BASEBALL & SOFTBALL GENERAL RULES

Updated February 2025

Eligibility & Rosters

• The age cutoff for league play is April 30 for boys and January 1 for girls, following OTS Manual Article 20.
• Only newcomers to the parish may be added to a team roster after league play begins.
• Players must compete within the boundaries of their assigned booster club, as outlined in OTS Manual Article 4.
• Players may only play in an older age group if there are no available teams in their appropriate age group within their booster club.  Or to Booster Clubs discretion with approval of St. Charles Parish Department of Parks and Recreation.
• Team rosters will be automatically split if they exceed 24 players, per OTS Manual Article 4.

Game & Field Regulations

• Ground rules for specific fields must be discussed and agreed upon by both coaches and umpires before the game starts.
• Only coaches, players, and scorekeepers are permitted in dugouts. Coaches must always carry their background screening badge.
• Coaches may not physically assist baserunners during live play—doing so results in the runner being called out.
• Players should enter and exit the field efficiently to maximize game time.
• All players must play at least two full innings.
• Free defensive substitutions are allowed, though teams must maintain a set batting order.
• Coaches may withhold a player from participating due to disciplinary reasons or consecutive missed practices.

Sportsmanship & Conduct

• Coaches are responsible for ensuring proper behavior from their assistant coaches, players, parents, and spectators.
• Coaches are required to complete the Coaches Code of Ethics prior to the first game.
• Heckling opposing players is strictly prohibited.
• Smoking, vaping, and tobacco use (dip/chew) are not allowed on the field, in dugouts, or in the stands.
• Alcoholic beverages are not permitted at any youth games or practices per OTS Manual Article 32.
• Loud music in dugouts or the stands before or during games is prohibited and may lead to forfeiture or ejection.

 

 

Game Scheduling & Weather Policy

• Games will begin on time. A 15-minute grace period is granted only for the first game of the day.
• Only the Department of Parks and Recreation may postpone or reschedule games.
• Games will not be rescheduled for vacations or non-SCPRD-affiliated events.
• Games may be rescheduled only for school functions that prevent a team from fielding the minimum number of players.
• Weather-related cancellations will be rescheduled if the calendar allows. Playoff games will be rescheduled for the next available playing day.
• Coaches should check the league website (scpparksandrec.com) for weather-related updates.

Safety & Equipment Regulations

• Batting helmets are required for all batters and base runners; faceguards are recommended but optional.
• Baseball players are encouraged to wear protective cups. Catchers must wear a hard protective cup.
• Fake bunts followed by swings are not allowed violations result in an immediate out, with no warning.
• Players may not wear metal cleats; only molded or plastic screw-in cleats are permitted.
• Players with plaster or metal casts are not allowed to participate.
• Coaches are responsible for maintaining all equipment provided by the St. Charles Parish Department of Parks and Recreation.

Disciplinary Actions

• Ejected coaches, players, or parents must leave the park immediately and will be suspended for the next game.
• A second ejection will result in a two-year suspension from any SCPRD recreational program.
• Before returning, coaches must complete an online sportsmanship course via the Coach’s Corner at scpparksandrec.com.
• Any physical or verbal assault on an official, coach, player, or spectator will result in a one-year ban from SCPRD events.
• Failure to leave the premises after an ejection may result in law enforcement intervention.

Legal Consequences (Louisiana State Law)

• Louisiana law (Rev. Stat. Ann. Section 14-34-4) enforces penalties for battery against sports officials, including fines of $1,000–$5,000, mandatory community service, and potential jail time (5–6 months).
• If serious injury occurs, penalties increase, including longer jail sentences and required anger management counseling.

By participating in the league, all players, coaches, and spectators agree to adhere to these policies. Violations may result in suspensions or removal from the program. Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring a safe, fair, and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

 

 

 

7-8-Year-Old Boys Coach-Pitch Baseball Rules

Updated February 2025

General Information

1. Coaches

• All coaches must be at least 18 years old and pass a mandatory background check.
• Each team may have one (1) manager and up to two (2) coaches on the roster.
• While on defense, all coaches must remain inside the designated dugout area.

2. Game Time

• Teams should arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled game time to allow for warm-ups and preparation.

3. Postponements & Rescheduling

• Only the Department of Parks and Recreation can postpone or reschedule games.
• Games will not be rescheduled for vacations or other non-SCPRD activities.
• Games may be rescheduled if a school function prevents a team from having enough players.
• Weather-related cancellations will be rescheduled if possible, depending on league calendar availability.
• Playoff games that are canceled due to weather will be rescheduled for the next available playing day.

4. Team Size

• Teams must have a minimum of 8 players to start a game. 
• A full lineup consists of 9 players, including three outfielders.
• Late-arriving players may be added to the lineup upon arrival.

5. Tobacco, Vaping, and Alcohol

• Smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco, dip, and alcohol are strictly prohibited on the field and in dugouts.
• Violations may result in game forfeiture.

Equipment Rules

1. Approved Bats

• Any bat permanently stamped with the official USSSA Baseball logo is allowed.
• BBCOR bats are only required in divisions where specified.

Field Dimensions

1. Bases

• Bases are positioned 60 feet apart.

2. Pitching Area

• Coaches will pitch from within the pitching circle.
• The pitching mark is set at 35 feet from home plate.
• The circle will have a minimum diameter of 30 feet but will not exceed 42 feet if a mound is present.

3. Fair Ball Arc

• A 20-foot arc will be drawn from the 1st base to 3rd base line, in front of home plate.
• A batted ball must pass this arc to be considered a fair ball.

Game Play Rules

1. Run Rule

• If a team leads by 10 runs after four complete innings, the game ends.
• If a team leads by 15 runs after three complete innings, the game ends.

2. Time Limit

• Games last 1 hour and 15 minutes (Drop Time) OR six innings, whichever comes first.
• No new inning will start after 1 hour and 5 minutes.

3. Safety Areas

• All players must remain behind the 35-foot pitcher’s circle until the ball is hit.

4. Pitching Coach Restrictions

• The pitching coach must:
  • Keep one foot on or straddle the pitcher’s line.
  • Avoid coaching while in the pitching position.
  • Avoid obstructing defensive players after the ball is hit.
• Violations:
  • First Offense: Warning.
  • Second Offense: Removal from the pitching position for the remainder of the game.

5. Catchers

• Catchers must receive pitches in a standard catching position.
• If a catcher is not positioned properly, a warning will be issued.

6. Defensive Players

• Each team fields 10 defensive players, including four outfielders.
• Outfielders must remain behind the baseline.
• The defensive pitcher must stay inside the pitching circle until the ball is hit.
  • Penalty: First offense = warning. Second offense = removal from the position.

7. Defensive Coaches

• Coaches are not allowed on the field while their team is on defense.
• All defensive coaching must be done from the dugout.

8. Infield Fly Rule

• The Infield Fly Rule does not apply in this age group.

Batting Rules

1. Batting Order & Late Arrivals

• Every player present at game time will be included in the batting order.
• Late-arriving players will be added to the bottom of the order.

2. Minimum Players

• Teams can begin play with eight (8) players.
• If a team has fewer than nine (9) players, an automatic out will be taken for the missing 9th and 10th batters.

3. Batting Substitutions

• Free defensive substitutions are allowed, but the batting order must remain the same.

4. Bunting

• Bunting is not allowed.

5. Pitch Count

• Batters receive a maximum of six (6) pitches or three (3) swinging strikes.
• If the final pitch is hit foul, the batter gets one more chance to put the ball in play.

6. Intentional Walks

• A batter may be intentionally walked only once per game by the opposing team.

7. Batting Coach Interference

• If a batted ball hits the pitching coach:
  • If the coach did not try to avoid it, the batter is out and no runner’s advance.
  • If the coach attempted to avoid it, the batter gets first base, and runners advance one base.

8. Slinging Bats

• If a batter slings a bat, a team-wide warning will be issued.
• Subsequent violations will result in the batter being called out.

9. Hit by Pitch

• If a batter is hit by a pitch, they are not awarded first base.
• The at-bat will continue, or the next batter will take their place with a fresh count.

Base Running Rules

1. Leading & Stealing

• Runners may not lead off or steal bases.
• A runner leaving early will be called out.

2. Courtesy Runners

• A courtesy runner for the catcher of record (previous inning) may be used.
• The courtesy runner must be the last recorded out.
• In the first inning (visiting team only), the previous batter not on base may be used.
• If a courtesy runner is used, the substituted player must catch the next inning.

3. Sliding & Contact

• Sliding is allowed.
• If a tag play is evident, runners must slide or avoid contact with the defensive player.
• Malicious contact supersedes obstruction penalties and is at the umpire’s discretion.
  • If determined malicious, the runner will be called out and may face ejection.
• Jumping over defensive players is not allowed runners who do so will be called out.

4. Overthrows

• If a thrown ball goes out of play, the runner is awarded one additional base.

Scoring Rules

1. Run Limits

• A maximum of four (4) runs may be scored per inning.

Additional Rules

1. Infield Fly Rule

• The Infield Fly Rule is in effect for this age group.

2. Interference

• Interference rules will be enforced for:
  • Batters who deliberately distract the pitcher or catcher.
  • Catchers who interfere with a batter’s swing.

  

Playoff Rules

1. Umpires

• The home plate umpire is the head official and will make all final calls.

2. Standings & Tournament Play

• No regular-season standings will be kept.
• The end-of-season tournament seeding will be determined by random drawing.

3. Tiebreaker

• After completion of designated number of innings, or when time limits have expired, and the score is tied, the tiebreaker procedure will begin.  The player, who had the last completed at bat, assumes a position on 2^nd base.  A courtesy runner may be used for the catcher.  This procedure would be done at the beginning of each inning until a winner is determined.  If the wrong player is placed on second base, the correct runner should be inserted immediately even if a pitch has been thrown, or the runner has advanced a base.  All play made while the incorrect runner was on base stands.  It is the responsibility of the umpire and opposing team to notify the teams involved as to which player starts the half inning at second base.

4. Regular Season Standings

• Standings are not kept during the regular season.
• The end-of-season tournament will be determined by a random draw.

5. Protest Procedure

• To protest a call during the playoffs:
  • Call timeout during the next dead ball.
  • Inform the umpire and the opposing coach.
  • Submit a written protest to the Recreation Department within 24 hours.

5A. Player Eligibility Protest

• If a player’s eligibility is questioned:
  • The player must sign their name and birth date in the opposing team’s scorebook.
  • The protest will be reviewed within one working day.
  • The player may continue to play while the protest is under review.

 

 

 

 

 

9-10-Year-Old Boys Baseball Rules

Updated February 2025

General Information

1. Coaches

• All coaches must be at least 18 years old and pass a mandatory background check.
• Each team may have one (1) manager and up to two (2) coaches on the roster.
• While on defense, all coaches must remain inside the designated dugout area.

2. Game Time

• Teams should arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled game time to allow for warm-ups and preparation.

3. Postponements & Rescheduling

• Only the Department of Parks and Recreation can postpone or reschedule games.
• Games will not be rescheduled for vacations or other non-SCPRD activities.
• Games may be rescheduled if a school function prevents a team from having enough players.
• Weather-related cancellations will be rescheduled if possible, depending on league calendar availability.
• Playoff games that are canceled due to weather will be rescheduled for the next available playing day.

4. Team Size

• Teams must have a minimum of 8 players to start a game. 
• A full lineup consists of 9 players, including three outfielders.
• Late-arriving players may be added to the lineup upon arrival.

5. Tobacco, Vaping, and Alcohol

• Smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco, dip, and alcohol are strictly prohibited on the field and in dugouts.
• Violations may result in game forfeiture.

Equipment Rules

1. Batting Helmets

• All batters, on-deck hitters, and base runners must wear helmets while on the field of play.
• Face masks are optional but recommended.

 

2. Catchers

• Catchers must wear a full set of protective gear, including:
  • Facemask with a helmet
  • Chest protector
  • Shin guards
  • Protective cup
  • Catcher’s mitt (fielding gloves are not permitted for catchers).

3. Game Balls

• Each team must provide game balls for play.

Field Dimensions

1. Base Distance

• Bases are placed 60 feet apart.

2. Pitching Distance

• Players will pitch from a 46-foot distance.

Game Play Rules

1. Run Rule

• If a team leads by 10 runs after four complete innings, the game ends.
• If a team leads by 15 runs after three complete innings, the game ends.

2. Time Limit

• Games last 1 hour and 15 minutes (Drop Time) OR six innings, whichever comes first.
• No new inning will start after 1 hour and 5 minutes.

3. Inning Structure

• Each half-inning will end after three (3) outs or a maximum of four (5) runs scored.

4. Base Running

• Runners are not allowed to lead off but may only steal when:
  • The ball crosses home plate.
  • The catcher allows a passed ball or wild pitch.
• Stealing home is only allowed on passed ball or wild pitch.

4A. Sliding & Contact

• Sliding is allowed.
• If a tag play is evident, runners must slide or avoid contact with the defensive player.
• Malicious contact supersedes obstruction penalties and is at the umpire’s discretion.
  • If determined malicious, the runner will be called out and may face ejection.
• Jumping over defensive players is not allowed runners who do so will be called out.

4B. Courtesy Runners

• A courtesy runner for the catcher of record (previous inning) may be used.
• The courtesy runner must be the last recorded out.
• In the first inning (visiting team only), the previous batter not on base may be used.
• If a courtesy runner is used, the substituted player must catch the next inning.

4C. Overthrows

• If a thrown ball goes out of play, the runner is awarded one additional base.

Batting Rules                           

1. Batting Order & Late Arrivals

• Every player present at game time will be included in the batting order.
• Late-arriving players will be added to the bottom of the order.

2. Minimum Players

• Teams can begin play with eight (8) players.
• If a team has fewer than nine (9) players, an automatic out will be taken for the missing 9th and 10th batters.

3. Batting Substitutions

• Free defensive substitutions are allowed, but the batting order must remain the same.

4. Dropped Third Strike Rule

• Batters may attempt to reach first base on a dropped third strike if:
  • First base is unoccupied, OR
  • There are two outs with a runner on first.

5. Hit By Pitch

• If a batter is hit by a pitch, they will be awarded first base.

6. Bunting Rules

• Bunting is allowed, but fake bunting followed by a swing is prohibited.
• Slash bunts are illegal. If attempted:
  • The ball is ruled dead.
  • The batter is out.
  • No runner’s advance.

7. Slinging Bats

• If a batter slings their bat:
  • The team will receive one warning.
  • After a warning, any batter who slings a bat will be called out.
  • The umpire’s judgment is final—this is not an appeal play.

8. Ground Rule Doubles

• Any fair ball that:
  • Bounces over the fence,
  • Goes under the fence, or
  • Rolls through a fence,
  • Will be ruled a ground-rule double.

Scoring Rules

1. Run Limits

• A maximum of four (4) runs may be scored per inning.

Additional Rules

1. Infield Fly Rule

• The Infield Fly Rule is in effect for this age group.

2. Interference

• Interference rules will be enforced for:
  • Batters who deliberately distract the pitcher or catcher.
  • Catchers who interfere with a batter’s swing.

 

3. Pitching Restrictions

• Coaches are responsible for tracking pitch counts and ensuring compliance.
• Balks will not be enforced in this division.

3a. Mandatory Rest Days for Pitchers

• A player who pitches more than three (3) innings in one day must rest the next day.
• A player who pitches eight (8) innings over two consecutive days must rest the next day.
• A player who pitches for three consecutive days must rest on the fourth day.

Playoff Rules

1. Time Limits for Playoff Games

• The championship game will be six innings or a 1-hour-30-minute time limit.
• No new inning will start after 1 hour and 20 minutes.
• The final inning must be completed before the game is officially over.

2. Tiebreaker

• After completion of designated number of innings, or when time limits have expired, and the score is tied, the tiebreaker procedure will begin.  The player, who had the last completed at bat, assumes a position on 2^nd base.  A courtesy runner may be used for the catcher.  This procedure would be done at the beginning of each inning until a winner is determined.  If the wrong player is placed on second base, the correct runner should be inserted immediately even if a pitch has been thrown, or the runner has advanced a base.  All play made while the incorrect runner was on base stands.  It is the responsibility of the umpire and opposing team to notify the teams involved as to which player starts the half inning at second base.

3. Regular Season Standings

• Standings are not kept during the regular season.
• The end-of-season tournament will be determined by a random draw.

4. Protest Procedure

• To protest a call during the playoffs:
  • Call timeout during the next dead ball.
  • Inform the umpire and the opposing coach.
  • Submit a written protest to the Recreation Department within 24 hours.

4A. Player Eligibility Protest

• If a player’s eligibility is questioned:
  • The player must sign their name and birth date in the opposing team’s scorebook.
  • The protest will be reviewed within one working day.
  • The player may continue to play while the protest is under review.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11-12-Year-Old Boys Baseball Rules

Updated February 2025

General Information

1. Coaches

• All coaches must be at least 18 years old and pass a mandatory background check.
• Each team may have one (1) manager and up to two (2) coaches on the roster.
• While on defense, all coaches must remain inside the designated dugout area.

2. Game Time

• Teams should arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled game time to allow for warm-ups and preparation.

3. Postponements & Rescheduling

• Only the Department of Parks and Recreation can postpone or reschedule games.
• Games will not be rescheduled for vacations or other non-SCPRD activities.
• Games may be rescheduled if a school function prevents a team from having enough players.
• Weather-related cancellations will be rescheduled if possible, depending on league calendar availability.
• Playoff games that are canceled due to weather will be rescheduled for the next available playing day.

4. Team Size

• Teams must have a minimum of 8 players to start a game. 
• A full lineup consists of 9 players, including three outfielders.
• Late-arriving players may be added to the lineup upon arrival.

5. Tobacco, Vaping, and Alcohol

• Smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco, dip, and alcohol are strictly prohibited on the field and in dugouts.
• Violations may result in game forfeiture.

 

Equipment Rules

1. Batting Helmets

• All batters, on-deck hitters, and base runners must wear helmets while on the field of play.
• Face masks are optional but recommended.

2. Catchers

• Catchers must wear a full set of protective gear, including:
  • Facemask with helmet
  • Chest protector
  • Shin guards
  • Protective cup
  • Catcher’s mitt (fielding gloves are not permitted for catchers).

3. Game Balls

• Each team must provide game balls for play.

Field Dimensions

1. Base Distance

• Bases are located 70 feet apart.

2. Pitching Distance

• Players will pitch from a 50-foot distance.

Game Play Rules

1. Run Rule

• If a team leads by 10 runs after four complete innings, the game ends.
• If a team leads by 15 runs after three complete innings, the game ends.

2. Time Limit

• Games last 1 hour and 15 minutes (Drop Time) OR six innings, whichever comes first.
• No new inning will start after 1 hour and 5 minutes.

3. Innings

• Each half-inning consists of three (3) outs. Or four (4) runs.

4. Base Running

• Leading off and stealing bases are allowed in this division.

4A. Sliding & Contact

• Sliding is allowed.
• If a tag play is evident, runners must slide or avoid contact with the defensive player.
• Malicious contact supersedes obstruction penalties and is at the umpire’s discretion.
  • If determined malicious, the runner will be called out and may face ejection.
• Jumping over defensive players is not allowed runners who do so will be called out.

4B. Courtesy Runners

• A courtesy runner for the catcher of record (previous inning) may be used.
• The courtesy runner must be the last recorded out.
• In the first inning (visiting team only), the previous batter not on base may be used.
• If a courtesy runner is used, the substituted player must catch the next inning.

4C. Overthrows

• If a thrown ball goes out of play, the runner is awarded one additional base.

Scoring Rules

1. Run Limits

• A maximum of four (4) runs may be scored per inning.

 

Batting Rules

5A. Dropped Third Strike Rule

• Batters may attempt to reach first base on a dropped third strike if:
  • First base is unoccupied, OR
  • There are two outs with a runner on first.

5B. Hit by Pitch

• If a batter is hit by a pitch, they will be awarded first base.

5C. Bunting Rules

• Bunting is allowed, but fake bunting followed by a swing is prohibited.
• Slash bunts are illegal. If attempted:
  • The ball is ruled dead.
  • The batter is out.
  • No runner’s advance.

5D. Slinging Bats

• If a batter slings their bat:
  • The team will receive one warning.
  • After a warning, any batter who slings a bat will be called out.
  • The umpire’s judgment is final—this is not an appeal play.

5E. Ground Rule Doubles

• Any fair ball that:
  • Bounces over the fence,
  • Goes under the fence, or
  • Rolls through a fence,
  • Will be ruled a ground-rule double.

Additional Rules

6. Infield Fly Rule

• The Infield Fly Rule is in effect for this age group.

7. Interference

• Interference rules will be enforced for:
  • Batters who deliberately distract the pitcher or catcher.
  • Catchers who interfere with a batter’s swing.

8. Pitching Rules

• Coaches are responsible for tracking pitch counts and ensuring compliance.
• Balks will be enforced after a one-time warning.

8A. Mandatory Rest Days for Pitchers

• A player who pitches more than three (3) innings in one day must rest the next day.
• A player who pitches eight (8) innings over two consecutive days must rest the next day.
• A player who pitches for three consecutive days must rest on the fourth day.

 

Playoff Rules

1. Time Limits for Playoff Games

• The championship game will be six innings or a 1-hour-30-minute time limit.
• No new inning will start after 1 hour and 20 minutes.
• The final inning must be completed before the game is officially over.

2. Tiebreaker

• After completion of designated number of innings, or when time limits have expired, and the score is tied, the tiebreaker procedure will begin.  The player, who had the last completed at bat, assumes a position on 2^nd base.  A courtesy runner may be used for the catcher.  This procedure would be done at the beginning of each inning until a winner is determined.  If the wrong player is placed on second base, the correct runner should be inserted immediately even if a pitch has been thrown, or the runner has advanced a base.  All play made while the incorrect runner was on base stands.  It is the responsibility of the umpire and opposing team to notify the teams involved as to which player starts the half inning at second base.

3. Regular Season Standings

• Standings are not kept during the regular season.
• The end-of-season tournament will be determined by a random draw.

4. Protest Procedure

• To protest a call during the playoffs:
  • Call timeout during the next dead ball.
  • Inform the umpire and the opposing coach.
  • Submit a written protest to the Recreation Department within 24 hours.

4A. Player Eligibility Protest

• If a player’s eligibility is questioned:
  • The player must sign their name and birth date in the opposing team’s scorebook.
  • The protest will be reviewed within one working day.
  • The player may continue to play while the protest is under review.

 

 

 

13-15-Year-Old Boys Baseball Rules

Updated March 2024

General Information

1. Coaches

• All coaches must be at least 18 years old and pass a mandatory background check.
• Each team may have one (1) manager and up to two (2) coaches on the roster.
• While on defense, all coaches must remain inside the designated dugout area.

2. Game Time

• Teams should arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled game time to allow for warm-ups and preparation.

3. Postponements & Rescheduling

• Only the Department of Parks and Recreation can postpone or reschedule games.
• Games will not be rescheduled for vacations or other non-SCPRD activities.
• Games may be rescheduled if a school function prevents a team from having enough players.
• Weather-related cancellations will be rescheduled if possible, depending on league calendar availability.
• Playoff games that are canceled due to weather will be rescheduled for the next available playing day.

4. Team Size

• Teams must have a minimum of 8 players to start a game. 
• A full lineup consists of 9 players, including three outfielders.
• Late-arriving players may be added to the lineup upon arrival.

5. Tobacco, Vaping, and Alcohol

• Smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco, dip, and alcohol are strictly prohibited on the field and in dugouts.
• Violations may result in game forfeiture.

 

Equipment Rules

1. Batting Helmets

• All batters, on-deck hitters, and base runners must wear helmets while on the field of play.
• Face masks are optional but recommended.

2. Catchers

• Catchers must wear a full set of protective gear, including:
  • Facemask with helmet
  • Chest protector
  • Shin guards
  • Protective cup
  • Catcher’s mitt (fielding gloves are not permitted for catchers).

3. Game Balls

• Each team must provide game balls for play.

Field Dimensions

1. Base Distance

• Bases are located 80 feet apart.

2. Pitching Distance

• Players will pitch from a 54-foot distance.

Game Play Rules

1. Run Rule

• If a team leads by 10 runs after four complete innings, the game ends.
• If a team leads by 15 runs after three complete innings, the game ends.

2. Time Limit

• Games last 1 hour and 15 minutes (Drop Time) OR six innings, whichever comes first.
• No new inning will start after 1 hour and 5 minutes.

3. Innings

• Each half-inning consists of three (3) outs. Or four (4) runs.

4. Base Running

• Leading off and stealing bases are allowed in this division.

4A. Sliding & Contact

• Sliding is allowed.
• If a tag play is evident, runners must slide or avoid contact with the defensive player.
• Malicious contact supersedes obstruction penalties and is at the umpire’s discretion.
  • If determined malicious, the runner will be called out and may face ejection.
• Jumping over defensive players is not allowed runners who do so will be called out.

4B. Courtesy Runners

• A courtesy runner for the catcher of record (previous inning) may be used.
• The courtesy runner must be the last recorded out.
• In the first inning (visiting team only), the previous batter not on base may be used.
• If a courtesy runner is used, the substituted player must catch the next inning.

4C. Overthrows

• If a thrown ball goes out of play, the runner is awarded one additional base.

Batting Rules

5A. Dropped Third Strike Rule

• Batters may attempt to reach first base on a dropped third strike if:
  • First base is unoccupied, OR
  • There are two outs with a runner on first.

5B. Hit by Pitch

• If a batter is hit by a pitch, they will be awarded first base.

5C. Bunting Rules

• Bunting is allowed, but fake bunting followed by a swing is prohibited.
• Slash bunts are illegal. If attempted:
  • The ball is ruled dead.
  • The batter is out.
  • No runner’s advance.

5D. Slinging Bats

• If a batter slings their bat:
  • The team will receive one warning.
  • After a warning, any batter who slings a bat will be called out.
  • The umpire’s judgment is final—this is not an appeal play.

5E. Ground Rule Doubles

• Any fair ball that:
  • Bounces over the fence,
  • Goes under the fence, or
  • Rolls through a fence,
  • Will be ruled a ground-rule double.

Scoring Rules

1. Run Limits

• A maximum of four (4) runs may be scored per inning.

 

 

Additional Rules

6. Infield Fly Rule

• The Infield Fly Rule is in effect for this age group.

7. Interference

• Interference rules will be enforced for:
  • Batters who deliberately distract the pitcher or catcher.
  • Catchers who interfere with a batter’s swing.

8. Pitching Rules

• Coaches are responsible for tracking pitch counts and ensuring compliance.
• Balks will be enforced in this division.

8A. Mandatory Rest Days for Pitchers

• A player who pitches more than three (3) innings in one day must rest the next day.
• A player who pitches eight (8) innings over two consecutive days must rest the next day.
• A player who pitches for three consecutive days must rest on the fourth day.

9. Free Substitution

• Free substitution will be allowed.

Playoff Rules

1. Time Limits for Playoff Games

• The championship game will be six innings or a 1-hour-45-minute time limit.
• No new inning will start after 1 hour and 35 minutes.
• The final inning must be completed before the game is officially over.

2. Tiebreaker

• After completion of designated number of innings, or when time limits have expired, and the score is tied, the tiebreaker procedure will begin.  The player, who had the last completed at bat, assumes a position on 2^nd base.  A courtesy runner may be used for the catcher.  This procedure would be done at the beginning of each inning until a winner is determined.  If the wrong player is placed on second base, the correct runner should be inserted immediately even if a pitch has been thrown, or the runner has advanced a base.  All play made while the incorrect runner was on base stands.  It is the responsibility of the umpire and opposing team to notify the teams involved as to which player starts the half inning at second base.

3. Regular Season Standings

• Standings are not kept during the regular season.
• The end-of-season tournament will be determined by a random draw.

4. Protest Procedure

• To protest a call during the playoffs:
  • Call timeout during the next dead ball.
  • Inform the umpire and the opposing coach.
  • Submit a written protest to the Recreation Department within 24 hours.

4A. Player Eligibility Protest

• If a player’s eligibility is questioned:
  • The player must sign their name and birth date in the opposing team’s scorebook.
  • The protest will be reviewed within one working day.
  • The player may continue to play while the protest is under review.