Entertainment - Home Page

Instructionals

Fields

Size of diamond; 50' between bases.
The home team bench is along first base line.
The home team is responsible for the field layout and bases.
The home team has the field for 15 minutes for warm ups, starting 1/2 hour before the game start time. The visiting team has the field for 15 minutes for warm ups, starting 15 minutes before the game start time.
Fields are only to be used as scheduled by the league.
Field use permits issued by the East Irondequoit School District are required to be at the fields at all times during use of the East Irondequoit fields. If a representative from the school district requests to see a permit while the field is in use, and a permit is not provided, the district has the right to direct the players to leave the field.
Both teams are responsible to clean up the fields at the conclusion of use. If trash receptacles are not provided, all trash brought to the field is to be carried out.

Safety

If lightning is seen, or thunder is heard, at any distance from the field, in any direction, the game or practice is to be stopped immediately, and the players removed from the field. This includes lightning or thunder with a blue sky above the field.
A complete first aid kit, including at least two ice packs, or a cooler with ice and plastic bags, is to be brought on to the field (not left in a vehicle nearby) for every game and every practice.
Chemical ice packs are not to be placed directly against bare skin. The coach is responsible to bring a clean towel or other cloth to wrap ice packs in.
The coach is responsible to be able to give clear directions to the field being used in the event of an injury requiring emergency services.
Only the player up to bat is to have a bat in his or her hands. Players on deck are not allowed to hold bats.
All players using bats are to be under the direct supervision of an adult at all times.
Players are to wear approved baseball helmets at all times while: on deck, up to bat, running the bases, playing first base, and playing in the pitcher's position.
If a base runner's helmet falls off during play, the coaches are to immediately stop play.

Fielding

The entire team plays the field. No players sit out.
All normal infield positions, except catcher are to be used. The remaining players are placed in an arc in the outfield.
There is to be only one player per infield position. All the outfielders are to be placed at a reasonable distance from the infield positions.
To the extent possible, players are to be rotated between infield and outfield positions every inning. No player is to play an outfield position two innings in a row.
With the exception of first base and pitcher, to the extent possible, all players are to be given equal opportunities to play all fielding positions over the course of the season. No player is to play any given position all the time.
The coach is responsible to ensure that a player has the skill necessary to play at first base or at the pitcher's position, before the player is placed at those positions. (This is for the safety of the players). When appropriate, a parent should be consulted prior to placing players in these two positions.
The catcher's position is to be left vacant.
Two to three adults are to be positioned in the field with the players to help keep the players focused on the game, and direct the players on where to make the plays.

Batting

A batting order is to be established at the beginning of the season. The batters are to be moved up in the batting order by one position every game. (The lead off batter from the previous game bats last, the second batter becomes the lead off, the third batter bats second, etc.). This process will give every player an opportunity to bat in most positions in the batting order over the course of the season.
All players are to hit off the tee. No player is to be pitched to, regardless of ability.
There are no strike outs.
A coach is to be near home plate at all times while a batter is up.
Any ball that does not travel at least 15' from the tee, in fair territory, is considered dead, and the batter hits again. (It is suggested that the field be marked with paint to identify the 15' line and minimize the judgement required.)
Any ball that hits a coach in fair territory is considered dead and the batter hits again.
There is no limit on the number of swings or foul balls for any given batter. At the discretion of the batting team's coach, the batter may be given a specified number of additional chances to hit the ball if it is apparent the batter is having a difficult time, or not trying, and the game is being unreasonably delayed.
Base Running
Batters may advance only to first base, regardless of how far the ball is hit, or if the fielders do not field the ball.
Runners on base may advance only one base when a ball is put in play.
Runners may advance only on balls hit in fair territory.
In the event of a caught fly ball, runners are to be returned safely to the base they started from. (No double plays on fly outs)

Outs

Outs are made the same as in regular baseball. If a batter or base runner is thrown out, or tagged, they are to return to the bench. The intent is to teach the players how outs are made, and to show the batters that they will not always get on base.
There is no limit on the number of outs allowed for the team up to bat. The batting team bats through the entire line up in any given inning, regardless of the number of outs made.
There are no plays at the plate.

Uniforms

Players and coaches are expected to wear full team uniforms, including team hats, as provided by the league, to all games.
Players may not wear shorts at any time during games or practices.

General

Games are intended to be from one to three innings long. The actual length of a game will depend on the weather and the players. The length of a game will be determined by both coaches as the game progresses. Games are typically between 1 and 1 1/2 hours long.
Players may leave and reenter games as necessary.
The home team is responsible for canceling games due to inclement weather after consultation with the visiting team coach.
Games that are cancelled are to be rescheduled only through the league. Make up games are subject to the availability of fields.
Home teams are responsible to make arrangements for a field, and to reschedule canceled games.
The goal is to play as many games as scheduled, but there is not a minimum number of games required for the season to be considered complete.
All injuries are to be reported to the league.
Any incidents at the fields are to be reported to the league.
Abuse of the equipment, unsportsmanlike conduct, or violation of the rules of the league are grounds for removal of a player from a team.
Coaches are responsible for all their players, player's families and anyone associated with their team. Coaches are expected to request anyone who acts in a manner that is not in the best interest of the players and the game to leave the field.
There is no smoking allowed on or adjacent to any of the fields. There is no smoking allowed anywhere on any school property, including parking lots and other areas not adjacent to the baseball fields, (New York State law).
Score books are provided only to keep track of the batting order. There are no wins or loses, and there are no league standings.
These rules are to be followed without exception. Coaches are not to agree on ignoring or modifying these rules, or to add rules at the beginning of a game.

Revised 3/09/2001

Juniors

Fields

Size of diamond; 50' between bases.
The home team bench is along first base line.
The home team is responsible for the field layout and bases.
The home team has the field for 15 minutes for warm ups, starting 1/2 hour before the game start time. The visiting team has the field for 15 minutes for warm ups, starting 15 minutes before the game start time.
Fields are only to be used as scheduled by the league.
Field use permits issued by the East Irondequoit School District are required to be at the fields at all times during use of the East Irondequoit fields. If a representative from the school district requests to see a permit while the field is in use, and a permit is not provided, the district has the right to direct the players to leave the field.
Both teams are responsible to clean up the fields at the conclusion of use. If trash receptacles are not provided, all trash brought to the field is to be carried out.

Safety

If lightning is seen, or thunder is heard, at any distance from the field, in any direction, the game or practice is to be stopped immediately, and the players removed from the field. This includes lightning or thunder with a blue sky above the field.
If both coaches are in agreement, play can be suspended for 15 minutes, (with the players in safe areas), and resume if no additional thunder or lightning occurs. If lightning or thunder occurs after play is resumed, the game or practice is to be cancelled.
A complete first aid kit, including at least two ice packs, or a cooler with ice and plastic bags, is to be brought on to the field (not left in a vehicle nearby) for every game and every practice.
Chemical ice packs are not to be placed directly against bare skin. The coach is responsible to bring a clean towel or other cloth to wrap ice packs in.
The coach is responsible to be able to give clear directions to the field being used in the event of an injury requiring emergency service.
Only the player up to bat, and the on deck batter are to have bats in their hands. Players on double deck are not allowed to hold bats.
All players using bats, (on deck and at the plate), are to be under the direct supervision of an adult at all times.
Players are to wear approved baseball helmets at all times while:
on deck,
up to bat,
running the bases, and
If a base runner's helmet falls off during play, and it is probable that the ball will be thrown in the direction of the runner, play is to be stopped immediately. If a base runner's helmet falls off during play, and the coaches in the field do not feel there is any chance of the runner being hit by a thrown ball, play can continue.

Fielding

The entire team plays the field. No players sit out.
All normal infield positions, including catcher are to be used. The remaining players are placed in an arc in the outfield.
There is to be only one player per infield position. All the outfielders are to be placed at a reasonable distance from the infield positions. There is not an outfield position directly behind second base.
To the extent possible, players are to be rotated between infield and outfield positions every other, or every two innings. Unless it is not possible due to the number of players on the team, no player is to play an outfield position more than two innings in a row.
With the exception of first base and pitcher, to the extent possible, all players are to be given equal opportunities to play all fielding positions over the course of the season. No player is to play any given position all the time, or even regularly.
The coach is responsible to ensure that a player has the skill necessary to play at first base or at the pitcher's position, before the player is placed at those positions. (This is for the safety of the players). When appropriate, the player’s parent or guardian should be consulted prior to placing a player in these two positions.
Two adults are to be positioned in the field with the players to help keep the players focused on the game, and direct the players on where to make the plays.

Batting

A batting order is to be established at the beginning of the season. The batters are to be moved up in the batting order by one position every game. (The lead off batter from the previous game bats last, the second batter becomes the lead off, the third batter bats second, etc.). This process will give every player an opportunity to bat in most positions in the batting order over the course of the season.
All batters start out with a coach pitching. After two strikes (from pitched balls), players have the option of continuing with the coach pitching, or to use a tee.
Batters who elect to continue with the coach pitching get one more strike. (A player can strike out). Additional strikes are not to be awarded to batters who have three strikes on balls thrown from the coach.
Batters using the tee are to be allowed a maximum of two swings at the ball on the tee. If contact with the ball is not made after two swings, it will be considered a strike out. If the ball is fouled off, or does not travel the required 15’ in fair territory, the batter continues to bat.
A coach from the batting team is to be stationed at the end of the backstop, generally near home plate, at all times while a batter is up.
Any ball hit off a tee, that does not travel at least 15' from the tee, in fair territory, is considered dead, and the batter hits again. (It is suggested that the field be marked with paint to identify the 15' line and minimize the judgment required.)
A coach is to remove the tee from the playing area immediately after a ball is hit in fair play.
Any ball that hits a coach in fair territory, or requires a coach in fair territory to jump or quickly move or out of the way, is considered dead and the batter hits again. The coach involved is to declare the ball dead loud enough for all the players to hear to ensure that play is stopped.
If it does not appear that the batter has the skill to hit a pitch from the coach, the desired approach is to use a tee. The goal is to have most batters put the ball in play and create some action in the field.
If the batter clearly has the ability to hit pitches from the coach, but does not make contact on two pitches, (two strikes), the desired approach is to encourage the batter to continue with pitching. (Stronger players should be encouraged to take the risk of striking out).
Batters of higher ability should be pitched to using a soft overhand pitch.

Base Running

Aggressive base running is not allowed. Runners should be encouraged to run hard to make the base they are going to.
Batters do not advance to the next base on overthrows.
Runners are to be allowed to progress only until an outfielder makes any attempt to play the ball. (Picking up the ball and throwing it in the wrong direction is considered an attempt to make a play).
In general, batters will advance only to first base. Batters can be sent to second base if a ball is clearly hit far enough to warrant a double. (The runner is rounding first, and no outfielder is making an attempt to play the ball).
Batters should not be sent to second on balls hit on the ground that go through, or very close to an infielder, or through or very close to an outfielder, (an attempt was made to field the ball).
There are no triples or home runs.
Runners on base may advance only one base when a ball is put in play. Exception: a runner on first advances two bases and moves to third if the batter hits a double.
Runners on second base advance only to third base when the batter hits a double. (They do not score as would be typical at the higher levels).
Runners may advance only on balls hit in fair territory.
There is no tagging up on fly balls.
There is no sliding.

Outs

Each team gets three outs per inning.
Outs are made the same as in regular baseball. If a batter or base runner is thrown out, or tagged, they are to return to the bench.
Runners leaving a base after a fly ball is caught can be tagged out, or put out by making a play at the base they vacated. (There can be double or triple plays on fly outs).
Plays at the plate are allowed.
There is no infield fly rule.
Each team is allowed a maximum of five runs per inning. The batting team takes the field after the fifth run is scored, regardless of the number of outs made.

Uniforms

Players and coaches are expected to wear full team uniforms, including team hats, as provided by the league, to all games.
Players may not wear shorts at any time during games or practices.

General

Games are intended to be from four to six innings long. The actual length of a game will depend on the weather and the players. The length of a game will be determined by both coaches as the game progresses. Games are typically between 1 ½ to 2 hours long.
No inning can be started if more than one hour and forty-five minutes or two hours has elapsed since the start time of the game. An inning started before the time limit can be completed if there is sufficient light to allow safe play.
Players may leave and reenter games as necessary.
The home team is responsible for canceling games due to inclement weather after consultation with the visiting team coach. Games that are postponed are to be rescheduled only through the league. Make up games are subject to the availability of fields.
Home teams are responsible to make arrangements for a field, and to reschedule canceled games.
The goal is to play as many games as scheduled, but there is not a minimum number of games required for the season to be considered complete.
All injuries are to be reported to the league within 24 hours.
Any incidents at the fields are to be reported to the league within 24 hours.
Abuse of the equipment, un-sportsmanlike conduct, or violations of the rules of the league are grounds for removal of a player from a team.
Coaches are responsible for all their players, player's families and anyone associated with their team. Coaches are expected to request anyone who acts in a manner that is not in the best interest of the players and the game to leave the field.
There is no smoking allowed on or adjacent to any of the fields. There is no smoking allowed anywhere on any school property, including parking lots and other areas not adjacent to the baseball fields, (New York State law).
Scorebooks are provided only to keep track of the batting order. There are no wins or loses, and there are no league standings.
These rules are to be followed without exception. Coaches are not to agree on ignoring or modifying these rules, or to add rules at the beginning of a game.

Revised 3/18/2001

Minors

The Official Regulations and Playing Rules of Little League Baseball and the following rules of A.I.S.A. are to be used. In the event of a conflict between the rules, the rules of A.I.S.A. take precedence.

Fields

¨ Size of diamond; 60' between bases, 46’ from the front edge of the pitching rubber to the point of the plate.
¨ The home team bench is along first base line.
¨ The home team is responsible for the field layout and bases.
¨ The home team has the field for 15 minutes for warm ups, starting 1/2 hour before the game start time. The visiting team has the field for 15 minutes for warm ups, starting 15 minutes before the game start time. (The home team coach should be at the field at least 45 minutes before game time)
¨ Fields are only to be used as scheduled through the league.
¨ Field use permits issued by the East Irondequoit School District are required to be at the fields at all times during use of the East Irondequoit fields. If a representative from the school district requests to see a permit while the field is in use, and a permit is not provided, the district has the right to direct the players to leave the field.
¨ Both teams are responsible to clean up the fields at the conclusion of use. If trash receptacles are not provided, all trash brought to the field is to be carried out.

Safety

¨       If lightning is seen, or thunder is heard, at any distance from the field, in any direction, the game or practice is to be stopped immediately, and the players removed from the field. This includes lightning or thunder with a blue sky above the field.

¨       If both coaches are in agreement, play can be suspended for 15 minutes, (with the players in safe areas), and resume if no additional thunder or lightning occurs. If lightning or thunder occurs after play is resumed, the game or practice is to be cancelled.

¨       A complete first aid kit, including at least two ice packs, or a cooler with ice and plastic bags, is to be brought on to the field (not left in a vehicle nearby) for every game and every practice.

¨ Chemical ice packs are not to be placed directly against bare skin. The coach is responsible to bring a clean towel or other cloth to wrap ice packs in.
¨ The coach is responsible to be able to give clear directions to the field being used in the event of an injury requiring emergency services.
¨ Only the player up to bat, and the on deck batter are to have bats in their hands. Players on double deck are not allowed to hold bats.
¨ All players using bats, (on deck and at the plate), are to be under the direct supervision of an adult at all times.
¨ Players are to wear approved baseball helmets at all times while:
¨ On deck,
¨ Up to bat, and
¨ Running the bases
¨ If a base runner's helmet falls off during play, and it is probable that the ball will be thrown in the direction of the runner, play is to be stopped immediately. If a base runner's helmet falls off during play, and there does not appear to be any chance of the runner being hit by a thrown ball, play can continue.

Fielding

¨ All normal infield positions, and four outfielders are to be used. The outfielders are to be placed in an arc in the outfield, (left field, left-center, right-center and right; No rover).

¨ To the extent possible, players are to be rotated between infield and outfield positions. No player is to play the outfield all the time.

¨ With the exception of catcher and pitcher, to the extent possible, all players are to be given equal opportunities to play all fielding positions over the course of the season. No player is to play any given position all the time.
¨ The coach is responsible to ensure that a player has the skill necessary to play any given position, especially catcher, before the player is placed at that position. (This is for the safety of the players). When appropriate, the player’s parent or guardian should be consulted.
¨ Players can only request time out during play. The umpire is the only one who can call time out.
¨ The umpire will not call time out if a runner is still in motion, or if the ball is not in the fielding team’s possession with the limits of the infield. The umpire determines the limits of the infield.
¨ All players must play at least four innings in the field. The four innings do have to be consecutive.

Pitching

¨ Any player expressing an interest in pitching is to be considered for pitching. (We want to develop as many pitchers at this level as possible).
¨ The coach is responsible to ensure that a player has the skill necessary to pitch prior to allowing that player to pitch in a game situation. Necessary skill is defined as having the ability to consistently throw pitches that are in, or close to the strike zone. (Pitches that can reasonably expected to be hit).
¨ Being able to strike batters out consistently is not a requirement for a player to pitch. (Balls put in play by the batter are a good thing).
¨ A player can pitch a maximum of three innings per game, and nine innings in any seven consecutive days.
¨ Once removed during a game, a player cannot return as the pitcher in that game.
¨ A pitcher must be removed if he/she hits three batters in one inning, or four batters total in one game.
¨ A pitcher must be removed if he/she walks six consecutive batters in one inning, or seven total in one inning.
¨ A player is allowed to play any other position after pitching.
¨ One full calendar day of rest (no pitching) is required after three innings of pitching, regardless of the times of the games on consecutive days.
¨ If a player pitches one or two innings, he/she may pitch an additional one or two innings on the next calendar day, but the total innings pitched on the two days cannot exceed three. If a player pitches on two consecutive days, regardless of the number of innings pitched, he/she must rest (no pitching) on the next calendar day.

Batting

¨ The coach is to establish the batting order for each game. All players bat in their designated position during the game, regardless of whether or not they are playing in the field that inning.

¨ No batter is to bat last, or nearly last in the order every game.

¨ Three strikes are an out. Four balls are a walk.

¨ Bunting is not allowed.

¨ There is no minimum distance required for the ball to travel to be considered fair if the ball is hit with a full swing.

¨ A coach from the batting team is to be stationed at the end of the backstop, (generally near home plate), at all times while a batter is up. This coach is to encourage the catcher to retrieve past balls, and to help with past balls that travel outside the limits of the backstop.

¨ A team can score a maximum of five runs in any given inning. After the fifth run is scored, the batting team takes the field. This also applies to the last inning. The last inning is not unlimited runs.

¨ If a batter purposely throws a bat or helmet following making an out, that player is to be removed from the game.

Base Running

¨ A runner can take as many bases as he/she can make as long as the ball is in fair territory.

¨ One base is awarded on an overthrow that travels out of play.

¨       Runners have to earn bases on overthrown balls that remain in fair or foul territory.

¨       Batters should not be sent to second on balls hit on the ground that go through, or very close to an infielder, or through or very close to an outfielder, (an attempt was made to field the ball).

¨       There is no leading. Runners cannot leave a base until the ball is hit.

¨ There is sliding.

Outs

¨ Each team gets three outs per inning.

¨ Plays at the plate are allowed.
¨ There is no infield fly rule.

Uniforms

¨ Players and coaches are expected to wear full team uniforms, including team hats, as provided by the league, to all games.
¨ Players may not wear shorts at any time during games or practices.

General

¨ The head coaches are to meet with the umpire prior to the start of every game. The head coach is the only one allowed to approach the umpire during the game. Anyone other than the head coach who approaches the umpire will be asked to leave the playing area.

¨ A team must have a minimum of eight players at the game to start. If a team does not have eight players by fifteen minutes past the scheduled start time of the game, that team forfeits the game. The umpire will determine when the fifteen minutes has elapsed. Once a game is officially forfeited, the team needing players may borrow players from the opposing team to allow a game to be played. Forfeited games are not to be made up.

¨ The umpire will stay for games that have been forfeited, but are played using borrowed players.

¨ Games are intended to be six innings long.

¨ The home team does not bat if they have the lead after 5 ½ innings have been played.

¨ No inning can be started if more than two hours has elapsed since the start time of the game. An inning started before the two-hour time limit can be completed if there is sufficient light to allow safe play.

¨ If four complete innings are played, the game will be considered complete. Games delayed before four complete innings are played can be rescheduled. Games less than four innings long that are rescheduled are started over, (first inning, 0 –0 score).

¨ Players may leave and reenter games as necessary.

¨ The home team is responsible for canceling games due to inclement weather after consultation with the visiting team coach. Games that are postponed are to be rescheduled only through the league. Make up games are subject to the availability of fields.
¨ Home teams are responsible to make arrangements for a field, and to reschedule canceled games.
¨ The goal is to play as many games as scheduled, but there are not a minimum number of games required for the season to be considered complete.
¨ All injuries are to be reported to the league within 24 hours.
¨ Any incidents at the fields are to be reported to the league within 24 hours.
¨ Abuse of the equipment, unsportsmanlike conduct, or violations of the rules of the league are grounds for removal of a player or coach from a team.
¨ Coaches are responsible for all their players, player's families and anyone associated with their team. Coaches are expected to request anyone who acts in a manner that is not in the best interest of the players and the game to leave the field.
¨ There is no smoking allowed on or adjacent to any of the fields. There is no smoking allowed anywhere on any school property, including parking lots and other areas not adjacent to the baseball fields, (New York State law).
¨ Official league standings are not maintained. Game scores do not have to be reported to the league.
¨ These rules are to be followed without exception. Coaches are not to agree on ignoring or modifying these rules, or to add rules at the beginning of a game.

Majors

The Official Regulations and Playing Rules of Little League Baseball and the following rules of A.I.S.A. are to be used. In the event of a conflict between the rules, the rules of A.I.S.A. take precedence.

Fields

Size of diamond; 60' between bases, 46' from the front edge of the pitching rubber to the point of the plate.
The home team bench is along first base line.
The home team is responsible for the field layout and bases.
The home team has the field for 15 minutes for warm ups, starting 1/2 hour before the game start time. The visiting team has the field for 15 minutes for warm ups, starting 15 minutes before the game start time. (The home team coach should be at the field at least 45 minutes before game time)
Fields are only to be used as scheduled through the league.
Field use permits issued by the East Irondequoit School District are required to be at the fields at all times during use of the East Irondequoit fields. If a representative from the school district requests to see a permit while the field is in use, and a permit is not provided, the district has the right to direct the players to leave the field.
Both teams are responsible to clean up the fields at the conclusion of use. If trash receptacles are not provided, all trash brought to the field is to be carried out.

Safety

If lightning is seen, or thunder is heard, at any distance from the field, in any direction, the game or practice is to be stopped immediately, and the players removed from the field. This includes lightning or thunder with a blue sky above the field.
Safety (con't)
If both coaches are in agreement, play can be suspended for 15 minutes, (with the players in safe areas), and resume if no additional thunder or lightning occurs. If lightning or thunder occurs after play is resumed, the game or practice is to be cancelled.
A complete first aid kit, including at least two ice packs, or a cooler with ice and plastic bags, is to be brought on to the field (not left in a vehicle nearby) for every game and every practice.
Chemical ice packs are not to be placed directly against bare skin. The coach is responsible to bring a clean towel or other cloth to wrap ice packs in.
The coach is responsible to be able to give clear directions to the field being used in the event of an injury requiring emergency services.
Only the player up to bat, and the on deck batter are to have bats in their hands. Players on double deck are not allowed to hold bats.
All players using bats, (on deck and at the plate), are to be under the direct supervision of an adult at all times.
Players are to wear approved baseball helmets at all times while: on deck, up to bat, and running the bases
If a base runner's helmet falls off during play, and it is probable that the ball will be thrown in the direction of the runner, play is to be stopped immediately. If a base runner's helmet falls off during play, and there does not appear to be any chance of the runner being hit by a thrown ball, play can continue.

Fielding

All normal infield positions, and four outfielders are to be used. The outfielders are to be placed in an arc in the outfield, (left field, left-center, right-center and right; No rover).
To the extent possible, players are to be rotated between infield and outfield positions. No player is to play the outfield all the time.
With the exception of catcher and pitcher, to the extent possible, all players are to be given equal opportunities to play all fielding positions over the course of the season. No player is to play any given position all the time.
The coach is responsible to ensure that a player has the skill necessary to play any given position, especially catcher, before the player is placed at that position. (This is for the safety of the players). When appropriate, the player's parent or guardian should be consulted.
There is no infield fly rule.
Players can only request time out during play. The umpire is the only one who can call time out.
The umpire will not call time out if a runner is still in motion, or if the ball is not in the fielding team's possession with the limits of the infield. The limits of the infield are determined by the umpire.
All players must play at least four innings in the field. The four innings do have to be consecutive.

Pitching

Any player expressing an interest in pitching is to be considered for pitching.
The coach is responsible to ensure that a player has the skill necessary to pitch prior to allowing that player to pitch in a game situation. Necessary skill is defined as having the ability to consistently throw pitches that are in, or close to the strike zone. (Pitches that can reasonably expected to be hit).
Being able to strike batters out consistently is not a requirement for a player to pitch. (Balls put in play by the batter are a good thing).
A player can pitch a maximum of three innings per game, and nine innings in any seven consecutive days.
Once removed during a game, a player cannot return as the pitcher in that game.
A pitcher must be removed if he/she hits three batters in one inning, or four batters total in one game.
A pitcher must be removed if he/she walks six consecutive batters in one inning, or seven total in one inning.
A player is allowed to play any other position after pitching.
One full calendar day of rest (no pitching) is required after three innings of pitching, regardless of the times of the games on consecutive days.
If a player pitches one or two innings, he/she may pitch an additional one or two innings on the next calendar day, but the total innings pitched on the two days cannot exceed three. If a player pitches on two consecutive days, regardless of the number of innings pitched, he/she must rest (no pitching) on the next calendar day.

Batting

The coach is to establish the batting order for each game. All players bat in their designated position during the game, regardless of whether or not they are playing in the field that inning.
No batter is to bat last, or nearly last in the order every game.
Three strikes are an out. Four balls are a walk.
Bunting is allowed.
A team can score a maximum of five runs in any given inning. After the fifth run is scored, the batting team takes the field. This also applies to the last inning. The last inning is not unlimited runs.
If a batter purposely throws a bat or helmet following making an out, that player is to be removed from the game.
A batter does not advance to first base on a dropped or past ball on the third strike.

Base Running

A runner can take as many bases as he/she can make as long as the ball is in fair territory.
One base is awarded on an overthrow that travels out of play.
Runners have to earn bases on overthrown balls that remain in fair or foul territory.
Leading is allowed only after a pitched ball crosses the plate
Sliding is allowed.
Base runners are required to slide for all close plays at the plate. The umpire determines if the play is close.
Stealing is allowed.

Outs

Plays at the plate are allowed.
There is no infield fly rule.
Uniforms
Players and coaches are expected to wear full team uniforms, including team hats, as provided by the league, to all games.
Players may not wear shorts at any time during games or practices.

General

The head coaches are to meet with the umpire prior to the start of every game. The head coach is the only one allowed to approach the umpire during the game. Anyone other than the head coach who approaches the umpire will be asked to leave the playing area.
A team must have a minimum of eight players at the game to start. If a team does not have eight players by fifteen minutes past the scheduled start time of the game, that team forfeits the game. The umpire will determine when the fifteen minutes has elapsed. Once a game is officially forfeited, the team needing players may borrow players from the opposing team to allow a game to be played. Forfeited games are not to be made up.
The umpire will stay for games that have been forfeited, but are played using borrowed players.
Games are intended to be six innings long.
The home team does not bat if they have the lead after 5 ½ innings have been played.
No inning can be started if more than two hours has elapsed since the start time of the game. An inning started before the two hour time limit can be completed if there is sufficient light to allow safe play.
If four complete innings are played, the game will be considered complete. Games delayed before four complete innings are played can be rescheduled. Games less than four innings long that are rescheduled are started over, (first inning, 0 -0 score).
Players may leave and reenter games as necessary.
The home team is responsible for canceling games due to inclement weather after consultation with the visiting team coach. Games that are postponed are to be rescheduled only through the league. Make up games are subject to the availability of fields.
Home teams are responsible to make arrangements for a field, and to reschedule canceled games.
The goal is to play as many games as scheduled, but there is not a minimum number of games required for the season to be considered complete.
All injuries are to be reported to the league within 24 hours. General (con't)
Any incidents at the fields are to be reported to the league within 24 hours.
Abuse of the equipment, un-sportsmanlike conduct, or violation of the rules of the league are grounds for removal of a player or coach from a team.
Coaches are responsible for all their players, player's families and anyone associated with their team. Coaches are expected to request anyone who acts in a manner that is not in the best interest of the players and the game to leave the field.
There is no smoking allowed on or adjacent to any of the fields. There is no smoking allowed anywhere on any school property, including parking lots and other areas not adjacent to the baseball fields, (New York State law).
Official league standings are not maintained. Game scores do not have to be reported to the league.
These rules are to be followed without exception. Coaches are not to agree on ignoring or modifying these rules, or to add rules at the beginning of a game.

Revised 3/20/2001

Softball

I. League

A. Two representatives from each league of the G.R.G.S.A. shall govern the Girls Softball League.

B. Home team will supply umpires.

II. Teams

A. Each team will have one manager, and from 1-3 coaches.

III. Players

A. Girls who will attain the age of 9 prior to August 1 and who will not attain the age of 13 prior to August 1 of the current year are eligible to play. Exceptions may be made with the discretion of the managers.

IV. Schedule

A. The season will start as near as possible to mid May and will end by mid July. The season will start with player evaluation and then team practice.

B. All games are scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m. During the school term, no inning may start after 8:15 p.m. At the end of the school term, no inning may start after 8:30 p.m. The home team has the official time.

C. Each game is 6 innings long. If it rains, an official game is 4 innings, or 3 ½ innings if the home team is ahead.

D. The team designated as the home team has the responsibility of setting up the playing field. Home team will be located on the first base side.

E. The home team will have the field for practice from 6:00-6:15 p.m. and the visitors from 6:16-6:30 p.m.

F. If the game is called due to weather or darkness and three full innings have not be completed, the game will be scheduled on the next date the fields are available. The teams have 48 hours to reschedule the game, which can be rescheduled any time within the season.

G. If the game is to be called due to weather, the commissioners will call each other and decide by 4:45 p.m. if the game is to be cancelled. This will allow the managers to call their own phone tree of players. This should be reviewed to see if an earlier time is required due to the travel time from towns to each field.

H. Commissioners are to reschedule a make-up game within 48 hours after checking their master schedules, and concurring with their team managers.

I. A phone list and e-mail address list is to be made and distributed with the game schedules, as well as the commissioners phone numbers.

V. Playing Fields

A. There will be 60 feet between the bases. There will be 35 feet between home plate and the pitching rubber.

B. The umpires will establish a line that will divide playable and unplayable territory.

C. No alcoholic beverages, smoking, or cursing will be permitted on the playing grounds or surrounding areas.

VI. Equipment

A. Each player shall be in complete uniform (shirt, hat, baseball pants and baseball socks) in order to participate in a game and shirts must be tucked in.

B. Shoes with steel cleats will NOT be permitted.

C. Batting helmets will be worn at all times by the batter, on deck batters, and base runners.

D. Any player who throws a bat or helmet will be warned by the coach. If a second violation occurs in the game by the same player, that player will be ejected from the game.

E. Only bats, balls, and helmets approved by the league will be permitted.

F. No jewelry may be worn.

VII. Team Managers

A. Each manager shall be responsible for the conduct and operation of his team, both at games and at league functions where players participate or attend as a team.

B. Managers and coaches shall be listed with the league. If a manager is unable to attend a game, the regular coach will assume the duties of the manager. If no official representative of the team is able to attend the game, the League Commissioner will appoint a temporary manager for that night.

C. Manager/coaches are encouraged to give instructions to all players.

D. Manager/coaches will be responsible to see that all players not actively engaged in the game are on the bench and are not encroaching on the playable area of the field. If the batting team is in this area and should interfere with an opposing player attempting to field a foul ball, the batter who hit the ball will be called out.

E. Managers will be responsible for keeping records of their own and opposing pitchers. The winning team’s manager must report to an assigned league representative who won and lost the game.

F. The umpire will sign the home team’s scorebook at the completion of the game.

G. It is interference when the base coach at third base or first base touches or holds a runner, physically assisting that runner in returning to or leaving third or first base. The penalty for the interference is the runner is out and the ball is called dead.

H. Managers and coaches will cooperate with other league officials in dispensing information and participation in other league functions.

I. Any manager, coach, or parent not conducting himself in a sportsman-like manner at all times on the playing field or surrounding areas may be ejected from the game by any League Official. Repeated displays of poor sportsmanship will result in the suspension of the individual for the remainder of the season.

J. Coaches are responsible for keeping themselves, their players, and their spectators under control. If abuse of the umpires and/or team members occurs, the umpire will ask the coach to join them in warning the offender that:

1. They will be asked to leave the premises if the abuse continues.

2. If they refuse to leave the premises, the player they are supporting will be suspended and both will be asked to leave the field.

3. In extreme cases, the game may be forfeited to the other team.

If a coach sets a poor example and an umpire ejects them from the game, the incident should be reported by the umpire immediately following the game to the Commissioner of the League, who will determine if further disciplinary action is warranted.

VIII. Pitchers/Catchers

A. Only players on a team ages 9-12 may be used as a pitcher.

B. Pitchers may not pitch more than 3 innings per game. The innings need to be in consecutive order, but once a pitcher throws a pitch, it counts as one inning pitched.

C. Once a pitcher has been removed from the game as a pitcher, they may return to the game in another position, but may not return to the game and pitch, even if they have pitched less than three innings.

D. The coach is allowed two trips to the mound to talk to the pitcher per inning. The coach may not make two visits to the mound while the same batter is at bat.

E. A pitcher is entitled to no more than 5 warm up pitches at the start of each inning.

F. Any pitcher who hits 3 batters in flight in a game must be removed from the game as a pitcher. The player may be re-entered at any other position.

G. If a batter does not make an attempt to get out of the way and is hit by a pitch, a ball will be called, and declared dead.

H. While in the wind up, the pitcher’s foot must remain on the rubber at all times. When the pitcher steps forward she can drag her back foot off the rubber. She may not lift her foot.

I. All catchers must wear long model chest protectors, a catcher’s mask, a helmet with a throat guard, and shin guards.

IX. Umpiring

A. Only umpires and coaches will be allowed to question a call discreetly away from the players.

B. Any League Official has the right to ask anyone to leave the playing field that is showing improper conduct, including abusive or obscene language. In the event that the umpire and coaches cannot agree, the League Commissioner or highest-ranking League Official shall make the determination.

C. The Commissioner will make sure that his managers are familiar with all of the rules pertaining to the game.

D. The umpire and managers will agree on the playable area prior to the start of the game.

E. The decision to stop a game because of the weather will be made by the umpire.

F. Prior to 6:15 p.m., the umpire and coaches from the opposing teams should review the ground rules. Once the ground rules have been reviewed, the coaches should exchange batting orders and the umpire shall start the game.

G. Every umpire is to conduct himself in a manner that is appropriate around young ladies. Each league commissioner will address their internal umpiring group yearly concerning all “Codes of Conduct.”

H. The umpires are regulated within each leagues general rules for disciplinary process, and each umpire will conduct themselves in the utmost professional manner.

I. A game may be forfeited to the opposing team under the following circumstances:

1. A team refuses to start within the 15 minutes of the appointed start time of the game (6:30 p.m.), unless the delay, in the umpire’s judgment, is unavoidable.

2. A team refuses to continue to play, unless the umpire terminated the game.

3. A team refuses to resume play, after the game was halted by the umpire, within 20 minutes after the umpire calls for play to be resumed.

4. A team fails to obey, within a reasonable amount of time, the umpire’s order to remove a player, coach, or a spectator from the game.

5. A team willfully and persistently violates any rules of the game after a warning by the umpire.

6. A team employs tactics designed to delay or shorten the game.

7. A team is unable to or refuses to place at least 8 players in the field. If a game cannot be played because of the inability of either team to place at least 8 players on the field by 6:45 p.m., this shall be grounds for automatic forfeiture.

J. When lightning has occurred, all play will be halted and there will be a 20-minute wait-out period, where if weather permits, play will continue.

X. Playing Rules

A. The team on the playing field will ideally contain ten players. One extra player may be used as a fourth outfielder. At no time will there be more than ten players on the field at once.

B. Stealing is not permitted.

C. Bunting is not allowed.

D. Once the umpire starts the game, the ball is in play unless the umpire calls “time.” No player may be put out, no runners may advance, and no runs may score while “time” has been called. Time out can only be called by the umpire. It can be requested by any infielder in possession of the ball while in the infield. The umpire may or may not honor the request. Time out cannot be requested to stop a play from continuing.

E. On an overthrown ball that goes out of play, the base runner will be awarded the base he was advancing to plus one. If he was holding a base at the time of the overthrow, he will be awarded the next base.

F. The infield fly rule does apply. An infield fly is when the ball is hit in the air in the infield with runners on first and second bases with less than 2 outs. The ball need not be caught for the batter to be out. The umpire must be the one to call it.

G. Each player on a roster will participate in each game defensively for a minimum of three innings.

H. No inning shall start after 8:15 p.m. (until school is out). Completion of an inning constitutes the start of the next inning. An inning already in progress will be completed unless the home team doesn’t need its ups. Regular season games will be allowed to end in ties. Playoff games will not be allowed to end in ties. The home team will keep the official time.

I. Sliding is allowed. Sliding is not mandatory. The player must avoid any collision with the defensive player. The umpire can call the player out if they deem that she interfered with the defensive players. (Judgment Call)

J. FREE Substitution – a player may be taken out of a game and put back into the same game in a later inning.

K. The only players to have a bat in their hand are the batter and the on-deck batter. (Upon the first violation of this rule, the umpire will issue a warning to a manager/coach. Subsequently, when a player other than the batter or the on-deck batter picks up a bat, the umpire will call the batter out.) All other players should be on the bench in their batting order, paying attention to the game. It should be much easier on the coach if there was a parent volunteer to supervise the players on the bench.

L. There are NO intentional walks.

M. Each player who shows up for a game must be placed in the batting order. A player’s turn at bat may not be skipped unless the player is injured or cannot continue to play. Any time a player does not take her regular turn at bat, the umpire and opposing coach must be alerted. A player showing up late must be added to the end of the batting order of the next inning.

N. The batter must have both feet entirely inside the batters box.

O. A batter shall be called out, on appeal, when failing to bat in the proper turn and another batter completes a time at bat. The proper batter may take position in the batters box at any time before the improper batter becomes a runner or is put out, and any balls or strikes shall be continued in the proper player’s time at bat.

When an improper batter becomes a runner or is put out, and the defensive team appeals to the umpire before the first pitch to the next batter, the umpire shall – (1) Declare the proper batter out, and (2) Nullify any advance or score made because of a ball batted by the improper batter. If the defensive team fails to appeal the improper batter to the umpire before the first pitch to the next batter, then the improper batter becomes the proper batter and the results of the time at bat become legal.

When the proper batter is called out for failing to bat in turn, the next batter shall be the batter whose name follows that of the proper batter in the batting order.

P. The strike zone is that space over home plate, which is between the batters armpits and the top of the knees when the batter assumes a natural stance. The umpire shall determine the strike zone according to the batter’s natural stance when the batter swings at a pitch.

A strike is a legal pitch, which meets any of the following conditions:

1. A pitch that is swung at and missed.

2. A pitch that is not swung at by the batter, but which passes through the strike zone.

3. A pitch that is fouled off by the batter when there are less than two strikes.

4. A pitch that hits the batter as the batter swings at the pitch (the ball is declared dead).

5. A pitch that hits the batter while she is in the strike zone or the ball hits the batters bat when she is in the batters box

6. The batter is out if they swing at a pitch on the third strike, whether the catcher holds onto the ball or not.

Q. If a pitch touches the ground and bounces through the strike zone, the pitch shall be called a “ball.” If the batter hits a bounced pitch, it is considered in play and should be treated the same as a pitch that did not bounce.

R. A catch is the act of a fielder getting secure possession and control (in either the hand or the glove) of a ball in flight, before it touches the ground. The fielder may not use the hat, protector, pocket, or any other part of the uniform in getting possession. If a player falls or collides with another player immediately after making contact with the ball, and the fall or collision causes the ball to be dropped, it is not considered a catch.

S. Two runners may not occupy the same base. If while the ball is alive, two runners are touching the same base, the following runner shall be out when tagged. The preceding runner is entitled to the base.

T. The runner is awarded THREE bases if a fielder deliberately throws a glove and touches a fair ball. The runner is awarded THREE bases if a fielder deliberately throws a glove and touches a thrown ball.

U. Obstruction is the act of a fielder who, while not in possession of the ball, impeded the progress of a runner.

V. There are several types of interference:

1. OFFENSIVE Interference is an act by the team at bat, which interferes with, obstructs, impedes, hinders or confuses any fielder attempting to make a play. If the umpire declares a batter or runner out for interference, all other runners shall return to the last base that was, in the judgment of the umpire, legally touched at the time of the interference.

2. DEFENSIVE Interference is an act by a fielder, which hinders or prevents a batter from hitting a pitch.

3. UMPIRE Interference occurs either when an umpire hinders, impedes, or prevents a catcher’s throw, or when a fair ball touches an umpire in fair territory before passing a fielder.

4. SPECTATOR Interference occurs when a spectator reaches out or goes out into fair territory and touches a live ball, the runner, or a player attempting to field the ball.

5. On any type of interference, the ball is dead.

W. A runner is out when they pass a preceding runner before that runner is out.

X. Runners:

1. May overrun first base and return safely as long as they make no attempt to reach second base.

2. Are out when running more than three feet away from a direct line between bases to avoid being tagged, unless such action is to avoid interference with a fielder fielding a batted ball.

Y. There will be a six-run rule per inning (except for the last inning of the game, which will be unlimited) and a 15-run mercy rule after four innings of play at the coach’s discretion. The last inning will be determined by the umpire and agreed by the coaches. Once the last inning is agreed, it cannot be changed.