South Orange / Maplewood Cal Ripken Baseball 2021 Local League Rules for Minors, Majors and Babe Ruth Divisions
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South Orange / Maplewood Cal Ripken Baseball
2021 Local League Rules for Minors, Majors and Babe Ruth
Divisions
MISSION STATEMENT
1. The South Orange / Maplewood Cal Ripken Baseball program uses regulation
baseball rules, adapted for our youth players, to teach competitive baseball, and
thereby foster development of mental and physical skills, a respect for the rules
of the game, and ideals of teamwork, sportsmanship and fair play. As a
recreational league, we are committed to providing all children, regardless of
skill level and previous experience, with the opportunity to play baseball. As a
competitive league, we are committed to providing a fair and uniformly applied
set of rules that will allow children to learn the realities of competition, including
the ability to win and lose with grace and dignity.
GENERAL COMMENTS ON LOCAL LEAGUE RULES
2.1 Rules Committee Authority: The Rules Committee’s authority is limited to baseball
game play rules. The Rules Committee has no authority over general league issues such
as eligibility of players, draft procedures, sponsorships, field use, etc.
2.2 Rule Book and Local League Rules: Each team is given a Cal Ripken / Babe Ruth
Rule Book (the “Rule Book”) containing the rules by which all games and league play will
be governed. In addition, these Local League Rules (the “Local Rules”) apply in the South
Orange / Maplewood League. To the extent of any conflict between the Rule Book and the
Local Rules, the Local Rules apply. Review of these Local Rules is not a substitute for
familiarity with the Rule Book. ALL COACHES MUST FAMILIARIZE THEMSELVES WITH
THE RULE BOOK, AND HAVE A COPY OF BOTH THE RULE BOOK AND THESE
LOCAL RULES ON HAND AT ALL GAMES
2.3 Applicability and Purpose of Local Rules: These Local Rules do not apply in the T-
Ball and Rookie (Coaches Pitch) Leagues (5-8 year olds), which are non-competitive
developmental leagues. These Local Rules apply to the Minor League (9 year olds), Majors
160 League (10-11 year olds), Majors 70 League (11-12 year olds) and Babe Ruth League (13-15 year olds). Our Local Rules are designed to advance our players towards playing pursuant to standard regulation baseball rules as soon as is developmentally appropriate for as many players as possible. Coaches may not modify any Rules for individual games, even if there is agreement by all coaches and the umpire. 2.4 Enforcement of Rules: In order to ensure fair competition, all rules will be strictly enforced. The Rules Committee, Rules Commissioners and other league officials will not bend, adapt or make exceptions to rules to do what is perceived as “fair” under particular circumstances once the season is underway. Rules will be applied strictly as written, in order to make sure that rules are uniform and predictable. If particular facts and circumstances lead to an application of the rules that seems “unfair,” that issue will be addressed by the Rules Committee considering a rules change during the off-season. 2.5 References to Rules: In this document, all references to rules in the Rule Book will be designated as “Rule X.X,” and all references to rules in this document will be designated as “Local Rule X.X.” 2.6 Late Registered Players: Players who register after the draft shall be added by the Recreation Department to the next team which would have picked in the draft. If more than one player is added then the Recreation Department will randomly assign the players to the next teams in draft order RULES COMMISSIONERS AND RULES DISPUTES 3.1 Appointment of Rules Commissioners: One Rules Commissioner shall be appointed by the Rules Committee for each of the Minors, M60, M70 and Babe Ruth leagues. The role of the Rules Commissioner is to hear any game protests or rules disputes that arise during the season, and to issue a ruling based on the Rule Book, as modified by these Local Rules. Rules Commissioners shall thoroughly review any rules issue and shall issue a decision that cites the specific rules that relate to the decision. The Rules Commissioner for each league will preferably have previously coached in that league, but may not be coaching in that league or have a child playing in that league during the season they are serving as Rules Commissioner. 3.2 Game Protests and Rules Issues: All game protests and rules issues must be raised to the appropriate league’s Rules Commissioner in accordance with Rule 4.18. The last sentence in Rule 4.18 (concerning the deadline for protesting a game-ending play) shall not apply in South Orange / Maplewood Cal Ripken Baseball. No protest will be entertained by SOM Baseball Local Rules 2 April 12, 2021
a Rules Commissioner unless the rule issue was raised to the umpire at the time of the occurrence and the umpire was advised that the game is being played under protest. Except as provided in Local Rule 5.5, game protests and other rules issues must be submitted in writing via email to the appropriate Rules Commissioner within 24 hours after the end of a game, except for protests regarding violations of pitch count and playing time rules, which may be made at any time up to 48 hours after the playing time and pitch count information related to the protest becomes available, subject to the additional timing requirements of Local Rule 5.5. Any rule protest regarding playing time or pitch count violations must specify when the information necessary to make the protest became available. 3.3 Decision-Making by Rules Commissioners: The Rules Commissioners have sole authority and responsibility to make rulings for their leagues. Rules Commissioners may, at their option, consult with any other persons as they see fit. Rules Commissioners need not consult with other members of the Rules Committee before issuing a decision, but are encouraged to do so if in doubt as to the correct ruling. Rulings from Rules Commissioners shall be in writing, by email, with copies to all members of the Rules Committee. 3.4 Appeals: Decisions of Rules Commissioners are appealable solely to the Rules Committee as a group. Such appeals must be submitted by email to the Chair of the Rules Committee within 24 hours of the decision by the Rules Commissioner. Decisions of Rules Commissioners shall only be overturned in cases of clear error. Members of the Rules Committee who are coaching in, or have a child playing in, the league out of which the issue arises may not participate in deciding any such appeals. Decisions of the Rules Committee may be overturned by the League President in accordance with the League By- Laws. 3.5 Advisory Opinions: Coaches are encouraged to speak with members of the Rules Committee to seek guidance on rules issues they anticipate becoming issues before they become issues in games, in order to avoid the necessity of protests. Coaches may seek informal or formal advisory opinions. 3.5.1 Informal Advisory Opinions: An informal advisory opinion may be sought from any member of the Rules Committee in any manner convenient. Advice received through this method is not binding upon the Rules Committee. If the issue on which advice was sought becomes an actual dispute in a game, the normal procedures outlined above for resolution of the dispute shall be followed. Any advice given through an informal advisory opinion shall NOT be binding upon the Rules Commissioner or the Rules Committee. SOM Baseball Local Rules 3 April 12, 2021
3.5.2 Formal Advisory Opinions: A coach may seek a formal advisory only by submitting
the request in writing to the Rules Commissioner for the applicable league. The Rules
Commissioner shall bring the issue to the full Rules Committee for decision. A formal
advisory opinion given on behalf of the full Rules Committee shall be binding in any later
dispute that arises regarding the specific issue that was addressed by the formal advisory
opinion. Coaches seeking formal advisory opinions are urged to seek them well in advance
of the anticipated issue arising. The Rules Committee makes no guarantee that any formal
advisory opinion can be rendered in any particular time frame.
3.6 Current Rules Commissioners: Rules Commissioners for the 2021 season are:
Minors; Steve Livingstone, steve.j.livingstone@abc.com, (347) 585-5505
Majors 60: Jason Rando, randomania@yahoo.com, (917) 930-6346
Majors 70: Jesse Hein, somumpires@gmail.com, (973) 303-1816
Babe Ruth: Pam Bachorz, pbachorz@yahoo.com (407) 729-3692
Chair, Rules Committee: Lou Lombardi, lombardi.louis@gmail.com, (917) 570-5260
GAME DURATION
4.1 Regulation Number of Innings: Unless extended because of a tie score, or shortened
(1) because the home team needs none of its half of the final inning or only a fraction of it,
or (2) because the umpire calls the game, Regulation game length is as follows:
Babe Ruth League –
o Regular season game is 6 innings
o Playoff games (quarter-finals, semi-finals and finals) are 7 innings
M70 – Regular season and playoff games are 6 innings
M60 – Regular season and playoff games are 6 innings
Minors – Regular season and playoff games are 6 innings
If a score is tied after the regulation number of innings has been played, play shall continue
until (1) the visiting team has scored more total runs than the home team at the end of a
complete inning, (2) the home team scores the winning run in an incomplete inning, or (3)
the game is called for reasons specified in Local Rules 4.2-4.7).
If a Babe Ruth regular season game is called, it is a regulation game if (1) four innings
have been completed, or (2) if the home team has scored more runs in three or three and a
fraction half innings than the visiting team has scored in four completed half-innings.
SOM Baseball Local Rules 4 April 12, 2021If a Babe Ruth Playoff game is called, it is a regulation game if (1) five innings have been
completed, or (2) if the home team has scored more runs in four or four and a fraction half
innings than the visiting team has scored in five completed half-innings.
If a Majors or Minors game is called, it is a regulation game if (1) four innings have been
completed, or (2) if the home team has scored more runs in three or three and a fraction
half innings than the visiting team has scored in four completed half-innings.
4.2 Calling Games Scheduled for Limited Field Time: Often, games are typically
scheduled so that another game will be played on the same field. When another game is
going to be played immediately after the current game, thereby limiting playing time on the
field:
There will be no new inning after 1:50 of playing time.
The umpire must call the game immediately (hard-stop) at the scheduled
start time of the next game, even if the game is in the middle of a half-inning
During league play, any game called under this rule shall be considered a
regulation game, regardless of the number of innings completed.
In the case of games scheduled in 2-hour intervals, the umpire must call the
game immediately two hours after the official start time for that game, even if
the game is in the middle of a half inning
The official time shall be determined solely by the umpire and noted at the
start of the game.
Any playoff game not completed when the time limit is reached shall become
a suspended game, rule 4.5 applies.
4.3 Calling Games for Darkness: The umpire may call a game at any time if he or she
determines that there is insufficient light to play safely. The determination of sufficient light
is in the sole discretion of the umpire, and is not appealable. During league play, any game
called under this rule shall be considered a regulation game, regardless of the number of
innings completed.
4.3.1 No New Inning Time: Each week a “no new inning time” will be published on the
league website based upon the sunset times for that week. As the game approaches the
no new inning time, the Umpire will remind both acting head coaches of this rule. The
coaches may NOT elect to start a new inning after the league sunset time for the week,
even if they feel there is adequate light. Nothing in this paragraph shall limit the Umpires
ability to exercise his or her discretion to call a game on account of darkness before the
time is reached.
SOM Baseball Local Rules 5 April 12, 20214.4 Score of Called Games: During league play, a regulation game that is called shall have a final score determined as follows: the score shall be the score at the end of the last completed full inning. The only exception shall be when the score was tied or the home team was trailing at the end of the last completed inning but has either tied the score or gone ahead during the inning in progress, in which case the final score shall be the score at the time the game is halted. During league play, a regulation game that is called and results in a tie shall be recorded in the standings as a tie. During league play, a game that is called prior to becoming a regulation game shall be considered a completed game. During the playoffs, any game that is tied when called, or is called before becoming a regulation game, shall be a suspended game. A visiting team which has come from behind in the top of an inning may elect to give up its right to three outs and agree to take the field to allow the home team to have it final at bat. This will discourage a visiting team from deliberately making outs or a home team from extending the at bat by not trying to get outs so the score will revert back to the prior complete inning. 4.5 Suspended Games: A suspended game will be resumed from the point of the suspension at a later date to be set by the Scheduling Committee. Both coaches and the umpire must record the status of the game at the point of the suspension on their game summary forms, including all pitching information. Pitchers will be subject to all limitations on their pitching that were in effect as a result of pitching in the game that was suspended, and all limitations imposed due to their pitching schedule leading up to the resumption of the suspended game. If the same teams are scheduled to play one another again, the scheduled game takes priority over the suspended game. If the scheduled game is completed and there is time, field availability and umpire availability to continue the suspended game, the teams may continue the suspended game without input from the Scheduling Committee. 4.6 Weather: In the event of lightning or thunder, coaches must have their teams vacate both the field and dugouts (if present), and move to a safe place. Play may not resume until thirty (30) minutes have elapsed from the last observed instance of lightning or thunder, as determined by the umpire. In the event of rain without thunder or lightning, the game may be called in the sole discretion of the umpire if the field becomes unplayable or hazardous. If a game is cancelled due to a message on the South Orange Rec Twitter page, the fields are considered to be closed for all purposes, and the game may not be played, regardless of field conditions at the actual scheduled start time. 4.7 Speed-up Rule: Coaches may use a substitute runner for the pitcher or catcher. After 2 outs are recorded, a coach must use a substitute runner for the catcher. The runner must be the player who made the last recorded out, either at bat or on the bases. SOM Baseball Local Rules 6 April 12, 2021
4.8 Mercy Rule: 4.8.1 Babe Ruth and Majors: In a Babe Ruth or Majors game, after a game reaches the minimum number of innings necessary to be a regulation game if it were called pursuant to Local Rule 4.1, the umpire shall call the game if one team is leading by 10 or more runs and either the home team is winning or each team has had the same number of innings at bat. If a game is called under this mercy rule, and the field is still available for use, the coaches may agree to continue to play in a scrimmage mode. Pitch count rules apply for pitchers pitching in such a scrimmage. 4.8.2 Minors: In a Minors game, no more than 5 runs may be scored in any half inning by the offensive team, except in the sixth inning and in any extra innings. In innings 1 through 5, the inning shall end immediately upon the scoring of the fifth run, regardless of the number of outs. If runs beyond 5 are scored on a single play (i.e., a grand slam is hit after 4 runs have already been scored in that inning), only the 5th run shall be recorded. There is a sixteen (16) run mercy rule after five (5) innings. The game is official when the rule is invoked but the teams may continue to play. This run limitation may not be changed under any circumstance including by agreement of the coaches. 4.9.1 Rescheduling and Forfeits: Use of the Reserve Call-Ups System under Local Rule 11 is MANDATORY in order to avoid the need for rescheduling games. Rescheduling requests may be made ONLY if the coach believes that they will not be able to field at least seven of their own roster players for a game. Games may not be rescheduled due to conflicts with a coach’s schedule. In such cases, the coach is responsible for ensuring that other Rutgers-certified coaches can cover the game. If a reschedule is requested due to an inability to field at least seven roster players, coaches MUST notify opposing coaches at least 48 hours prior to a scheduled game time. The coach requesting the rescheduling MUST notify South Orange / Maplewood Baseball by sending an email fields@southorange.org, at least 48 hours before the scheduled game time. No forfeit will be declared if a team’s coach notifies the other that they will not be able to field seven roster players 48 hours in advance of the scheduled game time. Such games will be rescheduled, if possible. If a coach contacts the other coach within 48 hours of game time, the game shall be a forfeit, though the coaches may agree to play a scrimmage during the designated field time. Coaches may not privately agree to waive any of these rules (i.e., waive the 48 hour notice provision, or decline to accept a forfeit), since these issues can affect league standings and scheduling logistics. A final decision on whether to play or not must be made within 15 minutes after the scheduled game time, with the official time determined solely by the umpire. SOM Baseball Local Rules 7 April 12, 2021
4.9.2 Coaches may not agree not to play a game. Violation of this rule is to be considered a sportsmanship violation and will be referred to the Sportsmanship Committee. If a violation occurs which affects playoff standings the Rules Commissioner shall have the option to reseed teams for the playoffs. 4.10 Playing With Fewer Than 9 Players: If 7 or fewer players are available to play 15 minutes after the scheduled game time, the team with 7 or fewer players must forfeit. If neither team can field 8 players, the game will be recorded as a forfeit for both teams, with no runs scored for either team, for the purposes of determining league standings. If 8 players are available, the game may be played, but when the #9 spot comes up in the batting order, it will be recorded as an out. If a 9th player arrives before the #9 batter comes to bat, the game will proceed as a normal 9 player game. If 9 or more players are present, the game will be played as scheduled. Minor League games with 9 players will play with 3 outfielders instead of 4, but not have any other penalties. The foregoing rules shall also apply if a team loses players while a game is in progress: if at any time a sufficient number of players leave so that only 8 players are available, an out shall be recorded when the batting spot of the last player to depart occurs. If at any time a team is reduced to 7 players, that team shall forfeit. Coaches may not privately agree to waive these rules so as to waive a forfeit or decline to take the out. 4.11 Injured Players: If a player is injured on the offensive team, the player who made the last recorded out may be substituted in as a pinch runner. If a player is injured on the defensive team, a substitute may be freely entered into the game, consistent with Local Rule 5.1. An injured player may re-enter the game, provided that, consistent with Local Rule 5.1, the player may both bat and field, and such re-entering player will resume their original spot in the line-up. Local Rule 4.11 applies if injuries result in a team having fewer than nine players, and an out must be recorded when the missing player’s spot comes up in the line-up. 4.12 Pre-Game Warm-ups: For 6:00 p.m. games on weekdays, the home team may practice on the infield from 5:30 to 5:45, and the visiting team from 5:45 to 6:00. On weekends and for 8:00 p.m. weekday games, infield practice is not allowed for other than the first game scheduled on a field unless the completion of the previous game and the grounds crew leaves enough time for both teams to take infield practice prior to the scheduled game time. 4.13 Playing without an Umpire: In the event an umpire does not appear for a game, the game shall nevertheless be played. Umpiring shall be done by both teams, with a coach of SOM Baseball Local Rules 8 April 12, 2021
the defensive team umpiring each inning from behind the pitcher’s mound. Alternatively, the
head coaches may agree upon any other solution, such as using a neutral third party. In no
event may any umpire not using umpire’s protective equipment umpire from behind home
plate.
PLAYING TIME
5.1 Batting Order and Defensive Alignment – All Leagues: The batting lineup will
consist of all players who appear for the game and may be changed at the coach’s
discretion prior to each game, in accordance with standard baseball rules. Late players will
be added to the end of the batting order. A player who arrives at the field after the
scheduled start time for the game is a late player. Free substitutions in the field are
allowed. All players must field and bat during the game. No player may be designated as
only batting or only fielding, regardless of medical or other issues.
5.2 Playing Time – Babe Ruth League: Every player must play at least 2 innings in the
field, even if a game does not continue for the entire 6 innings (regular season), or 7
innings (playoff). Whoever is on the bench for the first inning of a game must start the
following game and play at least 2 consecutive, complete innings in the field.
5.3 Playing Time - Majors: NO PLAYER MAY SIT OUT MORE THAN 2 INNINGS IN A
GAME. If 11 or more players are present at a game, all players must sit at least 1 full
inning. Whoever is on the bench for the first inning of a game must start the following game
and play at least 2 consecutive, complete innings in the field. The chart below sets out
playing time requirements.
# Players at Game # Players sitting 1 inning # Players sitting 2 innings
13 2 11
12 6 6
11 10 1
10 6 0
9 0 0
8 0 0
7 Forfeit or Reschedule
SOM Baseball Local Rules 9 April 12, 20215.4 Playing Time - Minors: There shall be 4 outfielders. Coaches may play a spread
outfielder or a short fielder, but in either case all 4 outfielders must be positioned on the
grass section of the outfield. NO PLAYER MAY SIT OUT MORE THAN 2 INNINGS IN A
GAME. If 12 or more players are present at a game, all players must sit at least 1 full
inning. Whoever is on the bench for the first inning of a game must start the following game
and play at least 2 consecutive, complete innings in the field. The chart below sets out
playing time requirements:
# Players at Game # Players sitting 1 inning # Players sitting 2 innings
13 8 5
12 12 0
11 6 0
10 0 0
9 0 0
8 0 0
7 Forfeit or Reschedule
5.5 Consequences: During league play, a first violation by a team of the Playing Time
Rules shall receive a warning from the Rules Committee and the Head Coach may be
required to meet with the Sportsmanship Committee. Any subsequent violations of the
Playing Time Rules, or any violation of the Playing Time Rules during the playoffs, shall
result in the violating team automatically forfeiting the game. Violations of Playing Time
Rules may be raised to the umpire during the game, or to the Rules Commissioner at any
time prior to the next game to be played by the team alleged to have violated the Playing
Time Rules, except in the case of doubleheaders, in which case the violation may be raised
at any time before the next game is played by the team alleged to have violated the Playing
Time Rules after both games of the doubleheader.
5.6 Line-Up Cards: Rule 4.01 shall not apply. Teams shall exchange batting orders prior to
the game, but need not provide batting orders to the Umpire.
5.7 Playing Time – General: For purposes of the Playing Time Rules, sitting an inning
means sitting the entire inning. There are no “partial sits” for any inning. If a player sits part
of an inning and plays part of an inning the player shall not be counted as sitting or playing
in that inning. An exception may be made for a player who is injured while playing in the
field. Teams may not play an inning with less than 9 players in the field to comply with the
Playing Time rules if they have 9 or more players present who are able to play. Playing
SOM Baseball Local Rules 10 April 12, 2021Time rules apply during the Regulation Number of Innings, per Local Rule 4.1. There are no Playing Time Rules applicable during extra innings. PITCHING 6.1 Tracking Pitches: All pitches thrown in a game, whether or not the game becomes a regulation game, count for rest requirements, including pitches thrown for intentional walks. Pitches thrown in warm-ups and practices do not count towards pitch counts. Pitches thrown in games that do not become regulation games (for example, if a game is a forfeit, but the teams decide to play a scrimmage, or if a game does not become a regulation game because it is rained out before it becomes a regulation game) count towards pitch counts. Coaches must count pitches for both teams and reconcile counts at the conclusion of each half-inning. In the event of irreconcilable discrepancies, the pitching team’s count governs. 6.2 Substitution: Rule 0.06 #5 does not apply. Once a pitcher has thrown one or more pitches and is removed from the pitching position, he cannot return to that game as a pitcher. 6.3 Walks: 6.3.1 Intentional Walks: Pitches do not have to be thrown for intentional walks. Whether intentional walk pitches are thrown or not, they count towards pitch counts. 6.3.2 Minor League Walk Rule: In the Minor Leagues only, after the 4th walk in any inning by the same pitcher, a batter must receive 6 balls from that pitcher before a walk is called. For this rule walks are bases on balls only and not hit batters. 6.4 Players on Multiple Teams: 6.4.1 Players on Other Teams: Players on middle school teams, private teams or teams in any other leagues who wish to pitch in the South Orange / Maplewood Cal Ripken Baseball program must submit a signed agreement to the Chairperson of the Rules Committee, in the form designated by the Rules Committee, stating that the player, and the player’s parents agree that the player’s total pitch counts, for all teams, shall not exceed the limitations set forth in these Local Rules. This form shall be distributed with registration materials, and must be received by the league prior to the draft. SOM Baseball Local Rules 11 April 12, 2021
6.4.2 Ineligible Pitchers: Any violation of Local Rule 6.4.1 renders the player who violated that rule an ineligible pitcher, and Local Rule 6.13 applies. Any such violation may be raised to the umpire during the game, or to the Rules Commissioner at any time prior to the next game to be played by the team alleged to have used an Ineligible Pitcher, except in the case of doubleheaders, in which case the violation may be raised at any time before the next game is played by the team alleged to have used an Ineligible Pitcher after both games of the doubleheader. 6.5 Definition of Rest Day: A Rest Day means a full calendar day with no pitching. For example, if a player pitches in a Monday game, triggering 2 calendar days of rest, the pitcher must rest Tuesday and Wednesday and is eligible to pitch again on Thursday. 6.6 Doubleheaders: In the event of a doubleheader, pitchers will be allowed to make only one appearance per day. The allowable pitches may not be split between games. 6.7 Hit by Pitch: 6.7.1 M60 and Minor Leagues: Any M60 or Minor League pitcher that hits 2 batters with a pitch in the same inning, or three batters in the same game, must be removed from the position of pitcher at the request of the opposing coach to the umpire. 6.7.2 Umpire’s Discretion: The umpire may remove any pitcher in any league that hits 2 batters with a pitch in the same inning, or three batters in the same game, if the umpire believes the safety of the opposing team’s batters is in jeopardy. The umpire’s decision in all such cases shall be a non-appealable judgment call. 6.8 Trips to the Mound: Rule 8.06 applies in all leagues. However, during the month of April in Minor League only, a second trip to the mound in a single inning is permitted. A third trip to the mound shall automatically result in the removal of the pitcher from the game as a pitcher only. 6.9 Innings Pitched: Rules 0.06 #1, #2, and #3 do not apply. There are no innings pitched limitations of any kind in the Babe Ruth League. Major League pitchers may pitch a maximum of 4 innings in any game in M70 and 3 inning in any game in M60. Minor League pitchers may pitch a maximum of 2 innings in any game. SOM Baseball Local Rules 12 April 12, 2021
6.10 Major and Minor League Pitch Count Limitations: Major League and Minor League
pitchers are limited to a maximum of 60 pitches per game (45 pitches per game thru April
30th). In the event that the 60th pitch occurs during the middle of an at-bat, the pitcher will
be allowed to complete the at-bat, but must be removed prior to the next batter. Pitchers
may complete an at-bat at the Pitching Rest Thresholds in Local Rule 6.12 without
triggering an extra day of rest.
6.11 Required Rest Days: Players must observe the number of Rest Days set forth in the
table below, based on the number of pitches they have pitched in a day, before pitching
again:
Pitch Count in Single Day Required Number of Rest Days
61 or more 3
41-60 2
21-40 1
1-20 0
6.12 Penalties for Pitch Count Violations: Rule .06 #4 applies. Any violation of the pitch
count rules results in a forfeit for the team that has violated the rule. Rule .06 #5 and Rule
.06 #6 do not apply.
6.13 Hidden Ball Trick: The hidden ball trick is not permitted in M60 or Minors. When
attempted in M70 and Babe Ruth the balk rule shall be strictly enforced.
UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT
7.1 Uniforms: All players must come to games in full uniform. This includes the team hat,
the team shirt, appropriate socks, and gray baseball pants. Hats must be worn at all times
while on the field. Shirts must be tucked in. Sneakers or cleats must be worn. Metal spikes
are prohibited. Jewelry is prohibited, except for medical alert bracelets and similar
medically necessary jewelry. Players who are not in full uniform, or who are wearing
prohibited or distracting jewelry, clothing, or footwear may be excluded by the umpire from
participation in that game.
SOM Baseball Local Rules 13 April 12, 20217.2 Bats. 7.2.1 All Leagues: See Rule 1.10. 7.2.2 Major and Minor Leagues: All bats are limited to a diameter of 2 5/8 inches. NON-WOOD BATS MAY BE USED IF AND ONLY IF THEY ARE HAVE THE USA BASEBALL STAMP. 7.2.3 Illegal Bats: If a bat is discovered to be illegal, it shall immediately be removed from play. If it is removed before a complete at-bat, the batter shall continue the at-bat with a legal bat and the ball/strike count shall remain as it was prior to discovery of the illegality of the bat. Any hit by a batter using an illegal bat shall be recorded as an out, all runners shall return to their original bases, and any outs during the play shall stand. This is an appeal play. The “at-bat” will be considered legal once a pitch is thrown to the next batter. 7.3 Protective Cups: All male catchers must wear a protective cup. All male players at any position are encouraged to wear a protective cup. OFFICIAL STANDINGS 8.1 Point System: Standings will be kept on a point system of 2 points for a win, 1 point for a tie, and 0 points for loss. Tie games that have completed sufficient innings to be regulation games will not be continued or replayed, except during play-offs, when games shall be continued into extra innings until a winner is determined. Forfeits will be recorded as 7-0 scores in Babe Ruth League. Forfeits in all other leagues will be recorded as 6-0 scores, unless the forfeit is because neither team can field a sufficient number of players, in which case the forfeit for each team shall be recorded for each team with no runs scored. See Local Rule 4.11. 8.2 Reporting: Coaches MUST keep written score cards for every game, in order to resolve any discrepancies or protests. Coaches must report final scores and pitch counts to the League reporter, as designated on the League website or otherwise, within 24 hours of the conclusion of each game. In reporting pitch counts at the Pitching Rest Thresholds per Local Rule 6.12, if a pitcher exceeds the Pitching Rest Threshold while finishing an at-bat, only the threshold value shall be reported. For example, if a pitcher pitches 44 pitches, the last 6 of which were to a single batter, his or her pitch count shall be reported as 40, and he or she shall be subject to one Rest Day; if a pitcher pitches 64 pitches, the last 6 of which were to a single batter, his or her pitch count shall be reported as 60, and he or she shall be subject to two Rest Days. 8.3 Tie-Breakers: Ties in the standings or in cases where teams have played a different number of games shall be determined by won/loss percentage. Ties in that percentage shall be determined in accordance with Rule 11.05. SOM Baseball Local Rules 14 April 12, 2021
APPEALS 9.1 Umpire’s Judgment Calls: Umpire’s judgment calls are not subject to appeal. Coaches may ask for clarification of any call, including judgment calls, but all judgment calls by the umpire are final. 9.2 Incorrect Rule Applications: If an umpire incorrectly applies a rule that does not require a judgment call (e.g., called out on 2 strikes, incorrect score, pitch count issues, infield fly called with no force at third or with 2 outs, incorrect application of overthrow rule), the coaches may discuss the issue calmly with the umpire. The opposing coach is entitled to be present during any such discussion. A request can be made to modify an on-field call in order to comply with the Rules and Local Rules. Coaches initiating such a discussion must cite the specific applicable Rules and Local Rules. After discussion, the umpire’s ruling is final. If a coach still believes the on-field ruling was incorrect, the only remedy is to play the game under protest per Rule 4.19 and Local Rule 3.2. 9.3 Appeal Plays: On-field appeal plays must be made in accordance with the Rule Book. For examples, see Rules 6.07 and 7.10. MISCELLANEOUS RULES 10.1 Plays at the Plate: 10.1.1 Obstruction by the Catcher: Catchers may not block the plate unless in possession of the ball, or in the act of fielding the ball, as determined in the sole judgment of the umpire. Rule 7.06 applies. If the catcher improperly blocks the plate, the baserunner shall be called SAFE by the umpire. 10.1.2 No Crashing the Catcher: A base runner attempting to score must slide into home plate or otherwise avoid collision with the catcher. Rule 7.08 applies. If a baserunner fails to slide or avoid and in the umpire’s sole judgment, a dangerous situation was created, the baserunner shall be called OUT. The umpire shall be the sole judge as to the actual or potential danger created. The baserunner’s innocent intent, lack of knowledge of the rules, or lack of ability to slide shall not be considered by the umpire in making this decision. In the event of a conflict between Local Rules 10.1.1 and 10.1.2, Local Rule 10.1.2 shall take precedence. SOM Baseball Local Rules 15 April 12, 2021
10.1.3 Ejection of Players: The umpire may eject a runner or catcher if the umpire believes the runner’s failure to slide or avoid, or the catcher’s improper blocking of the plate, was done with malicious intent, or if, regardless of the players’ intent, the player has created multiple dangerous situations. 10.2 No Head First Slides: Baserunners may not slide head-first into any base, except when returning to the base. Players who do so shall be called OUT by the umpire. 10.3 Rounding First Base: Baserunners may overrun first base in accordance with standard baseball rules, and are not required to overrun in foul territory. If in the umpire’s judgment, however, the baserunner makes a move toward second base, he is subject to being put out by the defense. 10.4 Infield Fly Rule: The Infield Fly Rule is in effect for all divisions. Please review the definition of an Infield Fly in rule 2.0, and Rule 6.05 (e). 10.5 Steals and Leads: 10.5.1 Minor League: “Cal Ripken Major 60 Ft. Baseball Division Special Base Running Rule” on page 12 of the Rule Book applies, but only for a runner occupying second base trying to reach third base, provided that third base is not already occupied. Runners stealing third base may not advance beyond third base on the play. Runners who attempt to advance home or leave third base after stealing third base whether due to misplay, overthrow or otherwise, are subject to being put out by the defense at any time they are off base while the ball is live. Runners who have crossed home plate are not subject to being put out. If not put out, the umpire shall return the runner to third base once the ball is dead. 10.5.2 Summary of Steal and Lead Rules: In simple terms, leads and steals are allowed in M70 and Babe Ruth; steals of second and third one base at a time, but not leads, are allowed in M60; and steals of third base only, with no leads, are allowed in the Minor League. 10.5.3 Batters who walk: In M60 and Minors batters who walk may not continue to second base. 10.6 Coaches Positioning: Rule 4.05 applies. Coaches must stay off the playing field. Coaches of the batting team may have 1 coach in each of the 1st and 3rd base coaching SOM Baseball Local Rules 16 April 12, 2021
boxes. Teams may use players as first and/or third base coaches, provided such players wear batting helmets. Fielding team coaches must be at or behind the sideline fences. A coach who enters fair territory triggers the visits to the mound rule under Rule 8.06. Coaches who enter fair territory while the ball is live are subject to penalty pursuant to Rule 4.05. 10.7 Live and Dead Balls: Returning the ball to the pitcher does not end play. In Minors and M60, play is declared dead when the pitcher is in contact with the pitchers’ plate and in possession of the ball, and the catcher is in the catcher’s box ready to receive delivery of the ball, as per “Cal Ripken Major 60 Ft. Baseball Division Special Base Running Rule” on page 12 of the Rule Book. 10.8 Overthrows: Rule 7.05(g) applies but is somewhat confusing to parse. The following is offered as guidance: In general, 2 bases are awarded on an overthrow. When the overthrow is the first play by an infielder, the award of 2 bases is calculated from the position of the runners at the time ball was pitched; in other cases the award is calculated from where runners were at time of the overthrow. This amounts to the batter being awarded second base on an overthrow to first base that is the first play (the most common circumstance, and what is commonly referred to as “1 base on an overthrow”). 10.9 Thrown Bats and Equipment: Rule 6.05 applies. The umpire may eject any player immediately and declare that player out, if the player throws any equipment or takes any other action with the intent to cause injury to another player, coach, umpire, etc. The umpire may immediately call a player out for intentionally throwing any equipment in a dangerous fashion, even if there is no intent to cause injury. If a player throws equipment accidentally (i.e., lost control of a bat, thrown bat on follow-through, etc.), the umpire shall first give the player a warning. A second offense, regardless of intent, shall be called an out. Each individual player is entitled to receive a warning before being called out, unless the equipment was thrown intentionally. A warning to an individual player does not result in an automatic out for similar action by any other player on either team. The umpire shall determine whether there was intent to cause injury, and whether or not equipment was thrown intentionally or not, in the umpire’s sole, non-appealable discretion. 10.10 Dropped Third Strikes: Rule 6.09(b) does not apply in Minors or M60. The batter is out when a third strike is called by the umpire, whether or not it is caught by the catcher. Rule 6.09(b) does apply in M70 and Babe Ruth Leagues. 10.11 Time between Innings: Warm-up time between innings shall be limited to two minutes. The umpire shall call “play ball” after two minutes. Warm-ups must stop after balls SOM Baseball Local Rules 17 April 12, 2021
are called in, regardless of whether the catcher or other players are ready to play. The umpire shall be the sole judge of when two minutes have elapsed. Returning pitchers shall receive no more than 5 warm-up pitches. New Pitchers shall receive no more than 8 warm-up pitches. 10.12 Play-offs: All Local Rules apply equally during the Play-offs, except as specifically noted herein. For clarity, the mercy rule in Local Rule 4.9 applies in the play-offs, any game halted before it is a regulation game (Local Rule 4.1) shall be a suspended game which shall be completed as soon as scheduled. 10.13 Dugouts: Home team is assigned the first base bench. Visiting team is assigned third base bench. RESERVE CALL-UPS 11.1 Objectives of Reserve Call-Ups System: The main goal of the Reserve Call-Ups System is to avoid rescheduling or forfeitures of games due to not having enough players to fill a roster. A secondary goal is to give players an opportunity to experience a higher level of baseball. Coaches in the M60, M70, and the Babe Ruth divisions who do not have enough players may request players to be called up from a pool of players selected by SOM Baseball, in order to augment the number of players on the team so the game can be played. 11.2. Selection of Players for the Call-Up Pools: All players will be offered the opportunity to participate in the Call-Up Pool. The Rules Commissioner for each league will contact families with an opportunity to indicate interest and availability to serve as call-up players. Minor League players will comprise the Call-Up Pool for use in M60, M60 League players will comprise the Call-Up Pool for use in M70; and M70 League players will form the Call-Up Pool for use in Babe Ruth League. Players who are “playing up” to a league above the league designated for their age are not eligible to be in the Call-Up Pool. 11.3 Call-Up List: The Rules Commissioner shall maintain a call-up list This list shall be comprised of eligible players that have opted into being available for play-up use. . The Rules Commissioner shall provide equitable opportunities to participate to these call-up players. The Rules Commissioner will assign players to a team based on a coach’s request for players but has full discretion as to whether to fulfill coach requests for specific players. SOM Baseball Local Rules 18 April 12, 2021
11.4 Number of Call-Ups Who Can Be Used: The requesting team must have at least 7 of its own players at the game. A coach who believes he or she will have eight players may ask for one additional player. A coach who believes he or she will have seven players may ask for up to two additional players. No coach may request more than 2 call-up players for any game, or use more than 2 call-up players for any game. 11.5 Contacting Call-Up Players: If a coach believes he or she may have less than nine players available for a game, he or she may use a Call-Up player. Coaches must request call players directly from the Rules Commissioner. The likelihood of the request being satisfied is reduced as game time approaches. Minor League coaches may not request Call-Up players. Coaches may not use any player in a game who was not assigned to their game by the rules commissioner or whose use has not otherwise been approved, in advance, by the Rules Commissioner. The Rules Commissioner shall have broad discretion to authorize other means to enable games to be played and avoid forfeits and rescheduling, including assigning additional players to assure a game is played. Any non-roster player who appears in any game other than as expressly permitted herein is an ineligible player, and the game in which such player appears shall be forfeited, consistent with Cal Ripken Rule 0.07. No coach shall play on the field in any position. No player shall play on the field in any position unless they are a member of the team or have been assigned as a call-up player by the Rules Commissioner or the Chair of the Rules Committee. 11.6 Use of Call-Up Players: 11.6.1 Call-Up players must be used consistent with the rules of the league with respect to batting and innings played in the field, subject to the modifications below. 11.6.2 Call-Up players will be provided by the league’s commissioner. Eligible players will opt-into a call-up list managed by the league commissioner. The league commissioner will provide call-up players to any team in need. League commissioners will balance the use of call-up players to assure fair and even opportunity to all eligible players. No coach shall coordinate or request specific individuals. 11.6.3 In M70 and M60 no Call-Up player may pitch or catch. In Babe Ruth call up players may catch for up to three innings with call up players being permitted to start even if the team has more than nine (9) players. Using call up player as catcher cannot result in a team player sitting more than two (2) innings. SOM Baseball Local Rules 19 April 12, 2021
11.6.4 A Call-Up player may not be used if it will interfere with his or her availability to play in his or her own team’s game. 11.6.5 Call-Up players shall play in their team uniform. 11.6.6 If, after requesting additional players, a team has more than nine players available to play, no Call-Up player may start the game in lieu of a regular team member, and the Call- Up player may play no more than two innings in the field. 11.6.7 Call-Up players must bat at the end of the batting order, unless a regular team member arrives after the start of game. Those players arriving late will bat after any Call-Up players. 11.7 Failure to Use Call-Up System: If a team does not request substitute players and appears for a game with less than eight players, Local Rule 4.10 shall apply. 11.8 Delay of Game: The game may not be delayed for a Called-Up player in violation of Local Rule 4.10. However, a Call-Up player can be added to a team after the start of the game to complete a 9-player team. 11.9 Play-offs and Final Games: Call-Up players may not be used for any post-season games (playoffs and finals). 11.10 Abuses: Any coach found to be avoiding playing his own team members in favor of requesting playing called up players, or otherwise attempting to use the system for competitive advantages, rather than to simply avoid reschedules and forfeits, will be brought before the Sportsmanship Committee. GROUND RULES 12.1 Balls Out of Play: Any ball that leaves the field of play shall be declared a dead ball. On all fields, a ball shall be considered out of play if it crosses the plane defined by the fence separating the playing field from the spectators’ area. Local Rule 10.8 applies if the ball leaves play on a throw. A fair batted ball that leaves the field of play shall be handled pursuant to Rule 6.09 (d)-(h). SOM Baseball Local Rules 20 April 12, 2021
12.2 Balls in the Backstop: Balls that go through the backstop or that become lodged in
the backstop or the pads on the backstop are dead. Runners shall advance to the base to
which they were advancing when the ball became dead. If a pitched ball becomes dead
under this rule, runners who are eligible to steal may advance two bases (only in M70 and
Babe Ruth). In M60 a runner may not score from third base or advance to third base from
second base if third base is occupied or from first base to second base if second base and
third base are occupied. In Minors, runners on second may advance to third base if third
base is unoccupied.
12.4 M4 Ground Rule: If a batted ball strikes any portion of the tree (including leaves,
branches, etc.) hanging over right field at M4, it shall be ruled a foul ball if the umpire rules
the ball struck the tree in foul territory, and such foul ball may not result in an out, even if
caught by a fielder. If the umpire rules the ball struck the tree in fair territory, it shall be
ruled a ground rule double, and all runners may advance two bases from their original
bases without liability to being put out.
12.5 M1 Ground Rule: If a batted ball strikes any portion of the tree (including leaves,
branches, etc.) hanging over the backstop and nearby areas of M1, it shall automatically be
ruled a dead ball. The dead ball shall be considered a foul ball and the pitcher shall be
charged with a pitch.
Appendix:
This appendix outlines the rules that were updated from the prior year to provide coaches
quick reference of the specific rules affected. The information provided below is not
intended to supplement the wording of the rules above in any way. It is purely information
for Coaches. Coaches will be held to the rules as worded above.
In the event there are any conflicts between the intended rules as worded above, and this
appendix, the wording above will govern.
For the 2021 season, the Rules Committee revised the rules for 2021 in an effort to
improve the playing experience. The following list outlines the rules that have been
updated and the rationale behind the change.
2021 rule updates include:
4.1 Regulation Number of Innings: The change to this rule affects only the
Babe Ruth league. A regular season game is now 6 innings, playoff games
remain 7 innings. Babe Ruth games will have a greater likelihood of
completing naturally, and the mercy rule now goes into effect after the 4th
inning.
SOM Baseball Local Rules 21 April 12, 2021 4.2 Calling Games Scheduled for Limited Field Time: Games with limited
field time will be more likely to end with the a completed last inning by
allowing the time between games to complete any inning started prior to
1:50. The intent of this change is to reduce the number of games that end in
a hard-stop mid-inning.
This rule is only applied when there is limited field time.
4.3 Calling Games for Darkness: A weekly no-new-inning time will be
posted to govern the stoppage of play due to darkness. The intent here is
remove the subjective nature of calling games for darkness by unifying the
approach across the league and assuring safety for all involved.
Umpires retain the ability to call games for darkness prior to the posted time.
6.3.1 Intentional Walks: Pitches do not need to be thrown for intentional
walks, however they will count towards a pitchers pitch count. This will
improve the speed of the game and aligns the league with Babe Ruth
League Rules.
10.11 Time between Innings: Rule has been clarified to align how it has been
applied by umpires. This will allow for consistent application and reduced
time between innings and more playing time overall.
11.2 & 11.3 Reserve Call-Ups: The Call-up system will now allow for a
greater number of players to be eligible to be called up as the [process has
changed. Coaches in need of a call-up player will now contact their League
Commissioner for a Call-Up player.
Players will opt into a Call-up opportunity by registering digitally with the
League Commissioner.
12.2 Balls in the Backstop: Will now follow other dead ball rules.
12.5 M1 Ground Rule: A ball landing fair off a tree will now be treated as a
foul ball. The “do-over” has been eliminated.
QUESTIONS: If any additional questions arise during the season, please direct an inquiry
to the Rules Committee by sending an email to your league’s commissioner.
END
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