Tournament Handbook GEELONG BASEBALL CENTRE - Local Information - Baseball Victoria
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GEELONG BASEBALL CENTRE Local Information Tournament Handbook Baseball Victoria Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2019)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Welcome ...................................................................................................................... 2
2. Baseball Victoria Staff ................................................................................................... 3
3. General Information ..................................................................................................... 4
Morwell ................................................................................................................................. 8
Bendigo................................................................................................................................. 11
Sale ....................................................................................................................................... 14
Werribee............................................................................................................................... 18
4. Appendix A – Playing Conditions ................................................................................. 25
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Baseball Victoria
Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)
GENERAL WELCOME We welcome you to the 2021 State Winter Championships as these young players gather once again for this exciting annual event. Each year, we are privileged to see the energy and passion for the sports being displayed by talented young players throughout this tournament. This information pack consists of information that would be beneficial to those participating in the event and their families. From general venue information, tournament policies, rules and local information, it will have everything you need during your time at the event. We hope this contributes in making the tournament a more enjoyable and accessible experience for everyone. Feel free to contact any of the relevant staff members for any further enquiries. Baseball Victoria would like to thank the devotion of associations, coaches, and teams in their respective positions. Also, a special thanks to the council, sponsors, and many other supporters who made it possible for the tournaments to be held this year. Finally, congratulations to the players on being selected to represent your associations. We encourage you to do your best for an honourable victory for your team, while also having fun with your teammates and coaches, creating memorable experiences. The Baseball Victoria Team Baseball Victoria Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)
BASEBALL VICTORIA STAFF
The Baseball Victoria Staff will assist you every step of the way-from making payments and
completing all necessary registration to answering any questions you may have regarding
your tournament experience. All required paperwork should be submitted to the
Tournament Director.
SAM GILLETT
Events Manager
0429 393 418
events@baseballvictoria.com.au
RACHAEL BOULEY
Communications & Digital Marketing
03 9645 8000
rachael.bouley@baseballvictoria.com.au
PLAYBALL
Complaints
03 9645 8000
Playball@baseballvictoria.com.au
OFFICE CONTACT & LOCATION INFORMATION
MELBOURNE BALLPARK
Merton Street, Altona VIC 3018
Postal Address
P.O. Box 551 Laverton VIC 3028
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Baseball Victoria
Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)
GENERAL INFORMATION
CLIMATE/WHAT TO BRING
The State Winter Championships are held during the winter season, so teams must be
prepared for all variances of weather including rain, hail and storms. We highly recommend
keeping hydrated and wearing sunscreen in times of excessive exposure to sun. Portable
tents, chairs and coolers are allowed inside the venues.
ADMISSION
Admission to the Winter Championships is free. There will be no gate fee for any of our
events. We encourage family and friends to come to the complex to cheer on the athletes
and show their support.
MANAGERS MEETING
A managers meeting will occur prior to the first round of games on Saturday. The time of
this meeting will be set out in the fixture schedule. All managers and coaches must attend
this meeting and ask questions if necessary.
AWARDS
The winning players of the Championship game will each receive medallions. The team will
receive a trophy and the title of 2021 State Winter Champions. A tournament MVP will also
be awarded as voted on by opposition coaches throughout the tournament.
UMPIRES
All pool and finals games will aim to have two umpires. It is each team’s responsibility to
provide their own umpire for the event.
BASEBALLS/EQUIPMENT
Baseball Victoria will provide balls for each game of the Winter Championships. Teams are
to bring their own practice balls. All other baseball and safety equipment are the
responsibility of each team.
BATBOY/BATGIRL
Teams are permitted to have ONE batboy/batgirl who must be younger than the team’s
participants and must always wear a helmet. Batboys/batgirls should not be included on
the team’s official roster.
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Baseball Victoria
Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)
GENERAL INFORMATION
TEAM UNIFORMS
Teams are required to provide and wear their own uniforms. Each player on a team should
have a unique number displayed on their jersey. Metal cleats are not permitted to be worn
in games for age groups U12 and below.
FIRST AID
A First Aid responder will be on-site at all Winter Championships. It is important to
remember that First Aid responders are not medical doctors. They provide basic first aid,
determine the severity of injuries and make recommendations as to whether a player
should see a doctor or go to an emergency room. Please refer to the local information pages
of this document for local hospitals.
PHOTOGRAPHY SERVICE
Baseball Victoria will not provide a photo service. Baseball Victoria encourages parents and
Field Managers to take photos of their own child via personal cameras and mobile devices.
NOTE: Due to safety reasons, the Winter Championships do not allow coach or parent
photographers in the dugouts or on the fields.
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Baseball Victoria
Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)
MORWELL Under 12 – 17 & 18 July 2021 Morwell Baseball Club will host the U16 State Winter Championships. Morwell is located along Toners Road, which is just off the exit from the freeway. PARKING Morwell has plenty of off-street parking at the entrance of the venue. Baseball Victoria is not responsible for any damaged vehicles or theft. PRACTICES Morwell has a small area either side of the two diamonds where warm ups can take place. The third base dugout on Diamond 1 has a batting cage attached. PETS Pets are allowed at each of the grounds for these events, although not in the clubhouse or field of play. FOOD COURT/CONCESSIONS The U12 Winter Championships offer a variety of food and beverage options for your convenience. No alcohol may be sold or consumed at the venue during these junior events. BAD WEATHER/SATELLITE FIELDS Should there be any delays during the U12 State Winter Championships, including rain or bad lighting, Baseball Victoria will look to coordinate satellite fields if necessary. The nominated area as per the Bureau of Meteorology is Traralgon. Baseball Victoria Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)
BENDIGO
U14 Championships - 24 & 25 July
VISITOR CENTRE
For advice on potential accommodation or restaurants, the Latrobe Visitor Information
Centre will be able to provide the best suited locations for whatever your situation.
https://www.visitlatrobecity.com.au/
You can also call them on 1800 621 409 or 03 5176 3344
or email them at: visitorcentre@latrobe.vic.gov.au
They are open 10:00am – 4:00pm everyday at 41 Princes Street, Traralgon
HOSPITAL
For any emergency issue, the Latrobe Regional Hospital is a 12-minute drive away from
Morwell Baseball Club. The Maryvale Private Hospital is an 8-minute drive from
Morwell Baseball Club.
Latrobe Regional Hospital
10 Village Ave,
Traralgon, Victoria
(03) 5173 8000
Maryvale Private Hospital
286 Maryvale Rd,
Morwell, Victoria
(03) 5132 1200
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Baseball Victoria
Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)
BENDIGO
U14 Championships - 24 & 25 July
The Bendigo East Baseball Club is located at Albert Roy Reserve; 146 Victoria Street,
Eaglehawk, VIC 3556.
PARKING
Bendigo East Baseball Club has a car park off of Victoria Street as well as overflow parking
continuing from the carpark behind the clubrooms. Baseball Victoria is not responsible for
any damaged vehicles or theft.
PRACTICES
There are fields of grass surrounding the diamonds that teams may use to warm up.
PETS
Pets are allowed at Albert Roy Reserve, although not in the clubhouse or on the field of play.
FOOD COURT/CONCESSIONS
The U14 Winter Championships offer a variety of food and beverage options for your
convenience. No alcohol may be sold or consumed at the venue during these junior events.
BAD WEATHER/SATELLITE FIELDS
Should there be any delays during the Senior State Winter Championships, including rain or
bad lighting, Baseball Victoria will look to coordinate satellite fields if necessary.
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Baseball Victoria
Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)
BENDIGO
Local Information
VISITOR CENTRE
For advice on potential accommodation or restaurants, the Bendigo Visitor Information
Centre will be able to provide the best suited locations for whatever your situation.
https://www.bendigoregion.com.au/explore-bendigo/destinations/bendigo-visitor-centre
You can also call them on 1800 813 153 or 03 5434 6060
or email them at: tourism@bendigo.vic.gov.au
They are open 9:00am-5:00pm everyday at 51-67 Pall Mall Bendigo
Accommodation Search (use for button links) | Visitor Guide & Dining & Shopping Guide | Maps |
Things to Do.
HOSPITAL
For any emergency issue, the St John of God Bendigo hospital is a 6-minute drive away from
Bendigo East Baseball Club. The Bendigo Health hospital is an 8-minute drive away from
Bendigo East Baseball Club.
Bendigo Health (Public)
100 Barnard St,
Bendigo VIC 3550
(03) 5454 6000
St John of God Bendigo Hospital (Private)
133-145 Lily St
Bendigo VIC 3550
(03) 5434 3434
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Baseball Victoria
Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)SALE U16 Championships – 31 July & 1 August The U16 State Winter Championships are held at Stephenson Park in Sale. Entry is located off of Guthridge Parade. PARKING There is plenty parking available at the sporting complex – behind the tennis club and around the football oval. Baseball Victoria is not responsible for any damaged vehicles or theft. PRACTICES There will be space behind Diamond Two and Three that players can use for trainings and warm up. PETS Pets are allowed at the Sale Baseball Club, although not in the clubhouse or on the field of play. FOOD COURT/CONCESSIONS The U16 State Winter Championship offers a variety of food and beverage options for your convenience. No alcohol may be sold or consumed at the venue during these junior events. BAD WEATHER/SATELLITE FIELDS Should there be any delays during the U18 Winter Championships, including rain or bad lighting, Baseball Victoria will look to coordinate satellite fields if necessary. For regional areas, weather conditions will be monitored through the Bureau of Meteorology’s Latest Weather Observations for Victoria. Baseball Victoria Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)
SALE
Local Information
VISITOR CENTRE
For advice on potential accommodation or restaurants, the Central Gippsland Visitor
Information Centre will be able to provide the best suited locations for whatever your
situation.
https://www.portofsale.com.au/spaces/visit
You can also call them on 1300 368 864 or 03 5142 3576
or email them at: visitor@wellington.com.au
They are open 9:00am-5:30pm weekdays and 10:00am -4:00pm weekends at 70 Foster St,
Sale
HOSPITAL
For any emergency issue, the Sale Hospital, Central Gippsland Health Centre, is a 1-minute
drive away from Sale Baseball Club.
Sale Hospital, Central Gippsland Health Centre
155 Guthridge Parade.
Sale VIC 3850
(03) 5143 8600
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Baseball Victoria
Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)WERRIBEE U18 Championships – 7 & 8 August The U12 Winter Championships is held at Werribee Giants Baseball Club, located at President’s Park on McGrath’s Road. PARKING There is parking available throughout the President’s Park complex however the baseball field is located via Entry Two. There is additional parking located besides Werribee Hockey Club and Werribee Softball Association. Baseball Victoria is not responsible for any damaged vehicles or theft. PRACTICES There are available diamonds at Werribee Softball Association that when not in use, can be used for practice, as can any of the surrounding grounds at Werribee Giants Baseball Club. PETS Pets are allowed at Werribee Giants Baseball Club and its surrounding park areas, although not in the clubhouse or field of play. FOOD COURT/CONCESSIONS The U18 Winter Championship offers a variety of food and beverage options for your convenience. No alcohol may be sold or consumed at the venue during these junior events. BAD WEATHER/SATELLITE FIELDS Should there be any delays during the U18 Winter Championships, including rain or bad lighting, Baseball Victoria will look to coordinate satellite fields if necessary. The nominated area as per the Bureau of Meteorology is Laverton. Baseball Victoria Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)
WERRIBEE
Local Information
VISITOR CENTRE
For advice on potential accommodation or restaurants, the Werribee Visitor Information
Centre will be able to provide the best suited locations for whatever your situation.
https://www.visitwerribee.com.au/
You can also call them on 03 8734 6006
or email them at: tourism@wyndham.vic.gov.au
They are open 9:00am-5:00pm everyday at K Road, Werribee Open Range Zoo, Werribee
South.
HOSPITAL
For any emergency issue, the Werribee Mercy Hospital is an 11-minute drive away from
Werribee Baseball Club.
Werribee Mercy Hospital
300-310 Princes Hwy
Werribee VIC 3030
(03) 8754 3000
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Baseball Victoria
Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)2021
STATE WINTER CHAMPIONSHIPS
PLAYING CONDITIONS
Baseball Victoria
Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)Contents
Part 1 - Administration .......................................................................................................................... 14
1. Introduction ..............................................................................................................................................................14
2. Name ........................................................................................................................................................................14
3. Dates & Venues ........................................................................................................................................................14
4. Grounds ....................................................................................................................................................................14
5. First Aid & Emergency Services ................................................................................................................................14
6. Eligibility of players ...................................................................................................................................................14
7. Friendship Policy .......................................................................................................................................................15
8. Team Size ..................................................................................................................................................................15
9. Umpires ....................................................................................................................................................................16
10. Championships Draw ..............................................................................................................................................16
11. Uniforms .................................................................................................................................................................16
Part 2 –Playing Conditions ..................................................................................................................... 16
12. Playing Field Dimensions ........................................................................................................................................16
13. Bases .......................................................................................................................................................................17
14. Baseballs .................................................................................................................................................................17
15. Points Scored ..........................................................................................................................................................17
16. Outright Winner and Team Rankings for Finals .....................................................................................................17
17. Pre-match diamond warm up.................................................................................................................................17
18. Game Duration .......................................................................................................................................................18
19. Five Minute Rules ...................................................................................................................................................18
20. Mercy Rule ..............................................................................................................................................................18
21. Abandoned Games .................................................................................................................................................18
22. Championships Affected by Abandoned games .....................................................................................................18
23. Weather Interference .............................................................................................................................................19
24. Time Saving Rules ...................................................................................................................................................19
25. Mandatory Play ......................................................................................................................................................20
26. Substitution/Re Entry .............................................................................................................................................20
27. Junior Pitching Restrictions ....................................................................................................................................21
28. Junior Catching Restrictions ...................................................................................................................................22
29. Equipment ..............................................................................................................................................................22
30. Warm-up Jackets – Pitchers only............................................................................................................................23
31. Baseball Bats ...........................................................................................................................................................23
32. Designated Hitter ...................................................................................................................................................23
33. Protests ...................................................................................................................................................................23
34. Tribunal ...................................................................................................................................................................23
35. Five and Seven Run Rule.........................................................................................................................................24
36. Dropped 3rd Strike .................................................................................................................................................24
37. Base Runner Collision .............................................................................................................................................24
38. Base Runner Leaving the Base Early (U12 only) .....................................................................................................24
39. Blood Rule...............................................................................................................................................................26
40. Most Valuable Players – Voted by opposing coaches ............................................................................................26
41. Extreme Weather ...................................................................................................................................................26
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Baseball Victoria
Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)Part 1 - Administration
1. Introduction
The following conditions will operate for all matches conducted by or under the control of Baseball Victoria. Please
note that these conditions should be read in conjunction with the Official Baseball Rules and playing conditions of
Baseball Victoria.
It is important that while some rules may not appear within these Rules, all actions from all participants must remain
within the spirit of the Championships, being:
• To provide fun, fair and competitive games of baseball;
• To provide safe conditions to play; and
• To create a high level of camaraderie amongst all participants in baseball.
The Management of the Championships (“Management”) reserves the right to penalise as it sees fit should any
person, team or affiliated body not act within the spirit of the Championships.
2. Name
The event shall be called the “State Winter Championships”, with Baseball Victoria and then the specific reference to
the year and age group preceding this name (i.e. Baseball Victoria 2021 (Senior, U18, U16, U14, U12) State Winter
Championships).
3. Dates & Venues
The Championships shall be played on dates and at venues as determined by Baseball Victoria.
4. Grounds
The host for the Championships is expected to have the playing fields properly marked and defined, with emphasis on
public viewing areas and the boundary fence limits.
The host is also responsible for the provision of all field equipment, such as back nets, bases, home plates, pitching
plates, foul flags, scorers’ areas and scoreboards. Bases must be whitened.
The dugouts and scorers’ areas on all fields must have adequate protection from the weather and from foul balls. It is
required that all dugouts and scorers’ areas therefore have adequate cover from rain and sun/UV and adequate
fencing/netting from foul balls. Scorers’ areas shall also have access to electricity.
Games will not commence until the Management is satisfied of these conditions.
5. First Aid & Emergency Services
At all Championships, First Aid will be provided by the host association.
Games will not commence until the Management is satisfied of this condition.
6. Eligibility of players
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Baseball Victoria
Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)a) A player is eligible to take part in any match in the respective age groups provided they are under the age of,
12, 14, 16 or 18 years on the 1st of September in the year of the competition.
b) The minimum age that a player must have attained for participation in age groupings are as specified below:
Age Group Minimum Age
Under 12 8 years of age
Under 14 11 years of age
Under 16 13 years of age
Under 18 15 years of age
Seniors 15 years of age
i. A maximum of two players per team will be allowed to play in a higher age group than allowed under
this playing condition. No written permission is required for these players; however these players are
required to meet the minimum age requirements as set out in the above table.
ii. An association may apply to Baseball Victoria to play more than two players in a higher age group
than allowed under this playing condition. Such approval shall be granted at Baseball Victoria
discretion.
iii. Under 12 and Under 14 players, participating in a higher age group are not permitted to catch in any
games in the higher age group.
iv. Adult players (18 and over) are not permitted to play in junior divisions under any circumstance.
c) For a player to be eligible to compete, they must have played in at least one more than half the games
available in their respective local League fixtures to each junior championship
d) Baseball Victoria reserves the right to decline any dispensation that has been put forward by the Associations
President or Secretary.
7. Friendship Policy
Leagues with low numbers of registered players in the respective age groups can apply to Baseball Victoria for
permission to select players from outside their League, so that their team can participate. The maximum number of
players from outside that League will be determined by Baseball Victoria based on the number of registered senior
players within the age group in that League.
8. Team Size
a) Each team may contain a maximum of 18 players.
b) Each team may have a minimum of 2 and maximum of 3 coaches, 1 Executive Officer (EO) and 1 scorer.
i. There is to be at least one Level Two Coach/Manager in the coaching staff for each team.
ii. The Manager/Head Coach, EO and team’s Scorer must be in attendance for the Pre-Tournament
meeting. Failure for any of the members not being in attendance and on time may result in a $100
fine.
c) Team rosters of no more than 18 players must be submitted to Baseball Victoria no later than the deadline
set by Baseball Victoria. Failure to do so may result in a $200 fine.
d) For senior teams which have players under the age of 18, one chaperone must be appointed for each junior
player. The Chaperone role must be fulfilled by the Executive Officer, Manager or Assistant Coach(s).
i. In the situation that there are more juniors players than coaching staff, a senior player must be
assigned as a chaperone and this must be noted when submitting team entries.
e) Failure to abide by the above will result in further action by Baseball Victoria.
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Baseball Victoria
Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)9. Umpires
Umpires will be reimbursed for costs as fixed by Baseball Victoria to officiate at the Championships.
a) Associations are required to forward details of their umpire attending the respective Championships to
Baseball Victoria no later than fourteen (14) full days prior to the Championships.
b) No Fee or Fine will be handed down to an Association that provides a name and contact details of the umpire
attending the Championships prior to the fourteen (14) day deadline.
c) If Associations provide notice prior to the deadline of fourteen (14) full days that no umpire will be attending
the Championships from the Association, a fee of $350 will be charged to the Association.
d) If no notice is given, the Association will be fined $600. $350 will be allocated to the BUAV nominated
umpire(s) for reimbursement.
e) Failure to abide by the above will result in further action by Baseball Victoria.
10. Championships Draw
a) The draw for all Championships shall be decided by Baseball Victoria and games will be played as shown in
the draw.
b) The Championships shall consist of a series of scheduled matches played in divisions, sections or grades.
c) However to overcome the problems caused by the byes in junior Championships if a bye occurs then Leagues
will be offered the chance to enter a second team in the championships. The decision on which team and
which division to be entered in will be made by Baseball Victoria.
d) Team entrants for the Championships in any section, division or grade shall be invited, seeded or graded by
Baseball Victoria as it deems fit and Baseball Victoria will forward to the participating teams a complete
schedule of match fixtures.
11. Uniforms
a) Each association shall register, by notification to Baseball Victoria, the design and colour of uniforms to be
worn by its Association by May 1 and no changes will be allowed to such uniforms without first obtaining the
consent of Baseball Victoria.
b) Selective advertising is permissible on the back of uniforms provided that the lettering is not in excess of two
inches.
Part 2 –Playing Conditions
12. Playing Field Dimensions
U12 U14 U16 U18 Senior
Base Paths 60ft 80ft 90ft 90ft 90ft
Pitching 46ft 54ft 60ft 6 in 60ft 6 in 60ft 6in
Distance
Diamond 84ft 10.25in 113ft 3in 127ft 3 3/8in 127ft 3 3/8in 127ft 3 3/8in
Diagonal
Home Run LF: 180ft LF: 230ft LF: 320ft LF: 320ft LF: 320ft
Fence CF: 180ft CF: 250ft CF:374ft CF:374ft CF:374ft
RF: 180ft RF: 230ft RF:320ft RF:320ft RF:320ft
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Baseball Victoria
Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)Back Net Maximum Minimum 40ft Maximum Maximum Maximum
35ft (10m) (12.2m) from 60ft (18.3m) 60ft (18.3m) 60ft (18.3m)
from home home plate from home from home from home
plate plate plate plate
Batting Boxes 6ft x 3ft 6ft x 3ft 6ft x 3ft 6ft x 3ft 6ft x 3ft
13. Bases
The bases used at the Championships must be “Hollywood” style bases.
14. Baseballs
Approved waterproof baseball 9 inch will be supplied by Baseball Victoria.
15. Points Scored
The points allocated to teams will be as follows:
• Two points for a win
• One point for each team in a tied game
• No point for either team in an abandoned game
16. Outright Winner and Team Rankings for Finals
a) Teams will be ranked by the points they have scored in the round robin games, the highest ranking being
accorded to the team which scores the greatest number of points (and so on).
b) Where two or more teams score the same number of points, the “Head to Head” method will be used to
separate them. If this fails to separate the teams, the following method will be used:
v. The fewest runs allowed in the game(s) contested by those teams will gain the highest ranking, then
the remaining teams will revert to “Head to Head”. If remaining teams are tied then the tiebreaker
reverts to the fewest runs allowed in the games contested by those teams and then back to “Head to
Head” and so forth.
vi. If teams are still tied, the team will be ranked according to the runs allowed by each of the tied teams
against the highest ranked team in the competition, then the next highest team and so on. The team
with the least runs allowed will be the higher ranking team then the ranking of the remaining teams
will revert to “Head to Head”. If remaining teams are still tied then the tiebreaker reverts to the
fewest runs allowed in the games contested by those teams and then back to ‘Head to Head” and so
forth.
vii. The ranking of the final two teams in the above situation will be determined by the “Head to Head”
method.
17. Pre-match diamond warm up
a) Twenty (20) minutes before the scheduled starting time of a game, the second named (away team) team
shall be entitled to a warm up on the playing field not to exceed seven minutes.
b) Twelve (12) minutes before the scheduled starting time of a game, the first named team (home team) shall
be entitled to a warm up on the playing field not to exceed seven minutes.
c) Five (5) minutes before the scheduled starting time of a game, the playing field must be vacated and both
Managers must meet with the Umpire(s) to determine ground rules and the like.
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Baseball Victoria
Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)18. Game Duration
• Under 12 - 90 minutes or six Innings
• Under 14 - 90 minutes or seven Innings
• Under 16 - 90 minutes or seven innings
• Under 18 - 105 minutes or seven innings
• Seniors – 120 minutes or nine innings
Juniors- It shall be a regulation game when the Umpire terminates play due to adverse weather or ground conditions
after three (3) completed innings or a total of forty-five minutes playing for all junior age groups.
Seniors- It shall be a regulation game when the Umpire terminates play due to adverse weather or ground conditions
after five (5) completed innings or a total of sixty-five minutes.
19. Five Minute Rules
a) If five minutes or less remains at the completion of even innings, the game shall end.
b) If, at the completion of even innings, from the call of “side”, there remains more than five minutes until the
scheduled completion time, a further complete innings shall be played.
c) If, at five minutes before the scheduled time of completion, the home team is at bat and is:
i. Ahead – the game ceases immediately.
ii. Tied or behind – the game continues until the winning run is scored or the side is retired. However, if
an innings fails to be completed within ten minutes after the scheduled finishing time, scores will
revert back to the last completed innings. An exception to this rule is if the home team scores a
sufficient number of runs to tie the game at the completion of ten minutes, those runs will count and
the result will be a draw.
20. Mercy Rule
This rule will be applied as follows:
• Under 12 - 10 runs after 4 innings or 15 runs after 3 innings
• Under 14 - 10 runs after 5 innings or 15 runs after 3 innings
• Under 16 - 10 runs after 5 innings or 15 runs after 3 innings
• Under 18 - 10 runs after 5 innings or 15 runs after 3 innings
• Seniors - 10 runs after 7 innings or 15 runs after 5 innings
21. Abandoned Games
If the Management cannot re-schedule a suspended game, then that game will be considered as abandoned and
competing teams will be awarded points as detailed in Rule 16.
Note: If a game is abandoned, pitch statistics and pitching rules will apply.
22. Championships Affected by Abandoned games
Where less than the total number of games scheduled for the Championships is completed as the result of
“Abandoned Games”, the winning team will be determined as follows:
a) For a team which completed all of its scheduled games, the number of points which it has actually scored will
be divided by the number of points which it could have scored if it had won all games in which it competed
and a percentage determined.
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Baseball Victoria
Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)b) For a team which completed less than the number of its scheduled games the number of points actually
scored by the League will be divided by the number of points it could have scored had it won all games in
which it competed and a percentage determined.
c) In comparing the percentages calculated in accordance with (i) and above, the highest percentage is better
than the lower percentage.
d) When highest percentages are equal then the highest points actually scored will determine the higher place.
e) When the highest points scored are the same then a “Head-to-Head” method will apply.
f) When the Head-to-Head result is equal the “Head-to-Head” method will be used against the same teams
finishing above or below the teams involved with the “Head-to-Head” method.
g) In the event two, three or more teams tie and the Head to Head method does not resolve order of ranking,
then the following method will be used:
• The fewest runs allowed in the games played between the tied teams
• The fewest runs allowed in the games played between teams above or below the tied teams.
23. Weather Interference
a) The number of games to be played may be reduced where weather or other conditions prevent the
completion of the program within the time available.
b) For the first game of any day of the Championship the decision to delay or abandon a game shall be made by
the Management in collaboration with ALL Officials in attendance.
24. Time Saving Rules
Baseball Victoria has resolved to speed-up the play of games. The intent of these rules is to encourage umpires,
coaches and players to limit time-wasting and to ensure all games progress quickly and smoothly.
a) Any pitcher entering the game will, unless they are replacing an injured or ejected player, will receive a
maximum of sixty (60) seconds including a minimum of three (3) warm-up pitchers. This same time limit shall
apply to pitchers warming up prior to the start of an inning.
This rule will fall to team coaches to ensure that their teams hustle on and off the field between innings to
ensure this timeframe is met. To assist in this process, umpires will allow the active (game) pitcher and a
catcher to throw down the base lines in order to keep warm.
Failure by either team to be ready to play within 60 seconds will result in call ball against the fielding team
and a called strike against the batting team (depending obviously on who the transgressor is). Each team will
receive one formal warning per game prior or a ball or strike being called.
b) Pinch runners for pitchers and catchers MUST be used on 2 outs. Pinch runners must be ready while the
pitcher or catcher are on deck and shall not be in the current line-up.
c) The 20 second rule for the pitcher shall apply whenever there are no runners on base.
i. Under the 20 second Pitch Rule, the pitcher must begin his pitching motion within 20 seconds of
receiving the ball from the catcher, umpire or other player. This requirement shall not apply if the
batter is granted time and leaves the batter's box.
ii. If the pitcher violates the 20-second Pitch Rule, the umpire shall issue a warning to the team
following the pitch. Following the warning each violation of the Rule shall result in a ball being called
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Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)against the team in violation. If the pitch is thrown before the violation is called, the pitch shall be
deemed a ball, regardless of it location. If, in the Umpire's opinion, the pitcher is intentionally
violating the Rule, he may eject the offending pitcher and/or Manager from the game.
d) Hitter to Remain in Batter’s box
i. The hitter shall be required to remain in the batter's box unless he makes a request for "time" and
the umpire feels that the request is reasonable. Only then shall the umpire grant time out.
ii. If no runners are on base, the batter should not be granted time and permitted to leave the batter’s
box unless, in the opinion of the umpire, unusual circumstances exist which make the request a
reasonable one.
e) Limits on Offensive Meetings
i. Teams are allowed a maximum of three (3) "offensive meetings" per game. An offensive meeting
shall be charged any time a coach delays the game for any length of time to talk with an offensive
player, whether it be the hitter, a base-runner or an on-deck batter going to the plate, or to another
coach. If the game goes into extra innings, one (1) additional "offensive meeting" shall be permitted
for each three (3) extra innings.
f) Visits to the mound
i. A manager or coach may have one free visit in one inning to visit with the pitcher, but the second
time out, the player must be removed as a pitcher.
ii. A manager or coach may come out three times in one game to visit with the pitcher, but the fourth
and subsequent time out, the pitcher must be removed from the mound.
iii. A manager or coach may confer with any other player(s), including the catcher, during the visit with
the pitcher. A manager or coach who is granted a time out to talk to any defensive player will be
charged with a visit to the mound.
This rule must be addressed in full with umpires prior to the championships. It must also be stressed at the mangers
meeting and the responsibility of the respective coaches to ensure that the rule is adhered to. In doing this the
purpose of the rule must be stressed.
25. Mandatory Play
a. U12 & U14
In a tournament, every player on a team roster shall participate for a minimum of five (5) sets of three (3)
consecutive outs and 5 plate appearances.
b. Any breach of the mandatory play rules will result in an immediate removal and one game suspension of the
team’s manager. Additional penalties (up to and including forfeiture of a game and/or disqualification of the
team, managers, or coaches from further tournament participation) may be imposed if, in the opinion of the
Tournament Committee
i. A manger or coach takes action that results in making a travesty of the game,
ii. A team fails to meet the requirements of this rule more than once during the tournament,
iii. A manager wilfully and knowingly disregards the requirements of this rule
26. Substitution/Re Entry
Re-entry will not be permitted, except if illness, injury or the ejection of a player prevents a team from fielding 9
players. A player previously used in the line-up may be inserted but only if there are no eligible substitute available.
This excludes a pitcher who has pitched a daily limit as per rule 28.
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Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)27. Junior Pitching Restrictions
a. Junior pitchers are required to adhere to the following pitching counts based on their eligible
competition age group. Senior pitchers have no restrictions. A junior playing seniors, must follow the
pitching restrictions based on their eligible competition age.
Assignment Under 12 Under 14 Under 16 Under 18
MAJOR 45 pitches and 55 pitches and not 65 pitches and not 80 pitches and not
not to to to to
exceed 60 pitches exceed 70 pitches exceed 80 pitches exceed 100 pitches
SUBSTANTIAL 20 - 44 pitches 25 - 54 pitches 31 - 64 pitches 40 - 79 pitches
MINOR Less Less Less Less
than 20 pitches than 25 pitches than 30 pitches than 40 pitches
i.It will be the responsibility of the Manager to notify the Chief Umpire when a pitcher is within 10
pitches of the maximum allowable number (Major).
ii.A pitcher reaching his maximum number of pitches for a major assignment is to be removed from
the game once he has completed the batter. However, if the pitcher retires that batter as the
third out of an inning, then that pitcher shall be entitled to take his place as a batter in the next
half inning.
iii.A pitcher may not start the next defensive inning if the pitcher has 5 or less pitcher remaining for
their maximum.
iv.If a pitcher reaches an assignment limit while facing a batter, the pitcher may continue to pitch to
that batter until he legally finishes his time at bat and the pitcher will remain on the pitching
assignment.
v.A Balk Pitch delivered to the plate whether it be hit safely or not shall be considered to be valid
for the purpose of recording the "number of pitches".
vi.A “no pitch”, eg, batter steps out of the batter’s box and the pitcher delivers the pitch, shall not
be included in the pitch count.
vii.Should a pitcher be selected out of their age group then tournament limits and game
contribution will be applicable to the pitcher’s age, not the championship that they are playing
in.
b. Any player pitching a major assignment will be required to complete three days rest before
commencing any further pitching / catching assignments.
c. For a substantial part played, 2 days rest from pitching / catching is required.
d. Any player pitching a minor followed by a substantial the next day will be required to complete one
days rest before commencing any further pitching / catching assignments.
e. A pitcher is not permitted to throw a major assignment if he or she has pitched in any capacity on the
previous (or same) day.
f. A pitcher may only throw two minor assignments on the same calendar day
i.No days rest is required after a minor part played. However, for two successive minor
assignments on the same day, 2 days rest is required from pitching/catching if the total number
of pitches thrown in those two assignments equals or exceeds the amounts below. 1 days rest is
required if the total number of pitches is less than the amounts below:
ii.20 pitches for Under 12
iii.25 pitches for Under 14
iv.30 pitches for Under 16
v.40 pitches for Under 18
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Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)vi. If any pitcher delivers one pitch in an inning, he shall be charged for one (1) assignment.
vii. The word assignment means that each game in which a player pitches is considered one
assignment.
viii. A player once removed as a pitcher may not pitch again in the same game.
ix. Pitchers in the Under 12 and 14 Championships may only throw fast balls or straight change ups.
Knuckle balls, split fingers, folk balls and curve balls are not permitted.
1. If any other pitch is thrown, the Plate Umpire will call “Illegal Pitch”. The illegal pitch call may
also be made by a field umpire. If the ball is not batted then the pitch shall be called a “Ball”. If
the pitch is hit by a batter, then normal rules of Baseball will apply. Where the ball is batted and
an out is made, or the batter strikes out, then the batter runner is not out and the illegal pitch
rule and penalty will apply.
a. The pitched ball will count towards the pitcher’s count.
x.The scorers shall indicate in the score-book for each pitcher the game contribution and when the
pitcher may next play.
xi.At the completion of each game it is the responsibility of a team official (EO) to collect this
information and provide to the Tournament Director.
xii.Any breach of the pitching rules will result in an immediate removal and one game suspension of
the team’s manager. Additional penalties (up to and including forfeiture of a game and/or
disqualification of the team, managers, or coaches from further tournament participation) may
be imposed if, in the opinion of the Tournament Committee
a.A manger or coach takes action that results in making a travesty of the game.
b. A team fails to meet the requirements of this rule more than once during the
tournament,
c. A manager wilfully and knowingly disregards the requirements of this rule
This rule must be addressed in full with umpires prior to the Championships. It must also be stressed at the mangers
meeting and the responsibility of the respective coaches to ensure that the rule is adhered to. In doing this the
purpose of the rule must be stressed.
28. Junior Catching Restrictions
a. No junior player can hold the position of Pitcher and Catcher in the same game.
b. U14, U16 and U18 juniors may only catch 2 games in one day.
i.U12 players may only catch 1 game in a day.
c. Any player who has pitched a Substantial Assignment or greater may not catch the same day
d. Any player who has caught 4 innings may not pitch the same day (Receiving 1 live pitch counts as an
innings)
e. U12 and U14 players participating in a higher age group are not permitted to catch in the higher age
group
f. Breach of catching rules – Penalty same as for breach of pitching rules
29. Equipment
The following specific instructions cover certain items of equipment and uniforms:
a) Footwear:
i. Metal cleats are not permitted to be worn in U12.
ii. U14, U16, U18 and Senior players are permitted to wear metal cleats.
b) Protective Helmets
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Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)i. Each team must provide an adequate number of protective helmets as approved by the ABF. Double
eared helmets will be mandatory in all Championships for the hitter, the base runners and the bat
boy.
ii. All base coaches must wear a helmet. For adults, a skull cap is suitable, but base coaches under 18
years of age must wear two eared helmets when base coaching.
c) Face Masks
i. All catchers must wear a mask and a catcher’s helmet during infield/outfield practice, pitcher warm-
up and games (this includes catchers helmets with built in face mask). Any player or coach warming
up a pitcher shall wear a face mask and a helmet no matter whether in the bull pen or on the playing
field.
ii. All junior catchers are required to wear protective head gear and recommended to wear a “dangling”
type protective throat guard.
30. Warm-up Jackets – Pitchers only
i. When his team is on offence, a pitcher or a relieved pitcher may wear a team warm-up jacket once
he reaches base.
31. Baseball Bats
Baseball Bats maybe wood, aluminium, ceramic or carbon graphite in accordance with IBA rules. 115 decibels
maximum will be the sound emission limit for non-wooden bats.
a) Under 12
• BPF 1.15 marking/ 2 ¼” barrel maximum
• USA Baseball marking 2 5/8” barrel maximum
b) Under 14
• 2 ¼” alloy/metal barrel with BPF stamp of 1.15
• 2 5/8” alloy/metal (no marking required)
• 2 5/8” composite barrel with BBCOR stamp
• USA Baseball marking 2 5/8” barrel maximum
c) Under 16
• All bats must be BBCOR
d) Under 18
• Baseball Bats must be wood or wood composite/laminated as approved by Baseball Victoria
32. Designated Hitter
Designated hitters may be used in the U18 and U16 Championships only as per the rules of Baseball 6.10 “Designated
Hitter Rule”
33. Protests
All protests will be dealt with as soon as they occur, games will not continue until protests are dealt with. The
Tournament Director’s decision will be final.
34. Tribunal
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Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)Any player, manager or coach reported in any game will be required to attend a tribunal hearing directly following
that game in which the offence occurred. The tribunal will consist of three members appointed by Baseball Victoria.
The tribunal after an inquiry shall be authorised to deal with the report and impose any penalty that it may deem fit.
35. Five and Seven Run Rule
b) For Under 12, 14 and 16 games, the scoring of the fifth (5th) run will end the innings.
i. For the purposes of scoring, while the five run rule is in effect, in the event a batter hits the ball out
of play and is ruled by the Umpire(s) to have hit either a Ground Rule Double or a Homerun
(excluding inside the park homerun) that drives in excess of five runs for the inning, all runs from
that inning will be added to the team’s score and the umpire shall declare side away at the
completion of that play.
c) For Under 18 games, the seventh (7th) run will end the innings. Only seven runs may be counted in any
innings.
36. Dropped 3rd Strike
Normal Rules of Baseball Apply for Under 14, Under 16, Under 18 and Senior.
In Under 12, the Batter is out on 3rd strike whether the pitch is caught by the catcher or not.
37. Base Runner Collision
Base runners for U12 are out when the runner does not slide or attempt to get around a fielder who has the ball and
is waiting to make the tag.
Normal rules of Baseball will apply (i.e. interference) at other bases in other age groups. If this rule is not adhered to
then the runner is to be called out by the umpire.
38. Base Runner Leaving the Base Early (U12 only)
When a pitcher is in contact with the pitcher’s plate and in possession of the ball and the catcher is in the catcher’s
box ready to receive delivery of the ball, base runners shall not leave their bases until the ball has been delivered and
has reached the batter.
The violation by one base runner shall affect all other base runners
a) When a base runner leaves the base before the pitched ball has reached the batter and the batter does not hit
the ball, the runner is permitted to continue. If a play is made on the runner and the runner is out, the out stands.
If said runner reaches safely the base to which the runner is advancing, that runner must be returned to the base
occupied before the pitch was made, and no out results;
b) When a base runner leaves the base before the pitched ball has reached the batter and the batter hits the ball,
the base runner or runners are permitted to continue. If a play is made and the runner or runners are put out, the
out or outs will stand. If not put out, the runner or runners must return to the original base or bases or to the
unoccupied base nearest the one that was left; in no event shall the batter advance beyond first base on a single
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Playing Conditions – State Winter Championships (2021)or error, second base on a double or third base on a triple. The umpire-in-chief shall determine the base value of
the hit ball.
c) When any base runner leaves the base before the pitched ball has reached the batter and the batter bunts or hits
a ball within the infield, no run shall be allowed to score. If three runners were on the bases and the batter
reaches first base safely, each runner shall advance to the base beyond the one they occupied at the start of the
play except the runner who occupied third base, that runner shall be removed from the base without a run being
scored.
Note: See exceptions following this rule. Exception: If at the conclusion of the play there is an open base, paragraphs
(a) and (b) will apply.
Examples:
i. Runner on first leaves too soon, batter reaches first safely, runner goes to second.
ii. Runner on second leaves too soon, batter reaches first safely, runner returns to second.
iii. Runner on third leaves too soon, batter reaches first safely, runner returns to third.
iv. Runner on first leaves too soon, batter hits clean double, runner goes to third only.
v. Runner on second leaves too soon, batter hits clean double, runner goes to third only.
vi. Runner on third leaves too soon, batter hits clean double, runner returns to third.
vii. All runners on base will be allowed to score when the batter hits a clean triple or home run, regardless of
whether any runner left too soon.
viii. Runners on first and second, either leaves too soon, batter reaches first safely, runners go to second and
third.
ix. Runners on first and second, either leaves too soon, batter hits clean double, runner on first goes to third,
runner on second scores.
x. Runners on first and third, either leaves too soon, batter reaches first safely, runner on first goes to second,
runner on third remains there.
xi. Runners on first and third, either leaves too soon, batter hits a clean double, runner on first goes to third,
runner on third scores.
xii. Runners on second and third, either leaves too soon, batter reaches first safely, neither runner can advance.
xiii. (xiii)Runners on second and third, either leaves too soon, batter hits a clean double , runner on third scores,
runner on second goes to third.
xiv. (xiv)Runners on first, second and third, any runner leaves too soon, batter hits clean double, runners on
second, third score, runner on first goes to third.
xv. (xv) Bases full, any runner leaves too soon, batter reaches first safely on any ball bunted, or hit within the
infield, all runners advance one base except runner advancing from third. Runner advancing from third is
removed, no run is scored and no out charged. If on the play, a putout at any base results in an open base,
runner who occupied third base returns to third base.
xvi. (xvi) Bases full, any runner leaves too soon, batter received a base on balls or are hit by a pitch each runner
will advance one base and a run will score.
1. Note: When an umpire detects a base runner leaving the base too soon, that umpire shall drop a signal flag or
handkerchief or wave his hat immediately to indicate the violations. Umpires are encouraged to position
themselves such that they can see the hitter and base runner in the same view.
2. Note: For purpose of these examples, it is assumed that the batter-runner remains at the base last acquired safely.
Note: The intent and the enforcement of the rule is so that the team on offense will gain no advantage from having
left the base early. It is practical that the Base Umpire have the primary responsibility for observing a runner leaving
early. To increase his field of view, the Base Umpire shall position himself beyond the infield and on the right field
side of the diamond so that all base runners are in his field of view as the pitched ball reaches the Batter.
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