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Final 2020 Rules

OFFICIAL BY LAWS, RULES & REGULATIONS OF THE COMMONWEALTH AMATEUR LEAGUE ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

1. Definitions 1.1. "CABL" shall mean the Commonwealth Amateur Baseball League. 1.2. "CABL Rules" shall mean all rules, regulations, and procedures stated herein. 1.3. "Board of Directors" or “BOD” shall mean the administrative body described in CABL Rule 2.4. 1.4. The League President shall mean the person designated as President in the CABL Articles of Organization. The League Vice President shall mean the person designated as Vice President in the CABL Articles of Organization. The Secretary and Treasurer shall mean the person designated as those officers in the CABL Articles of Organization. 1.5. "Team" shall mean the baseball member teams approved by the CABL BOD to participate in CABL activities. All Teams agree to abide by the rules, regulations, bylaws and guidelines of CABL. The number of Teams per season is capped at 16. 1.6. "League Fees" shall mean the fee each Team shall be required to pay to the BOD. The amount of the League Fee shall be determined prior to each season. 1.7. "Team " or “Manager” shall mean the individual(s) who possess executive control over the on and off-field activities of a Team. The Team Manager shall have all rights, title and interest in the Team. 1.8. "Captain" shall mean the person designated by the Team Manager to the Manager in the fulfillment of his duties. A Captain may also be called a Co-Manager or Assistant Manager.

2. Administration 2.1. League President 2.1.1. The League President shall act as commissioner of CABL. 2.1.2. The League President shall confer with the BOD as to matters concerning the administration of CABL. 2.1.3. The League President reserves the right to remove a Team Manager, at their sole discretion, for failure of the Team Manager to fulfill their responsibilities to CABL. 2.1.4. The League President has the authority to take what preventive, remedial or punitive action appropriate to remedy actions not in the best interests of CABL. 2.2. League Vice President 2.2.1. Should the League President be unavailable, the League Vice President shall perform as acting League President with all the rights and responsibilities of the League President. 2.3. Team Managers, & Captains 2.3.1. Each Team shall maintain a designated Manager at all times. 2.3.2. A Team Manager may also serve as the Captain. 2.3.3. Responsibilities of the Team Manager are as follows: a) Ensure the Team meets the minimum required number of players (15) on the roster at all times. b) Ensure the Team has no more than 25 active players on the roster for any game. c) Ensure that the Team's League Fees are timely paid to CABL.

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d) Ensure that the Team has secured 11 field permits for home games. e) Ensure the eligibility of all players on the Team roster. f) Ensure that, before a player participates in a Team game and the Code of Conduct has been agreed to and the Insurance Waiver has been signed. g) Enforce the League Code of Conduct and Social Media Policy at all times. h) Participate as voting representatives of the Team when called upon by the BOD or the League President. Each Team shall have only one vote. i) Adhere to CABL Rule 8.1.2 regarding certifying and maintaining the accuracy of line-up cards for each game. j) Maintain accurate Team Statistics and ensure that such Team statistics are entered on the Team's website within 72 hours of completion of each game. 1) If an emergency arises and a Team cannot enter its statistics within 72 hours, the BOD must be notified. 2) If a Team does not enter its statistics within 72 hours, the players participating in that game will not receive postseason eligibility credit. a. Players missing stats will not be eligible to receive mid or end-of-year awards. Managers who fail to enter stats in a timely manner will be not eligible to nominate, vote for, or receive end-of-year awards, and chronic lateness may result in manager suspension. 3) The minimum to be qualified as a regular season statistical leader is 2.1 plate appearances () and 1 pitched (pitching) per scheduled game. k) Ensure that recaps of each Team game are entered on the Team’s website within 72 hours of completion of game. l) For each game, provide: 1) Team 's equipment. 2) At least 5 batters helmets. 3) Solid Wood (including ash, maple, birch, and bamboo) bats. Wooden composite bats are allowed, but they must not be hollow and must be made of a one-piece, wood construction. 4) Game balls (home team only). The league will provide 5 dozen for each team for the regular season. After those are depleted the manager is responsible for purchasing approved baseballs from CABL for game use. a. Practice baseballs or non-approved baseballs are not allowed in official league play. b. CABL will provide baseball for the playoffs. 5) Bases (home team only). 6) ’s payment ($85 by each team) a. CABL will provide umpires for the playoffs. 7) Provide the opposing Team with a complete and accurate line-up card prior to the start of the game. m) Enforce the CABL Uniform Policy.

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n) Ensure the Team is prepared to begin the game, pursuit to CABL Rules 2.3.3(l) and 9.9, at the scheduled game time or the risk of suffering a forfeit. 1) A 15-minute grace period will be allowed after the scheduled start time of the game before a forfeit will be declared. Following the grace period, a declaration of a forfeit, or any extensions of the grace period, will be solely at the discretion of the umpire. 2) In the event of a forfeit, the forfeiting team will be charged an amount sufficient to cover the full umpire and any applicable field expenses. 3) If a team forfeits 2 or more games in a season, Team Manager will be required to present to the BOD for appeal to remain in the league. 4) During the regular season if an emergency situation arises which prevents a Team from being ready to play at a scheduled date and time, a team may submit in writing to the League Officials 5 days prior to their scheduled game to request the game be rescheduled. This is not applicable during the playoffs. If a team requests more than 3 games moved they may be subject to review by the BOD. 5) If within 72 hours of the scheduled game time, CABL changes the starting time of the game by more than two hours and/or the location of the game by a distance of no less than 10 miles, the forfeit rule will not apply. o) Both managers must arrive at the field a hour prior to the game. If field is potentially unplayable, the teams must call the President or a BOD member immediately. The BOD will decide whether to postpone the game after consultation. 1) In certain cases, local town or field officials may independently make the decision whether to postpone a scheduled game. 2) For weeknight or playoff games, or when a team is traveling a long distance, every effort will be made to make a decision as early as possible. 2.3.4. The Team Manager must designate at least one Captain for each Team game to serve as the Team representative and fulfill the Team Manager's responsibilities if the Team Manager is unable. 2.3.5. A Manager may protest a game due to an umpire's decision which allegedly misinterpreted or misapplied the CABL Rules. The protest will not be recognized unless the umpires are notified at the time the play under protest occurs and before the next is made or runner retired. Notice of the protest must be noted in each scorebook. A Team's protest must follow the procedure presented in CABL Rule 2.4.7. 2.4. Board of Directors 2.4.1. The Board of Directors ("BOD") shall consist of six (6) BOD Members, including the President. 2.4.2. Each BOD member shall serve a three-year term, unless said BOD member resigns prior to completion of that term. a) The BOD terms shall be staggered such that no more than two BOD seats are up for reelection at any time.

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1) The initial BOD terms shall be staggered as follows: a. The terms of BOD seats initially occupied by Michael Carpentier and Kevin LeBlanc shall end following the 2016 season (Term A). b. The terms of BOD seats initially occupied by Timothy Antonellis and Alex Samaras shall end following the 2017 season (Term B). c. The terms of BOD seats initially occupied by Nicholas Bennett and Jim Rooney shall end following the 2018 season (Term C). b) There shall be no term limits on participation on the BOD. c) BOD members do not have to be a player, , or manager in CABL to be eligible to serve. d) Should a BOD seat become vacant prior to the completion of the term, an election shall be held at a time and date to be determined by the President for a person to serve the remainder of the vacated term. 2.4.3. Each Team may cast one vote during Board of Director elections. 2.4.4. The BOD shall periodically convene with the League President to confer on matters relating to the administration of CABL, including the CABL annual meeting to be held in January of each year. 2.4.5. The BOD shall act as the final arbiter regarding CABL disputes and decisions including, but not limited to, the following subjects: a) Disciplinary decisions regarding any violations of the CABL Code of Conduct, or other malicious behavior. b) Disciplinary decisions regarding any off-field incident resulting in conduct detrimental to CABL. c) Disciplinary decisions regarding any Team's failure to meet its obligations to CABL pursuant to CABL Rule 2.3.3. d) Disciplinary decisions regarding any violations of the CABL Social Media Policy. e) Review of protests regarding umpire decisions that allegedly misinterpret or apply the CABL Rules. Note: Disputes as to judgment calls, such as , /, foul/fair, will not be heard and the umpire's ruling shall be final. f) Umpire discipline. g) Adoption or revision of the League Fee prior to each season. h) Adoption or revision of CABL Rules or Code of Conduct (off-season only). 1) At its discretion, the BOD may put CABL Rules or Code of Conduct adoption or revisions to a full vote of the League Team Managers. Each Team shall have one vote. Adoption or revision of CABL Rule or Code of Conduct will require a simple majority of Team votes. i) Administration of the Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool. j) Review of trades made between Teams during the season. k) Review of disputes regarding player eligibility. 2.4.6. Penalties available to the BOD with regard to any disciplinary decisions include, but are not limited to, written reprimand, fine, suspension, forfeiture, or expulsion of any player, Team Manager, or Team. a) Should any Team failure to maintain and post accurate statistics pursuant to CABL Rules 2.3.3(j) and (k), the BOD further reserves the right to bar any

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player of that Team from participating in CABL All-Star activities, the CABL Awards Banquet, or deny playoff eligibility for any game affected by the failure. 2.4.7. Procedure for review of alleged violations of the Code of Conduct, and any disputes, protests, or requests for discipline (together, "Dispute") by the BOD: a) Any Manager of a Team lodging a Dispute must notify the League President of the Dispute by sending an email to [email protected]. If a ​ ​ violation of the Code of Conduct is alleged to have occurred, the League President shall be notified by email at [email protected]. ​ ​ b) Upon notification by the League President that a Dispute has been lodged for review by the BOD, the Managers of all Teams involved with the Dispute must submit, within 24 hours, a full, written, and detailed explanation of the Dispute to [email protected]. Utmost respect must be given to all ​ ​ parties involved in the Dispute, as the written explanations will be provided to the BOD and may be discussed publicly. c) The League President, with the assistance of the BOD, will conduct an investigation and gather any additional information necessary to make an informed decision regarding the Dispute. d) The Managerial statements, as well as any and all information gathered during the investigation, will be presented to BOD via email. e) The BOD will convene either in person, or by other means available, within 72 hours to discuss the information and vote on any action to be taken by the BOD. f) If BOD action results in one or more penalties against any party involved in the dispute, the BOD's decision may be appealed in writing within 24 hours of the notification of the penalty. g) The BOD shall convene within 48 hours to hear the appeal and render judgment. All decisions rendered by the BOD on appeal shall be final. h) The BOD shall make every effort to rule on Disputes prior to the next scheduled affected Team game, however, penalties may be enforced even after the affected team’s next game. 2.4.8. Each Board Member shall have one vote with regard to all matters before the BOD. a) President shall not vote on matters before the BOD, except to break a tie. The President shall, however, cast a vote on proposed changes to the Articles of Organization or election of Officers. 2.4.9. All matters before the BOD require a simple majority to pass, except alterations to the Articles of Organization or election of Officers by the BOD, which shall require four of six BOD members (including the President) to pass. The BOD may choose to put certain rule changes to a vote of the Team Managers, which shall pass upon a simple majority of Team Managers. 2.4.10. Should a BOD Member or his team be involved in a matter before the BOD, said BOD Member shall recuse himself. Said BOD Member shall not participate in BOD discussions of the matter, nor shall said Board Member vote on the matter.

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3. Players and Teams 3.1. Team Registration 3.1.1. All teams must be registered with the league by the first Team Managers meeting in January. 3.1.2. Each Team shall submit a $200 deposit by the December Managers Meeting, and then additional payments as follows: an additional $700 by the January Managers Meeting, $700 by the March Managers Meeting, $400 by the April Managers Meeting, and any remainder of the League Fee by the team’s first game. a) In its sole discretion, the BOD may modify these deadlines on a case by case basis to accommodate emergencies and unforeseen circumstances. b) If a Team violates the deadlines set forth in CABL Rule 3.1.2, the Team will not be allowed to participate in the coming season. c) If a Team has not paid league fees in full by its first game of the season, that team shall forfeit that game and shall continue to forfeit games until such dues are paid. After two such forfeitures, the BOD may expel said team for the remainder of the season. 3.1.3. Each Team shall submit a roster of at least 15 players by the first scheduled game of the year. 3.1.4. All League Fees (including partial payments previously made) are non-refundable. 3.1.5. Each Team must carry a roster of at least 15 eligible players throughout the season. 3.1.6. Each Team shall choose a “home” city or town. 3.1.7. Each Team shall secure permits sufficient to cover their home games, though the League will also obtain field permits and a team may by assigned home games as League-obtained fields. a) If the home team has not secured a home field, the game will be scheduled at an available league-obtained field. Use of the league-obtained field will be “locked” in, without further changes 8 days before the scheduled game. 3.1.8. There is no maximum number of eligible players that a Team may carry on its roster during the season. However, no players may be added to a Team's roster with fewer than ten games remaining on their schedule without the permission of the BOD. 3.1.9. Each Team may designate no more than 25 players as active on the roster appearing on the Team's website as of the scheduled game time. 3.2. Player Eligibility 3.2.1. Only eligible players may participate in CABL games. Playing an ineligible player subjects the Team to forfeiture of any games in which an ineligible player has appeared. 3.2.2. In order to be eligible, a player: a) Must have been activated on the roster appearing on the Team's website prior to playing in any game. b) Must have turned the age of 18 prior to the first scheduled game of the season. c) May not have been paid to play for the Team.

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d) May not be currently serving a suspension or have an unpaid fine pursuant to the Code of Conduct. 3.2.3. Any player may come from any location without restriction. 3.3. Player Movement and Trades ​ 3.3.1. All players have the right to choose the Team for which they play, and a player may choose to leave a Team at any time. a) If a player(s) elects to leave a Team during the season, he must notify the League President ([email protected]) and his Team in ​ ​ writing, and enter into the Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool if he wishes to remain in the league. b) If a player(s) elects to leave a Team during the off season, he must notify the League President ([email protected]) and his Team in ​ ​ writing, and may join another Team without entering into the Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool if he so chooses. c) No Team Manager, or other team representative, may contact a current player of another CABL team, even during the off-season, with the intent of attempting to persuade that player to leave that CABL team. d) No more than three players from any one Team may leave together to join another Team (including to new teams entering into CABL as expansion teams) during the off season without reasonable compensation to the Team from whom the players have left. 1) Compensation will be determined through a negotiation between the two Team Managers involved with assistance from the League President. 2) If no agreement can be reached, the BOD will act as arbiters in order to resolve the dispute. All BOD judgments regarding compensation shall be final. 3.3.2. The League President reserves the right to block the movement of any player that is already a member of CABL if such action is deemed in the best interest of CABL. 3.3.3. Players shall not be eligible to play in any games with their new Team until all debts to the previous Team are settled, including, but is not limited to, dues or fees owed, uniformed used (if not purchased), and equipment borrowed from their previous Team. 3.3.4. If a Team violates the League Fee deadlines set forth in 3.1.2, a player who has paid their portion of the team fee may enter the Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool. A player who has not paid their portion of the team fee cannot enter the Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool until said fee is paid. 3.4. Trades 3.4.1. No player may be traded unless all players, Managers, and Team Managers involved in said trade are in agreement. a) All trades are subject to approval by the BOD. 3.5. Waiver 3.5.1. Players may be waived by a Team Manager at any time. a) A player who has been waived by a Team during the season must enter into the Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool if he wishes to remain in the league.

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b) A player who has been waived by a Team during the off season, may join another Team without entering into the Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool if he so chooses. 3.5.2. In order to waive a player, a Team Manager must notify both the BOD and the waived player in writing with a short statement of reasons for the waiver. 3.6. Disabled list 3.6.1. Players may be placed on the Disabled List by a Team Manager during the season. a) Before placing a player on the Disabled List, a Team Manager must provide medical proof of the alleged injury to the League President such as in the form of a signed doctor's note or other document(s) illustrating the player's inability to play due to the injury. b) Placement of any player on the Disabled List is subject to review by the BOD. 3.6.2. Any player placed on the Disabled List is ineligible to play in the next three games his Team plays after his placement on the Disabled List. a) After three Team games have been played, a Team Manager may petition the BOD to further extend a player's placement on the Disabled List. Any extension shall be at the sole discretion of the BOD. 3.6.3. Each Team game played while a player is on the Disabled List shall earn that player one game-played, as well as 1IP and 2.1 PA, toward postseason eligibility pursuant to CABL Rule 8.1. 3.7. Uniform Policy 3.7.1. Teams will be required to pay for their own uniforms. 3.7.2. The league will provide, upon request, information on local outfitters if a team needs to purchase new uniforms. 3.7.3. A team must be in correct uniform to play in a league game. The following are required: a) Matching jerseys with different numbers displayed on each player. b) Matching baseball caps, or closely matching caps. c) Matching belts & socks, or closely matching belts & socks. 3.7.4. Any player not in proper uniform will be barred from playing in that league game unless agreed upon by both managers and the umpires. 3.7.5. Team sponsors to help lower or pay for uniforms are allowed upon approval from the League Presidents.

4. Code of Conduct 4.1. All alleged violations of the CABL Code of Conduct will be subject to review by the BOD in accordance with CABL Rule 2.4.7. 4.2. The following conduct will not be tolerated by CABL and will be subject to review by the BOD for a determination of the appropriate disciplinary actions: 4.2.1. Abuse of Officials- Disputing an umpire’s judgment, cursing at or striking an umpire, or engaging in or directing unsportsmanlike conduct toward an umpire, will not be tolerated, and such behavior is subject to disciplinary action up to and including written reprimands, fines, suspensions and expulsion from CABL.

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4.2.2. Fighting- Any player, Manager, or Captain that participates in a fight will be ejected and suspended for the team’s next game. Additional sanctions may be assessed at the discretion of the BOD. 4.2.3. Intentionally Throwing at a Batter- Any that is ejected for intentionally throwing at a batter shall be suspended for the team’s next game. Additional sanctions may be assessed at the discretion of the BOD. 4.2.4. Verbal Abuse- Players, Managers, and Captains shall not use language that reflects negatively on opposing players, Managers, Captains, umpires or spectators. The umpire may issue a verbal warning and if the abuse continues, the offending person(s) will be ejected. Additional sanctions may be assessed at the discretion of the BOD. 4.2.5. Alcohol- Use of alcohol at CABL game (including areas surrounding the field, including stands, parking lots, etc) is strictly prohibited unless an express exception has been declared by the BOD. a) Players who use alcohol at CABL games are subject to an automatic 1-game suspension. Managers who fail to curb alcohol use by players is also subject to an automatic 1-game suspension. b) Additional punishments include potential forfeit for persistent and/or egregious use of alcohol at CABL games by a CABL team and its players. 4.3. Players ejected from a game are subject to disciplinary action including written reprimands, fines, suspensions and expulsion from the league. Each ejection shall be examined by the BOD for its severity to determine appropriate sanctions, if any. 4.3.1. Any player ejected for the second time during a season is subject to a mandatory one game suspension as well as additional potential sanctions. 4.3.2. Any player ejected three or more times during a season is ineligible for the remainder of the season and must receive approval from the BOD before he is eligible to return to CABL activities. 4.4. Suspensions will begin with the next game played following the BOD ruling that a suspension is appropriate. If a suspension is under appeal it will not begin until the game following finalization of the appeal. If a suspension goes past the end of the last game of the regular season it will be continued into the postseason (if the team qualifies) or will be continued the next season until completion. 4.5. Fines levied by the BOD must be received by the League President before the fined player may participate in any league games. Any player in violation of this rule will be considered an ineligible player and subject their Teams to forfeit.

5. Social Media Policy 5.1. All CABL Players are subject to the Social Media Policy. The following conduct is prohibited on all forms of social media: that may be construed as an official Team or CABL statement without the express permission of the respective Team's Manager or the CABL BOD; 5.2. Making any statements regarding confidential or private information regarding any Team, player, or player's family without express permission; 5.3. Making racial, sexist, homophobic, or otherwise offensive statements or posting any content containing any such material.

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5.4. Attacking CABL umpires or questioning the integrity of said umpires; 5.5. Making harassing or threatening statements; 5.6. Posting sexually explicit content; 5.7. Posting any other material which is contrary to law.

6. Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool 6.1. The function of the Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool is to assist players and team in filling their roster and/or replacing players. 6.2. Players in the Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool are considered to be “free agents” and are may come from a number of sources. 6.2.1. Any player that contacts the league directly is deemed a free agent. 6.2.2. Any existing CABL player that wishes to change teams or is waived by his team during the season must enter into the Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool. 6.2.3. Any existing CABL player that wishes to change teams or is waived by his team during the offseason may, but is not required to, enter into the Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool. 6.3. It is the responsibility of the BOD to maintain the Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool. Such duties include: 6.3.1. Contacting all new players to the Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool to explain the procedure, to determine eligibility, and to check to see if that player has been in contact with any team directly. 6.3.2. Communicate with players in the pool as needed and to act as the point of contact for these players. 6.3.3. Use its best efforts to distribute new players to teams within the league subject to team needs and benefit to the CABL. 6.3.4. To manage the set timeline for the Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool.. 6.4. Approved CABL Teams are allowed to recruit new player(s) for their own Team through their own efforts and such players will not be entered into the Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool. 6.5. If the player from the player pool has moved from another team and has already paid for the current season, the new team cannot charge that player a second time. It is within their right to charge for any team uniforms if applicable. 6.6. The Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool is in effect at all times, but the BOD reserves the right to temporarily suspend or modified the Waiver Wire/Free Agent Pool process, including cancellation of the draft, in the presence of exceptional circumstances for the betterment of CABL.

7. Umpires 7.1. An official game needs at least one umpire, but will be scheduled with two. 7.2. Any umpire has the authority to eject any player or Manager from a game for any of the following grounds: 7.2.1. Violation of the CABL Code of Conduct 7.2.2. An excessive or intentional delay of the game, such as extended arguing with an umpire. 7.3. An umpire's rulings on the field will stand as official.

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7.4. If an umpire's ruling on the field contradicts any CABL rules, the manager of a team may refer with the umpire to this document for the correct ruling. If umpire does not overturn the incorrect call, the team(s) may file a protest in accordance with CABL Rule 2.4.5 and 2.4.7.

8. Postseason 8.1. Postseason Eligibility 8.1.1. In order to be eligible for postseason play, a player must have appeared at, and been recorded on the line-up card for, ten of their team’s regular season games. Additionally, in order to pitch in playoffs, players must have thrown at least 11IP or had 22 plate appearances during the regular season.. a) A player who has not previously recorded an appearance according with CABL Rule 8.1.1 or 3.6, when his team has less than 10 regular season games left in that Team’s schedule shall not be eligible to play absent express approval by the Board of Directors. Players granted said approval may not pitch. 8.1.2. Line-Up Cards a) Teams will be given line-up cards before the beginning of the season. The home team is required to provide and complete a line-up card for each home game. b) Each Team will take and keep a picture of the line-up cards for both his Team and his opponent. The league will use the line-up cards to determine players’ eligibility status for playoff participation. If a team cannot support a claim with documented evidence it will be denied. c) To legitimately appear on a line-up card a player must meet the following conditions: 1) Be present at the game in full uniform. (Unless visibly injured and unable to play, in which case he must be added to the Disabled List (CABL Rule 3.6) to obtain eligibility). th 2) Arrive before and a) stay through the 5 ​ inning; or b) batted or played ​ th one defensive out in the game prior to the conclusion of the 5 ​ inning. ​ d) In the event of a forfeited game, the forfeiting team’s players receive no credit for any player in attendance. The non-forfeiting team will get credit for all active players on its roster on the day of that game per the league website and by completing a line-up card and submitting it to the league. e) Any team that does not comply with CABL Rule 8.1.2 by submitting false or misleading data on a line-up card will have its players not receive playoff credit for that game and the team manager will face appropriate sanctions for inappropriate unsportsmanlike actions 8.1.3. Players that have been placed on the Disabled List in accordance with CABL Rule 3.6 shall receive playoff eligibility while on the Disabled List. 8.2. Postseason Seeding 8.2.1. Ten teams will advance to the postseason. a) The winner of each division automatically qualifies for the playoffs and earn seeds 1-3, determined by best record.

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b) The second place team in each division automatically qualifies for the playoffs and earn seeds 4-6, determined by best record. c) The next four best records in the league, outside of the top two in each division, earn seeds 7-10. These four teams participate in Wild Card games (7v10 and 8v9). 8.2.2. Tiebreakers, both for advancement into the postseason and for seeding, will be as follows (in descending order): a) head to head record b) divisional record (if any) c) head to head run differential d) overall run differential 1) In the case of a three (or more) way tie, the following tie breakers will be applied: 1) combined record vs all teams tied; 2) combined run differential vs all tied teams; 3) overall run differential. The resulting order of teams from the three (or more) way tiebreaker shall be used to fill remaining playoff slots and determine seeding. Should some teams remain tied after the initial tiebreaker, the tiebreaker process of 8.2.2 shall be run again but only include the tied teams until ties are broken. 2) If ties are not resolved by these tie-breakers, the BOD will determine any additional methods needed to resolve the tie; including a coin toss. 8.3. Postseason Format 8.3.1. After initial seeding is determined, there will be no re-seeding in subsequent postseason rounds. 8.3.2. Most postseason games will be played on neutral fields. A Team may request a postseason home game be scheduled for that Team’s home field subject to approval of that field’s suitability for hosting a playoff game by the BOD. a) The BOD reserves to the right to require postseason games be played on neutral fields when in the best interest of the CABL. 8.3.3. The No. 1 seed will face the lowest seeded winner of the wild-card games (8, 9, or 10 based on wild card results) in a best-of-three playoff . The No. 2 seed will face the highest seeded winner of the wild-card games (7, 8, or 9 based on wild card results) in a best-of-three playoff series. The No. 3 seed will play the No. 6 seed and the No. 4 seed will play the No. 5 seed in a best-of-three series. The winner of the No.1 vs Lowest Remaining Wild Card Seed series will play the winner of the No. 4 vs. No. 5 series in a best-of-three semi-final series. No. 2 vs Highest Remaining Wild Card Seed series will play the winner of the No. 3 vs No. 6 series in a best-of-three semi-final series. The winner of each semi-final series will play each other in a best-if-five CABL Championship Series.

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9. Game Play Rules 9.1. Changes from MLB Sanctioned Rules 1 9.1.1. The most current Edition of the Official , adopted by , shall govern the playing of all league games with the exception of the modifications contained within Section 9 of the CABL Rules. 9.2. Regulation Game 9.2.1. A Regulation Game consists of seven , unless extended because of a tie score, or shortened because (1) the home team needs none of its half of the seventh inning or only a fraction of it, or (2) the umpire calls the game. 9.2.2. If the score is tied after seven completed innings, play shall continue until (1) the visiting team has scored more total runs than the home team at the end of a completed inning, or (2) the home team scores the winning run in an uncompleted inning. 9.2.3. A game is a Regulation Game when called if: (1) five innings have been completed; (2) 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; (3) the home team scores one or more runs in its half of the fifth inning to tie or take the lead. 9.2.4. If a Regulation Game is called with the score tied, it shall become a “” (see CABL Rule 9.2.6). If a game is called before it has become a Regulation Game, the umpire shall declare it “No Game.” 9.2.5. The score of a Regulation Game is the total number of runs scored by each team at the moment the game ends. (1) The game ends when the visiting team completes its half of the seventh inning if the home team is ahead. (2) The game ends when the seventh inning is completed, if the visiting team is ahead. (3) If the home team scores the winning run in its half of the seventh inning (or its half of an extra inning after a tie), the game ends immediately when the winning run is scored. (4) A called game ends at the moment the umpire terminates play, unless it becomes a Suspended Game. 9.2.6. A game shall become a Suspended Game that must be completed at a future date if the game is terminated for any reason when: (1) a Regulation Game is called while an inning is in progress and before the inning is completed, and the visiting team has scored one or more runs to tie or take the lead, and the home team has not 2 retaken the lead; or (2) a Regulation Game is called with the score tied.

1Available at: http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/official_info/official_rules/foreword.jsp ​ 2 Examples: th b) A game is called for any reason while the losing team is batting in the 5 ​ inning. It is a No Game and will ​ restart from the beginning at a later date (See CABL Rule 9.2.1 and 9.2.4). th c) With the score tied, the game is called while either Team Visitor or Team Home is batting in the 5 ​ inning. It is ​ a No Game and will restart from the beginning at a later date. th th d) With the score tied, the game is called while either Team Visitor or Team Home is batting in the 6 ​ or 7 ​ ​ inning. It is a Suspended Game. th th e) Team Visitor takes a 1-0 lead in the first inning and has not lost the lead at any time in the 6 ​ or 7 ​ inning while ​ ​ either Team Visitor or Home is batting when the game is called. The score is final and Team Visitor wins. th th f) Team Home takes a 1-0 lead in the first inning and has not lost the lead at any time in the 6 ​ or 7 ​ inning while ​ ​ either Team Visitor or Home is batting when the game is called. The score is final and Team Home wins.

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9.2.7. A Suspended Game shall be resumed at the exact point of suspension of the original game. The completion of a suspended game is a continuation of the original game. The lineup and of both teams shall be exactly the same as the lineup and batting order at the moment of suspension, subject to the rules governing substitution. Any player may be replaced by a player who had not been in the game prior to the suspension. No player removed before the suspension may be returned to the lineup. a) The cost of umpires for the resumed Suspended Game shall be paid by the league 9.2.8. Should a playoff game be suspended for any reason prior to the completion of 7 innings (or as extended due to ), the game shall be become a Suspended Game and resumed at the exact point of stoppage and played to completion at a future date. 9.2.9. All games that need to be continued will be scheduled by the BOD. Both Managers will have 5 days to confirm the restart date and time, after which the newly scheduled game will become subject to the forfeiture rule of CABL Rule 2.3.3(n), but without monetary penalty. This rule does not apply in the playoffs. 9.3. Mercy Rule th 9.3.1. If a team is losing by 12 runs or more after that Team has batted in the 5 ​ inning, ​ or any subsequent inning, the game shall end and the score be final pursuant to the Mercy Rule. 9.3.2. There will be no Mercy Rule in any postseason game. 9.4. Courtesy Runner Rule 9.4.1. A courtesy runner may not be used in any CABL game, unless use of said courtesy runner is necessary to continue the game. a) The Team Managers of each Team must agree to allow the courtesy runner. b) The courtesy runner must be the player who recorded the last out. 9.5. Extra Hitter/ 9.5.1. The Designated Hitter Rule provides as follows: a) A hitter may be designated to bat for any Designated Defensive Player (DDP) in any game. A Designated Hitter (DH), if any, must be selected prior to the g) Team Home takes a 1-0 lead in the first inning and Team Visitor ties or takes the lead in the top of the 6th th ​ inning. Team Home has not completed three outs in the 6 ​ inning when the game is called. It is a Suspended ​ Game. th h) Team Home takes a 1-0 lead in the first inning and Team Visitor takes the lead 2-1 in the top of the 6 ​ inning. th ​ Team Home ties the game 2-2 while batting in the bottom of the 6 ​ inning while still batting when the game is ​ called. It is a Suspended Game. th i) Team Home takes a 1-0 lead in the first inning and Team Visitor takes the lead 2-1 in the top of the 6 ​ inning. th th ​ Team Home ties the game 2-2 in the 6 ​ inning. Either Team Visitor or Home is batting in the 7 ​ inning with ​ ​ the score still tied when the game is called. It is a Suspended Game. th j) Team Home takes a 1-0 lead in the first inning and Team Visitor takes the lead 2-1 in the top of the 6 ​ inning. th ​ Team Home takes the lead 3-2 while still batting in the 6 ​ inning when the game is called. The score is final ​ and Team Home wins. th k) Team Home takes a 1-0 lead in the first inning and Team Visitor takes the lead 2-1 in the top of the 6 ​ inning. th ​ Team Home fails to tie or retake the lead in the bottom of the 6 ​ inning. The game is called while either Team th ​ Visitor or Home is batting in the 7 ​ inning. The score is final and Team Visitor wins. ​

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game and must be included in the lineup cards presented to the Umpire and opposing Team. A DH cannot become an EH, and vice versa, during a game. The DPP cannot become an EH or DH during the game. b) Pinch-hitters for a DH may be used. Any substitute hitter for a DH becomes the DH. A replaced DH shall not re-enter the game in any capacity. c) A runner may be substituted for the DH and the runner assumes the role of DH. A DH may not pinch-run. d) A DH is “locked” into the batting order. No multiple substitutions may be made that will alter the batting rotation of the DH. e) No player already entered in the game may later become the DH or DDP in the same game. This includes the Extra Hitter. f) The DH may be used on defense, continuing to bat in the same position in the batting order, but once a DH assumes a position on defense, such move shall terminate the DH role for that club for the remainder of the game, and the DDP must then bat in the place of the substituted defensive player, unless more than one substitution is made (such as in a switch). 1) Example 1: If Smith is the DH for Jones, the pitcher. Harris may enter the game for Smith as the DH. Additionally, George may enter the game for Jones as the DDP. Neither substitution will terminate the DH. 2) Example 2: if Smith is the DH for Jones, the second basemen, and Smith enters the game defensively for Harris, the , the DH is lost for the remainder of the game. Smith will retain his spot in the batting order, Jones will bat in the spot in the order formerly occupied by Harris, and Harris will leave the game. 9.5.2. The Extra Hitter Rule provides as follows: a) A hitter may be designated to bat, in the alternative to or in addition to the use of a Designated Hitter. An Extra Hitter, if any, must be selected prior to the game and must be included in the lineup cards presented to the Umpire and opposing Team. An EH cannot become a DH, and vice versa, during a game. The DPP cannot become an EH or DH during the game. b) Pinch-hitters for an Extra Hitter may be used. Any substitute hitter for a Designated Hitter becomes the Extra Hitter. A replaced Extra Hitter shall not re-enter the game in any capacity. c) A runner may be substituted for the Extra Hitter and the runner assumes the role of Extra Hitter. An Extra Hitter may not pinch-run. d) An Extra Hitter is “locked” into the batting order. No multiple substitutions may be made that will alter the batting rotation of the Extra Hitter. e) The Extra Hitter may be used on defense, continuing to bat in the same position in the batting order. Use of the Extra Hitter on defense does not terminate the Extra Hitter role for that club for the remainder of the game, and the defensive player for whom the Extra Hitter has substituted shall become the new Extra Hitter. 1) For example, if Smith is the Extra Hitter and Jones is the second basemen, Smith may enter the game defensively for Jones at second base,

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and Jones may become the Extra Hitter. Both Smith and Jones retain their original spots in the batting order. 9.5.3. No Team shall bat more than 10 batters in the Team's lineup. 9.5.4. No Team shall use two Designated Hitters or two Extra Hitters in the same lineup. 9.6. Force-Play- Rule- CABL follows NCAA Rule 8.7 regarding force plays. The ​ ​ ​ intent of the force-play-slide rule is to ensure the safety of all players. This is a safety and an rule. Whether the defense could have completed the has no bearing on the applicability of this rule. This rule pertains to a force-play situation at any base, regardless of the number of outs. 9.6.1. On any , the runner must slide on the ground before the base and in a direct line between the two bases. It is permissible for the ’s momentum to carry him through the base in the baseline extended. A runner need not slide directly into a base as long as the runner slides or runs in a direction away from the fielder to avoid making contact or altering the play of the fielder. a) “On the ground” means either a head-first slide or a slide with one leg and buttock on the ground before the base. b) “Directly into a base” means the runner’s entire body (feet, legs, trunk and arms) must stay in a straight line between the bases. 9.6.2. Contact with a fielder is legal and interference shall not be called if the runner makes a legal slide directly to the base and in the baseline extended. If contact occurs on top of the base as a result of a “pop-up” slide, this contact is legal. 9.6.3. Actions by a runner are illegal and interference shall be called if: a) The runner slides or runs out of the base line in the direction of the fielder and alters the play of a fielder (with or without contact); b) The runner uses a rolling or cross-body slide and either makes contact with or alters the play of a fielder; c) The runner’s raised leg makes contact higher than the fielder’s knee when in a standing position; d) The runner slashes or kicks the fielder with either leg; or e) The runner illegally slides toward or contacts the fielder even if the fielder makes no attempt to throw to complete a play. 9.6.4. If a deliberate attempt to injure is determined by the umpire, the runner/fielder may be ejected from the game and a report made to the BOD for review and possible further disciplinary action. 9.7. Collision Rule- The CABL follows NCAA Rule 8.7 regarding collisions. The intent of ​ ​ this rule is to encourage base runners and defensive players to avoid such collisions whenever possible. 9.7.1. When there is a collision between a runner and a fielder who clearly is in possession of the ball, the umpire shall judge: a) If the defensive player blocks the base (plate) or base line with clear possession of the ball, the runner may make contact, slide into or make contact with a fielder as long as the runner is making a legitimate attempt to reach the base (plate). Contact above the waist that was initiated by the base runner shall not be judged as an attempt to reach the base or plate. 1) The runner must make an actual attempt to reach the base (plate).

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2) The runner may not attempt to dislodge the ball from the fielder. Contact above the waist shall be judged by the umpire as an attempt by the runner to dislodge the ball. 3) The runner must attempt to avoid a collision if he can reach the base without colliding. 4) If the runner’s path to the base is blocked and (1), (2), and (3) are fulfilled, it is considered unavoidable contact. 9.7.2. If a deliberate attempt to injure is determined by the umpire, the runner/fielder may be ejected from the game and a report made to the BOD for review and possible further disciplinary action. 9.8. Batsmen 9.8.1. CABL follows NCAA Rule 8.2.d regarding batters hit by a pitch. When hit by a pitched ball at which the individual is not attempting to strike, the ball is immediately dead; 1) A batter must attempt to avoid being hit by the pitch. If he does not attempt to avoid being hit by the pitch, then: a) If the ball is outside the strike zone when it touches the batter, the ball is dead, it shall be called a ball and the batter is not awarded first base. b) If the ball is on or inside the strike zone when it touches the batter, the ball is dead, it shall be called a strike and the batter is not awarded first base. 9.8.2. If a pitcher hits four batters in one game the pitcher must be removed at that position for the remainder of the game. 9.8.3. The pitcher removed may remain in the games if the Team Manager wishes to switch him at another position. 9.9. Playing With Eight 9.9.1. A Team must have at least 8 players to start a Regulation Game. 9.9.2. If a Team does not have at least 8 players to start the game, the Team will forfeit. 9.9.3. A Team may play with 8 players, but an out will be recorded when the empty slot in the batting order is reached. th 9.9.4. In the case the 8 ​ player is running late to a game (after 15 minute grace period), ​ the umpire will have discretion to further delay the start of the game or declare a forfeit. This decision will be ruled final and not appealable. 9.9.5. The Borrowed Player rule has been revoked. 9.10. Substitutions 9.10.1. Once a player has been removed from a game, he may not re-enter the game. 9.10.2. If there are no eligible reserves that can replace a player forced to leave a game ​ ​ due to injury, then a player who has been previously removed from the game may re-enter. a) Injured players must be deemed unable to play by the umpire. b) A returning player is not eligible to pitch. c) This rule also allows for a Designated Defensive Player to enter the game as a batter if no other reserves are available. 9.10.3. If there are no reserves available to re-enter the game pursuant to CABL Rule 9.10.2 and the Team was batting 10 players, the Team may removed the injured player from the lineup and play with 9 batters without penalty. However, if the

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Team was batting 9 players, the Team must take an out in the injured player’s vacated lineup spot. 9.11. Replays 9.11.1. There are no replay challenges in the CABL. 9.12. Rules 9.12.1. The CABL does not utilize MLB rules relating to time limitations between innings, during mound visits, during pitching changes/warm-ups/first pitch, or time to enter batter’s box. 9.12.2. The CABL does utilize the MLB “no pitch” intentional walk rule. 9.13. Moveable Bases 9.13.1. If a player slides or runs into a base that is not secured into the ground and the base moves from its original spot, the player must remain prone or stopped until time is given by the umpire. a) If the runner makes any attempt to move to the next base, the runner is may be tagged out.

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CABL COVID-19 Guidelines as of 7/12/2020

Section I: CABL Specific Guidelines ​

1. The league will be providing 20 neck gaiters to each team to be used during league play. If additional gaiters are required, the team will be responsible for providing any additional 2. There will be no sharing of equipment between players. All players must have their own bats, batting gloves, gloves, helmets, gear, etc. a. If a piece of equipment absolutely needs to be shared, it must be properly disinfected between the first and second individual using the equipment 3. Teams must practice social distancing in use of their dugouts. If social distancing is not possible: a. Masks must be worn b. Teams can use areas outside of the , out of play, to set up chairs 4. The use of sunflower seeds, gum, and chewing tobacco will be prohibited for the 2020 season. Spitting will also be prohibited for the 2020 season. 5. No team water coolers or shared drinking stations 6. 1st and 3rd base coaches are reminded to stay 6 feet away from other participants and have a face covering 7. All hitters and baserunners will be required to wear a face covering. 8. All and catchers on the defensive team will be required to wear a face covering a. If there are no runners on base and you are greater than 6 feet apart, the face covering can be lowered during breaks in play (i.e. between pitches, pitching changes, etc.) 9. If there is a meeting on the mound, all players involved should be using their face covering and maintaining social distancing to the extent possible 10. The league will be providing each team with an extra dozen baseballs (6 dozen total per team). Each team will be responsible for providing and maintaining the balls their team uses on defense a. The umpires will not be handling baseballs at all b. The defensive team will be responsible for retrieving all foul balls i. In the case that the team does not have any bench players, the offensive team will retrieve the foul balls and they will be disinfected prior to returning to the defensive team c. Baseballs should be disinfected when possible 11. There will be no handshake line after games 12. All managers must check with the towns that they are renting fields from to understand any additional COVID guidelines that are being enforced by the town 13. Players should not throw the ball around after outs 14. will NOT be allowed to go to his mouth between pitches. This will constitute an illegal ball and the ball must be immediately replaced by the pitching team.

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15. It is the personal responsibility of every player to self-monitor and stay home if they feel under the weather, are displaying any symptoms of COVID-19, or have knowingly come into contact with anyone with COVID-19. 16. Where possible, electronic payment of umpires is encouraged. Managers should reach out to the umpires prior to the scheduled game to coordinate any electronic payment. If this is not possible, cash should be in an envelope to be given to the umpire at the field. 17. Post game gatherings at the field or in the parking lot are not permitted

Section II: Umpiring Guidelines (Provided by Walter Bentson) ​

Positioning: 1. Plate Umpire – normal – behind catcher to call balls and strikes and move according to all standard mechanics. 2. Base Umpire – normal – follow all standard mechanics and positioning. 3. Equipment: 4. Masks under Mask – yes. As the plate umpire will be inside of safe distancing, they must wear a mask to cover their mouth and nose. 5. Gloves – optional. Umpires should not handle baseballs at any time. 6. Ball Bags – none, umpires will not handle baseballs. The defense should be responsible for managing replacement baseballs as needed. This is both for safety of umpires and prevention of any transmission. 7. Umpires will wear masks on at all times. Exceptions would be when there a break in action and they can safely distance themselves from others. Other Protocols: 1. – If possible posted on league web site, if not then review at home plate before game with all at safe distance and all with masks on. 2. Line-up cards – Umpires will not keep line-up cards. 3. Arguments – on field arguments will not be allowed. Managers may request an umpire to get help on appropriate judgement type calls (see list below) or rules improperly applied. a. Specifically: An umpire is urged to seek help when his view is blocked or positioning prevents him from seeing crucial elements of a play. An umpire is also encouraged to seek help in instances when he has doubt and a partner has additional information that could lead to the proper ruling. i. Deciding if a is fair or foul ii. Deciding whether a left the playing field for a home run or ground-rule double iii. Cases in which a is dropped or trapped by the catcher iv. Cases in which a foul fly ball is caught or not caught v. Cases when an umpire errs because he did not see a ball dropped or juggled after making a tag or force or the angle prevents the umpire seeing a foot is pulled

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vi. called by an umpire who clearly did not realize the pitcher’s foot was off the rubber 4. Batters, runners, catchers, and infielders will wear masks while in their positions. Pitchers and will only wear masks when not on defense. 5. Umpires will ask managers to enforce all mask wearing responsibilities for their own teams.

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