyond the base path). (a) Outfielders: must remain behind the base lines until the ball is hit. PENALTY: The offensive team gets a choice of the play or re-bat. (b) Infielders: may not be more than 10 feet in front of the base path. i. The pitcher must have one (1) foot in contact with the rubber, when the ball is hit, Penalty: The offensive team gets a choice of the play or rebat. 2nd 3rd 1st Home Page 17 TEE-BALL

19 2.6.2 Retiring Base Runners: The half inning shall conclude when the defense retires three base runners, or each player of the offensive team has completed one at bat for that inning Dead Ball Situations Once the umpire places the ball on the tee, it is considered a live ball and remains a live ball except as follows: (a) A batter bats a foul ball (all base runners must return to their established base). (b) A live ball is returned to the pitcher who takes position on the pitching mound. Once the pitcher posses the ball on the mound, the ball shall become dead and all base runners must take position on the base to which they are entitled and may not advance until the next live ball. (c) The Umpire calls time, suspending play at which time the ball becomes dead. (e) Time is automatically called by the umpire when the lead runner is faced off and/or forced into the ten (10) ft. designated line at the base. NOTE: The umpire should not be too quick to call time, if the lead runner is not faced off the umpire should allow the offensive coach time to react to the situation and run his runners if he decides. (f) Appeals will be made by the head coach after time has been called and before the ball is returned to the tee by the home plate umpire. The coach will notify the umpire involved of his appeal of what runner and what base. NOTE: For the purpose of the appeal play, returning the ball to the tee by the home plate umpire will be the same result as the next pitch being thrown. (g) Overthrows inside the field of play will be a live ball and allow the base runner as many bases as possible. Overthrows outside the field of play will be declared a dead ball and bases awarded under the rules of regular baseball. (h) If a catcher is not used, he can be used as an additional outfielder. If a catcher is used, he must wear a protective helmet, catcher s mask, and full catcher s equipment. (i) A caught fly ball will be played the same as regular baseball and play is not dead unless the ball is hit by the last batter of the inning. (j) The defensive team may have a defensive coach out of the dugout on the first (1st) base foul line and third (3rd) base foul line thirty (30 ft.) from the base path and 6 feet off the foul line. (k) The play is not considered done until the pitcher on the mound has the ball, stepping on the mound, or the home plate umpire has called time Misc. Items (a) NO ROLLING of the ball underhanded on the ground will be allowed. No outs will be allowed by rolling the ball. Runners will automatically be safe if defensive team rolls the ball. (b) The infield fly rule will not be in effect. Page 18 TEE-BALL

20 2018 ONE Sports Nation. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Any use of materials in this document, including reproduction, modification, distribution or republication, without the prior written consent of ONE Sports Nation, LLC is strictly 2.7 COACHING T-BALL prohibited Coaching Offense (a) Two base coaches are permitted for the at-bat team. Only one coach may occupy a coach box at any one time. All other team staff, coaches and parents must remain in the dugout or within the defined spectator areas. At least one coach or assistant should be in the dugout at all times when players are present. (b) Base coaches shall remain in their coaching boxes at all times, unless play dictates otherwise. (c) There may be a batting coach behind home plate in the designated area. Batting coaches may position the batter and adjust the tee only once for each batter. (d) Any offensive coach physically assisting a base runner while the ball is in play will result in that runner being called out. (e) Offensive team may have two (1) time outs per inning, but cannot reset the batter or the tee during this time out Coaching Defense Two coaches are permitted on the field for instructional purposes when their team is on defense. Defensive coaches may take position anywhere within the fair territory of the playing field provided they do not interfere with base runners, touch a live ball or otherwise be deemed by the official to be hindering play. All other team staff, coaches and parents must remain in the dugout or within the defined spectator areas. At least one coach or assistant should be in the dugout at all times when players are present. (a) In the judgment of the umpire, if a defensive player is injured by being hit in the face, throat, or head and cannot continue the play TIME WILL BE CALLED IMMEDIATELY and all players awarded one base. Any other injury deemed serious enough in the judgment of the umpire will be handled in the same manner. The coach must not enter the field until time is called. NOTE: This is a judgment call and cannot be appealed. (b) Runners may advance one base if a ball is overthrown per bag. If a player advances more than one bag per overthrown ball, and is tagged out in process, that player is out. If a player advances more than one bag per overthrown ball and is safe, that player must return to the bag of which they came from. (c) Defensive team may have two (1) time outs per inning, but cannot reset the batter or the tee during this time out. 2.8 TOURNAMENT PLAY Tournament play is not allowed for T-Ball Age Divisions. Page 19 TEE-BALL

21 Section 3 - Rookie League - Coach Pitch (8 & Under) Game Description: Rookie is a non competitive program focused on FUNdamental play for kids up to 8 years old and under. The players are introduced to the basics of baseball, its rules, field and basic physical literacy skills. Rookies is a coach pitch / machine pitch league. Advanced young players are welcome to Play Up to the MINORs if they are ready for player pitch leagues. In addition to Section 1 - General League Rules, the following Rules Section 3 shall apply to Field Day Baseball s Rookie Program. Where ambiguity exists, rules of this section shall preside: 3.1 ROOKIE GENERAL GAME RULES Player Age Eligibility: A player s maximum age is eight years old on the first day of games. Example: if a player is 8 years old on the first game day, and turns 9 the next day, he/she is eligible to play in the age division for the entire season Example: if a player turns 9 years old on the day of the first game, he/she may not play in Rookies and will be required to play in the next higher age division for the season. (MINORs or higher) Roster Size League Commissioners determine the team rosters from the player pool of eligible players. Although there are no maximum or minimum roster limitations for T-Ball and Rookies, rosters should consist of up to 10 players, all of which may take the field to play defense, and all of which will take turns at bat. Playing time: All rostered players will take the field on defense for every inning. No player shall sit on the bench during defensive play except in the case of injury. Minimum Players: Six players must be present to field a team. If failure to field 6, a forfeit will be deemed necessary. If a team fields six players, and a player gets injured during the game resulting in only five players left, the game is forfeited and deemed no longer playable. Forfeits may be called by a league official or umpire Game Duration Each contest shall consist of regulation play only (no overtime), defined as having 4 innings, or lasting one hour and thirty minutes (1:30) in duration, whichever is reached first. No New Inning shall be started after the1:30 game time has been reached. Drop Dead time of one hour and forty-five minutes (1:45). Play shall immediate end and the game called based on the results at that time. Page 20 ROOKIE

22 If the time limit of 1:30 is reached in the bottom half of an inning, the batting team shall be allowed to complete the inning up to the drop deda time of 1:45. The umpire may call time-out for injury or protest. These time-outs will not be charged to a team Starting the Game The game is divided into innings within which the teams alternate on offense and defense each allowed three put-outs durning their turn at bat. Each team s time at bat is considered a half inning, therefore a complete inning is one in which both teams have had an at-bat. The Home Team as indicated on the game schedule shall be the first to take the field and the visiting team shall conduct the first at bat to begin the game demarking the top half of the first inning. Play shall begin when the Umpire declares Play-Ball Contest Outcome The winner of the contest shall be that team which shall have scored the greater number of runs at the conclusion of the regulation game. The regulation game ends after both teams have completed their batting order in the final inning, or received three outs during their at bat. (If the Home team leads in the bottom of the final inning, they shall be declared the winner and forgo their at bat). In the event of a tie, the contest shall be deemed a draw (Applies only in T-ball & Rookie programs) Required Rotation on Defense Rotating the players on defense is a great way to keep them engaged, each team must rotate its players on defense to ensure that players receive a fair opportunity to be a playmaker. The field shall be divided into two zones: infield and outfield. Each player must play one full inning in the outfield and one full inning in the infield during each contest. It is encouraged to rotate player positions during the inning to keep players engaged. (See figure below) Page 21 ROOKIE

23 Coach and that team shall be charged with an out at each occurrence where each blank comes up in the batting order. If a player is injured or becomes sick during the game and is unable to continue to play in the game in the judgment of the home plate umpire no out shall be charged to that team. An out will be charged for an ejected player. 3.2 ROOKIE EQUIPMENT Age appropriate equipment is important to the development of young players. The following equipment rules and restrictions are placed on the ROOKIE program to promote good development in the participants. Field venues may vary based on availability The Baseball The officially ball for MINORs shall be a youth standard baseball approved by Field Day Baseball. The league will provide the game balls Protective Headgear Helmets must be worn at all times by players that are at-bat, waiting on-deck to bat, or base running. Helmets may be provided by the league, and each helmet shall consists of 2 ear flaps Catcher s Equipment Catchers are not required in the Rookie program. The umpire and designated offensive coach shall assist the batters during offense. If used, catchers wear a mask, throat guard, helmet, protective chest gear, shin guards and any relevant articles as listed in Section The Batting Tee N/A - No batting tee will be used in the Rookie Division Bats Bats - all bats must be smooth and rounded with 2 5/8 or less size of a barrel and may not exceed 33 in length. Wood or Metal is allowed. Non-wood bats may develop dents from time to time. Bats with dents or edges deemed excessive by the official must be removed from play. Any bat that is deemed to have been altered is illegal and must be removed from play Player Equipment & Protective Gear a) A first baseman s mitt may be used by the first baseman and catcher only. b) All players should wear athletic supporters. c) Catchers must wear a hard cup Prohibited Equipment Weighted batting donuts are not allowed. 3.3 ROOKIE PLAYING FIELD There will be a ten (10) foot chalked circle centered on the baseball pitching rubber. The pitching coach must stay inside the circle at all times during play. Page 22 ROOKIE

24 (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) The pitching rubber is thirty-nine (39) ft. from the back point of home plate to the front of the pitching rubber. The base paths should be fifty (50) ft. (may vary based on the facility). The playing fields should be a minimum of 120 ft. No bat girls/boys are allowed. Fields may be modified as necessary based on the facility available for the venue. 3.4 BATTING Each team shall receive one at bat per inning Batting Order: The batting order shall consist of all players on each team. Each player of the offensive team shall bat in the order that his/her name appears in his team s batting order. Once the game commences, the coach may not alter the batting line up. Each and every rostered player is in the batting line up regardless if they play the field. A continuous batting order must be held, if a player enters the game late, the player will inserted in the last position in the batting order. An out will be charged for an ejected player each time that player s at bat is reached in the batting order. Players may only bat once per inning. NOTE: The offensive team or scorekeeper must notify the umpire when the last batter comes to bat and the umpire shall notify the defensive team. For Example: If there are no outs when the last batter takes their at-bat, the batter may attempt to bring all runners home. The first batter in each inning (after the first inning) shall be the player following the last player who completed their at bat in the previous inning. A batter completes their at bat when they have been put out or become a base runner On Deck Circle: The On-Deck position is not permitted in ROOKIE program. The next batter in the lineup must have a helmet on, but may not leave the dug-out or pick up a bat until it is their at-bat The Batter: The batter shall take position in the batter s box promptly when their position in the batting order has arrived. The batter takes a legal position with both feet inside the batter s box. The batter has completed their at-bat when they have become a base runner, or by being retired. Conducting the at bat shall be as follows: (a) An offensive batter will receive up to five (5) pitches before being declared out, except as noted in this section. He/she may be called out on three (3) swinging strikes. If fifth (5th) pitch is fouled he/she may continue to bat. If fifth (5th) pitch is fouled and caught it is an out. If the 5th pitch or 3rd strike is bunted foul the batter is out. There will be no intentional walks. (b) BUNTING shall not be allowed in ROOKIEs Division. (including half swings, fake bunts, slap bunts and slap hitting as judged by the umpire, all will be called a strike. Page 23 ROOKIE

25 (c) After one (1) warning per game per player for slinging his bat, the batter will be out, a dead ball called, no runners can advance. (d) A batter cannot be out of the batter s box when the ball is hit. This includes stepping on home plate. PENALTY: Batter is out. (e) Player Safety: After one (1) warning per game per player for slinging (or throwing) the bat, the batter will be called out for each additional time that he slings his bat. Coaches should enforce this rule at practice to prevent poor game habits Retiring a Batter A batter is retired (or placed out ) as follows: (a) Three strikes have been called on the batter. (even if the pitched ball is dropped) (b) A fair or foul fly ball is legally caught by a fielder. (c) A ball hit fair, touches the batter before touching a fielder. (d) The batter intentionally deflects the course of the ball after hitting it while running to first base. (e) The batter is tagged, except that the batter may overrun first base after touching it. (f) The batter runs outside the base-path and interferes with the fielder taking a first base throw. (g) The batter is discovered using an illegal bat after taking position in the batter s box. (h) A batter bats out of sequence in the batting order. (coaches must appeal to the umpire on out of turn batters before the first pitch to the next batter is delivered, in which case the batter will be called out and the umpire will nullify any advancements made by the base runners as a result of the play). (i) the batter has received the fifth pitch of their at-bat (unless the fifth pitch is batted foul, in which case the batter shall receive an additional pitch.) Strike Definition The batter will be put out by receiving three (3) strikes before being called out. Any of the following will result in a strike being called on the batter: (a) (b) (c) (d) In the judgment of the umpire the batter swings and misses the ball completely. Any foul ball before the third strike, including balls bunted foul. Any ball that strikes the batter in the strike zone. Foul tips (foul tipped balls are considered live and in play). Any ball that passes through the strike zone and is not swung at by the batter shall not be called a strike, but shall count as one of the five available pitches against the batter. Page 24 ROOKIE

26 3.4.6 A batter shall become a base runner when: A Batter shall become a runner with liability for being put out when any of the following occur: (a) (b) a ball is hit in fair territory a fair batted ball bounces into foul territory after passing the first or third base. A Batter shall become a runner without liability for being put out when any of the following occur: (a) a fair batted ball passes over a fence or into the stands (such a case is deemed a home run) (b) a fair batted ball passes over a fence or into the stands after bouncing off a player or their glove (such a case is deemed a home run) (c) a fair batted ball after hitting the ground bounces into the stands, over through or under a fence shrubs or other obstacles. (such a case is deemed a ground rule double) (d) a fair batted ball bounces into foul territory after being deflected by a fielder into the stands, over through or under a fence shrubs or other obstacles. (such a case is deemed a ground rule double) Base on Balls / Hit by Pitch There are no walks allowed including hit batters. 3.5 BASE RUNNING Any batter that bats a fair ball is entitled to occupy first base unless being retired by the defense during the live ball, thereby forcing any lead runners to advance to the next base. All existing base runners are forced to advance on a fair batted ball unless the preceding base is unoccupied Scoring Base Runners continue to advance from 1st base to 2nd base, to 3rd base and home plate in progressive order. If a player reaches home plate without being retired, a run is scored for that team and the aggregate number of runs scored by each team will determine the contest outcome. There is a maximum of five (5) runs per inning for the batting team. Once five runs have been scored, the half inning shall be ruled complete and the batting team shall take the field position to advance the game. Page 25 ROOKIE

27 3.5.2 Advancing Bases During a live ball, a base runner is entitled to an unoccupied base if the runner touches the base before being retired by the defense. The runner continues to be entitled to that base until retired or forced to vacate the base for another base runner that becomes legally entitled to it. Base runners may not return to a previously occupied base once a subsequent base is established through the process of advancing bases. Two base runners may not occupy the same base. While the ball is live, the preceding runner is entitled to a base once it is established, thereby forcing the lead runner to advance at risk of retirement. The lead runner shall be deemed out if tagged while occupying the same base as a subsequent runner Base Stealing Base Stealing is not permitted in the Rookie Program including passed balls, wild pitches or the returned pitched ball from the catcher to the pitcher. Base Runners must stay in contact with the base until the ball is hit by the batter. PENALTY: 1st offense - the player will be sent back to the base 2nd offense - warning to the coach, and the player will be sent back to the base 3rd and subsequent offense - Players shall be called out Retiring Base Runners by Defense Base runners may be retired by the defense if: (a) A base runner is tagged with a live ball while off base, or before reaching the next base. (b) A base runner leaves the occupied base before a fly ball is caught without retouching the base following the caught ball Retiring Base Runners by Penalty Base runners may be retired via penalty imposed by the Umpire if: (a) A base runner deliberately removes safety headgear. In the umpires sole discretion, the base runner may be given a warning and on any subsequent offense the player must be called out. (b) A base runner leave the entitled base before the ball is hit by the batter. (c) A base runner slides head first into the next base, however head-first sliding back into a base is permitted. (d) A base runner runs outside the base path by more than 3 to avoid being tagged by the defense. (e) A base runner (while not on base) is touched by a fair batted ball before it touches or passes a fielder. (f) A base runner deflects a live ball. (g) A base runner passes a leading runner that has not been retired. (h) A base runner misses touching a base in the advancement of bases. Page 26 ROOKIE

28 (i) A retired base runner interferes with a live ball, or play. The base runner shall be ruled out due to interference of a team mate. (j) A coach physically assists the runner to avoid being retired. (f) A base runner does not slide or attempt to avoid the fielder who has the ball in the proximity of the base and is waiting to make the tag. If contact is made with the fielder and in the umpires judgment the contact by the runner is deemed to be malicious, then the runner is out and may be ejected from the game in the umpire s sole discretion. (k) A base runner intentionally interferes with (i) an attempt by the defense to make a play on a batted ball or (ii) a thrown ball Base runners may advance without risk of being retired when directed to do so by the Umpire in the application of penalties or other game administration matters. 3.6 ROOKIE DEFENSE Each team shall play the field once per inning. There may be two coaches on the field assisting the defense at any time. At no time may a coach pick up a live ball and put it inside a fielder's hand or glove, nor may they pick up a live ball and throw to a base. If a coach deliberately interferes with a live ball, the Umpire shall declare the ball dead and base runners will be awarded an extra base. PENALTY: The coach must stay off the field for the remainder of that inning Fielding the Team 1. Only nine (9) defensive players will play in the field. Three (3) outfielders, twenty (20) feet behind the base path until ball is hit. 2. The defensive player listed as pitcher will stay in the ten (10) foot circle until ball is hit. He/She can have one foot outside of the circle. PENALTY: Offense gets choice of play or re-bat. 3. No infield fly rule. 4. Play shall be stopped by the defensive team heading off or stopping the front runner. Any other runner may continue at his/her own risk. Any play made on a runner other than the front runner will release the front runner. Other runners may continue. 5. One defensive coach may be out of the dugout at the open end, to instruct his/her defensive players. 6. An offensive coach will be designated to pitch to his own team in the absence of a pitching machine. If a pitching machine is available, the offensive coach will deliver the balls Retiring Base Runners: The half inning shall conclude when the defense retires three base runners, or each player of the offensive team has completed one at bat for that inning. Page 27 ROOKIE

29 3.6.2 Dead Ball Situations The ball is and remains a live ball except as follows: (a) A batter bats a foul ball (all base runners must return to their established base). (b) A live ball is returned to the pitcher who takes position on the pitching mound. Once the pitcher posses the ball on the mound, the ball shall become dead and all base runners must take position on the base to which they are entitled and may not advance until the next live ball. (c) The Umpire calls time, suspending play at which time the ball becomes dead. (g) Time is automatically called by the umpire when the lead runner is faced off and/or forced into the ten (10) ft. designated line at the base. NOTE: The umpire should not be too quick to call time, if the lead runner is not faced off the umpire should allow the offensive coach time to react to the situation and run his runners if he decides. (h) Appeals will be made by the head coach after time has been called and before the ball is returned to the tee by the home plate umpire. The coach will notify the umpire involved of his appeal of what runner and what base. NOTE: For the purpose of the appeal play, returning the ball to the tee by the home plate umpire will be the same result as the next pitch being thrown. (i) Overthrows inside the field of play will be a live ball and allow the base runner as many bases as possible. Overthrows outside the field of play will be declared a dead ball and baserunners shall be awarded one base without liability for being put out. (j) If a catcher is not used, he can be used as an additional outfielder. If a catcher is used, he must wear a protective helmet, catcher s mask, and full catcher s equipment. (k) A caught fly ball will be played the same as regular baseball and play is not dead unless the ball is hit by the last batter of the inning. (l) The defensive team may have a defensive coach out of the dugout on the first (1st) base foul line and third (3rd) base foul line thirty (30 ft.) from the base path and 6 feet off the foul line. (m) The play is not considered done until the pitcher on the mound has the ball, stepping on the mound, or the home plate umpire has called time Misc. Items (a) NO ROLLING of the ball underhanded on the ground will be allowed. No outs will be allowed by rolling the ball. Runners will automatically be safe if defensive team rolls the ball. (b) The infield fly rule will not be in effect. Page 28 ROOKIE

30 3.7 COACHING ROOKIE Coaching Offense (a) Two base coaches are permitted for the at-bat team. Only one coach may occupy a coach box at any one time. One pitcher (Coach) is required to deliver the ball to the batters. All other team staff, coaches and parents must remain in the dugout or within the defined spectator areas. One coach or assistant should be in the dugout at all times when players are present. (b) Base coaches shall remain in their coaching boxes at all times, unless play dictates otherwise. (c) No batting coaches are allowed. (d) Any offensive coach physically assisting a base runner while the ball is in play will result in that runner being called out. (e) Offensive team may have two (1) time out per inning, but cannot reset the batter or the tee during this time out Coaching Defense One coach is permitted on the field for instructional purposes when their team is on defense. An additional coach is allowed behind the umpire to assist the catcher with missed balls. Defensive coaches may take position anywhere within the fair territory of the playing field provided they do not interfere with base runners, touch a live ball or otherwise be deemed by the official to be hindering play. All other team staff, coaches and parents must remain in the dugout or within the defined spectator areas. At least one coach or assistant should be in the dugout at all times when players are present. (a) In the judgment of the umpire, if a defensive player is injured by being hit in the face, throat, or head and cannot continue the play TIME WILL BE CALLED IMMEDIATELY and all players awarded one base. Any other injury deemed serious enough in the judgment of the umpire will be handled in the same manner. The coach must not enter the field until time is called. NOTE: This is a judgment call and cannot be appealed. (b) Runners may advance one base if a ball is overthrown per bag. If a player advances more than one bag per overthrown ball, and is tagged out in process, that player is out. If a player advances more than one bag per overthrown ball and is safe, that player must return to the bag of which they came from. (c) Defensive team may have two (1) time outs per inning, but cannot reset the batter or the tee during this time out. (d) Free substitution of defensive players is allowed at any time during the game. However, a substitute player will not bat in the batting order position of the starting player that he replaces in the field. The substitute player shall bat in his or her original position in the batting order submitted at the beginning of the game. The batting order shall not be changed during the game. Page 29 ROOKIE

31 3.8 ROOKIE PITCHING RULES - MACHINE or COACH PITCH (League Option) The Rookie division is designed to promote player development and fun gaining self confidence within the players. Coaches shall deliver pitches to their own team (or via pitching machine) to promote hitting within the limitations of this section. The coach delivering the pitches is referred to as the pitcher (Coach) as opposed to the rostered player playing the position, referred to as the pitcher Pitching to Players (a) An offensive coach will pitch or operate the pitching machine and/or pitch to their own batters. (b) The pitcher (Coach) may stand or kneel to deliver pitches, but must deliver pitches in an overhand fashion. NO underhand pitches are allowed and shall be ruled as automatic strikes. (c) For game efficiency, the pitcher (Coach) may only coach or instruct the batter. Base Coaches are to coach or instruct the base runners. (d) The defensive player listed as pitcher will stay in the ten (10) foot circle until the ball is hit. He or she may have one foot outside of the circle. PENALTY: The offensive team get the choice of the play or re-bat. (e) The pitching coach may adjust the machine once at the start of his team s at-bat or at the umpire s discretion, however it should NOT be necessary to adjust the machine for each batter. The umpire should allow the machine to be checked/ adjusted after it is hit by a player, coach, umpire or ball, or if it starts to consistently deliver pitches out of the strike zone Ball Striking Pitcher (Coach) (a) Any batted ball that strikes the pitcher (Coach) shall be ruled dead. The batter will be awarded first base, other base runners may only advance if forced by the awarded base. (b) (c) Any live ball that is thrown by a defensive player and strikes the pitcher (Coach), the ball shall be ruled dead and all baserunners will be awarded one additional base beyond their current occupied base. If a player has left their occupied base toward the next base, only the next base is awarded regardless of the progress made before the dead ball. If a thrown ball is caught or stopped by the pitcher (Coach), the ball shall be ruled dead and all baserunners will be awarded one additional base beyond their current occupied base. If a player has left their occupied base toward the next base, only the next base is awarded regardless of the progress made before the dead ball. Page 30 ROOKIE

32 3.9 ROOKIE CATCHING RULES For most young players, Rookie division will be the first opportunity to play a catcher s role. The defense will field a catcher to catch the pitcher (coach), and participate in defensive play of live balls. The catcher must wear: (a) catchers helmet (b) full catchers mask with neck/throat guard (c) shin guards (d) chest protector It is recommended that a defensive coach stand behind the catcher to assist in the retrieval of any missed pitched balls. Page 31 ROOKIE

33 Section 4 - Minor League Kid Pitch (10 & Under) Game Description: Minor Leagues is a program focused on Competitive Fun play for kids 10 years of age and under. Minor Leagues is a kid pitch program providing league and tournament play for advancing young athletes. In addition to Section 1 - General League Rules, the following Rules Section 4 shall apply to Field Day Baseball s MINORs League Program. Where ambiguity exists, rules of this section shall preside: 4.1 MINORs GENERAL GAME RULES Player Age Eligibility: A player s maximum age is ten years old on the first day of games. Example: if a player is 10 years old on the first game day, and turns 11 the next day, he/she is eligible to play in the age division for the entire season Example: if a player turns 11 years old on the day of the first game, he/ she may not play in MINORs and will be required to play in the next higher age division for the season. (MAJORs I or higher) Roster Size League Commissioners determine the team rosters from the player pool of eligible players. Rosters should consist of up to 12 players, only nine of which may play the field at any one time, and all of which will take their turn at bat in the designated and continuous batting order. Playing time: All rostered players present on game day must play a minimum of six consecutive outs during a game (except in the case of injury or illness). This may require partial innings of play in the case a player substitution was made. Minimum Players: Six players must be present to field a team. If failure to field 6, a forfeit will be deemed necessary. If a team fields six players, and a player gets injured during the game resulting in only five players left, the game is forfeited and deemed no longer playable. Forfeits may be called by a league official or umpire Game Duration Each contest shall consist of regulation play only (no overtime), defined as having 4 innings, or lasting one hour and forty five minutes (1:45) in duration, whichever is reached first. No New Inning shall be started after the1:45 game time has been reached. Drop Dead time of two hours. Play shall immediate end and the game called based on the results at that time. If the time limit of 1:45 is reached in the bottom half of an inning, Page 32

34 the batting team shall be allowed to complete the inning up to the drop deda time of 2:00. The umpire may call time-out for injury or protest. These time-outs will not be charged to a team Starting the Game The game is divided into innings within which the teams alternate on offense and defense each allowed three put-outs durning their turn at bat. Each team s time at bat is considered a half inning, therefore a complete inning is one in which both teams have had an at-bat. The Home Team as indicated on the game schedule shall be the first to take the field and the visiting team shall conduct the first at bat to begin the game demarking the top half of the first inning. Play shall begin when the Umpire declares Play-Ball Contest Outcome The winner of the contest shall be that team which shall have scored the greater number of runs at the conclusion of the regulation game. The regulation game ends after both teams have completed their batting order in the final inning, or received three outs during their at bat. (If the Home team leads in the bottom of the final inning, they shall be declared the winner and forgo their at bat). Ten Run Rule: If a team is leading its opponent by ten (10) runs or more after four (4) innings have been played, or three and one-half (3 1/2) innings if the home team (2nd team to bat) leads by at least ten (10) runs, the game shall be terminated and the leading team declared the winner. In the event of a tie, the contest shall be deemed a draw Delays In the event a game is halted or delayed before completion due to rain, darkness, protest, tie, or any other cause, it must be resumed from the point of termination when the game is rescheduled by league officials, with as nearly the same lineup as possible. In the event that five innings have been completed when a delay becomes necessary, the score shall revet to the bottom of the fifth inning and the leading team declared the victor, or the game a tie as the case may be. WARNING: DO NOT VIOLATE PITCHING RULES in the event of game delays Miscellaneous a) Two adults may coach the bases. (In tournament play coaches must wear coordinated coach's shirt and team cap, except for end of season tournaments.) Each team shall have a head coach and no more than three (3) assistant coaches. b) All players and coaches must remain in the dugout, on the benches, or in the prescribed areas of play throughout the game. c) Any coach who calls time and goes onto the playing field more than one (1) time in one inning (not game) per pitcher to talk to a player or players, will be required to remove the current pitcher from the mound. Once removed, the pitcher shall not return to the mound for the duration of Page 33

35 that game. d) Any coach going onto the playing field to talk to the same batter (or a batter going to the dugout or bench to talk to a coach) more than one (1) time per at bat, per inning will result in the current batter being declared out, except in the case of injury or if the time is called by the opposing team or umpire. e) The offensive team must have their pitcher warmed up to begin each inning after no more than a maximum of eight (8) warm-up pitches, or two (2) minutes whichever comes first. f) Any runner is out when he/she does not slide or otherwise attempt to avoid contact with the fielder who has the ball in the proximity of the base and is waiting to make the tag, If contact is made with the fielder and in the umpire's judgment the contact by the runner is deemed to be malicious, then the runner is out and shall be ejected from the game. g) Head-first sliding into the next base is not permitted and runner shall be declared out; head-first sliding back into a base is permitted. h) Three (3) strikes is an out, even if the pitched ball is dropped. i) Any base runner leaving the base before the ball reaches home plate is out (umpires decision). The ball is considered dead and a no pitch. If a runner misses a base, it will be an appeal play to the umpire. j) Infield fly rule is in effect. k) Slashing - the act of faking a bunt stance, then resetting and taking a swing at the pitch is prohibited. Faking a bunt is legal as is pulling the bat back from a bunt stance, however taking a swing afterwards on the same pitch shall be illegal, and it is an umpire s judgement call. If it is ruled a slash, the batter shall be automatically out and no runners shall be allowed to advance. l) It is the duty of the head coach to keep a record of his eligible players and the innings his pitcher pitched in the tournament. Coaches shall verify the innings pitched by each player on each opposing team they play immediately after each tournament game on the form prescribed by Field Day Baseball. 4.2 MINORs EQUIPMENT Age appropriate equipment is important to the development of young players. The following equipment rules and restrictions are placed on the MINORs program to promote good development in the participants. Field venues may vary based on availability.9.8 in The Baseball The officially ball for MINORs shall be a youth standard baseball approved by Field Day Baseball. The league will provide the game balls Protective Headgear Helmets must be worn at all times by players that are at-bat, waiting on-deck to bat, or base running. Helmets may be provided by the league, and each helmet shall consists of 2 ear flaps. Page 34

36 4.2.3 Catcher s Equipment Catchers are required in the MINORs program. Catchers must wear a mask, throat guard, helmet, protective chest gear, shin guards and any relevant articles as listed in Section Not Applicable Bats Bats - all bats must be smooth and rounded with 2 5/8 or less size of a barrel and may not exceed 33 in length. Wood or Metal is allowed. Non-wood bats may develop dents from time to time. Bats with dents or edges deemed excessive by the official must be removed from play. Any bat that is deemed to have been altered is illegal and must be removed from play Player Equipment & Protective Gear a) A first baseman s mitt may be used by the first baseman and catcher only. b) All players should wear athletic supporters. c) Catchers must wear a hard cup. d) Catchers must wear a protective helmet or plastic cap with, or attached to, the mask with throat protector and full catcher's equipment while on defense. e) Any player warming up a pitcher shall wear a catchers mask. f) A pressure type protective batting helmet with protective face mask, with full ear flaps and chin strap, must be worn by all batters and base runners. A player refusing to wear the protective helmet, after being warned to do so by the umpire, will not be allowed to continue as a player in the game. The substitute will assume the ball and strike count if the player was a batter, or will take his position on the base he occupied if he was a base runner Prohibited Equipment Weighted batting donuts are not allowed. 4.3 MINORs PLAYING FIELD (a) The pitching rubber is thirty-nine (45) ft. from the back point of home plate to the front of the pitching rubber. (b) (c) (d) (e) The base paths should be fifty (60) ft. (may vary based on the facility). The playing fields should be a minimum of 120 ft. No bat girls/boys are allowed. Fields may be modified as necessary based on the facility available for the venue. Page 35

37 4.4 MINORs BATTING 1. All players on the team must bat in continuous order. If one team is unable to field the appropriate number of players (9) for the scheduled game, that team will not be forced to forfeit a game solely because it cannot provide the appropriate number of players for a game. However, the following action will be taken: The game shall be played with the deficient team fielding all members possible. A team with less than the required number of players (9) shall submit a blank in its batting order for each player less than the appropriate number in a place selected by the team Head Coach and that team shall be charged with an out at each occurrence where each blank comes up in the batting order. If a player is injured or becomes sick during the game and is unable to continue to play in the game in the judgment of the home plate umpire no out shall be charged to that team. An out will be charged for an ejected player. 2. No Designated Hitters are allowed. 3. The Batter shall take position inside the batter s box promptly when it is said batter s time at bat. 4. The Batter must take position with both feet inside the batter s box, and may not leave the box without penalty after the pitcher comes to a set position on the mound or begins a windup to deliver a pitch. PENALTY: a strike is called. 5. Batter may not unduly delay the game (in the umpire s discretion) in taking a position inside the Batter s box. After one warning, a penalty is levied. PENALTY: a strike is called. 6. Upon a pitched ball, the Umpire shall declare, ball or "stike" on a passed ball, and fair or foul on a hit ball. 7. A Batter shall legally complete the at bat upon being retired or becoming a runner. 8. An offensive batter will be declared out on the third strike or walked (awarded 1st base) on the 4th ball. In the event of a full count (3-2: balls-strikes) if a batted ball is fouled he/ she may continue the at bat. If a fouled ball is caught, it is an out. If the batter bunts foul on a 3rd strike pitch, the batter is out. 9. After one (1) warning per game per player for slinging his bat, the batter will be out, a dead ball called, no runners can advance Retiring a Batter A Batter shall be declared out when/if: (a) The batter receives three strikes (except when the third strike is not caught by the catcher, the batter may pursue first base but can be put out by the defense either tagging the runner or the base before it is occupied. If the batter leaves the base path prior to pursuing first base, the batter shall be called out.) (b) A fair or foul batted ball is legally caught by a fielder (c) the batter bunts foul on a third strike (d) an infield fly is declared by the umpire (see definition for Infield Fly Rule) (e) a fair batted ball touches the batter before touching a fielder (f) if the bat makes a second contact with the ball in fair territory (intentionally) (g) anytime the bat is thrown into fair or foul territory and interferes with defensive play on the ball (h) the batter is tagged before the batter reaches first base (i) first base is tagged before the batter reaches first base (j) the batter runs outside the base path (defined as 3 feet either side of the foul ball line) Page 36

38 (k) (l) (m) a preceding runner intentionally interferes with defensive play on the ball stepping from one batter box to the other while the pitcher is set or winding up. using an illegal bat any time during the at bat (if it is discovered that a batter used an illegal bat to become a baserunner, the batter-runner shall be declared out, all preceding runners return to their base and any scoring that occurred is nullified Batter becoming a Runner A Batter shall become a runner without liability for being put out when any of the following occur: (a) The batter has been pitched four balls as declared by the umpire during the at-bat (b) The pitcher verbally elects to intentionally walk the player by announcing to the umpire. (c) The batter is touched by a pitched ball that is outside the strike zone when the batter is not attempting to hit the ball AND while making an attempt to avoid being hit. The batter will be awarded first base whether the pitch was deemed legal or illegal. (EXCEPTION: Balls pitched in the strike zone are deemed a strike whether or not it hits a batter). (d) The catcher or any fielder interferes with the batter during the at-bat (Example: A catcher s glove interfering with the batter s swing) A Batter shall become a runner with liability for being put out when any of the following occur: (a) a ball is hit in fair territory (b) a third strike is not caught by the catcher when first base is unoccupied, or first base is occupied with two outs established. (c) a fair batted ball passes over a fence or into the stands (such a case is deemed a home run) (d) a fair batted ball passes over a fence or into the stands after bouncing off a player or their glove (such a case is deemed a home run) (e) a fair batted ball after hitting the ground bounces into the stands, over through or under a fence shrubs or other obstacles. (such a case is deemed a ground rule double) (f) a fair batted ball bounces into foul territory after passing the first or third base. (g) a fair batted ball bounces into foul territory after being deflected by a fielder into the stands, over through or under a fence shrubs or other obstacles. (such a case is deemed a ground rule double) Batting out of Turn A Batter shall be illegal if taking an at bat out of proper order in the batting line up Prior to being retired or becoming a runner: If the opposing team appeals to the umpire prior to the completion of the at bat, or if the batting team identifies the proper batter at any time prior to the batter being retired or becoming a runner, the proper batter may assume the pitch count of the illegal batter and complete the at bat When the illegal batter has completed the at bat: If the opposing team appeals to the umpire prior to the first pitch to the next batter, the illegal batter shall be declared out, and all runners shall return to the base possessed prior to the illegal Page 37

39 batter. Any scoring that occurred shall be reversed Absent an appeal by the opposing coach prior to the first pitch of the next batter, the illegal batter shall be deemed proper and play continues. The next batter is then the person who follows the name of the improper batter in the designated batting order. During an at bat by an illegal batter, any advances made by base runners due to wild pitch, passed ball, steal or hit batter shall remain as earned bases. 4.5 BASE RUNNING A Runner acquires the right to an unoccupied base after touching it. The runner retains the right to the base until forced to vacate or retired. Two runners may not occupy the same base. the preceding runner is entitled to the base. The lead runner must vacate the base or be at risk of being tagged out. Alternatively the lead runner can be retired if the fielders tag the next sequential base if the previous base is occupied by the preceding runner RETIRING A RUNNER Each Runner (other than the batter) may advance, without the liability of being put out as follows: (a) A single base anytime the batter s advances per forces the runner to vacate the current base and advance to the next base to accommodate a preceding runner. (runners are entitle to one base only during a dead ball unless otherwise noted) (Ball is dead, no more than one base allowed. (b) two bases when a batted ball is ruled aground rule double (Ball is dead, no more than two bases allowed A Runner is retired or put out when: (a) running outside the base path in an effort not to be tagged. (Except when doing so to preserve player safety during fielding of a ball) (b) the runner does not make an effort to slide or otherwise attempt to get around a fielder who is in possession of the ball and waiting to make the tag (c) the runner slides head first while advancing bases (d) intentionally interferes with a thrown ball or hinders a fielder attempting to make a play on a batted ball. (e) The runner is tagged while off base by a fielder possessing a live ball (f) failing to tag-up or retouch the earned base before advancing bases on a caught fly ball. (A Coach may appeal to the umpire before the next pitch is delivered.) (g) failing to reach the next base before a fielder tags either the runner or the advanced base in the case of a forced advancement. (In the case of an open preceding base, the runner may return to the previous base without being forced to advance, but must do so before being tagged by a fielder. (h) being touched by a fair ball in fair territory (ball is ruled dead, all players are entitled to advance to the next base not previously established.) (i) passing a preceding runner in the base path before etc player is put out. (immediately retired) Page 38

40 (j) being tagged off base after rounding first base (showing an intention to advance). Batter-Runners may run through first base to establish the base after a batted ball but may not over-run any other bases with liability of being put-out. (k) being tagged off base after failing to return to a base after over running or over sliding the base (except as otherwise noted in these rules) (l) After a fielder touches home plate in the event that the runner missed touching the plate and made no efforts to return to the plate to establish the base INTERFERENCE When a batter or runner interferes with the fielding effort of the defense, the interfering batter or runner shall be penalized with an out and the ball shall be called dead by the umpire. It shall be deemed interference by the runner or batter when: Interference by Player: (a) the batter hinders the catcher in an attempt to field a ball. (b) the batter intentionally deflects the course of a foul ball in any manner. (c) the batter hinders a fielder in making a play at home plate (the runner will be called out). (d) the batter or runner intentionally interferes with a batted ball or a fielder making a play on a live ball. Interference by Coach (e) Anyone including but not limited to a coach, assistant coach or parent, physically assists holds or touches a base runner during a live ball BASE STEALING Runners may attempt to steal a base only after the ball has passed the batter. No leading off is allowed in the MINOR s division. Page 39

41 4.6 MINORs PITCHING Following a dead ball, the pitcher initiates play (or putting the ball live) by taking position on the pitcher s mound with one foot in contact with the pitching rubber. Once the ball is live, the batter shall promptly take position within the batter s box. The pitcher is allowed to deliver the ball to the batter via two legal pitching positions. The windup position, or the set position. In either position, the pitcher must come to a set position before delivering the pitch to the batter, and the batter must be set in the batters box. Wind-Up Position: The wind up position is when the pitcher has the ball with both hand in front of the body in preparation to deliver a pitch. Set Position: The set position is when the pitcher is aligned to keep runners at bay by delivering the ball to the plate sooner and with less warning. Home Plate Rubber Set Position At anytime prior to the pitcher s natural pitching motion, the pitcher may disengage the pitching rubber and throw to any base or fake a throw to any base. The pitcher may throw to 2nd or third base while remaining in contact with the pitching rubber, but must step in the direction of the base prior to throwing and may not fein a throw if in contact with the pitching rubber. The Umpire shall keep the official pitch count on each batter until: (a) three strikes are called (putting the batter out), (b) four ball are called (awarding the batter first base), (c) or the ball is hit fair. Home Plate Rubber Wind-Up Position BALKS Balks are illegal pitches that are penalized by all runners advancing one base without liability for being put out, and the batter shall be awarded a ball in the pitch count. A balk is declared by the umpire: (a) If the pitcher fails to deliver a pitch after commencing the natural pitching motion, the pitch shall be deemed a balk (b) If the pitcher drops the ball while in contact with the birching rubber, it shall be deemed a balk. (c) if the pitcher delivers a quick pitch (ie: a pitch delivered before the batter is reasonably set in the batter box) Page 40

42 4.6.2 PITCHING RESTRICTIONS A Pitcher shall not: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) Apply a foreign substance to the ball expectorate on the ball hand or glove rub the ball on the glove, person or clothing damage or deface the ball intentionally delay the game in any way (in the umpire s sole discretion) maliciously throw at a batter or runner feint a throw while in contact with the pitching rubber PITCH COUNT RESTRICTIONS Field Day Baseball has established Pitch Count Rules based on Pitch Smart guidelines to ensure that players have a safe and rewarding experience in youth sports. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the parent and the athlete to ensure that the player follows the guidelines for the appropriate age group over the course of the season -- given that players will oftentimes play in multiple leagues with different affiliations covering different times of the year. Pitchers in Field Day Baseball must adhere to the following rest requirements (Applicable in all Player Pitch age divisions): If a player pitches 66 or more pitches in a day, four (4) calendar days of rest must be observed. If a player pitches pitches in a day, three (3) calendar days of rest must be observed. If a player pitches pitches in a day, two (2) calendar days of rest must be observed. If a player pitches pitches in a day, one (1) calendar day of rest must be observed. If a player pitches 1-20 pitches in a day, no (0) calendar day of rest must be observed. (a) (b) (c) (d) If a pitcher reaches the limit imposed above while facing a batter, the pitcher may continue to pitch until that batter reaches base or is put out. A pitcher may pitch in consecutive games in the same day, if the pitch count rule is not in violation. A pitcher shall only make one (1) appearance on the pitching mound per game. A pitcher may not return to the pitching mound once the pitcher is removed. No pitcher may pitch over six (6) innings in one (1) day. An inning is interpreted to mean the following: i) If a pitcher pitches to one batter and is removed from the pitching mound before the batter is retired, the pitcher is charged with pitching one- third of an inning. ii) If the pitcher is removed after retiring one batter, but after delivering an initial pitch to the next batter, the pitcher is charged two- Page 41

43 (e) (f) (g) thirds inning. iii) If removed after retiring two batters, but after delivering an initial pitch to the next batter, the pitcher is charged with pitching a complete inning. The head coach must notify the Umpire when the pitch count total has been reached by the pitcher. A Pitcher that is in a rest period may not pitch in practices or games until the prescribed rest period is reached. Violations of the pitch count rule may result in the league representatives declaring a forfeit. The league may also suspend or remove coaches and players who willfully and persistently violate any rule or regulation. A coach, assistant or parent should track each Pitcher s pitch count to ensure player safety. A Pitch Count log can be dowloaded from the ONE Sports Nation website under Coach Resources: PITCHERS COUNT LOG Home: Visitors: Date: DAILY MAXIMUM PITCHES ALLOWED* LEGEND: for each new batter NOTES: MINORs - 75 Pitches Maximum / for each ball * If a pitcher reaches the limit imposed above while facing a batter, MAJORs I - 85 Pitches Maximum X for each strike the pitcher may continue to pitch until that batter reaches base or is put out. MAJORs II - 95 Pitches Maximum O for last pitch thrown each half-inning ** Warm Up Pitches do not count toward Pitch Count totals ALERT TEAM MAANGER 10 PITCHES OUT FROM MAXIMUM ALLOWED MINORs MAXIMUM 4 Days Rest Required MAJORs I MAXIMUM 4 Days Rest Required MAJORs II MAXIMUM 4 Days Rest Required PITCHES THROWN Player # Pitcher's Name Pitch Limit NO Days Rest Required 1 Days Rest Required 2 Days Rest Required 3 Days Rest Required DAYS REST RQD. 75, 85 or 95? , 85 or 95? HOME TEAM PITCHERS , 85 or 95? , 85 or 95? , 85 or 95? , 85 or 95? VISITING TEAM PITCHERS 75, 85 or 95? , 85 or 95? , 85 or 95? , 85 or 95? Page 42

44 4.7 DEFENSE (FIELDING) Each team shall play the field once per inning. No Coaches are allowed on the playing field, and must remain in the dugout while playing defense Fielding the Team 1. Only nine (9) defensive players will play in the field. Three (3) outfielders, a pitcher, a catcher and 4 infielders. All players shall play a minimum of 2 innings in the field during the game except in the case of injury or illness. 2. The Infield Fly Rule is in effect for all player pitch age divisions. 3. Play shall be stopped by the defensive team heading off or stopping the front runner. Any other runner may continue at his/her own risk. Any play made on a runner other than the front runner will release the front runner. Other runners may continue. Page 43

45 4.7.2 End of an Inning: The end of a half-inning is marked by putting out 3 batters or base-runners. In the event that the third out is obtained by catching a fly ball, no runs shall be counted for that play. In the event that the third out is obtained by tagging a base runner or base, any baserunners that have tased home plate prior to the third out being obtained shall score as a run in that inning. In the event that a third out is obtained by tagging out a base runner during an at bat, the batter shall resume the at-bat position in the subsequent inning with a 0-0 pitch count Dead Ball and Live Ball Situations Play shall be called dead when: (a) The Umpire calls time, suspending play at which time the ball becomes dead. (b) Time is automatically called by the umpire when the lead runner is faced off and/or forced into the ten (10) ft. designated line at the base. NOTE: The umpire should not be too quick to call time, if the lead runner is not faced off the umpire should allow the offensive coach time to react to the situation and run his runners if he decides. (c) A fielder overthrows outside the field of play will be declared a dead ball and a single base awarded under the rules of regular baseball. Play shall remain live when: (a) A fielder overthrows inside the field of play allowing the base runner as many bases as possible with liability for being put out. (b) A caught fly ball will be played the same as regular baseball and play is not dead unless the ball is hit by the last batter of the inning. Page 44

46 4.8 MINORs MISCELLANEOUS RULES 1. Free substitution of defensive players is allowed at any time during the game. However, a substitute player shall not bat in the batting order position of the starting player that he replaces in the field. The substitute player shall bat in his or her original position in the batting order submitted at the beginning of the game. The batting order shall not be changed during the game. 2. Bats that are broken, cracked or dented shall be removed upon discovery without penalty. 3. A batter removed from the game because of too many appearances on the field by a coach in one inning, cannot return to the game until this half inning of play has been completed. 4. In the judgment of the umpire, if a defensive player is injured and cannot continue to play, time will be called immediately and all players awarded one base. Any other injury deemed serious enough in the judgment of the umpire will be handled in the same manner. A coach must not enter the field until time is called by the umpire. NOTE: THIS IS A JUDGMENT CALL AND CANNOT BE APPEALED OR PROTESTED. 5. The home team must have their pitcher warmed up and ready to pitch after eight (8) warm-up pitches, or two (2) minutes, immediately after the umpire notifies the teams to play ball. 6. Any runner is out when he/she does not slide or attempt to avoid the fielder who has the ball in the proximity of the base and is waiting to make the tag. If contact is made with the fielder and in the umpires judgment the contact by the runner is deemed to be malicious, then the runner is out and shall be ejected from the game. 7. Head-first sliding into the next base is not permitted and runner shall be declared out; head-first sliding back into a base is permitted. 8. The use of a courtesy runner for the pitcher and catcher is permitted to speed the game up only when there are two outs. The courtesy runner must be a rostered player and does not count as a substitute. The courtesy runner is permitted only for the pitcher/ catcher of the previous inning (most recently playing that position) and not for a player that is coming into the next inning as a pitcher or catcher. 9. A coach must bat his entire roster in continuous order. Page 45

47 Section 5 - Major League Kid Pitch (12 and Under) Game Description: MAJORs I Leagues is a program focused on Competitive Fun play for kids 12 years of age and under. MAJORs Leagues is a kid pitch program providing league and tournament play for advancing young athletes. In addition to Section 1 - General League Rules, the following Rules Section 5 shall apply to Field Day Baseball s MAJORs League Program. Where ambiguity exists, rules of this section shall preside: 5.1 MAJORs GENERAL GAME RULES Player Age Eligibility: A player s maximum age is ten years old on the first day of games. Example: if a player is 12 years old on the first game day, and turns 13 the next day, he/she is eligible to play in the age division for the entire season Example: if a player turns 13 years old on the day of the first game, he/ she may not play in MINORs and will be required to play in the next higher age division for the season. (MAJORs I or higher) Roster Size League Commissioners determine the team rosters from the player pool of eligible players. Rosters should consist of up to 12 players, only nine of which may play the field at any one time, and all of which will take their turn at bat in the designated and continuous batting order. Playing time: All rostered players present on game day must play a minimum of six consecutive outs during a game (except in the case of injury or illness). This may require partial innings of play in the case a player substitution was made. Minimum Players: Six players must be present to field a team. If failure to field 6, a forfeit will be deemed necessary. If a team fields six players, and a player gets injured during the game resulting in only five players left, the game is forfeited and deemed no longer playable. Forfeits may be called by a league official or umpire Game Duration Each contest shall consist of regulation play only (no overtime), defined as having 4 innings, or lasting one hour and forty five minutes (1:45) in duration, whichever is reached first. No New Inning shall be started after the1:45 game time has been reached. Drop Dead time of two hours. Play shall immediate end and the game called based on the results at that time. If the time limit of 1:45 is reached in the bottom half of an inning, Page 46