BSRSA 2009 GENERAL PLAYING RULES Copyright © 2009 Bomani Sports Research, Inc.

I. DEFINITIONS

1) ALTERED BAT: A bat is considered altered when the physical structure of a legal bat has been changed. Examples of altering a bat are; thinning the walls of a bat, repainting the bat removing material inside the bat, or inserting material inside the bat. EFFECT: The ball is dead, the batter is out and base runners may not advance. The batter is ejected for using an altered bat.

2) APPEAL PLAY: A play in which an umpire cannot make a decision until requested by a manager, coach or player. The appeal must be made before the next legal or illegal pitch, or before all fielders (including the pitcher) have left the field (crossed the foul lines). The appealed play does not change the type of out that is being appealed.

3) BALL ROTATION: The umpire will be in control of all ball rotation. If two (2) or more new balls are being used in a game the umpire will rotate the balls as he/she sees fit. Under no circumstances will one team hit a different model of ball than the other team. Also, the umpire will inspect any ball that is added to the game at any time to insure it is legal.

4) BASE PATH: The base path is an imaginary line, 3 feet on either side of a direct line between the bases.

5) BASERUNNER: A player on the team at bat, who has finished his/her batting turn, reached first base, and has not yet been put out.

6) BATTER’S BOX: The area in which the batter is restricted to, while in position to bat. The batter must have both feet entirely within the lines of the box prior to the pitch (the lines are considered to be within the box).

7) BATTER-BASERUNNER: A player who has finished his turn at bat, but has not yet been put out, or touched first base.

8) BATTING ORDER: The batting order is the official lineup of offensive players, listing the order in which team members must come to bat. A lineup card must include each player’s name and defensive position, also the player’s number must be indicated. (also the designation of the extra player(s) when used.)

9) BLOCKED BALL: A live ball that is touched, stopped or handled by a person not engaged in the game; or which touches any object that is not part of the official equipment or playing area.
EFFECT: The ball is dead. See rule VIII, 6 (h) for enforcement.
NOTE: A blocked ball is not called when a live ball strikes a base coach unintentionally.
NOTE: For offensive equipment causing a blocked ball, the runner closest to home plate will be declared out and all other runners must return to the last base touched when the ball becomes blocked.

10) CATCH: A catch is a legally caught ball which occurs when a fielder secures a batted or thrown ball with his/her hand or glove. If the ball is merely held in the fielders arms or prevented from dropping to the ground by some part of the fielders body or clothing, the catch is not complete until the ball is in the grasp of the fielders hand or glove. It is not a catch if a fielder, immediately after he/she contacts the ball, collides with another player or wall (fence), or falls to the ground and drops the ball as a result of the collision or falling to the ground. In establishing a valid catch, the fielder shall have complete control of the ball, and his/her release of the ball is voluntary and intentional. If a player drops the ball while in the act of throwing, it is a valid catch.

11) Chopped Hit Ball: A hit ball that bounces high into the air this is considered a chopped hit ball. The chopping motion should resemble that of chopping a piece of wood lying on the ground.

12) COACH: A member of the team at bat who takes his place in the coach’s box to direct his/her player’s in running, the bases. Two coaches are allowed, one positioned at first base and one positioned at third base. One coach can have in his possession a score book and an indicator, which shall be used for scorekeeping purposes only. The defensive coaches/manager must remain in the dugout, as their normal position, when their team is playing defense. Failure to obey this rule, after a warning is issued, will result in the coach/manager being ejected.

13) DEAD BALL: The ball is not in play and not considered in play again, until the pitcher has the ball in his possession and the umpire has called "play ball".
a) DELAYED DEAD BALL: An infraction, signaled by the umpire, in which the ball remains alive until all play has been completed and time is called by the umpire.

14) FAIR BALL: A fair ball is a batted ball that:
a) Settles on fair territory between home plate and 1st base or home plate and 3rd base.
b) Is on or over fair territory, including any part of 1st and 3rd bases, when bounding toward the outfield, or touches 1st, 2nd or 3rd base.
c) First falls in fair territory beyond 1st or 3rd base.
d) While in or over fair territory, touches the person of any umpire or player.
e) While over fair territory, passes out of the playing field beyond the outfield fence.
(1) NOTE: A fair fly shall be judged according to the relative position of the ball and foul line and not as to the position of the fielder at the time he/she touches the ball. It does not matter whether the ball first touches fair of foul territory, as long as it does not touch anything foreign to the natural ground in foul territory and complies with all other aspects of a fair ball. Home plate is in fair territory.
(2) PLAY (1) Batted ball first hits foul ground, and before being touched, rolls into fair territory between home and 1st where it settles.
(3) RULING: Fair ball

15) FLAGRANT PLAYER OBSTRUCTION: A defensive fielder shall not at anytime flagrantly, impede the batter/runner or runner. PENALTY: Immediate ejection of the defensive player.

16) FORCE OUT: A force out is an out which can be made only when a base runner loses the right to the base he is occupying because the batter becomes a batter-base runner, and before the batter-runner or a succeeding base runner has been put out.

17) FOUL BALL: A foul ball is a batted ball that:
a) Settles on foul territory between home and 1st base or home and 3rd base.
b) Bounds past 1st and 3rd base on or over foul territory.
c) Falls first on foul territory beyond 1st or 3rd base.
d) While on or over foul ground, touches an umpire, player or foreign object to the natural ground.
e) Touches the batter, or bat in the batter’s hand, while within the lines of the batter’s box.
NOTE: A foul fly ball shall be judged according to the relative position of the ball and the foul line, and not the position of the fielder.

18) FOUL TIP: A foul tip is a batted ball which goes directly from the bat, not higher than the batter’s head, to the catcher’s hands and is legally caught by the catcher.
NOTE: If the ball goes higher than the batter’s head, and then is legally caught, the batter is out. If the ball does not go higher than the batter’s head, it is merely a foul ball. A foul tip is a strike.

19) ILLEGAL BAT: An illegal bat is one that does not meet the requirements of Rule III, 1.

20) ILLEGALLY BATTED BALL: An illegally batted ball occurs when:
a) A batter’s entire foot is completely out of the box, on the ground, when he/she hits the ball, fair or foul.
b) Any part of the batter’s foot is touching home plate when he/she hits the ball.
c) The batter hits the ball with an illegal bat.
EFFECT: The opposing team has the option of taking the result of the play or the ball is dead, the batter is out, and baserunners may not advance.

21) ILLEGALLY CAUGHT BALL: Occurs when a fielder catches a batted or thrown ball with his cap, illegal glove or any part of his/her uniform detached from its proper place. See Rule 1, Sec. 10.

22) IN JEOPARDY: A term indicating that the ball is in play and an offensive player may be put out.

23) INFIELD FLY: An infield fly is a fair ball, not including a line drive, which can be caught by an infielder with ordinary effort when 1st and 2nd or 1st, 2nd and 3rd bases are occupied, before 2 are out. Any fielder can catch an infield fly.
NOTE: When it seems apparent that a batted ball will be an infield fly, the umpire shall immediately declare ‘INFIELD FLY – BATTER IS OUT" to aid the runners. If the ball is near the foul lines, the umpire shall declare ‘INFIELD FLY – BATTER IS OUT, IF FAIR". The ball is alive and runners may advance at the risk of the ball being caught, or re-touch and advance after the ball is touched by a fielder. If the hit ball becomes a foul ball, it is treated the same as any other foul ball.

24) INNING: An inning is that portion of a game within which the teams alternate between offense/defense and there are 3 outs for each team.

25) INTERFERENCE: Interference is the act of an offensive player or team member, which impedes or confuses a defensive player while attempting to execute a play. If judged so by the umpire, vocal interference may be called. NOTE: Yelling “BOOT” or other such words while a defensive player is attempting to execute a play is considered vocal interference.

26) LEGAL TOUCH: A legal touch occurs when a runner or batter-runner, who is not touching a base, is touched by the ball while the ball is held securely in a fielders’ hand. The ball is not considered as being securely held if it is juggled or dropped by the fielder after having touched the runner, unless the runner deliberately knocks the ball from the hand of the fielder. It is sufficient for the fielder to touch the runner with the glove, which holds the ball.

27) LEGALLY CAUGHT BALL: A legally caught ball occurs when a fielder catches a batted or thrown ball, provided the ball is not caught in the fielders’ cap, hat, pocket, protector or any other part of his/her uniform. It must be caught and firmly held with the hand or hands.

28) OBSTRUCTION: Obstruction is the act of:
a) A defensive player or team member which hinders or prevents a batter from striking or hitting a pitched ball, or …
b) A fielder, while not is possession of the ball, or in the act of fielding a batted ball, or about to receive a thrown ball, impedes the progress of a base runner who is legally running the bases.

29) OVERSLIDE: An over slide is the act of the offensive player sliding over and beyond a base he is attempting to reach. This is usually caused when his/her momentum causes him/her to lose contact with the base, which then causes him/her to be in jeopardy. The batter-runner may over slide 1st base, without being in jeopardy, if he/she immediately returns to that base.

30) OVERTHROW: An overthrow is a play in which a ball is thrown to retire a runner who has not yet reached, or is off base, and goes into foul territory, beyond the boundary lines of the playing field.

31) QUICK PITCH: A quick pitch is made by the pitcher, with the attempt to catch the batter off balance. This would be before the batter takes his/her position in the batter’s box, or while he/she is still off balance as a result of the previous pitch.

32) STRIKE ZONE: The strike zone is that space over any part of the plate, between the batter’s highest shoulder and his/her front knee, when the batter assumes a natural batting stance positioned at the plate. Where the ball contacts the ground or glove has no bearing on the actual strike zone.

33) THREE FOOT LINE: Is a line parallel to, and three feet from the base line, starting at a point halfway between home plate and 1st base. The batter-base runner is declared out when he/she runs outside the 3 foot line, and in the judgment of the umpire, interferes, intentionally or unintentionally, with the fielder attempting to field a batted ball, or interfering with a thrown ball.

34) TIME: The term used by the umpire to order suspension of play.

35) TURN AT BAT: A player’s turn at bat begins when he enters the batter’s box

II. THE PLAYING FIELD

1) The playing field is the area within which the ball may be legally played and fielded. The playing field shall have a clear and unobstructed area within radius of the prescribed fence distances from home plate between the foul lines.

2) Ground rules or special rules establishing the limits of the playing field may be agreed upon by leagues or opposing teams whenever backstops, fences, stands, vehicles, spectators or other obstructions are within the prescribed area.

3) The playing field layout should include, in addition to marking for foul lines, the following:
a) The three-foot line is drawn parallel to and 3 feet from the base line, starting at a point halfway bat shall not be between home plate and 1st base.
b) The batter’s on-deck circle is a 5-foot circle placed between home plate and 1st base and between home plate and 3rd base.
c) The batter’s box, one on each side of home plate, shall measure 3 feet by 7 feet. The inside lines of the batter’s box shall be 6 inches from home plate. The front line shall be 4 feet in front of the center of the plate. The lines are considered as being in the box.
d) The catcher’s box shall be 10 feet in length from the rear outside corners of the batter’s boxes and shall be 8 feet 5 inches wide.
e) The coaches box is behind a line 15 feet long, drawn outside the diamond. The line is parallel to and 8 feet from the foul lines, extended from the bases toward home plate.
Note: If the any of the listed lines are not present or become indistinguishable the umpire’s judgment will prevail.

4) The official diamond shall have base lines of 65 feet.

5) The official diamond shall have a pitching distance of a minimum 53 feet.

6) If, during the course of any game, the base distance or pitching distance is found to be in error; the error should be corrected immediately, and the game should be continued. This is not a point to be protested.

7) The basic field layout is shown on Figure 1.
 
 

Figure 1. Basic Field Layout

The BNSA reserves the right to approve or reject any softball related equipment for its’ intended use in the BNSA Program. Equipment does not merely need to meet industry standards, but must meet BNSA Standards before approval for its use is granted. The BNSA uses the BNSSF safe/unsafe bat list with respect to bats.

1) The official bat should be made of one piece of wood (hardwood) or formed from a block of wood consisting of two or more pieces of wood bonded together with an adhesive, in such a way, that the grain direction of all pieces is essentially parallel to the length of the bat. Below is a list of additional requirements:
a) No more than 34 inches in length, and no more than 38 ounces in weight and shall not be on the BNSSF UNSAFE list.
b) The bat shall have a safety grip of cork, tape (not smooth plastic type), or combination material.
c) The grip shall not be less than 10 inches long and shall not extend more than 15 inches from the small end of the bat.
d) The bat shall be marked "OFFICIAL SOFTBALL" by the manufacturer.
NOTE: If the words "OFFICIAL SOFTBALL" cannot be read, due to normal wear, the bat shall be declared legal, if in the Umpire’s judgment it is legal in all other aspects.
e) All exposed surfaces of the bat must be smooth and free of burrs, pins, rivets, DENTS, sharp edges or any type of exterior fastener that would present a safety hazard.
f) Unless the bat is made of one-piece construction with the barrel end closed, it should have a rubber or plastic insert in the barrel.
g) A one-piece rubber grip and knob combination is illegal.
h) Metal bats must have a knob on the handle and welded or mechanically fastened.
i) All bats must have a safety knob of a minimum of ¼ inch protruding at a 90-degree angle from the handle. The knob portion of the bat may be taped as long as the bat does not exceed 34 inches in length; however, the umpire may request tape to be removed from both the handle and knob, if there is any question concerning the bat being altered or illegal. After determining the bat legal, the player may tape the bat back to his/her preference, providing the bat meets the requirements set forth by in III, 1, (a-j).
j) Shall be rounded and shall be smooth. And shall not be more that 2-1/4 inches in diameter at its largest part. A tolerance of 1/16 inch is permitted, to allow for expansion on the round bat.
NOTE: Any bat that does not comply with these guidelines, must be removed from the game, and the bat may no longer be used in any BNSA Sanctioned Play.

2) The official softball shall be a smooth seamed, concealed stitched or flat surfaced ball. The center of the ball may be made of either long fiber kapok or mixture of cork and rubber, and or machine wound, with a fine twisted yarn and covered with latex or rubber cement. Or it may be made of other materials approved by the BNSA. The cover of the ball shall be tanned horsehide, cowhide or any other materials approved by the BNSA, cemented to the ball by application of cement to the underside of the cover and sewn with waxed cotton or linen thread. The solid core ball must be stamped: maximum compression 375 pqi, with a co-efficient of no more or no less than .44 stamped on the ball.

3) Gloves may be worn by any player, but mitts may be used only by the 1st baseman. No top lacing, webbing or other device, between the thumb and body of the glove or mitt, worn by any player shall be more than 5 inches in length. Multicolored gloves are acceptable for all players, including the pitcher.

4) Shoes must be worn by all players, coaches and participants. Sandals are considered proper shoes for non-players.  A shoe shall be made with either canvas of leather uppers or similar materials. The sole may be either smooth or have soft or hard rubber or polyurethane cleats. Metal cleats or any type of shoe that has exposed metal on the sole, other than a rivet, may not be worn in any division of play.

5) No equipment shall be left lying on the field, either in foul or fair territory.

6) Uniform.
a) All players on a team shall wear uniforms alike in color and style, i.e. they will have the same logo.
b) A pitcher shall not wear any item on the pitching hand, wrist, arm or thigh, which may be distracting to the batter.
c) Players may wear undergarments under their uniform shirts or shorts. It is not mandatory that all players wear these undergarments, but if worn, they shall not be ragged, frayed or slit on the exposed areas.
d) Numbers must be worn on all uniforms. No players on the same team may wear identical numbers.
e) No jewelry is allowed. Medical alert ID bracelets or necklaces are allowed, but should be worn or taped to the body as not to present a hazard.
f) Casts, (plaster, metal or other hard substances) or other items judged dangerous by the umpire may not be worn during the game.
NOTE: Players should be asked to remove jewelry, and if they fail to do so, that player should be removed from the game. Violation of the jewelry rule is not grounds for protest.

7) Players not in Uniform. The umpire will apply the following penalty for players not in uniform:
a) If a pitcher or catcher is not in uniform a BALL will be called for each pitch thrown while this situation exists.
b) If a fielder, not in uniform touches a live ball the umpire will call dead ball, the batter is awarded first base, and all baserunners advance one (1) base.
c) If a batter enters the batter box not in uniform the batter is called out once the pitcher takes the mound, i.e. prior to any pitch.

The B&N Softball Association has divisions for men and women, and a coed division for both to compete in jointly. The men’s division is specifically for men ages 16 and older, and the women’s division is specifically designed for women ages 16 and older. With the exception of COED division, women may not compete in the men’s program and men may not compete in the women’s program of any division.

1) Sec. 1 A team shall consist of 9 players, 10 players, 11 players, or 12 players depending on the use of one or two “Extra Players” (EP). A maximum of 10 Players of the team in the field may be stationed anywhere on fair territory, except the catcher, who must be in the catcher’s box, and the pitcher, who must be in a legal pitching position at the start of each pitch.
NOTE: A team may start or finish a game with 9 players. A team may never finish a game with more players in the line-up or field than they started with. That is, if a team starts with 9 players, they must finish with 9 players and any players that arrive after the game begins, may only play as a substitute. If a team starts with 10, 11, or 12 players, and a player is removed from the game for any reason and no substitutes are available, that team may continue to play with 9, 10, or 11 players, with the vacated spot in the batting order being declared an out.  If a team starts with 11 or 12 players, and two players are removed from the game for any reason and no substitutes are available, that team may continue to play with 9 or 10 players, with the vacated spots in the batting order being declared an out. If a team starts with 12 players, and three players are removed from the game for any reason and no substitutes are available, that team may continue to play with 9 players, with the vacated spots in the batting order being declared an out. Under no circumstances may a team play with less than 9 players.
a) A team must have the required number of players present in the team area to start or continue a game. Players listed in the starting line-up and not available at game time may be substituted for and re-entered later.
b) Official line-up cards are to be completed and submitted to the official scorer or the umpire at the start of each game. The line-up shall contain the first and last name, position and uniform number of each player.
c) NOTE: If a wrong number is on the line-up card, correct it and continue playing ball with no penalty.
d) All available substitutes should be listed in the designated place by their last name, first name and uniform number.
e) Eligible roster members may be added to the available substitute list any time during the game.

2) Extra Player(s) (EP):
a) Any team may use two (2) Extra Players per game.
b) An extra player, referred to as the "EP", may be used by a team provided it is made known prior to the start of the game, and his/her name and uniform number is indicated on the lineup sheet or scoresheet.
c) The "EP" must remain in the same position in the batting order for the entire game.
d) The "EP" may play defense at any time without his/her status being affected. He/she may go in and out of the defensive lineup as often as needed, as long as his/her position in the official batting order is not altered.
e) The "EP" may be substituted for at any time, with the substitute becoming the new "EP". The substitute must be a player who has not been in the game.

3) Any of the starting players may be withdrawn from the game and re-entered once (including the starting "EP"), provided that the players occupy the original position in the batting order whenever in the game.
NOTE: The original player and his/her substitute cannot be in the game at the same time.
a) Violation of the re-entry rule results in the use of an ineligible player. Penalty shall be the immediate ejection of the ineligible player when the violation is brought to the attention of the umpire, by the offended team.
b) Violation of the re-entry is handled as a protest, which can be made anytime during the game.

4) A team must have the required number of players to start or continue a game. Requirements are:
a) Nine (9) players, minimum.
b) When a team is left with a vacant spot in the lineup, because of the removal of a player, the opposing team may not, with 2 outs, intentionally or unintentionally walk the previous batter, in order to get to the "AUTOMATIC OUT" created by the vacant spot in the batting order. If the previous batter is walked, the vacant spot in the batting order is skipped, the "AUTOMATIC OUT" is waived, and the next batter is the player whose name follows the vacant spot in the batting order. This only applies when there are two (2) outs.

5) A player shall be officially in the game when his/her name has been entered on the official score sheet, or has been announced. The following regulations govern the substitution of players:
a) The manager, or team representative, shall notify the plate umpire at the time a substitute enters the game. Failure to notify the umpire of a substitution would create an illegal substitution. with the penalty – Result: Immediate ejection from the game whenever the infraction is discovered.
NOTE: Re-entry is considered a substitution and if an illegal entry occurs, the penalty is the immediate ejection of the ineligible player.
b) Substitute players will be considered in the game as follows:
c) If a batter, when he/she takes his/her place in the batter’s box.
d) If a fielder, when he/she takes the place of the fielder he/she is substituting.
e) If a runner, when he/she replaces the player on the base he/she is holding.
f) If a pitcher, when he/she takes his/her place on the pitcher’s mound.
g) Each pitcher (starter or substitute) must pitch until the first batter facing him/her has completed his/her turn at bat, the side has been retired or he/she has been removed from the game. A pitcher removed from the game, by rule or ejection, is not subject to this rule 5 (c). Any other player may be removed from the game at any time.
h) A player substituted for in the game shall not participate in the games, except as a coach.
EXCEPTION: The starting lineup, including the "EP" may re-enter once.
NOTE: Any player participating in any BNSA Sanctioned Event, must be physically able to participate. By physically able, the player must be able to walk on and off the field and play the game as intended. This is intended to keep injured people from further injury.
NOTE: A players correct name supersedes error, if an incorrect number has been entered on the score sheet.

6) Blood rule:
a) When a player is bleeding, or has an open wound, the bleeding must be stopped and the open wound covered with a bandage/dressing strong enough to withstand the rigors of competition. This treatment must be immediate and a suspension of play for a *reasonable amount of time will be awarded the team. Should the treatment of this wound exceed a *reasonable amount of time, the affected player must be substituted for. If no substitute is available, the team may play on with  a minimum of 9 players until the effected player can continue, with all penalties as set forth by Rule 4, Sec. 1 in affect. When the affected player can continue, he may re-enter the line-up. Return to play will be determined by appropriate medical personnel or the home plate umpire. Any player whose uniform is saturated with blood, regardless of the source, must follow the same guidelines as stated above, for a person bleeding and must have that uniform changed, if determined necessary, before returning to the game.
NOTE: A reasonable amount of time will be determined by the home plate umpire, and will be no less than 5 minutes. Soiled clothing must be changed, and the change of clothing need not be matching team clothing. This is not a point of protest.

It is the option of the league director to either use or not use an official scorekeeper. If an official scorekeeper is not used, the home team will be the official score and it is the obligation of the visiting team to verify the score at the end of each half inning.

1) No alcoholic beverages will be allowed in the dugouts or on the field during any BNSA Sanctioned Event.

2) The choice of the first or last bat in the inning shall be decided by the toss of a coin unless otherwise stated in the rules of the league under which the game is being played.

3) The fitness of the grounds for a game shall be decided solely by the home plate umpire.

4) A regulation game shall consist of seven (7) innings: A regulation game officially begins when the defensive team has taken the field and the umpire indicates (verbally or physically) play ball.
EXCEPTION: The BNSA will use the 15 run rule in all League Play. If one team is 15 or more runs ahead after 5 or more innings, or if the home team is ahead by 15 or more runs after the visiting team bats in the 5th or 6th innings, the team with the 15 run lead shall be the winner. NOTE: If the home team is trailing, by any number of runs, they get to bat in their half of the inning.
a) A game that is tied at the end of seven innings, shall be continued by playing additional innings; or until the home team has scored more runs in their half of the inning before the third out is made.
b) The umpire is empowered to call a game at any time because of darkness, rain, fire, panic or other causes which places the patrons or players in peril.
c) These provisions do not apply to any acts on the part of the players or spectators which might call for the forfeiture of the game. The umpire may forfeit the game if attacked physically by any team member or spectator.
d) The umpire may forfeit a game in favor of a team not at fault in the following cases:
e) If a team fails to appear on the field, or being on the field refuses to begin a game at the time the team is scheduled to play, or within a time set for forfeitures (grace period) by the league in which the team is playing.
f) If after the game has started, one team refuses to continue play unless the game has been suspended or terminated by the umpire.
g) If after the game has been suspended by the umpire, one side fails to resume playing within two minutes after the umpire has called "play ball".
h) If a team uses tactics to delay or to hasten the game.
i) If, after being warned by the umpire, any one of the rules is willfully violated.
j) If the order for the removal of a player or manager/coach, from the game, is not obeyed within one minute.
k) If because of the removal of a player by the umpire, or for any reason, there are less than 9 players on the team.
l) Games that are not considered regulation or official shall be replayed from the beginning. Original lineups may be changed when the game is replayed.
m) NOTE: Players not listed in the lineups and not available at game time, may be substituted for.
n) In the event that a league cannot be completed, an official game may be called after 5 innings of play or 4 ½ innings of play, if the home team is ahead.

5) The winner of the game shall be the team that scores the most runs in a regulation game. The score of a called regulation game shall be the score at the end of the last complete inning, unless the home team has scored more runs than the visiting team in the incomplete inning. In this case, the score shall be that of the incomplete inning.

6) A run shall not be scored if the third out of the inning is a result of:
a) The batter being put out before legally touching 1st base.
b) A baserunner being forced out due to the batter becoming a baserunner.
c) A baserunner-leaving base before a pitched ball reaches home plate or before the pitched ball is batted.
d) An appeal play at 1st base on the batter/runner for the 3rd out of the inning.

7) No succeeding runner shall score a run when a preceding runner has been declared the third out of an inning.

8) A baserunner shall not score a run ahead of the baserunner preceding him/her in the batting order, if the preceding runner has not been put out.

9) Player Eligibility/Rosters
a) No more than twenty (20) players per roster.
b) Players are eligible for adult division play once they have reached their sixteenth (16th) birthday.

10) Home run limits for Leagues: (Any untouched ball hit over the fence) NOTE: These are recommended limits, leagues are encouraged to set limits that reflect the consensus of the teams playing in the league.
a) Class A  - Unlimited
b) Class B - Four (4) and 1 up1,2.
c) Class C - Two (2) and 1 up1,2.
d) Class D - One (1) and 1 up1,2.
e) Class E Zero1.
1 A penalty home run rule is in effect. Once a team reaches its home run limit, a batter is out for any additional home runs hit over the team’s limit.
2 The one-up home run rule is in effect. Once both teams have reached their respective home run limits, either team may hit an additional home run; however, no team may ever go more than one home run up on the other team. Any additional home runs above the one-up will be scored as an out. EXCEPTION: The home team, in the bottom of the 7th or later innings, may hit one home run to pull even in the number of home runs as the opposing team, but may not hit a home run to go one up.

11) Any ball touched by a defensive player, which then goes over the fence in fair territory, shall not be included in the total of over-the-fence home runs.

1) Pitcher’s Rubber: The pitchers rubber will be 24 inches wide and placed 53 feet from home plate.

2) The Pitcher shall take a position with one or both feet in contact with the pitcher’s plate.
a) Preliminary to pitching, the pitcher must come to a full stop with the ball held in the pitching hand or both hands, in front of the body.
b) This position must be maintained at least one (1) second and not more than six (6) seconds before making the delivery.

3) The pitch starts when the pitcher makes any motion that is part of his/her wind-up, after the required pause. Prior to the required pause, any wind up may be used. At least one (1) foot must remain in contact with the pitcher’s rubber until the ball leaves the hand.
a) It is not necessary to step, but if a step is taken, the step may be forward, backward or sideways, as long as the ball remains within six (6) inches of the hip.

4) A legal delivery shall be delivered with an underhand motion.
a) The pitch shall be released at a moderate speed. The speed is left up to the judgement of the umpire, who shall warn the pitcher who delivers a pitch with excessive speed. If the pitcher repeats such an act after being warned, he/she shall be removed from the pitcher’s position for the remainder of the game.
b) The hand shall be below the hip.
c) The ball must be delivered with an arc and reach a height of at least 6 feet from the ground, while not exceeding a maximum height of 12 feet from the ground. These are the recommended arc limits, league rules can supercede these arcs.
d) The catcher must remain behind the plate until the pitched ball reaches the plate or until the ball is batted.
e) The catcher shall return the ball directly to the pitcher after each pitch, except after a strike out or put out made by the catcher. The pitcher has ten (10) seconds to release the next pitch.
EFFECT: An additional "BALL" is awarded to the batter if the pitch is not released within six (6) seconds.
f) Any action or motion, by the pitcher (i.e. stops or pauses in the pitching motion or fakes a pitch or any other illegal action prior to the release of the pitch) while on or off the pitching rubber shall result in a dead ball. EFFECT: Dead ball, a “ball” shall be called on the batter and a warning issued to the pitcher, that a similar act will be grounds for removal from the pitching position. These acts are considered illegal pitching actions, and are not to be considered illegal pitches.

5) Sec. 4 The pitcher may use any wind-up desired providing:
a) He/she does not make any motion to pitch without immediately delivering the ball to the batter, whether on or off the pitching rubber.
b) His/her wind-up is a continuous motion.
c) He/she does not use a windup in which there is a stop or reversal of the forward motion.
d) He/she delivers the ball on the first forward swing of the pitching arm past the hip.
e) He/she does not pitch the ball behind his/her back or between his/her legs.
NOTE: a-e are illegal pitching actions. Refer to Rule 6, Sec. 3f EFFECT: Sec. 1 – 7 is an illegal pitch and the ball is dead. A ball shall be called on the batter and baserunners do not advance.
EXCEPTION: If a batter strikes at any illegal pitch, it shall be a strike and there shall be no penalty. The ball remains in play if hit by the batter.
NOTE: The umpire shall not or will not give a vocal warning, or a delayed dead ball signal, to the batter on an illegally pitched ball. An umpire will declare "Dead Ball, No Pitch" on any illegal pitching action. These are illegal actions by the pitcher, prior to the release of the pitched ball. A pitched ball that hits the ground or home plate is a dead ball and may not be hit by the batter.

6) The pitcher shall not:
a) Deliberately drop, roll or bounce the ball to the batter, either on or off the pitching rubber.
b) At any time during the game, be allowed to use tape or other substances upon the ball, the pitching hand or fingers; nor shall any other player apply a foreign substance to the ball. Under the supervision of the umpire, powdered resin may be used to dry the hands. The pitcher may wear a sweatband on the pitching hand (wrist or above).

7) At the beginning of each half inning or when a pitcher relives another, not more than 1 minute may be used to deliver not more than 3 pitches to the catcher or other teammate. Play shall be suspended during this time.

8) No pitch shall be declared when:
a) The pitcher pitches during the suspension of play.
b) The runner is called out for leaving the base too soon.
c) The pitcher pitches before a base runner has retouched his/her base after a foul ball and the ball is dead.
d) The ball slips from the pitcher’s hand during his/her wind-up or during the back swing.
e) No player, manager or coach shall call "Time", employ any other word or phrase, or commit any act while the ball is alive and in play for the obvious purpose of trying to make the pitcher commit an illegal pitch.
EFFECT: No pitch shall be declared and a warning issued to the offending team. A repeat of this type of act shall result in the offender being removed from the game.

9) At no time during the game shall an offensive or defensive player or coach be allowed to leave their positions on the field or come from the dugouts to argue whether a pitch was a strike or a ball. The three players involved (pitcher, catcher, batter) may be allowed to question balls or strikes. NOTE: Anyone other than the pitcher, catcher or batter that leaves his/her positions on the field or the dugout to question balls and strikes, will be immediately ejected.
 

1) Sec. 1 The batter shall take his position within the lines of the batter’s box. If no batter box is marked the umpire’s judgment is used.
a) The batter shall not have his/her entire foot touching the ground completely outside the lines of the batter’s box or touching home plate when the ball is hit.
b) The batter shall not step directly across in front of the catcher to the other side of the batter’s box while the pitcher is in position to pitch.
EFFECT: 1, (a-b) The ball is dead, the batter is out, baserunners may not advance.
c) The batter shall not enter the batter’s box with an illegal bat.
EFFECT: The opposing team has the option of taking the result of the play or the ball is dead, the batter is out and baserunners may not advance.
d) The batter shall not enter the batter’s box with an altered bat.
EFFECT: The ball is dead, the batter is out, and without warning, is ejected from the game. Baserunners may not advance.
e) The batter must take his/her position within six (6) seconds after the umpire has called "play ball". He/she must have both feet within the lines of the box before the start of the pitch. He/she may touch the line, but no part of his/her foot may be outside of the lines prior to the pitch.
EFFECT: The ball is dead. The umpire will call a strike on the batter, also issue a warning to the batter to take his position or risk being called out. If the batter refuses to take his/her position after the warning, he/she will be called out. The warning will be given to a batter only one time per game. Any repeated violation during the game by that player, will result in an out being called. This rule is intended to help speed up the play of the game, and umpires, while using good judgment in enforcement of the rule, must prohibit the batter from delaying the game by taking an excessive or unnecessary amount of time entering the batter’s box.

2) Each player of the side at bat shall become a batter in the order in which his/her name appears on the score sheet. The batting order of each team must be on the score sheet and delivered by the manager or captain, to the home plate umpire. The batting order must be followed throughout the entire game, unless a player is substituted for. When this occurs, the substitute must take the place of the player he/she is replacing in the batting order. The first batter in each inning shall be the batter whose name follows that of the last player who completed a turn at bat in the preceding inning.
EFFECT: Batting out of order is an appeal play, which may be made by the defensive team only.
a) If the error is discovered while the incorrect batter is at bat, the correct batter takes his/her place and legally assumes any balls and strikes.
b) If the error is discovered after the incorrect batter has batted, and before the next pitch to the following batter, the player who should have batted is out. Any advance or score made because of a batted ball by the improper batter’s advance to 1st base on a hit, error or a base on balls shall be nullified. The next batter is the player whose name follows that of the player called out for failing to bat.
c) If the error is discovered after the first pitch to the next batter, the turn at bat of the incorrect batter is legal, all runs scored and bases run are legal and the next batter shall be the one whose name follows that of the incorrect batter. No one is called out for failure to bat. Players who have not batted and who have not been called out have lost their turn at bat until reached again in the regular order.
d) No baserunner shall be removed from the base he/she is occupying to bat in his/her proper place. He/she merely misses his/her turn at bat with no penalty. The batter following him/her in the batting order becomes the legal batter.
e) When the third out of the inning is made before the batter has completed his/her turn at bat, he/she shall be the first batter in the next inning and shall have the ball and strike count on him/her canceled.

3) Members of the team at bat shall not interfere, either physically or vocally, with a player attempting to field either a fair or foul ball. This includes a base coach.
NOTE: Yelling “BOOT” or other such words while a defensive player is attempting to execute a play is considered vocal interference. EFFECT: The ball is dead, the batter is out, and baserunners may not advance.

4) The batter shall not hit a fair ball a second time with theont>
e) When the third out of the inning is made before the batter has completed his/her turn at bat, he/she shall be the first batter in the next inning and shall have the ball and strike count on him/her canceled.

3) Members of the team at bat shall not interfere, either physically or vocally, with a player attempting to field either a fair or foul ball. This includes a base coach.
NOTE: Yelling “BOOT” or other such words while a defensive player is attempting to execute a play is considered vocal interference. EFFECT: The ball is dead, the batter is out, and baserunners may not advance.

4) The batter shall not hit a fair ball a second time with the bat in fair territory.
EFFECT: The ball is dead, the batter is out and baserunners may not advance. NOTE: If the batter drops the bat and the ball rolls against the bat in fair territory, and in the umpires judgement, there was no intention to interfere with the course of the ball, the batter is not out and the ball is alive and in play.

5) A STRIKE is called by the umpire:
a) For each legally pitched ball entering the strike zone before touching the ground and at which the batter does not swing. It is not a strike if the ball touches home plate and is not swung at.
b) For each pitched ball swung at and missed by the batter.
c) For each foul ball not legally caught, including the 3rd strike.
NOTE: A foul ball after the batter already has two (2) strikes is an out.
d) For each pitched ball swung at and missed which touches any part of the batter.
e) When any part of the batter’s person is hit with his/her own batted ball, when he/she is in the batter’s box, and he/she has less than two strikes.
f) When a pitched ball hits the batter while the ball is in the strike zone.
NOTE: A pitched ball that hits the ground or home plate is a dead ball and may not be hit by the batter.

6) A BALL is called by the umpire:
a) For each pitch, which does not enter the strike zone or touches home plate and which is not struck by the batter swung at by the batter.
b) For each illegally pitched ball.
c) When a pitch hits the batter outside of the strike zone.
d) When the catcher fails to return the ball directly to the pitcher.
e) When the pitcher fails to pitch within six (6) seconds.
f) For each excessive warm-up pitch.
g) When the pitcher attempts a quick return pitch, the pitcher shall be given a warning.

7) A FAIR ball is a legally batted ball which:
a) Settles or is touched on fair ground between home and 1st or home and 3rd.
b) Bounds past 1st or 3rd base on or over fair ground.
c) Touches 1st, 2nd or 3rd base.
d) While on or over fair ground, touches the person or clothing of an umpire or player.
e) First falls on fair ground beyond 1st or 3rd base. A fair fly ball must be judged according to relative position of the ball and the foul line, regardless of whether the fielder is on fair or foul ground at the time he/she touches the ball.
EFFECT: VII, 7, (a-e). The ball is in play and baserunners are entitled to advance any number of bases with liability to be put out. The batter becomes a baserunner unless the infield fly rule applies.
f) While on or over fair ground, lands behind a fence or into a stand beyond the outfield fence. This is a home run, if home runs are available.
g) Hits a foul pole on the fly. If the ball hits the pole above the fence level, it shall be a home run, if home runs are available.

8) A FOUL ball is a legally batted ball which:
a) Settles on foul ground between home and 1st base or between home and 3rd base.
b) Bounds past 1st or 3rd base on or over foul ground.
c) First touches on foul ground beyond 1st or 3rd base.
d) While on or over foul ground, touches the person or clothing of an umpire or player, or it is blocked.
EFFECT: VII, 8, (a-d). The ball is dead. A strike is called on the batter for each foul ball, including the third strike. Baserunners must return to their bases without liability to be put out. Baserunners may not advance on a third strike foul ball, including a legally caught foul fly; however, all runners may advance on any other legally caught foul fly.

9) The batter is OUT:
a) When the 3rd strike is struck at, missed even if it touches any part of the batter’s person.
b) When a batter appears in the batter’s box with, or is discovered using an altered bat, prior to or after hitting the ball. The batter is also ejected from the game for using an altered bat.
c) When a fly ball is legally caught.
d) Immediately when he/she hits an infield fly, and the umpire has declared "Infield Fly". Refer to rule I, 23.
e) If a fielder intentionally drops, or lets drop, a fair fly ball, including a line drive, which can be caught by an infielder with ordinary effort with 1st, 1st & 2nd, 1st & 3rd or 1st, 2nd & 3rd bases occupied with less than 2 outs.
EFFECT: Rule 7, Sec. 9 e. The ball is dead, the batter is out and baserunners must return to the last base touched at the time of the pitch. This does not apply to an infield fly; the dropped ball remains alive on an infield fly.
NOTE: A trapped ball shall not be considered as having been intentionally dropped.
f) If a preceding runner, in the umpire’s judgement, intentionally interferes with a fielder who is attempting to catch a thrown ball, or is attempting to throw a ball in an attempt to complete a play, the preceding runner and the batter are both declared out.
g) When the batter bunts or chops the ball downward. See rule I, 11)
h) Any batter-runner that carries the bat and legally reaches or touches first base, while still holding the bat, during a live ball situation, will be declared out. Should this be the 3rd out of an inning, no preceding runner shall score.
EFFECT: If less than two (2) outs, a delayed ball signal will be given and the ball will remain alive.
i) On a third strike foul ball.
j) When hit by his/her own batted ball, in fair territory, outside the batter’s box.

10) The batter or base runner is not out if a fielder making a play on him/her uses an illegal glove. The manager of the offended team has the option of having the batter bat over and assuming the ball and strike count he/she had prior to the pitch he/she hit (baserunner return), or taking the result of the play. The umpire(s) will signal a delayed dead ball.

11) On-deck batter:
a) The on-deck batter is the offensive player whose name follows the name of the batter in the batting order.
b) The on-deck batter shall take a position within the lines of the on-deck circle nearest his/her bench.
c) The on-deck batter may loosen up with two official softball bats, an official warm-up bat, or the player may use the Power Wrap, Worth WBS, H & B BW1 or any other official warm-up bat or product that has been approved by the BNSA. Nothing else may be attached, such as a donut, fan etc. when loosening up.
d) The on-deck batter may leave the on-deck circle when he/she becomes the batter, or to direct baserunners advancing from 3rd base to home plate.
e) When the on-deck batter interferes with the defensive players’ opportunity to make a play on a runner, the runner closest to home plate, at the time of the interference, is declared out. The provision of rule VII, 3 shall apply to the on-deck batter.

1) 1st base double base – At facilities that use the safety bag at first base, the following rules will be implemented.
a) If the first play is at first base, either from the infield or outfield, a runner will be called out for touching the inside base.
b) If the play is elsewhere, the inside base may be tagged in a continuation toward second (2nd) base.
c) The runner running toward first (1st) base may cross over to the inside bag to avoid a collision if a wild throw occurs.
d) The inside bag will be used by the batter/runner/runner if attempting to get back to first (1st) base.

2) The baserunner must touch bases in legal order; that is 1st, 2nd 3rd and Home Plate.
a) When a baserunner must return to bases while the ball is in play, he/she must touch the bases in reverse order.
EFFECT: The ball is in play and baserunners must return with liability to be put out.
b) When a baserunner acquires the right to a base, by touching it before being put out, he/she may hold the base until he/she has legally touched the next base in order, or is forced to vacate it for a succeeding runner.
c) When a runner dislodges a base from its proper position neither, he/she nor the succeeding runners in the same series of plays are compelled to follow a base unreasonably out of position. The ball is in play and runners may advance with liability of being put out.
d) A baserunner may not run the bases in reverse order, either to confuse the fielders, or to make a travesty of the game.
EFFECT: The ball is dead and the runner is out. NOTE: A runner in a double play situation, who stops or retreats back towards the base left, is not to be considered as running the bases in reverse order or considered making a travesty of the game.
e) Two baserunners may not occupy the same base simultaneously.
EFFECT: The runner who first legally occupied the base is entitled to it. The other runner may be put out by being touched with the ball.
f) Failure of a preceding runner to touch a base or to leave a base legally on a caught fly ball, and who is declared out, does not affect the status of a succeeding runner who touches the bases in proper order; however, if the preceeding runner were to be called out for the 3rd out of the inning, no succeeding runner may score a run.
g) No runner may return to touch a missed base, or one left illegally, after a following runner has scored.
h) When the ball is dead, no runner may return to touch a missed base, a base he/she has left illegally, even after the ball becomes alive. However, when a dead ball occurs, a runner may return to a missed base or a base he/she left illegally, if he/she is required to by the umpire in the awarding or determination of bases. The runner is not liable to be put out for missing a base beyond the base he/she is required to by the umpire in the awarding or determination of the bases. The runner is not liable to be put out for missing a base beyond the base he/she is required to return to.
i) No runner may return to touch a missed base or one left illegally once he/she enters his/her dugout or bench area.
j) When four (4) balls have been called by the umpire, or when a walk is issued, all runners must touch all bases in legal order. Baserunners do not advance unless forced.
k) Bases left too soon on a caught fly ball must be retouched before advancing to awarded bases. Awarded bases must also be touched in proper order.

3) The batter becomes a batter-baserunner:
a) As soon as he/she hits the ball.
b) When four (4) balls have been called by the umpire. The ball is dead. Baserunners do not advance unless forced. A batter may be intentionally walked by merely notifying the umpire. A second intentional walk cannot be administered until the first walked batter reaches 1st base.
c) When the catcher or any other fielder obstructs or hinders the batter from striking at or hitting a pitched ball.
EFFECT: The umpire will signal "delayed dead ball". The offensive team manager has the option of taking the base awarded the batter for catcher’s obstruction, or he/she may take the result of the play. If the batter reaches 1st base safely and all other runners advance at least one base on the batted ball, catchers obstruction is cancelled and no other options are given.
d) When a fair ball strikes the umpire or baserunner on fair ground. If the ball hits the umpire or baserunner after passing an infielder, other than the pitcher or touches an infielder, including the pitcher, the ball is in play.
e) If the ball hits the umpire or baserunner before passing an infielder, the ball is dead and the batter is entitled to 1st base without liability of being put out. Runners not forced by the batter-runner must return.

4) Basaerunners are entitled to advance with liability to be put out.
a) When the ball is thrown into fair territory or foul territory and is not blocked.
b) When the ball is batted into fair territory and is not blocked.
c) When a legally caught fly ball is first touched.
d) If a fair ball strikes an umpire or a runner after passing an infielder other than the pitcher, or having been touched by an infielder, including the pitcher, the ball shall be in play.

5) A player forfeits his/her exemption from liability to be put out.
a) If, while the ball is in play, he/she fails to touch the base he/she is entitled to before attempting to make the next base. If the runner put out is the batter-runner at 1st base or any other runner forced to advance because of the batter-runner at 1st base, or any other runner, forced to advance because of the batter-runner, this is a force out.
b) If, after over running 1st base, the batter-runner attempts to continue to the next base.
c) If, after dislodging the base, the batter-runner attempts to continue to the next base.

6) Baserunners are entitled to advance without liability to be put out:
a) When forced to vacate a base because the batter was awarded a base on balls. The ball is dead.
b) When a fielder obstructs a baserunner from making a base, unless the fielder is trying to field a batted ball, has the ball ready for a tag or is about to receive a thrown ball.
EFFECT: When obstruction occurs, the umpire shall call and signal obstruction.
c) If play is being made on the obstructed runner, or if the batter-runner is obstructed before reaching 1st base, the ball is dead and all runners advance without liability to be put out, to the bases they would have reached, in the umpire’s judgement, if there had been no obstruction.
EXCEPTION: A baserunner obstructed in a run down shall be awarded the lead base at the time of the obstruction. Any proceeding runners, forced to advance by the award of bases for obstruction, shall advance without liability to be put out.
d) If no play is being made on the obstructed runner at the time of obstruction, the play shall proceed until the play is completed. The umpire shall call "time" and impose such penalties, if any, as in his judgement, will nullify the act of obstruction.
e) If a fielder, without the ball, fakes a tag, the umpire may award the obstructed runner and each other runner affected by the obstruction, the bases they would have reached, had there been no obstruction.
NOTE: In the case of a "fake tag", the fielder will be automatically ejected from the game.
f) When forced to vacate a base because the batter was awarded a base for catchers obstruction.
g) When a fielder contacts or catches a batted or thrown ball with his/her cap, glove or any part of his/her uniform while detached from its proper place.
NOTE: The umpire(s) will signal "delayed dead ball". EFFECT: The runner shall be entitled to three (3) bases if a batted ball or two (2) bases if a thrown ball. In either case runners may advance further at their own risk. If the illegal act was made on a fair ball that, in the judgement of the umpire, would have cleared the outfield fence in flight, a home run shall be awarded.
h) When the ball is in play and is overthrown (beyond the boundary lines), or is blocked.
EFFECT: Awarded bases shall be determined by the position of the baserunners at the time of the infraction.
EFFECT: For offensive equipment causing a blocked ball, the player closest to home plate is declared out, and all other runners must return to the last base touched when the ball becomes blocked.
i) The ball is dead. In all cases where a thrown ball goes into the spectators seats, goes over, through or under any fence surrounding the playing field; hits any person or object not engaged in the game; goes into the players benches, including bats lying near benches, whether the ball rebounds onto the playing field or not, or remains in the meshes of any wire screen, each and every baserunner shall be awarded two (2) bases When the first throw is made by an infielder, two (2) bases shall be awarded. The award shall be governed by the position of each runner at the time the pitch was made; however, if all runners, including the batter-runner, have advanced at least one (1) base when the infielder makes the wild throw, on the first play after a pitch, the award shall be governed by the position of the runners, when the wild throw was made.
j) When a throw is made by an outfielder, or is the result of any succeeding play or attempted play, the two (2) base award shall be governed by the position of each runner and the last base he/she has touched at the time the throw was made. If two runners are between the same base, the award is based on the position of the lead runner.
k) When a fielder loses possession of the ball, such as on an attempted tag, and the ball enters a dead ball area or becomes blocked, all runners are awarded one (1) base from the last base touched at the time the ball entered the dead ball area or became blocked. If a runner touches the next base and returns to his/her original base, the original base he/she left, is considered the "last base touched" for the purposes of an over throw award.
l) When a fair ball bounds or rolls into a stand; over, under or through a fence; bounds out of play unintentionally off a defensive player or other obstruction marking the boundaries of the playing field.
EFFECT: Rule VIII, 5, f. The ball is dead and all baserunners are awarded two (2) bases from the time of the pitch.
m) When a live ball is unintentionally carried by a fielder from playable territory into a dead ball area, the ball becomes dead. All baserunners are awarded one base from the last base touched at the time the fielder enters dead ball territory. If, in the judgement of the umpire, a fielder intentionally carries a live ball into dead ball territory, the ball becomes dead and all baserunners are awarded two (2) bases from the last base touched at the time he/she entered the dead ball area.
NOTE: A fielder carrying a live ball into the dugout or team area, to tag a player, is considered to have intentionally carried it there. A dead ball line is considered in play.

7) A baserunner must return to his/her base:
a) When a foul ball is illegally caught and so declared by the umpire.
b) When the umpire declares an illegally batted ball.
c) When a batter or baserunner is called out for interference. Other baserunners shall return to the last base touched at the time of the interference.
d) When a pitched ball that is swung at and missed touches any part of the batters’ person.
e) When a foul ball is not caught.
EFFECT: VIII, 7, (a-e). The ball is dead and baserunners must return to base except when forced by the batter becoming a baserunner. Baserunners need not touch the intervening bases in returning, but must return promptly; however, they must be allowed sufficient time to return.

8) The Batter-baserunner is out:
a) When, after hitting a fair ball, he/she is legally touched with the ball before he/she touches 1st base.
b) When, after hitting a fair ball, the ball is held by a fielder touching 1st base with any part of his/her person, before the batter-baserunner touches 1st base.
c) When, after a fly ball is hit, the ball is caught by a fielder before it touches the ground or any object other than a fielder.
d) When, after hitting a fair ball or a base on balls is awarded, he/she fails to advance to 1st base and enters his/her team area.
EFFECT: Rule VIII, 8, (a-d). The ball is in play and the batter-runner is out.
e) When he/she runs outside the 3 foot line, and in the judgement of the umpire, interferes with the fielder taking the throw at 1st base; however, he/she may run outside the 3 foot line to avoid a fielder attempting to field a batted ball.
f) When he/she interferes with a fielder attempting to field a batted ball, or intentionally interferes with a thrown ball. If the interference, in the judgement of the umpire, is an obvious attempt to prevent a double play, the baserunner closest to home plate shall be called out.
g) When a batter-runner interferes with a play at home in an attempt to prevent an obvious out at home plate, the runner is also out.
h) When he/she moves back towards home plate to avoid or delay a tag by a fielder.
i) When he/she is discovered using an altered or illegal bat.
EFFECT: Rule VIII, 8, (e-i). The ball is dead and the batter-runner is out. Other baserunners must return to the last base legally touched at the time of the illegal action.

9) The baserunner is out:
a) When, in running to any base, he/she runs more than 3 feet from a direct line between that base and the next base in regular or reverse order to avoid being touched by the ball in the hand of a fielder. When a play, such as a rundown, is made on a runner who has "rounded" a base, and that runner is outside of a direct line between bases, the runner establishes his/her baseline as a direct line between him/her and the next base in regular or reverse order.
b) When, while the ball is in play, he/she is legally touched by the ball in the hand of a fielder while not in contact with a base.
c) When, on a force out, a fielder tags him/her with the ball or tags the base on a force out.
d) When the baserunner fails to return to touch the base he/she previously occupied when play is resumed after suspension of play.
e) When a baserunner physically passes a preceding runner before that runner has been put out.
f) When the baserunner leaves his/her base to advance to another base before a caught fly ball has been touched by a fielder, provided the ball is returned to a fielder and legally held on that base, or a fielder legally touches the baserunner before he/she returns to his/her base.
g) When the baserunner fails to touch the intervening base or bases, in regular or reverse order, and the ball is in play and legally held on that base; or the baserunner is legally touched while off the base he/she missed.
h) When the batter-runner legally over runs 1st base attempts to run to 2nd base and is legally touched while off the base. In running or sliding for home plate, he/she fails to touch home plate and makes no attempt to return to the base, when a fielder holds the ball in his/her hand while touching home plate and appeals to the umpire for a decision.
EFFECT: Rule VIII, 9, (f-h). These are appeal plays, and the defensive team loses the privilege of putting the baserunner out if the appeal in not made before the next legal or illegal pitch. If an appeal is made after the ball is dead and before the next pitch is made, the ball remains dead and runners may not advance. The pitcher must have the ball in his/her possession, around the area of the pitcher’s plate. Any player may then make an appeal by announcing to the umpire which runner is being appealed; which base has been missed; or which base has been left too soon. Any player may also make an appeal while the ball is still alive, and before the ball becomes dead, by tagging the runner or the base being appealed, with the ball.
i) When the baserunner interferes with a fielder attempting to field a batted ball, or intentionally interferes with a thrown ball. If this interference, in the judgement of the umpire, is an obvious attempt to prevent a double play, and occurs before the baserunner is put out, the immediate succeeding runner shall be called out also.
j) When a baserunner is struck with a fair batted ball in fair territory while off base and before it passes an infielder, excluding the pitcher.
k) When a runner intentionally kicks a ball, which an infielder has missed.
l) When, with a baserunner on 3rd base, the batter interferes with a play being made at home plate with less than 2 outs.
m) When anyone, other than another baserunner, physically assists a baserunner while the ball is in play.
n) When the coach near 3rd base runs in the direction of home plate, on or near the baseline, while a fielder is attempting to make a play on a batted or thrown ball, and thereby draws a throw to home plate. The baserunner nearest to 3rd base shall be declared out.
o) When one or more members of the offensive team stand or collect at or around a base, which a baserunner is advancing, thereby confusing the fielders and adding to the difficulty of making the play. This includes the bat boy/girl or any other person authorized to sit on the team’s bench.
p) When any baserunner runs the bases in reverse order to confuse the defensive team, or to make a farce of the game. This includes the batter-runner moving backward toward home plate to avoid or delay a tag.
q) If a coach intentionally interferes with a thrown ball.
r) When a runner, after being declared out or after scoring, interferes with a defensive players opportunity to make a play on another runner. The runner closest to home plate, at the time of the interference, shall also be called out.
EFFECT: Rule VIII, 9, (j-r). The ball is dead and the baserunner is out. Other runners must return to the last base legally touched at the time of the illegal action.
s) When a defensive player has the ball and is waiting for the runner and the runner remains on his feet and deliberately, with great force, crashes into the defensive player, the runner is declared out. The ball is dead and all runners must return to the last base touched at the time of the collision unless Rule 8, Sec. 8 (j) or Rule 8, Sec. 8 (s) applies.
NOTE: IF THE ACT IS DETERMINED TO BE FLAGRANT, THE OFFENDER SHALL BE EJECTED.
t) When the baserunner fails to keep contact with his/her base until a legally pitched ball has reached home plate. The ball is dead. "No Pitch" is declared and the baserunner is called out.
u) When he abandons a base, does not attempt to advance to the next base, and enters the team area or leaves the field of play. The base runner shall be called out immediately when he/she enters the team area or leaves the field of play.
v) If hit by an infield fly when not in contact with the base. The ball is dead and the runners and the batter are both declared out. Other runners must return to the base occupied, without liability to be put out, at the time of the pitch.

10) The baserunner is not out:
a) When a baserunner runs behind or in front of a fielder and outside the baseline in order to avoid interfering with a fielder who is attempting to field the ball in the baseline.
b) When a baserunner does not run a direct line to the base, providing the fielder, in the direct line, does not have the ball in his/her possession.
c) When more than one fielder attempts to field a batted ball, and the baserunner comes into contact with the one who, in the umpires judgement, was not entitled to field the ball.
d) When a baserunner is hit with a fair batted ball that has passed through an infielder, excluding the pitcher, and in the judgement of the umpire, no other fielder has a chance to make a play on the ball.
e) When a baserunner is touched with a ball not securely held by a fielder.
f) When the defensive team does not request the umpires decision on an appeal play, until after the next pitch.
g) When a batter-runner over runs 1st base, after touching it, and makes no attempt to advance to the next base.
h) When the baserunner is not given sufficient time to return to a base, he/she shall not be called out for being off the base before the pitcher pitches the ball. The umpire shall call no pitch.
i) When a baserunner holds his/her base until a fly ball touches a fielder, then attempts to advance.
j) When a runner is in contact with the base, and is hit by a batted ground ball or fly ball in fair territory, the baserunner is not out and the ball is dead. All runners advance one (1) base if forced.
EFFECT: Ball is dead, all runners advance one (1) base, if forced.
k) When a baserunner slides into a base and dislodges it from its proper place. The base is considered to have followed the runner. See rule VIII, 2, (c) and rule VIII, 5, (c).
l) When a fielder makes a play on a batter or baserunner while using an illegal glove. See rule VII, 10 for option given to the manager of the offensive team.
m) When the baserunner is hit by a fair-batted ball, after it touched or touches any fielder, including the pitcher.

1) A ball is a Dead Ball:
a) When the ball is batted illegally.
b) When a batter steps from one box to another when the pitcher is ready to pitch.
c) When a ball is pitched illegally.
EXCEPTION: If the batter swings at an illegal pitch, the play stands.
d) When the umpire declares "No Pitch".
e) When a pitched ball touches any part of the batters person or clothing, whether or not the ball is struck at.
f) When a foul ball is not caught.
g) When a baserunner is called out for leaving a base too soon on a pitched ball.
h) When the offensive team causes interference.
i) When the ball is outside the playing limits of the playing field. A ball is considered "out of play" when it touches the ground, person on the ground or object outside the playing area.
j) If an accident to a runner prevents him/her from proceeding to a base which he/she is awarded. A substitute runner shall be permitted for the injured player.
k) In case of interference with the batter or fielder.
l) When the batter bunts or chops a pitched ball.
m) When time is called by the umpire.
n) When time is called by the umpire and an appeal play follows; the ball remains dead throughout the appeal.
o) When any part of the batters person is hit by his own batted ball while he is in the batters box.
p) When a runner runs the bases in reverse order.
q) When, in the judgment of the umpire, a coach touches or physically helps a runner or when a coach near 3rd base runs in the direction of home plate on or near the baseline while the fielder is attempting to make a play, and thereby draws a throw to home plate.
r) When a baserunner fails to keep contact with his/her base, until the pitched ball has reached home plate.
s) When a play is being made on an obstructed runner, or if the batter-runner is obstructed before he/she reaches 1st base. When a blocked ball is declared.
t) When the batter enters the batters box with, or uses, an illegal bat or altered bat.
u) When a caught fair ball, including a line drive, which can be handled by any infielder with ordinary effort, is intentionally dropped, with less than 2 outs, and with a runner on 1st, 1st and 2nd, 1st and 3rd or 1st, 2nd or 3rd bases.
v) When a fielder carries a live ball into dead ball territory.
w) When a foul ball is caught, and the batter has 2 strikes.
x) When a batter is hit with his/her own batted ball, in fair territory, outside the batters box.
y) When a fair ball strikes an umpire or baserunner on fair ground before passing or touching an infielder

2) The ball is in play:
a) At the start of each half inning, when the pitcher has the ball in the pitching position and the umpire has called "Play Ball".
b) When the infield fly rule is enforced.
c) When a thrown ball goes past a fielder and remains in playable territory.
d) When a fair ball strikes an umpire or baserunner on fair ground after passing or touching an infielder.
e) When a fair ball strikes an umpire on foul ground.
f) When the baserunners have reached the bases, which they are entitled, when the fielder illegally fields a batted or thrown ball.
g) When a baserunner is called out for passing a preceding runner.
h) When no play is being made on an obstructed runner. The ball shall remain alive until the play is over.
i) When the batter legally hits a fair ball.
j) When a baserunner must return, in reverse order, while the ball is already in play.
k) When a baserunner acquires the right to a base by touching it before being put out.
l) When a base is dislodged while runners are running the bases.
m) When a runner runs out of the base line in regular or reverse order to avoid a tag by a fielder.
n) When a runner is forced or tagged out.
o) When the umpire calls the baserunner out for failure to return and touch the base when play is resumed, after a suspension of play.
p) When a live ball strikes a groundskeeper, photographer, policeman etc. assigned to the game.
q) When a thrown ball strikes an offensive player.
r) If the batter drops the bat and the ball rolls against the bat in fair territory, and in the judgment of the umpire, there was no intention to interfere with the course of the ball. The batter is not out and the ball is alive and in play.
s) When a thrown ball strikes an umpire.
t) When a thrown ball strikes a coach. As long as there is a play as a result of the hit by the batter. This would include an immediate live ball appeal before the umpire has called "time". Once the umpire has called "time" however, the ball will continue to be dead during a subsequent appeal play.
u) When a foul ball is caught, and the batter has less than 2 strikes.

3) The ball remains alive until the umpire calls "time", which should be done when the ball is held by a player in the infield area, and in the judgment of the umpire, all play has ceased.

NOTE: Failure of umpires to adhere to Rule 10 shall not be grounds for protest. These are guidelines for the umpires.

1) Powers and duties: The umpires are the representatives of the league for the particular game, which they have been assigned. They are authorized and required to enforce all the rules of the league and the rules contained herein. The umpires have the power to order a player, coach, captain or manager to do, or refrain from doing, any act that is necessary to enforce any of these rules; and to inflict any penalties prescribed. The plate umpire shall have the authority to rule on any situation not specifically covered in these rules.
a) An umpire shall not be a member of either team (i.e. player, coach, officer scorer or sponsor.)
b) The umpire should inspect the playing field, equipment, and clarify all ground rules to both teams and managers/coaches prior to the start of the game.
c) Each umpire shall have the power to make decisions on violations committed anytime during playing time or suspension of play until the game is over.
d) No umpire has the authority to set aside or question decisions made by another umpire within the limits of his/her respective duties.
e) An umpire may consult with his/her partners at any time; however, the final decision shall rest with the umpire whose authority it is to make the decision and who requested the opinion of the other umpires.
f) The plate and base umpires shall have equal authority to :
i) Call a runner out for leaving a base too soon.
ii) Call "time" for suspension of play.
iii) Remove a player, manager, coach or other team member from the game for violation of the rules.
NOTE: Unless appealed, the plate umpire shall not call a player out for having failed to touch a base, leaving a base too soon on a caught fly ball, batting out of order or making an attempt to go to 2nd base after reaching 1st base, as provided in these rules.

2) The plate umpire:
a) Shall take a position behind the catcher and have full responsibility for the proper conduct of the game.
b) Shall call all balls and strikes.
c) Shall be in agreement and in cooperation with the base umpire(s) call on plays, fair or foul balls, legally or illegally caught balls. On plays, which require the base umpire to leave the infield, the plate umpire shall assume the duties that the base umpire is normally required to cover.
d) Shall determine and declare whether a batter chops or bunts a ball, whether a batted ball touches the person or clothing of the batter, and also whether a fly ball is an infield fly.
e) Shall render decisions on the bases when required by the instruction in the umpire’s manual.
f) Shall determine when a game is forfeited.

3) The base umpire:
a) Shall take a position(s) on the playing field as necessary.
b) Shall assist the plate umpire in every way, to enforce the rules of the game.
c) Can call an Infield Fly.

4) Changing of an umpire:
a) Umpires cannot be changed during a game, by the consent of the opposing teams, unless injury or illness incapacitates an umpire.

5) Umpires judgment:
a) There shall be no appeal of any decision of any umpire on the grounds that he/she was not correct in his/her decision that a batted ball was fair or foul, a baserunner was out or safe, a pitched ball was a ball or a strike, or any other play involving accuracy of judgment. Any argument is grounds for a player or coach to be ejected from the game. No decision of an umpire shall be reversed, except when he/she is convinced it is in violation of a rule. If the manager, captain or either team does not seek reversal of a decision based solely on a point of rules, the umpire whose decision is in question, shall, if in doubt, confer with his/her associates before taking any action. But under no circumstances shall any player or person, other than the manager or captain of either team, have any legal right to protest any decision and seek its reversal on a claim that it is in conflict with these rules. Under no circumstances should any umpire seek to reverse a decision made by his/her associates; nor shall any umpire criticize or interfere with the duties of his/her associates, unless asked to do so.

6) Suspension of play:
a) An umpire may suspend play when, in his/her judgement, conditions justify such action.
b) Play shall be suspended when the plate umpire leaves his/her position to brush the plate or to perform other duties not directly related with the calling of a play.
c) The umpire shall suspend play whenever the batter or pitcher steps out of position for a legitimate reason.
d) The umpire shall not call "Time" after the pitcher has started his/her pitching motion, or while play is in progress. "Time" shall not be called until all action, in progress by either team, has been completed.
e) When, in the judgement of the umpire, all immediate play is apparently completed should he/she call "Time".

7) Violations and penalties:
a) Players, managers, coaches or other team members shall not make disparaging or insulting remarks to, or about any opposing players, officials or spectators; or commit other acts that could be considered unsportsmanlike conduct.
NOTE: Yelling “BOOT” or other such words while a defensive player is attempting to execute a play is considered unsportsmanlike conduct. EFFECT: The ball is dead, the batter is out, and baserunners may not advance.
b) There shall be no more than two coaches for each team, to give words of assistance and direction to the members of the team, while at bat. One coach shall be stationed near 1st base and the other near 3rd base. Each coach must remain in the coach’s box.
c) The penalty for violations by a player is prompt removal of the offender from the game and grounds. For the first violation, the manager or coach may be warned. For second offense the player is removed from the game. The offender shall directly leave the grounds. Failure to do so will warrant a forfeiture of the game.
d) Any player or coach that leaves his/her position on the field, including the dugout, to argue balls and strikes, or to argue whether a batter stepped on or over home plate, will be ejected.

1) Protests shall not be allowed or considered if they are based solely upon a decision involving judgment on the part of any umpire. Examples of a protest, which will not be considered, are:
a) Whether a batted ball was fair or foul.
b) Whether a baserunner was safe or out.
c) Whether a pitched ball was a strike or ball.
d) Whether a runner did or did not touch a base.
e) Whether a runner left his/her base too soon on a caught fly ball.
f) Whether a fly ball was or was not legally caught.
g) Whether it was or was not an infield fly.
h) Whether there was or was not interference.
i) Whether the field is fit to continue or resume play.
j) Whether there is sufficient light to continue play.
k) Any other matter involving only the accuracy of the umpire’s judgment.

2) Protests that shall be received and considered concerning matters of the following types:
a) Misinterpretation of a playing rule to a given situation.
b) Failure of an umpire to apply the correct rule to a given situation.
c) Failure to impose the correct penalty for a given violation.

3) Protests may involve the interpretation of a rule.

4) The notification of intent to protest must be made immediately before the next pitch.

EXCEPTION: Player eligibility
a) The manager of the protesting team shall immediately notify the plate umpire that the game is being played under protest. The plate umpire will then notify the scorekeeper and the opposing manager.
b) It is the umpire’s responsibility to record the surrounding conditions to aid in the correct determination of the issue. (i.e. Inning, outs, names of players involved, runners on base, score etc.)
NOTE: On appeal plays, the appeal must be made before the next pitch, legal or illegal, or before the defensive team has left the field, this would be when the pitcher and all infielders have left fair territory, on their way to the bench or dugout area.

5) The official protest must be filed within a reasonable time:
a) Within forty-eight hours after the scheduled time of the contest, is generally considered a reasonable amount of time in league play.

6) The formal written protest should contain the following information:
a) The dates, times and place of the game.
b) The names of the umpires and scorekeeper.
c) The rule and section of the Official Rules, or local rules, under which the protest is based.
d) The decision and conditions surrounding the making of the decision.
e) All essential facts involved in the matter protested.

7) The decision on a protested game must result in one of the following:
a) The protest is found invalid and the game stands as played.
b) When a protest is allowed for misinterpretation of a playing rule, the game is replayed from the point at which the incorrect decision was made, with the decision corrected.
c) When a protest for eligibility is allowed, the team shall forfeit the game played to the offended team.