READINGTON TEWKSBURY JUNIOR BASEBALL LEAGUE WIDE RULES AS OF March 3rd,2018
RTJBL LOCAL LEAGUE PLAYING RULES Pursuant to ARTICLE XVIII RULES OF PLAY, Section 2, of the RTJBL By-Laws the following Local Rules of Play apply for each RTJBL Division. The league follows Cal Ripken/Babe Ruth rules and the following are local league rules in supplement to those rules. Suspended Games The intent of the RTJBL league is to play games to the fullest extent possible; at no time should a coach play to these rules in order to win a game, for example by stalling or other tactics. These rules are in place to give guidance on how to appropriately play and reschedule games due to inevitable situations of suspended play. Any game suspended for any reason after becoming a regulation game (3 ½ innings with the home team ahead or 4 innings with the visitors ahead) will revert back to the last completed inning and be considered a regulation game regardless of the innings played. If a game is suspended before becoming a regulation game, but after at least one full inning of play, it will be resumed from the exact point of suspension at a later date and time agreed upon by both teams. As with any other regular game every effort should be made to complete this resumed game. The league may, at its discretion, schedule make up dates and times which will be bound to by both teams. If a game does not reach one full complete inning, the game should start over when re-scheduled. Any player who has appeared in the game as a pitcher prior to the game suspension is not eligible to reappear as a pitcher, except for the pitcher that was in the game at the time of suspension. This pitcher and any others used to finish the game must still be eligible to pitch based on our regular local pitching rules. The batting line up must remain the same. Any players that are absent will be scratched from the batting order. Any player that was absent from the original game will be inserted at the end of the batting order, regardless of where the team is in the order at the time of suspension. If a player was on the base paths is not present for the completion of the game, the player that is present that made the last out will be substituted on the base path. The pinch runner will continue to bat in his original spot in the line-up. If the season is ending and there are problems trying to complete a suspended game it may be necessary to play two short double headers the next time the teams meet. These rules applies to all regular season games in the Minors, Major 60, Major 70 and Babe Ruth divisions (exception; an official game for BR is 5 innings or 4 ½ if home team is winning). League playoff and Championship games - If a league playoff or championship game is suspended because of weather, including a weather delay that subsequently forces the game to end due to darkness; the game should be resumed at a later date. Game resumption rules as stated above will be applicable. 1
Babe Ruth 13-15 1. General Rules Each team is to supply a new baseball. If more than 2 balls are needed, it alternates starting with the visiting team. The Team that supplies the balls is entitled to have the balls returned to them after the game. If there are less than the number of balls each team put in the game left they will be split equally. If one ball is left it will be given to the Visiting Team. 9 players (3 outfielders) in the field. Free defensive substitution is allowed. Each player must play a minimum of 3 innings in the field, assuming a 7-inning game. Once a pitcher leaves the game, he/she can re-enter the game anywhere defensively except as a pitcher. A game can start and be played with 8 fielders if both sides agree to do so. The late players can be added using the late rule. If the other team does not agree then the short team can use its first right of refusal and have the game rescheduled. Alternate players can be used in the field from the opposing team when enough players are not available to play a game. It must be the player(s) who made the last out(s). They must play the outfield. A courtesy runner can be used for a pitcher or catcher at any time provided that the pitcher or catcher is playing those positions for the next inning. The runner must be the player who made the last out, unless that player is the pitcher or catcher. Up to two players from any other Team may be used as substitutes during the season to provide a nine-player team. A team with substitutes cannot have more than nine players active for a game. All regular players have priority to play over substitutes and no substitutes are allowed to play if it means that the Team will have 10 or more active players. Substitute players must bat at the bottom of the order and play the outfield. Substitute players are not permitted in the play-offs. Coaches and umpires should keep the game moving along expeditiously as possible, especially during evening games when the daylight could limit the number of innings played. It is the discretion of the umpires to determine if unnecessary time is being taken which is delaying the game. (I.e. repeated trips to the mound by the catcher, long intervals between innings, etc.) The umpire will call for the resumption of play to keep the game moving. 2. Time Seven innings is the length of a game. Extra innings will be played if time permits Five complete innings constitutes a complete game, (or 4 ½ if home team is winning). No inning can start 15 minutes before the next scheduled game, if there is no scheduled game after then there is no time restriction. If a game is really taking a long time, manager s may both agree on a no new inning time to finish the game. If a game starts late for any reason, that amount of time will be subtracted from the above time restricting a new inning from starting. Home ump and coaches should make sure this time is noted in the scorebook when the game begins. RTJBL 10 Run Modified Rule. After 4 1/2 or 5 innings (if the home team is losing) and there is a 10 run lead or more in the game the losing team coach can decide to end the game under this rule. The losing coach will inform the plate umpire and winning coach at the start of the inning that this will be the last inning unless the losing team gets the lead under 10 runs which allows the game to proceed. 3. Pitching Rules Refer to league wide pitching rules for pitch count and inning limitations 1 pitch constitutes 1 inning If a pitcher hits two batters in one inning or 3 batters in one game he must be removed from pitching Once the pitcher leaves the game, he/she can re-enter the game anywhere defensively except as a pitcher. Each pitcher in the game will get one warning when they balk. The umpire will take the time to explain to the pitcher what they did wrong, after each balk. Please be aware of players that also pitch for other teams (middle school, etc.). Unofficially you should include their innings pitched and pitch counts from the other team when factoring in whether they can pitch in Rec. 2
4. Batting Rules All players at a game will be placed in the batting order Any players who were not in the original batting order must be added to the end of the batting order after they arrive to the game. An injured player does not have to bat. The next batter in the line-up will bat. No out will be recorded. If the player is physically able they may bat in their next turn in the order. If a player has to leave a game, there is no penalty for skipping them in the batting order. All non-wood bats must have the USABat Marking or BBCOR.50 2 5/8 Barrel o Non-Compliant Bat Penalty: If the illegal bat is discovered prior to a batter completing his "at bat" the bat is simply removed from play and the "at bat" continues. A player who uses an illegal bat or non-conforming barrel dimension and hits a fair ball will be ruled out. No advancement on the bases will be allowed, and any outs during the play shall stand. This is an appeal play. The "at bat" will be considered legal once a pitch is thrown to the next batter. Any bat discovered prior to the game that does not conform to the above rule shall be directed to be removed immediately and not be allowed for use during the game. 5. Safety Players must slide at 2nd, 3rd and home or avoid contact. Otherwise the player is out. If the defense is blocking without the ball on its way to the base then interference will be called. MANDATORY CUP REQUIRED. Any male player without a cup will not be allowed on the field of play. Only one player should be in the on deck circle. All other players must be in the dugout. No practice swings outside the on deck cage is allowed. 6. Conduct There should be no arguing with the umpire. You may ask for clarity regarding a call, but if you don t agree, you may not argue the call beyond expressing your side/opinion. If you question his interpretation of a rule, that may be discussed. Presenting evidence of a rule misinterpretation is encouraged, as long as it is expeditious and refers to specific rules which must be cited from a rule book. Whatever the final outcome, the umpire will have final say. At no time should the use of video replay of any kind be used. There will be no protests; however, any matters may be brought to the Executive Board for discussion after the matter to discuss the merits of the disagreement. Any abusive behavior by a player, coach or fan towards an umpire, player, coach or fan will be subject to disciplinary action by the executive board. This is a NO TOLERANCE policy 7. Make-Up Games The home team has 4 days to contact the opposing team manager and copy league director to try and reschedule any rainouts or partial games that need to be made up. If they do not they will be given a loss. Each team has the right to refuse one time. The team that can t make it the third time gets a loss. If neither team can make it they both get loses and game is not played. Managers should ultimately just work together to get the game played. If the season is nearing the end and you have to get a makeup game in, think about a double header and play two 5 innings games. If a team cancels a regularly scheduled game, that team has used up it s one right of refusal. The winning coach is responsible for entering the score of the game on the website. Team Points must also be entered for each team. 4 points for a win, 3 for a tie, 2 for a loss. Point totals are how seeding for the playoffs is done. All rules of this league not addressed in local rules will be addressed in the Cal Ripken Rules/Babe Ruth most current edition. 3
Major 70 1. General Rules Each team is to supply a new baseball. If more than 2 balls are needed, it alternates starting with the Visiting Team. The Team that supplies the balls is entitled to have the balls returned to them after the game. If there are less than the number of balls each team put in the game left they will be split equally. If one ball is left it will be given to the Visiting Team. 9 players (3 outfielders) in the field. Free defensive substitution is allowed. A player cannot sit a second inning until every player on his team has sat one inning. Every player must play one full inning (3 outs) on the infield before the start of the 5th inning. Every player must play at least 1 full inning (3 outs) in the outfield. Pitcher and Catcher are considered infield positions. A game can start and be played with 8 fielders if both sides agree to do so. The late players can be added using the late rule. If the other team does not agree then the short team can use its first right of refusal and have the game rescheduled or play a man short. The managers have 10 minutes after starting time to decide. Alternate players can be used in the field from the opposing team when enough players are not available to play a game. It must be the player(s) who made the last out(s). They must play the outfield. A courtesy runner can be used for a pitcher or catcher at anytime provided that the pitcher or catcher is playing those positions for the next inning. The runner must be the player who made the last out, unless that player is the pitcher or catcher. Please consult the substitution policies at the end of the league rules. Coaches and umpires should keep the game moving along expeditiously as possible, especially during evening games when the daylight could limit the number of innings played. It is the discretion of the umpires to determine if unnecessary time is being taken which is delaying the game. (I.e. repeated trips to the mound by the catcher, long intervals between innings, etc.) The umpire will call for the resumption of play to keep the game moving. 2. Time Six innings per game will be played. If time is available per time limit an extra inning can be played in event of a tie score after 6 innings played. Four complete innings constitutes a complete game, (or 3 ½ if home team is winning). No inning can start 20 minutes before the next scheduled game, if there is no scheduled game afterwards then there is no time restriction. If a game starts late for any reason, that amount of time will be subtracted from the above time restricting a new inning from starting. Home ump and coaches should make sure this time is noted in the scorebook when the game begins. RTJBL 12 Run Modified Rule. After 3 1/2 or 4 innings (if the home team is losing) and there is a 12 run lead or more in the game the losing team coach can decide to end the game under this rule. The losing coach will inform the plate umpire and winning coach at the start of the inning that this will be the last inning unless the losing team gets the lead under 10 runs which allows the game to proceed. 3. Pitching Rules Refer to league wide pitching rules for pitch count and inning limitations If a pitcher hits two batters in one inning or 3 batters in one game he must be removed from pitching NO CURVE BALLS. First time the umpire shall issue a warning and no pitch will be recorded, second time they are removed from pitching. Once the pitcher leaves the game, he/she can re-enter the game anywhere defensively except as a pitcher. 1 st half of the year (until mid-may), no balks will be called. 2 nd half of the year each pitcher in the game will get two warnings when they balk. The umpire will take the time to explain to the pitcher what they did wrong, after each balk. After the second warning, if a pitcher balks, the runner is awarded a base. Please be aware of players that also pitch for other teams (middle school, etc.). Unofficially you should include their innings pitched and pitch counts from the other teams when factoring in whether they can pitch in Rec. 4
4. Batting Rules All players at a game will be placed in the batting order Any players who were not in the original batting order must be added to the end of the batting order after they arrive to the game An injured player does not have to bat. The next batter in the line-up will bat. No out will be recorded. If the player is physically able they may bat in their next turn in the order If a player has to leave a game, there is no penalty for skipping them in the batting order. All non-wood bats must have the USABat Marking. The Barrel Maximum is 2 5/8". No BBCOR Bats are permitted in the Cal Ripken Division. o Non-Compliant Bat Penalty: If the illegal bat is discovered prior to a batter completing his "at bat" the bat is removed and the "at bat" continues. A player who uses an illegal bat or non-conforming barrel dimension and hits a fair ball will be ruled out. No advancement on the bases will be allowed, and any outs during the play shall stand. This is an appeal play. The "at bat" will be considered legal once a pitch is thrown to the next batter. Any bat discovered prior to the game that does not conform to the above rule shall be directed to be removed immediately and not be allowed for use during the game. 5. Stealing Major 70 we introduce leading while the pitcher has the ball. Otherwise unlimited stealing and stealing home is permitted. If a team is winning by 10 runs or more, they will not be permitted to steal until the lead goes under 10. The losing team can continue to steal no matter the score. 6. Safety Players must slide at 2nd, 3rd and home or avoid contact. Otherwise the player is out. If the defense is blocking without the ball on its way to the base then interference will be called. MANDATORY CUP REQUIRED. Any male player without a cup will not be allowed on the field of play. Only one player should be in the on deck circle. All other players must be in the dugout. No practice swings outside the on deck cage is allowed. No suicide squeeze steals to home plate. No slash swings following a fake bunt. 7. Conduct There should be no arguing with the umpire. You may ask for clarity regarding a call, but if you don t agree, you may not argue the call beyond expressing your side/opinion. Presenting evidence of a rule misinterpretation is encouraged, as long as it is expeditious and refers to specific rules which must be cited from a rule book. Whatever the final outcome, the umpire will have final say. At no time should the use of video replay of any kind be used. There will be no protests; however, any matters may be brought to the Executive Board for discussion after the matter to discuss the merits of the disagreement. Any abusive behavior by a player, coach or fan towards an umpire, player, coach or fan will be subject to disciplinary action by the executive board. This is a NO TOLERANCE policy 8. Make-Up Games The home team has 4 days to contact the opposing team manager and contact league director of any rainouts or partial games that need to be made up. If they do not they will be given a loss. Each team has the right to refuse one time. The team that can t make it the third time gets a loss. If neither team can make it they both get loses and game is not played. Managers should ultimately just work together to get the game played. If the season is nearing the end and you have to get a makeup game in, think about a double header and play two 4 innings games. If a team cancels a regularly scheduled game, that team has used up it s one right of refusal The winning coach is responsible for entering the score of the game on the website. Team Points must also be entered for each team. 4 points for a win, 3 for a tie, 2 for a loss. Point totals are how seeding for the playoffs is done. All rules of this league not addressed in local rules will be addressed in the Cal Ripken Rules/Babe Ruth most current edition. 5
Major 60 1. General Rules Each team is to supply a new baseball. If more than 2 balls are needed, it alternates starting with the Visiting Team. The Team that supplies the balls is entitled to have the balls returned to them after the game. If there are less than the number of balls each team put in the game left they will be split equally. If one ball is left it will be given to the Visiting Team. 10 players 4 outfielders, in the field. The game can be played with a minimum of 8 players. Alternate players can be used in the field from the opposing team when enough players are not available to play a game. It must be the player(s) who made the last out(s). They must play the outfield. If you have 9 players, play with 9, do not borrow a player to make 10. If the other team has 10 or more they can still play 10 in the field. Free defensive substitution is allowed. A player cannot sit a second inning until every player on his team has sat one inning. Every player must play one full inning (3 outs) on the infield before the start of the 5th inning. Every player must play at least 1 full inning (3 outs) in the outfield. Pitcher and Catcher are considered infield positions. Maximum of 6 runs can be scored in an inning. Side changes after 6 runs are scored. This rule does not apply in the playoffs and there will be no maximum runs per inning in the playoffs 2. Time Six innings per game will be played. If time is available per time limit an extra inning can be played in event of a tie score after 6 innings played. Four complete innings constitutes a complete game, (or 3 ½ if home team is winning). No inning can start 20 minutes before the next scheduled game, if there is no scheduled game afterwards then there is no time restriction. If a game starts late for any reason, that amount of time will be subtracted from the above time restricting a new inning from starting. Home ump and coaches should make sure this time is noted in the scorebook when the game begins. 3. Pitching Rules Refer to league wide pitching rules for pitch count and inning limitations If a pitcher hits two batters in one inning or 3 batters in one game he must be removed from pitching NO CURVE BALLS. First time the umpire shall issue a warning and no pitch is recorded, Second time they are removed from pitching. Once the pitcher leaves the game, he/she can re-enter the game anywhere defensively except as a pitcher. 4. Batting Rules All players at a game will be placed in the batting order Any players who were not in the original batting order must be added to the end of the batting order after they arrive to the game An injured player does not have to bat. The next batter in the line-up will bat. No out will be recorded. If the player is physically able they may bat in their next turn in the order If a player has to leave a game, there is no penalty for skipping them in the batting order. All non-wood bats must have the USABat Marking. The Barrel Maximum is 2 5/8". No BBCOR Bats are permitted in the Cal Ripken Division. o Non-Compliant Bat Penalty: If the illegal bat is discovered prior to a batter completing his "at bat" the bat is simply removed from play and the "at bat" continues. A player who uses an illegal bat or non-conforming barrel dimension and hits a fair ball will be ruled out. No advancement on the bases will be allowed, and any outs during the play shall stand. This is an appeal play. The "at bat" will be considered legal once a pitch is thrown to the next batter. Any bat discovered prior to the game that does not conform to the above rule shall be directed to be removed immediately and not be allowed for use during the game 6
5. Stealing When stealing the ball must cross the front of home plate before the runner can leave the base. The runner will be sent back if he leads or leaves early. Otherwise unlimited stealing and stealing home is permitted If a team is winning by 10 runs or more, they will not be permitted to steal until the lead goes under 10. The losing team can continue to steal no matter the score. 6. Safety Players must slide at 2 nd, 3 rd and home or avoid contact, otherwise the player is out. If the defense is blocking without the ball on its way to the base then interference will be called. MANDATORY CUP REQUIRED. Any male player without a cup will not be allowed on the field of play. Only one player should be in the on deck circle. All other players must be in the dugout. No practice swings outside the on deck cage is allowed. No slash swings following a fake bunt. 7. Conduct There should be no arguing with the umpire. You may ask for clarity regarding a call, but if you don t agree, you may not argue the call beyond expressing your side/opinion. Presenting evidence of a rule misinterpretation is encouraged, as long as it is expeditious and refers to specific rules which must be cited from a rule book. Whatever the final outcome, the umpire will have final say. At no time should the use of video replay of any kind be used. There will be no protests; however, any matters may be brought to the Executive Board for discussion after the matter to discuss the merits of the disagreement. Any abusive behavior by a player, coach or fan towards an umpire, player, coach or fan will be subject to disciplinary action by the executive board. This is a NO TOLERANCE policy 8. Make-Up Games The home team has 4 days to contact the opposing team manager and contact league director of any rainouts or partial games that need to be made up. If they do not they will be given a loss. Each team has the right to refuse one time. The team that can t make it the third time gets a loss. If neither team can make it they both get loses and game is not played. Managers should ultimately just work together to get the game played. If the season is nearing the end and you have to get a makeup game in, think about a double header and play two 4 innings games. If a team cancels a regularly scheduled game, that team has used up it s one right of refusal The winning coach is responsible for entering the score of the game on the website. Team Points must also be entered for each team. 4 points for a win, 3 for a tie, 2 for a loss. Point totals are how seeding for the playoffs is done. All rules of this league not addressed in local rules will be addressed in the Cal Ripken Rules/Babe Ruth most current edition. 7
Minors 1. General Rules Each team is to supply a new baseball. If more than 2 balls are needed, it alternates starting with the Visiting Team. The Team that supplies the balls is entitled to have the balls returned to them after the game. If there are less than the number of balls each team put in the game left they will be split equally. If one ball is left it will be given to the Visiting Team. 10 players 4 outfielders, in the field. The game can be played with a minimum of 8 players. Alternate players can be used in the field from the opposing team when enough players are not available to play a game. It must be the player(s) who made the last out(s). They must play the outfield. If you have 9 players, play with 9, do not borrow a player to make 10. If the other team has 10 or more they can still play 10 in the field. Free defensive substitution is allowed. A player cannot sit a second inning until every player on his team has sat one inning. Everybody will play a minimum of two innings per game in the infield. Pitcher and Catcher are considered infield positions. Maximum of 5 runs can be scored in an inning. Side changes after 5 runs are scored. This rule also applies in the playoffs. Tagging up is allowed. The infield fly rule will not be enforced. Bunting is permitted. One base on all overthrows. (e.g., player overthrows 2 nd base and ball goes to outfield, the player only can advance one base. If a player, subsequently, overthrows on the same play the base runner may advance again.) 2. Time Six innings per game will be played. If time is available per time limit an extra inning can be played in event of a tie score after 6 innings played. Four complete innings constitutes a complete game, (or 3 ½ if home team is winning). No inning can start 30 minutes before the next scheduled game, if there is no scheduled game afterwards then there is no time restriction. If a game starts late for any reason, that amount of time will be subtracted from the above time restricting a new inning from starting. Home ump and coaches should make sure this time is noted in the scorebook when the game begins. 3. Pitching Rules Refer to league wide pitching rules for pitch count and inning limitations If a pitcher hits two batters in one inning or 3 batters in one game he must be removed from pitching NO CURVE BALLS. First time the umpire shall issue a warning and no pitch will be recorded., Second time they are removed from pitching. Once the pitcher leaves the game, he/she can re-enter the game anywhere defensively except as a pitcher. After 4 consecutive walks in an inning the pitcher shall be replaced. 4. Batting Rules All players at a game will be placed in the batting order Any players who were not in the original batting order must be added to the end of the batting order after they arrive to the game An injured player does not have to bat. The next batter in the line-up will bat. No out will be recorded. If the player is physically able they may bat in their next turn in the order If a player has to leave a game, there is no penalty for skipping them in the batting order. All non-wood bats must have the USABat Marking. The Barrel Maximum is 2 5/8". No BBCOR Bats are permitted in the Cal Ripken Division. o Non-Compliant Bat Penalty: If the illegal bat is discovered prior to a batter completing his "at bat" the bat is simply removed from play and the "at bat" continues. A player who uses an illegal bat or non-conforming barrel dimension and hits a fair ball will be ruled out. No advancement on the bases will be allowed, and any outs during the play shall stand. This is an appeal play. The "at bat" will be considered legal once a pitch is thrown to the next batter. 8
Any bat discovered prior to the game that does not conform to the above rule shall be directed to be removed immediately and not be allowed for use during the game. 5. Stealing When stealing the ball must cross the front of home plate before the runner can leave the base. The runner will be sent back if he leads or leaves early. 1 stolen base per at bat per runner. (e.g., 1 st and 2 nd, runner steals 3 rd on first pitch, any other pitch in that at bat the runner on 1 st can steal 2 nd ) Only one base can be stolen at a time. The runner cannot advance from 2 nd to 3 rd base on an overthrow by the catcher. A batter cannot advance after walking (e.g., a catcher holds onto the ball and the batter continues running from first to second base). No stealing home If a team is winning by 10 runs or more, they will not be permitted to steal until the lead goes under 10. The losing team can continue to steal no matter the score. 6. Safety Players must slide at 2 nd, 3 rd and home or avoid contact, otherwise the player is out. If the defense is blocking without the ball on its way to the base then interference will be called. MANDATORY CUP REQUIRED. Any male player without a cup will not be allowed on the field of play. Only one player should be in the on deck circle. All other players must be in the dugout. No practice swings outside the on deck cage is allowed. No slash swings following a fake bunt. 7. Conduct There should be no arguing with the umpire. You may ask for clarity regarding a call, but if you don t agree, you may not argue the call beyond expressing your side/opinion. If you question his interpretation of a rule, that may be discussed. Presenting evidence of a rule misinterpretation is encouraged, as long as it is expeditious and refers to specific rules which must be cited from a rule book. Whatever the final outcome, the umpire will have final say. At no time should the use of video replay of any kind be used. There will be no protests; however, any matters may be brought to the Executive Board for discussion after the matter to discuss the merits of the disagreement. Any abusive behavior by a player, coach or fan towards an umpire, player, coach or fan will be subject to disciplinary action by the executive board. This is a NO TOLERANCE policy 8. Make-Up Games The home team has 4 days to contact the opposing team manager and copy league director of any rainouts or partial games that need to be made up. If they do not they will be given a loss. Each team has the right to refuse one time. The team that can t make it the third time gets a loss. If neither team can make it they both get loses and game is not played. Managers should ultimately just work together to get the game played. If the season is nearing the end and you have to get a makeup game in, think about a double header and play two 4 innings games. If a team cancels a regularly scheduled game, that team has used up it s one right of refusal All rules of this league not addressed in local rules will be addressed in the Cal Ripken Rules/Babe Ruth most current edition. 9
Rookie-2 1. Format Prior to all games teams should warm-up and run drills for approximately 20-30 minutes. Afterwards then play a 3 inning game. Practice prior to game s can be shortened if weather forecasts are not favorable. If the 3 inning game moves quickly and both teams coaches feel the players have not lost interest in the game, a 4 th inning can be played. Coaches should arrive about 10 minutes prior to game time to get setup and organized. This includes setting up the pitching machine if being used. Drills; batting, throwing, pitching, fielding, sliding. Before Game Drills One team should immediately start taking batting practice once a few players arrive. Always have at least one player on deck ready to hit and potentially another on the bench getting ready. Other players from that team can be in the infield. Each team should try and get about a 10 minute batting practice session this should give each player 6-12 pitches. The other team not batting should warm up in the outfield; make sure there is plenty of space to not be in the way of any batted balls from batting practice. Work on proper throwing technique. After the players have thrown enough to loosen up, you can continue other throwing drills or move on to ground ball or pop up drills. Alternate these drills from game to game. You will probably have time to only work on one drill per game. Use multiple coaches to split the kids into smaller groups. Sliding is a great drill that both teams could also practice prior to a game. Teams can skip batting practice or borrow the league sliding matt and practice in the outfield. Once the one team is wrapping up batting notify the other team to get ready to bat. Then switch places. Each team should try and have one coach that is responsible for working with pitchers. This process should be done at every practice starting no later than the teams 2 nd practice. Pitching practice should continue prior to all games during the 20-30 minute warm up time. The players working on pitching should still get their swings in batting but certainly may miss some of the other drills. At each practice you may only get through a few players to work on pitching. Maybe only one or two on game days. 2. General Rules There will be 10 players on the field (left and right center). If you have less then 10, you can play with less outfielders. You may borrow an outfielder from the other team if both coaches think it is necessary (last batted out). Put the outfielders in the correct position. Standing by second base is not a position. Catchers should be used. A coach behind them picking up missed balls is helpful. Using a bucket at the mound and behind the catcher moves the game along. All players must rotate positions with no more than two times in the same position. Keep track of positions from game to game, it is important to expose a player to all the positions. Depending on the size of the team and length of game all players must play a minimum of 1 inning in the infield. No player should play a 3 rd inning in the infield if there are some players who have not played 2. If necessary, a player may sit out one inning but should not sit out a second inning until all players have sat out one inning. Three outs and sides change. There will be a maximum of 5 runs scored and the sides will change. Scoring is for the purpose of stopping any runaway innings and keeping the game moving. This is still an Instructional League and teaching is the priority. No way should the coaches put any emphasis on the score. There are no winners or losers. Do not use the scoreboard. Alternate players can be used in the field from the opposing team when enough players are not available to play a game. It must be the last players who made outs. They must play the outfield. Stealing of bases is not permitted. Tagging up is not allowed. The infield fly rule will not be enforced. Bunting is not permitted 10
3. Pitching Rules Prior to the 2 nd week in May pitching will be from a Louisville Slugger spring loaded pitching machine or overhand coach pitch on a bucket or from their knees. The pitching machine should be set up in front of the mound. The batter is out after three swinging strikes (batter continues to bat on foul tips) On or around May 15th, players will begin to pitch. Players and families should be aware that every effort will be given to have as many players pitch as possible but that pitching needs to be worked on at home as well as practice. If players cannot get to where they can throw some strikes in a practice, then they are not ready to pitch in a game. A game is not a place to practice pitching. A portable rubber can be placed in front of the mound at the discretion of player and coach. If there is an obvious, mutually agreed upon safety issue, pitching distance must be changed. A pitcher can only pitch 2 innings per game. If a pitcher pitches 2 innings in a game he/she must rest for 1 day before pitching again. If a pitcher walks three batters in an inning he/she is removed for the inning and the inning will continue with a coach pitching to his own team. If a pitcher hits two batters in the inning he/she is removed for the inning and the inning will continue with a coach pitching to his own team. If a pitcher hits three batters in the game he/she is replaced by the coach. Refer to league wide pitching rules for pitch count limitations The umpire will call balls and strikes when a child is pitching. Only Strikes will be called when the coach is pitching. 4. Batting Rules All players at a game will be placed in the batting order Any late players who were not in the original batting order must be added to the end of the batting order after they arrive to the game An injured player does not have to bat. The next batter in the line-up will bat. No out will be recorded. If the player is physically able they may bat in their next turn in the order If a player has to leave a game, there is no penalty for skipping them in the batting order. Umpires will be using a wider strike zone - encourage your players to swing at a close pitch. The hitter can advance extra bases as long as the ball is hit into the outfield. The runner must stop advancing once the ball is returned to the infield. All non-wood bats must have the USABat Marking. The Barrel Maximum is 2 5/8". No BBCOR Bats are permitted in the Cal Ripken Division. 5. Safety Safety of the child should be a major concern. Do not play a child where you feel they could be hurt. Be fair but be smart. It is recommended that all male players where a cup. However, it is mandatory for any male player who plays the catcher position to wear a cup. Only one player should be in the on deck circle. All other players must be in the dugout. No practice swings outside the on deck cage is allowed. Teach the players to slide at 2 nd, 3 rd and home, this will prevent any collisions. 6. Conduct Any abusive behavior by a player, coach or fan towards an umpire, player, coach or fan will be subject to disciplinary action by the executive board. This is a NO TOLERANCE policy 7. Make-Up Games Every effort should be made to make up as many cancelled games as possible. 11
Rookie-1 1. Format Prior to all games teams should warm-up and run drills for approximately 30-40 minutes. Afterwards then play a 2 inning game. Practice prior to game s can be shortened if weather forecasts are not favorable. If the 2 inning game moves quickly and both teams coaches feel the players have not lost interest in the game, a 3 rd inning can be played. Coaches should arrive about 10 minutes prior to game time to get setup and organized. This may include setting up the pitching machine. Drills; batting, throwing, fielding. Before Game Drills One team should immediately start taking batting practice once a few players arrive. Batting practice should be alternated so during the week players hit off the tee and on Saturdays coach/machine pitched. Using the tee is a very acceptable way of training for hitting and the players should be aware of this. Always have at least one player on deck ready to hit and potentially another on the bench getting ready. Other players from that team can be in the infield. Each team should try and get about a 10-15 minute batting practice session this should give each player about 12 swings. The other team not batting should warm up in the outfield; make sure there is plenty of space to not be in the way of any batted balls from batting practice. Work on proper throwing technique. After the players have thrown enough to loosen up, you can continue other throwing drills or move on to ground ball or pop up drills. Alternate these drills from game to game. You will probably have time to only work on one drill per game. Use multiple coaches to split the kids into smaller groups. Sliding is a great drill that both teams could also practice prior to a game. Teams can skip batting practice or borrow the league sliding matt and practice in the outfield. Once the one team is wrapping up batting notify the other team to get ready to bat. Then switch places. The last 5-10 minutes before starting the game should involve a base running drill. During the week players should practice sliding. Each team can split up, one running from 1 st to 2 nd and another running a few steps away from 2 nd to 3 rd. This will minimize players standing around. On Saturdays focus for base running should be a practice swing in the batter s box with a bat (wearing a helmet), dropping the bat on the way to running to first base. Running through the base. As the season progresses this can be alternated with practicing running to first and or second base doing a banana curl to get ready to advance to the next base. 2. General Rules There will be 10 players on the field (left and right center). If you have less then 10, you can play with less outfielders. You may borrow an outfielder from the other team if both coaches think it is necessary (last batted out). Put the outfielders in the correct position. Standing by second base is not a position. At this age it is not necessary to have a catcher. A coach behind the batter picking up missed balls is helpful. Using a bucket at the mound and behind the catcher moves the game along. Coaches should not squat down in a catching position (safety reasons) All players must rotate positions with no more than two times in the same position. Keep track of positions from game to game, it is important to expose a player to all the positions. Depending on the size of the team and length of game all players must play a minimum of 1 inning in the infield. No player should play a 2 nd inning in the infield if there are some players who have not played 1. If necessary, a player may sit out one inning but should not sit out a second inning until all players have sat out one inning. Alternate players can be used in the field from the opposing team when enough players are not available to play a game. It must be the last players who made outs. They must play the outfield. Stealing of bases is not permitted. Tagging up is not allowed. The infield fly rule will not be enforced. Bunting is not permitted. Players can run home but at no point is there any score being kept by either team. 12
3. Pitching Rules Pitching will be from a Louisville Slugger spring loaded pitching machine or adult soft over/under hand pitch on a bucket or from their knees The pitching machine should be set up in front of the mound if it used. After 3 strikes the tee should be used. Hitting the ball keeps the fielders alert and learning. Watching everybody strike out is boring and does not teach anybody anything. Hitting from the tee is a very good way to improve a players hitting, it should not be viewed as a failure. 4. Batting Rules All players at a game will be placed in the batting order. Any players who were not in the original batting order must be added to the end of the batting order after they arrive to the game. Each team should bat 5-8 players max per inning. Determine this based on number of players that have showed up for each team, and the amount of time it takes for each team to bat. Enforcing 3 strikes then tee will help move the inning along. Better to play more innings with less batters per inning then to have the kids in the field too long. Final hitter should hit and everyone should advance as normal (no automatic home run where the bases get cleared) The hitter can advance extra bases as long as the ball is hit into the outfield. The runner must stop advancing once the ball is returned to the infield. All non-wood bats must have the USABat Marking. The Barrel Maximum is 2 5/8". No BBCOR Bats are permitted in the Cal Ripken Division. 5. Safety Safety of the child should be a major concern. Do not play a child where you feel they could be hurt. Be fair but be smart. It is recommended that all male players where a cup. However, it is mandatory for any male player who plays the catcher position to wear a cup. Only one player should be in the on deck circle. All other players must be in the dugout. No practice swings outside the on deck cage is allowed. Coach the players to slide at 2 nd, 3 rd and home, this will prevent any collisions. 6. Conduct Any abusive behavior by a player, coach or fan towards an umpire, player, coach or fan will be subject to disciplinary action by the executive board. This is a NO TOLERANCE policy 7. Make-Up Games Every effort should be made to make up as many cancelled games as possible. 13
The Little Sluggers Division(s) For many kids traditional T-Ball will be their first exposure of any kind to a team game, and most likely their first time playing baseball. For the kids it's just a day out with their friends. They would probably be just as happy to play on the swings as play baseball. The job of the manager and coaches at this level is to make the game fun and to teach the basics of baseball. This will hopefully be the beginning of many happy baseball years. If they don't enjoy it at this level they will not want to come back. For that reason, competition is not to be introduced. Teaching and fun are the top priorities. It will be critical for managers and coaches to apprise the players and their parents of the instructional goals and true spirit of T-Ball. The underlying intent of the rules that follow is to keep the kids involved, teach them the fundamentals of the game in way that makes it fun for them to learn (and want to come back!) without them realizing they are actually learning proper techniques from the get-go; provide them with a lasting impression and experience on what it is like to be a part of an organized team sport; and again, for now, keeping competition out of the game. There will be two (2) components to this instructional league program: (1) Weekly Clinics, typically during the week run by Branchburg Sports Complex. All coaches must be involved and help assist in drills. These clinics are not only for the kids but also for the coaches to learn. (2) Saturday, The focus/goal of each session is for each team to build upon the training provided during the clinic sessions, with emphasis on applying newly acquired skill sets in fundamentals and mechanics to actual field conditions while instructing on the basic rules of play. 14
LEAGUE WIDE PITCH COUNT RULES Division Daily Max pitches per game Required Rest (0 Days Required Rest (1 Days) Required Rest (2 Days) Required Rest (3 Days) Required Rest (4 Days) Max Inning Per Game Regardless of Pitch Count, one pitch is considered an inning Rookie 2 40 N/A 1-20 21-40 N/A N/A 2 Minors 60 1-20 21-35 36-45 46-60 N/A 3 Major 60 65 1-20 21-35 36-50 51-65 N/A 3 Major 70 75 1-25 26-40 41-54 55-65 66 + 3 Babe Ruth 13-15 85 1-25 26-40 41-54 55-70 70 + 5 Babe Ruth 16-18 100 1-30 31-45 46-60 61-75 76 + N/A For the first two weeks of the season Minors, M60, M70 inning limit is 2 innings per game. **Days of Rest Days of Rest means no pitching on those days, for example if a pitcher pitches on Monday and hits the required pitch count requiring 2 days rest they cannot pitch again until Thursday. ** If a pitcher reached their max pitch count during an inning they are permitted to finish the batter but must be replaced prior to the next at bat. Note: Cal Ripken Baseball and Babe Ruth Baseball Forfeited Game Pitch Count Rule: Regardless if a game was forfeited before it became a regulation game or after it became a regulation game, all pitches will count towards the pitch count. 15
RTJBL substitution policy The league will allow substitute players using the rules below: Play up subs - Each league, R2, Minors, and M60 will roster players whom will be selected by the coaches and league director, based on skill level and age to play in the league above. (IE: M60 will roster players available to M70). These players can be substituted for any player regardless of the missing players skill level. These substitutes will only be called upon if there are no available substitutes from within the league where a team needs substitutes. Inter league subs - All players from the existing league will be available for substitution, provided they do not have a conflicting game in their league. These substitutes will be the first choice for all substitutions. If no suitable substitutes are available from within the league, coaches may then look to the "play up" subs to field a team. Coaches will select similarly skilled substitutes to those players who are unavailable, and will seek agreement from the coach they will be playing that the substitutions are fair. League director will handle disputes. If players are not available from either the inter league substitutes or play up substitutes, the game will need to be rescheduled. Players cannot be substituted from the league above (IE Major 70 to Major 60). If a team has less than 7 players they will need to reschedule (not forfeit) their game. League Directors must be informed of all substitutions and will be cc'd on any email correspondence between coaches discussing player substitutions. Substitutes can only be used to assemble a team of 9 players. Substitutes can only be used in playoff games with the prior approval of the League Director and VP of League Operations. All substitutes will bat at the end of the order, inter league substitutes can play anywhere in the field except pitcher, however play up subs will be designated to outfield positions only. Coaches should use best judgment when positioning substitutes v. current players with fairness to existing team players being the primary concern. ( IE; if Johnny is your regular shortstop Sam the sub should not replace him because he is better) 16