Table of Contents

Contents General Playing Rules and Policies 3 2. TEAM ASSIGNMENT - 8U, 10U, 12U and Pony League 3 3. LEAGUE SCHEDULE 5 4. COACHING 5 6. PLAYER PARTICIPATION 6 7. CANCELLATION, STOPPAGE, SUSPENSION OF PLAY 7 8. DISPUTES 8 9 OFFICIATING 8 Section 2: Tee Ball Rules 9 1. Tee Ball Ages are 4-6. 6 year olds also have the option to play in 7U. 9 2. Game Format 9 2.1. Game Times are 1 hour and 30 minutes – 30 minutes for warm ups/Practice and 1 hour for the game time. As you get further into the season, feel free to lengthen the game time if both coaches are comfortable with it. No limit on number of . 9 2.2. Each should be one time through the order, each batter should get 1 base for each . The last batter should be allowed to all the bases. Recommend changing the order each game so that each kid gets to lead off once and bat last once, move your to the end for the next game and move everyone up 1 spot. 9 3. No scores are kept 9 4. Rotate the players in the field as best you can. 9 5. Pitching – If the kids skills enable it, throw each kid 3-4 soft tosses to try to hit, if they miss, bring up the Tee. 9 Section 3: 7U League Rules and Modifications 10 1. GAME FORMAT 10 2. PLAYER PARTICIPATION 10 3. PITCHING 11 4. BATTING 11 5. 11 6. END OF PLAY 12 Section 4: 8U League Rules and Modifications 13 Section 5: 10U League Rules and Modifications 15 Section 6: 12U League Rules and Modifications 17 Section 7: Definitions and References 19 Section 8: JLB Code of Conduct 21 Page 1 PYAA JLB and Policies: Spring 2021

Article 1.00 of the PYAA Junior League Baseball Bylaws (revised 1/2012) 21 NFHS Baserunning Awards Table 24 NUMBER of BASES AWARDED OCCUPIED AT TIME OF 24 ONE BASE (batter) 24 TWO BASES (batter and runners) 24 UMPIRE JUDGMENT 25 NFHS and Delayed Dead Ball Table 25 After Infraction, Ball Not Dead Until Umpire Calls "Time" (Delayed Dead Ball) 26

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General Playing Rules and Policies

***The National Federation of High School (NFHS) rules will govern in the absence of specific PYAA JLB Rules.*** ***The following General Playing Rules and Policies apply, unless specifically stated within respective League Rules.*** 1. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES ● Teach the Rules and Skills of Baseball ● Teach and Encourage the values of Team Play, Fairness and Sportsmanship ● Have Fun!!! 2. TEAM ASSIGNMENT - 8U, 10U, 12U and Pony League 2.1. Coaches: P arents who volunteer to Coach will be chosen at the discretion of the respective League Director. Coaches who request to be paired together will be allowed to Coach, unless deemed to disrupt the competitive balance of the league. Two to three Coaches will be assigned per team, only two coaches can be paired before draft. Other parents who volunteer to Coach, but were not chosen, are encouraged and allowed to the Coaching staff of their child’s assigned team, at the discretion of the Head Coach, given the parent the required PYAA background check and concussion training. 2.2. Evaluation: Typically, each league (8U, 10U,12U, Pony) will hold evaluations prior to the season, weather and time permitting. Players will typically be evaluated on hitting, fielding, base running, pitching and catching. Players who are unavailable to attend the evaluations will be subject to the following procedures: 2.2.1. I f the player is the child of an assigned Coach, he/she shall be designated as an “A” player, unless the League Director determines otherwise. 2.2.2. I f the player was a “Travel Ball” or school player the previous season, he/she shall be designated as an “A” player. 2.2.3. I f the player played PYAA JLB baseball the previous season, the League Director shall make reasonable attempts to obtain previous year’s evaluation data for that player and make a reasonable grade assignment. 2.2.4. I f the player has not previously played PYAA JLB baseball, the League Director shall coordinate with the player’s parents and make a reasonable grade assignment. 2.3. Draft: Typically, each league will hold a draft prior to the season, time permitting. Players will be listed in descending order of their evaluation rank. Coach’s players will be included on the draft list, but designated. 2.3.1. E ach Coach or representative must be present or make prior arrangements with League director in regards to draft attendance or lack of. Coach will select players in the following order: 1s t round: A player, 2n d round: A player, 3r d round: B Player, etc. A Coach’s player shall be slotted based upon the evaluation results and placed in the appropriate rounds unless the player did not attend evaluations. The order of draft will be determined at the discretion of the League Director.

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2.4. C hanges and modifications to the evaluation and draft process are allowed, as proposed by the League Director and approved by the JLB President. Additionally, a player’s evaluation score can be adjusted by the League Director and approved by the JLB President, if deemed unreasonable or inconsistent with known facts and information. However, any changes must be done in a manner to achieve ultimate competitive balance within the league. 2.5. P lay Up Guidelines: Players are allowed to play up to one age group higher than their actual age (according to the league birthdate guidelines). The following criteria must be meet in order to play up: 2.5.1. T he player must be at least age 7 prior to season birthdate restriction and the request to play up must be made at or after registration, but before evaluations or team drafts, whichever comes first. The player must register for their actual age group initially, unless noted below. 2.5.2. F or S pring Season, the player must attend the evaluation for the desired play up league. He/she must evaluate in the top 25% of the evaluated players. 2.5.3. F or F all Season, the player must attend the fall evaluation for potential play ups. Approval to play up will be at the discretion of the League Director based upon the evaluation. 2.5.3.1. O therwise, the player must have played up in that specific league in the previous spring season; have played travel ball for the previous complete season (spring or summer); or have been an PYAA JLB All Star selectee (8U and above). N OTE: Players meeting one of these criteria may register (if able) for the desired higher league; however, coordination must be made with the League Director or JLB President prior to registering. 2.5.3.2. Fall Season Exception: Players may also play-up to the next age group higher if (1.) They meet the requirements for Rule 2.5.1, (2.) Do not already meet one of the requirements set forth in rules 2.5.3 and 2.5.3.1, and (3.) Have achieved the given age group by August 1 of the current year. This would include any teeball age player that does not meet the age requirement to play in spring season (ex – player’s birthday is June 1. They would be 3 years old as of April 30, but 4 as of August 1; they may play fall teeball.) 2.5.4. A player may attend evaluations for multiple leagues. A player who evaluates for two leagues above his/her normal league and is not selected, will not default to the next lower league and must play for the league given their birthdate. 2.5.5. W hen a player is allowed to play up, any adjustments in registration fees must be paid prior to the team drafts. 2.5.6. S pring All Star Head Coach selection will be made by the League Director. League Director and Board will evaluate applications. Upon selection, head Coach will select (1) Assistant Head Coach which was identified on application. League director, Head Coach and Assistant coach will conduct all star evaluations from a list of candidates which were previously submitted to League Director. Each coach MUST submit at least (2) candidates and no more than (4) candidates to League Director. Any exception to this case must be approved by the League Director. All Star evaluations will be conducted in a closed format in the back fields of the PYAA Complex. After All Star Head Coach and Assistant coach have selected the team of (12) they will then submit the roster to the League Director for communication and they must request up to (2) additional assistant coaches which must be approved by League Director. No player may be selected for all stars that will be unable to attend any scheduled tournament. All star selections can be made for any player in the JLB program who meets the conduct, attendance, and age requirements for the age group of the league they intend to evaluate for regardless of the league they participate in during the regular season. (i.e. A player who has “played up” to 10U but Page 4 PYAA JLB Baseball Rules and Policies: Spring 2021

meets the age requirements, may be selected for the 8U all star team if the 8U coaching staff makes an offer to the player) 3. LEAGUE SCHEDULE 3.1. U nscheduled practices, whether at PYAA facilities or offsite, are unauthorized. Combined team practices and scrimmages are allowed as long as one of the teams is the scheduled practice team. Use of the is a first come first serve basis. 3.1.2 I n the absence of a post season playoff, League Champions and Runners Up will be determined by: Total Points; Total Wins; Runs Against; Runs For; Head to Head; then Coin Toss 3.2. Post Season / Tournaments: P ost Season playoffs are authorized and encouraged, at the discretion of the League Director and JLB President. 3.2.1. T he format will be established each season by the respective League Director, based upon number of teams, field availability, and seasonal conditions. 3.2.2. P ost Season seeding will be determined by Team Record; Head to Head; Winning Percentage; Total Wins; Runs Against; Runs For; then Coin Toss. 3.2.3. I nnings, time limits and rule modifications for tournament games will be are authorized as proposed by the respective League Director and approved by the JLB President. 4. COACHING 5.1. A ll games should start on time, due to field limitations. Coaches and Players should be at the field at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time. 5.2. P re-game warm-up is permitted off field or only; however, may not delay the game passed its scheduled start time. Toss drills, i.e., hitting hard or restricted flight balls into fences during practice or warm-ups, is prohibited. Plastic and/or whiffle balls may be used, however. may warm up using the mound. 5.3. H ome Team will sit on the first base side. Visitors will sit on the third base side. 5.4. C oaches must have line-ups prepared and exchanged with the opposing Coach at least 5 minutes before each game. 5.5. T he Home Team is required to provide an Official Scorekeeper, who will maintain the Official Scorebook. Additionally, the V isiting Team is required to operate the scoreboard. Game is not to begin until these duties are properly assigned. 5 .6. In the absence of a Coach, Parents and/or Players ( required) are allowed to coach either base. 5.7. On deck batters to the back of batter are authorized, unless specifically stated within respective League Rules. 5.8. N o Coach, Player or Spectator may sit or stand in the designated area outside of the fencing directly behind the home plate Umpire. This area may be marked on the ground or designated by the Umpire. 5.9. A t the conclusion of each game, participating teams are required to pickup trash and clean up area including bench, and bleacher areas. 5.10. T he Home Team will report scores to their respective League Director, at the Director’s discretion and entered into the Scheduling/Scoring System. Coaches should verify scores with each other after each inning to ensure no disagreement. League standings will be posted weekly, at the discretion of the League Director.

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5.11. : I n order to speed up play, the following will be observed and enforced by the Umpires: 5.11.1. T eams shall change positions as rapidly as possible at the end of each inning. Play should resume within three (3) minutes of the last . The Umpire will monitor and enforce this rule. 5.11.2. W ith two (2) outs, the offensive team must courtesy run for the with the previous batted out. Each Coach should designate an assistant Coach or parent to be in charge of putting on and taking off the catcher’s equipment each inning. 5.11.3. A new , to include a pitching change, is allowed 8 warm-ups from the mound, and 5 warm-ups each inning from thereon, if the catcher is not ready at the beginning of an inning, a coach should warm up the pitcher

6. PLAYER PARTICIPATION 6.1. Short Handed Rule: Teams must have at least (8) players to begin the game. Grace periods are allowed at Umpire discretion; otherwise the team will forfeit the game. **S hort-Handed Rule does not Apply to teeball and 7U** 6.1.1. T he 9th position will be vacant in the batting line-up and no out recorded, unless specifically stated within League Rules. 6.1.2. I n situations when a team at bat drops to less than eight (8) players temporarily or permanently, the following procedures will be followed, unless specifically stated within respective League Rules. If a player leaves the game temporarily (restroom, injury, etc.) while at bat, his/her at bat will be delayed or suspended for no more than ten (10) minutes, awaiting his/her return to complete the at bat. If a player is unable to return or leaves permanently, regardless of the reason, at or during his/her time at bat, the team shall forfeit. 6.1.3. A defensive player may t emporarily leave the game without penalty. In the case of a base runner, the last batted out can be used as a courtesy runner. 6.2. T he number of defensive changes/substitutions will be established by the respective league. 7.3. T eams will utilize roster batting, meaning every player present will be in the , unless specifically stated within League Rules. The batting order remains intact regardless of defensive changes. When batting nine (9) or more players, a player that leaves the game for any reason (restroom, injury, etc.) may return at any time and resume his previous batting order position without penalty. This spot will be skipped and n o out recorded. If a batter chooses not to bat for any reason (fear, emotions, etc.) other than a temporary leave (restroom, injury, etc), he/she cannot be forced to bat; however, his/her at-bat will be considered an out. Should a player arrive late, he/she will be added at the end of the batting order. If the player is at bat and is injured causing the player to be unable to complete his/her at bat, the next batter in the batting order will assume the batter’s and play will continue. If the player’s at bat was completed (i.e. hit batter, base hit, , etc), the last batted out will become a courtesy runner, once play has stopped. 6.4. C all-up players, who are on a current JLB Roster, are allowed under the following guidelines: 6.4.1. I f a Coach expects to have fewer than nine (9) roster players available for a game, he/she may utilize one or more callup players from the next lower league. The list of players will be supplied by the League Director at the start of the season. If a Coach chooses to utilize a player not on the list, he must request permission from the League Director prior to the game. The call-up players are to be considered equal team members for all purposes even if the team unexpectedly has sufficient roster players.

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Call-up players CANNOT play the pitcher or catcher position. In addition, call-up players CANNOT miss their own team game to participate in a call-up game. Call-up players MUST be registered with PYAA JLB in the current season. Call-up players may only be selected from the approved call-up list distributed by the league director. Penalty: Forfeit of game for team playing with an illegally called-up player. Call-ups are permitted in the post season tournament only to avoid a forfeit in compliance with the above rule of having fewer than 9 players. If the call-up list is suspected to be abused, the team (or league) may lose the privilege of this list. This will be reviewed and decided upon by the league director and/or president/vice-president. 6.4.2. I f a Coach unexpectedly has less than 8 players prior to the s tart of a game, the use of an additional player is allowed in order to avoid a forfeit situation. The use of this player must be agreed upon by the Umpire and the opposing Coach. 7. CANCELLATION, STOPPAGE, SUSPENSION OF PLAY 7.1. Cancellations: The President of the PYAA JLB Board or his designee will cancel games. The decision will be placed on the PYAA JLB Facebook Page and the league president will send an email or text to all league directors who will email the coaches of their league. Do not assume a game is called because it is raining. Coaches are expected to notify the parents and players. As much notice as possible will be given to allow Coaches adequate time to notify parents. The Coach should coordinate with their respective League Director to coordinate rescheduling. 7.2. Darkness: The Umpire or any on-site JLB board member can stop a game at his/her discretion due to darkness. (Games on fields without lights will be scheduled with adequate time to complete a normal game.) If the game is stopped due to darkness, the game is considered official, regardless of the number of innings completed. N OTE: The score reverts to the previously completed inning, unless the Home Team is ahead or tied in the bottom half of the shortened inning. If the “reverted to” score is a tie, the tie stands. 7.3. Weather/Field Condition: The Umpire or any on-site JLB board member can delay or suspend a game at his/her discretion due to weather or unsafe field conditions. If the game is delayed by rain/unplayable field conditions and cannot be resumed within a reasonable time, the game will suspended and rescheduled, unless considered an official game. If the stoppage occurs in the bottom half of the inning and the score is a tie, the game will conclude with a tie score and not be rescheduled. 7.4. Lightening/Thunder Policy: In the case of lightning or thunder, the game will be immediately suspended for at least twenty (20) minutes, before restarting. Any subsequent lightning or thunder will reset the 20 minute delay. If the delay last longer than 30 minutes, the game will be suspended and rescheduled, unless considered an official game. I f the stoppage occurs in the bottom half of the inning and the score is a tie, the game will conclude with a tie score and not be rescheduled. If anyone at the fields sees lightning, please notify an umpire, who will in turn notify all other umpires (coaches for 7U and TeeBall) for games going on at the time and games must be stopped and resume at the same times. 7.5. Official Game: A game is considered to be official after three and one half (3 ½) or four (4) innings (unless otherwise specifically stated within a leagues rules), if shortened by weather, field conditions, or any other circumstance not specifically addressed in the rules. N OTE: The score reverts to the previously completed inning, unless the Home Team is ahead or tied in the bottom half of the shortened inning. If the “reverted to” score is a tie, the tie stands.

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7.6. Procedures: I f a game is suspended due to weather, field conditions, etc., the game will be rescheduled accordingly. The game will pick up from the time of suspension, to include innings, outs, runs, batter, and runners. The batter will assume his/her count. A Coach is required to continue with the batting order/lineup or as close to it as possible. Additional players will be added to the bottom of the lineup. 7.6.1. I n the case of a player missing from the original lineup and an extra player available, the extra player will assume the missing players offensive role, to include batting order, base runner, at bat, etc. In the case of a player missing from the original lineup with no extra player available and the number of remaining number of players does not violate each league’s respective shorthanded rule, the missing players spot in the batting order will be skipped without penalty. If the missing player was at bat, the next batter in the batting order will assume the batter’s count. A courtesy runner can be used for the missing player by rule. 7.6.2. A player’s number of innings pitched shall carry over from the time of suspension; however, the total number of innings for the current calendar week shall not exceed the maximum weekly innings. N OTE: A pitcher is allowed to resume pitching in the same suspended inning, without constituting a new inning pitched. 8. DISPUTES 8.1. A ny Umpire’s decision which involves judgment, such as, but not limited to, fair or foul, strike or ball, or or out, , , malicious contact is final. No player or Coach shall object to any such judgment decision. Only head Coaches are permitted to interact with umpires during a dispute. No Assistant Coach, Player or spectator is to interact with umpire on decisions. 8.2. F or non-judgment calls or rule applications, if there is reasonable doubt that an Umpire’s decision may be in conflict with the rules, a head Coach may, with permission from the lead Umpire a nd with current rule book in hand, question a call or ruling at home plate with opposing head Coach. All disputes must be settled within 3 minutes b y the lead Umpire. The lead Umpire’s decision at the end of the 3 minutes I S FINAL. Protests are not allowed. 9 OFFICIATING 9.1. P YAA JLB Umpires will officiate all games, when Umpires are utilized. If for any reason an Umpire is not available, Coaches or parents are to perform this function. The appointed Umpire from each team will officiate the game when their team is playing offense. For safety reasons, the appointed Umpire will officiate from behind the pitcher, unless they have proper equipment. 9.2. A n expanded will be utilized; Shoulders to the bottom of the knees and one ball width on either side of home plate. 9.3. M alicious Contact will be strictly enforced in all leagues. The offending player will be ejected without warning. Outs, bases, etc. shall be awarded in accordance with NFHS Rule 3.3.1.n. Penalty.

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Section 2: Tee Ball Rules 1. Tee Ball Ages are 4-6. 6 year olds also have the option to play in 7U. 2. Game Format 2.1. Game Times are 1 hour and 30 minutes – 30 minutes for warm ups/Practice and 1 hour for the game time. As you get further into the season, feel free to lengthen the game time if both coaches are comfortable with it. No limit on number of innings. 2.2. Each inning should be one time through the batting order, each batter should get 1 base for each hit. The last batter should be allowed to run all the bases. Recommend changing the order each game so that each kid gets to lead off once and bat last once, move your leadoff hitter to the end for the next game and move everyone up 1 spot. 3. No scores are kept 4. Rotate the players in the field as best you can. 5. Pitching – If the kids skills enable it, throw each kid 3-4 soft tosses to try to hit, if they miss, bring up the Tee.

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Section 3: 7U League Rules and Modifications

1. GAME FORMAT 1.1. T eam assignments will be done without the use of player evaluations and a draft. Second year players can request their previous year’s coach, which will be honored, if possible. 1.2. E mphasis will be placed on instruction; team play, fairness and sportsmanship over competitiveness, to transition the player from Tee Ball to fast baseball. Score will be kept, but not win/lose records. 1.3. Innings: Unlimited innings. An inning consists of three (3) outs or six (6) runs; however, at least five (5) batters will bat, regardless of the number of outs. (E xception: If on the same play as when the 6th run scores, additional runs score, they will be counted.) 1.4. Time Limit: N o new inning will begin after 1 hour 15 minutes. The Home Team Coach is responsible for the official time, but should confer each inning with the opposing Coach. 1.5. Tie: N o will be played and the tie will stand. 1.6. Field Dimensions : Pitching Distance = 35’; Base Path Distance = 6 0’, subject to field availability. 1.7. N o Run "Mercy" Rule 1.8. U nlimited defensive and offensive conferences. 1.9. Coaches 1.9.1. T hree (3) defensive Coaches are permitted near the catcher, right field and left field positions. Offensive Coaches are allowed at 1s t Base, 3r d Base, and Pitcher. The catching Coach backs up the catcher for speed of play. He/she shall keep the area clear of bats and balls for safety. He/she shall assist the catcher and batter with proper positions, to avoid batter interference and catcher’s obstruction. 1.9.2.1. B oth coaching staffs will be responsible for ensuring at least five batters attempt to hit each inning. 1.10. I f the game is suspended due to weather or lightning, the game has ended, due to the short length of the games. If less than half an hour is played, notify league director for reschedule, reschedule will start a new game. 2. PLAYER PARTICIPATION 2.1. A ll players shall play defense; Six (6) traditional positions, with the remaining players in the outfield at least ten (10) feet onto the grass outfield. A catcher position is not required if no player wants to during an inning, however that player must play in the outfield. 2.2. If there will be more than five , a second pitcher position may be utilized. The catcher’s position must be filled in order to utilize the second pitcher’s position. 2.3. All players must play at least one inning in the outfield; however, a player may play in the same position the remaining innings of the game. In this case, the player is not permitted to play that same position in the next game. No player may play exclusively in the outfield more than one game in a row. NOTE: Recommended to use a prepared rotation schedule for each game. Penalty: Coach warning a possible removal from coaching duties.

2.4 Exception to the Short Handed Rule: If playing with eight (8) players and a player temporarily leaves the game for any reason (restroom, injury, etc.), he/she may return at any time and resume his/her

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previous batting order position. Any at bats missed during his/her absence will be skipped and will not be counted as outs. If the player is at bat and is injured causing the player to be unable to complete his/her at bat, the next batter in the batting order will assume the batter’s count and play will continue. If a player leaves the game permanently, regardless of the reason, causing the team to bat less than eight (8) players, all vacant spots under eight (8) will be considered an out. 2.5. C atchers are encouraged to wear a catcher’s mitt; however, a fielder’s glove is allowed. Innings may begin without the catcher while he/she puts on the catcher’s equipment. 2.6. C oaches shall strive to ensure players receive an equal number of bats during the season. Recommended to use the same batting order all season, with the last on deck batter leading off the following game.

3. PITCHING 3.1. Coach Pitch: 3.1.1. A Coach from the team at bat will pitch overhand to his/her batters, with velocity based upon the batter’s ability. The pitching Coach is not required to stand on the pitching rubber. Distance should be adjusted accordingly to consistently deliver hittable pitches, with the safety of the batter and coach in mind. 3.1.1.1. E ach batter shall receive a maximum of nine (9) pitches or five (5) swings to put the ball in play. If the last pitch or pitch thereafter is fouled, the batter receives another pitch. 3.1.1.2. A container of balls is allowed next to the pitching Coach and it is recommended that a separate container be used by the home plate Coach to collect pitched balls. Each pitched ball should not be returned to the pitching Coach, but rather returned between batters. 3.1.2. I f the ball inadvertently hits the pitching Coach (or ball container) or the pitching Coach interferes with a fielder making a play on the ball, the ball is dead and all runners advance one (1) base. 3.1.3. T he player pitcher must wear a batting helmet with mask and remain within eight (8) feet of the pitching rubber no closer than the pitching rubber, until the ball is hit. 3.2. Walks, intentional or otherwise are NOT allowed. A batter hit by a pitch will NOT be awarded 1s t base. If the batter cannot continue his/her at bat due to injury, the turn at bat will be skipped and no out recorded. 4. BATTING 4.1. O n deck batters are N OT allowed. Only the batter should have a bat in his/her hand. 4.2. No Bunting, Dropped 3rd Strike, . A ttempted bunts are treated as a and a warning given to the batter. 4.3. Batting Out of Order Rule d oes N OT apply. The skipped batter will be inserted into the batting order upon discovery; however, the batting order will revert back to the original order on the next time through. 4.4. Thrown Bat: 1 s t Offense = Player Warning, 2n d Offense= Immediate dead ball, Batter is out. An intentional thrown bat can result in an immediate ejection. All thrown bat calls are made at the Umpire’s discretion.

5. BASE RUNNING 5.1. Stealing and Leading Off is N OT allowed. There is no penalty; however, Coaches should instruct their players not to leave the base early. 5.2. Overthrows: N o runner can advance on an overthrow, regardless of the base it occurs at.

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5.3. Slides: H ead first slides are not allowed. 5.4. A ll base runners, other than the batter runner advancing to 1s t base and runners forced by the batter runner, must attempt to secure their next or previous base immediately when the play has ended. (Reference 6.1 below). 5.4.1. S hould the in possession of the ball attempt to make a play on a runner and the ball is overthrown, runners shall not advance, in accordance with the overthrow rule. 6. END OF PLAY 6.1 On balls that don’t leave the infield: the play concludes (dead ball) when an infielder is deemed to have clear possession of the ball while in the infield and is not attempting to make a defensive out. If a ball is hit to the outfield grass the play is dead once the ball has been returned back to the infield dirt; whether in possession by a defensive player or not.

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Section 4: 8U League Rules and Modifications 1. Game Format 1.1. Innings: A half inning consists of three (3) outs or five (5) runs. (Exception: If on the same play as when the 5th run scores, additional runs score, they will be counted.) 1.2. Time Limit: No new inning will begin after 1 hour 45 minutes. 1.3. Tie: In the event of a tie at the end of regulation play (Time Limit or Innings), extra innings will be played if time is left on the clock only and during the tournament since a winner is needed. 1.4. 4. Field Dimensions: Pitching Distance = 46’ with 8’ radius circle for defensive player when possible. Base Path Distance = 60’ No Mound is used. 1.5. 5. Run "Mercy" Rule: If a team is up 11 runs or more after 4 or 6 runs after 5 innings the game will be declared over. 1.6. 6. If a fair strikes a coach or on the field, the ball is dead immediately and the hitter is awarded first base and all other runners advance one base, whether forced or not.

2. Player Participation 2.1. Four defensive outfielders are allowed for a grand total of ten defensive players. All four outfielders must stay in the grass outfield area until the ball is put into play. No player can defensively sit the bench a second inning during a game until all players have sat at least one (1) inning. All players must play at a minimum two innings in the outfield and two innings in the infield, and no more than two(2) innings in the same defensive position unless due to safety concerns or disinterest of the player, which shall be communicated to the opposing coach and umpire prior to the game. For the purpose of this rule, an inning is defined as three (3) consecutive outs. A game ending by run rule, time limit and weather cancellations may make this compliance impossible in some instances.

2.2. Defensive Changes: One (1) defensive change is permitted during an inning. and bench players are NOT eligible for a defensive change during the inning, unless due to injury, sickness or ejection. 2.3. Catchers are encouraged to wear a catcher’s mitt; however, a fielder’s glove is allowed. 2.4. Outfield alignment consists of Left Fielder, Left-Center Fielder, Right-Center Fielder, Right Fielder. Teams may not use a shift in the outfield. 3. Pitching

3.1. Maximum Innings for Players: (2) per game, three (3) per week (Monday-Sunday). Players will pitch first two innings of each game. For purposes of this rule, an inning pitched is considered one (1) pitch (Legal or Illegal); or play or attempted play (i.e. Pick Off, Feint); or an intentional base on balls. A player in the pitcher position during the coach pitch inning does not constitute an inning pitched. 3 .2. Coach Pitch: 3.2.1. C oaches MUST pitch overhand to his/her batters AND pitch to batters from pitching rubber. Each batter will receive five (5) pitches or three (3) swinging strikes. If the last pitch or pitch thereafter is fouled, the batter receives another pitch. A hit batsman is not in effect when the Coach is pitching. 3.2.2. D uring Kid-Pitch innings, after a batter receives “Ball Four (4)”, the hitting team’s designated Coach will pitch the remaining balance of the strike count; If the batter had a 4 and 0 count, he/she will receive three (3) pitches from the Coach. If the batter had a 3 and 1 count, he would receive 2 pitches. If the batter had a 4 and 2 count, he/she will receive two (2) pitches ( or one swinging strike). F oul balls on the last pitch will be in accordance with 3.2.1 above. T he coach who steps in to pitch during the first two innings after ball four, must be on the sidelines while the kids are pitching, this is to help ensure less interference with the play.

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3.2.3. I f the ball inadvertently hits the pitching Coach or the pitching Coach interferes with a fielder making a play on the ball, the ball is dead and all runners advance one (1) base. If in the Umpires judgment, the pitching Coach fails to make an effort to avoid or intentionally interferes with the ball or attempted play, the ball shall be declared dead. P enalty: Batter declared out, all runners return, Coach warning. A dditionally, the p itching Coach shall not be a baserunner coach, they may however coach the batter (to get in the correct spot in batters box, remind them of , other batting tips) 3.2.4. T he player pitcher must remain within eight (8) feet of the pitching rubber no closer than the pitching Coach until the ball is hit. 3.2.5. Minimum Innings: E very player shall be given the opportunity to pitch one (1) inning per regular season, unless due to safety concerns or disinterest of the player. This reasoning must be communicated to the parent/guardian and League Director. For purposes of this rule, an inning pitched is three (3) consecutive outs or four (4) consecutive batters. .

4. Batting 4.1. Bats may not exceed 33” in length. Wooden bats of any kind are not permitted. USSSA must be 2 ¼. USA Bats must be between 2 ¼ - 2 5/8 in diameter. 4.2. Bunting is NOT allowed. Additionally, slug bunting is prohibited. Slug Bunting is defined as showing , re treating the bat and taking a swing instead. Penalty: Batter is out 4.3. Dropped 3rd Strike is NOT in effect. 4.4. Infield Fly Rule is NOT in effect. 4.5. Thrown Bat: 1st Offense = Team Warning, 2nd Offense= Immediate dead ball, Batter is out. An intentional thrown bat can result in an immediate ejection. All thrown bat calls are made at the Umpire’s discretion. 4.6. Continuous Batting Order will be applicable in this division.

5. Base Running 5.1. No Steals and no leadoffs. Any runner leaving a base early will be issued a warning followed by being called out for further infractions. 5.2. Overthrow Rule – Players may advance one base on any over throw. Players are limited to advancing just one base however. 5.3. Slides: Head first slides are not allowed except for when an offensive player is returning back to a base. The result will be an out if deemed illegal by the umpire. 5.4. END OF PLAY - T he play concludes (dead ball) and time is called by the Umpire when an i nfielder is deemed by the Umpire to have c lear possession of the ball while in the i nfield, unless the infielder immediately attempts to make a play on a runner. It is the Umpires discretion whether the infielder is making an immediate play attempt. 5.5. Rule - A runner approaching any base m ust slide - or - avoid contact with the defensve player providing the defense player has possession of the ball. If the runner does not slide and makes contact with the player covering the base, the runner is out. Any malicious contact will result in an out and an ejection from the game without warning. 5.6. The High School rule will apply for failure to touch a base, or failure to properly after a caught fly ball. The procedure to follow depends on whether the ball is dead or alive. 5.7. LIVE BALL: A defensive player may either tag the base runner or throw to the base that the runner either missed or left early while attempting to tag up. The umpire will then rule, safe or out. 5.8. DEAD BALL: Once time has been called by an umpire, either a coach OR a defensive player can verbally appeal that a base runner either missed a base or left a base early while attempting to tag up, by describing the infraction to the umpire. The umpire will then rule either safe or out

6. Stopping Baserunners 6.1. Batted ball hit to the outfield- Once a batted ball that is hit to the outfield is in control of any player on the defensive team that is physically in the infield, all base runners may continue to advance, AT THEIR

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OWN RISK, only if they had started to run to that base prior to the control of the ball in the infield. The defense is encouraged to make a play on these advancing runners with NO RISK, since the base runners may advance no further, except if the ball is thrown out of play. 6.2. B atted ball never leaves infield- ALL base runners, including the batter/runner may advance only 1 base on a batted ball that never leaves the infield, except on an overthrow made by the fielder to a teammate covering a base. In this case, each runner may advance 1 base only at their own risk. If the player catches the ball cleanly, base runners will not be allowed to advance further. Simply dropping a ball is not considered an overthrow. Advancing to the extra base on an overthrow is at the RISK OF THE BASERUNNER, as in the above rule. The fielder has no risk in making a throw. The attempt to advance to the extra base after the overthrow MUST BE STARTED prior to the ball being secured by a player on defense

.

Section 5: 10U League Rules and M odifications

1. Game Format 1.1. Innings: A half inning consists of three (3) outs or five (5) runs. (Exception: If on the same play as when the 6th run scores, additional runs score, they will be counted.) 1.2. Time Limit: No new inning will begin after 1 hour 30 minutes. 1.3. Teams will play (1) extra inning to determine a winner if game is tied at end 6 innings and there is still time left on the clock. If game is still tied after the (1) extra inning, the game will be called a “tie.” The only exception is during post season tournament when a winner is needed. 1.4. Nine (9) will play the field defensively. (3) Outfield and (6) infield. 1.5. Field Dimensions: Pitching Distance = 46’; Base Path Distance = 65’ 1.6. Mercy/Run rule Run ": If a team is up 15 runs after 3 innings or more than 10 runs after 4 innings the game will be declared over. 1.7. END OF PLAY - The ball remains live, unless declared a dead ball or time out is given.

2. Player Participation 2.1. No player can defensively sit the bench a second inning during a game until all players have sat at least one (1) inning. Additionally, all players in attendance for the entire game MUST play 3 innings NO PARTICIPANT MAY PLAY MORE THAN 3 INNINGS AT THE SAME POSITION. For the purpose of this rule, an inning is defined as three (3) consecutive outs. It is recommended to occur in the by the 3rd or 4th inning. Penalty: Forfeit 2.2. Changes: One (1) defensive change is permitted during an inning unless due to injury or sickness. Pitching changes are excluded. Catchers and bench players are NOT eligible for a defensive change during the inning, unless due to injury, sickness or ejection. Attempts to violate this rule will be disallowed by the Umpire.

3. Pitching 3.1. Maximum Pitches and Rest: Pitchers can pitch up to 75 pitches per day. Doubleheaders or suspended games played the same day may add to the total of 75 pitches. Pitcher removed from game may not return to pitch. The following breakdown is days of rest needed:

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Required Rest days 0 Days 1 Day 2 Days 3 Days after Pitching rest rest rest rest Number of Pitches 1-25 26-35 36-55 56+ pitches pitches Pitches pitches

3.2. Any pitcher reaching the maximum pitch count to a batter can finish pitching to that batter. Rest days are full calendar days and not 24 hour periods. For example, a pitcher who throws 66 pitches on Monday may not return to pitch until Friday. 3.3. will not be called. 3.4. Ball is live after a batter strikes out – a batter is out when he/she has three (3) strikes, either called or swinging. The batter is out, but the ball is in play and base runners may advance at their own risk. 3.5. Pitches thrown in games called prior to becoming official due to rain, time limit, or other such causes will count for that day. 3.6. It is the head coach’s responsibility to record a pitcher’s pitch count. All teams must keep a record of pitch counts of their respective team in the scorebook. Any head coach in violation of pitching rules are subject to suspension/removal at the discretion of the Parks & Recreation Department. 3.7. No intentional walks are permitted. If it is the opinion of the umpire that a pitcher is intentionally pitching balls to walk a batter, the batter will be awarded 2nd base. 3.8. The pitcher must be removed from the for the remainder of the game by the coach: 3.8.1. On the 2nd visit of the inning or the 3rd visit in the game in addition, any subsequent visits to the mound by a coach. 3.8.2. The same pitcher hits 3 batters in the same inning or 4 batters in the game.

4. Batting 4.1. Bats may not exceed 33” in length. Wooden bats of any kind are not permitted. USSSA must be 2 ¼. USA Bats must be between 2 ¼ - 2 5/8 in diameter. 4.2. Bunting IS allowed; however slug bunting is prohibited. Slug Bunting is defined as showing bunt, re treating the bat back and taking a swing instead. Penalty: Batter is out. 4.3. Dropped 3rd Strike IS NOT in effect. Ball is still live and players may advance- but the batter is out regardless of whether the catcher catches the ball. 4.4. Infield Fly Rule IS in effect. 4.5. Thrown Bat: 1st Offense = Team Warning, 2nd Offense= Immediate dead ball, Batter is out. An intentional thrown bat can result in an immediate ejection. All thrown bat calls are made at the Umpire’s discretion. 4.6. Teams are to use a continuous batting order. Everyone that is present on the team at the game will bat and needs to be included on the lineup.

5. Base Running 5.1. Stealing is permitted only after ball has crossed the entire plate. Stealing of home is not permitted. The only exception in this rule is if a pitch is thrown out of play. Runners may also leave a base once the batter has made contact with a pitch. 5.2. Leaving Early: Runners may not leave the base early until the batter makes contact or the ball crosses the plate. 5.2.1. On plays where a runner leaves early and the batter does not hit, walk, or get hit by the pitch, the ball is dead immediately and all runners return. All pitches shall be counted as either a ball or strike, even though the ball is dead. These pitches will also count towards a pitcher’s pitch count. One (1) team warning will be given before the runner of the warned team will be called out. 5.3. Live Ball Overthrows: All runners can advance and score on all overthrows with no limitations. Once a ball is released by a catcher in return to the pitcher, stealing will be prohibited. 5.4. Slides: Head first slides are not allowed except for when an offensive player is returning back to a base. The result will be an out if deemed illegal by the umpire. 5.5. Slide Rule - A runner approaching any base must slide - or - avoid contact with the defensive player providing the defense player has possession of the ball. If the runner does not slide and makes contact

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with the player covering the base, the runner is out. Any malicious contact will result in an out and an ejection from the game without warning.

Section 6: 12U League Rules and Modifications

1. Game Format 1.1. Innings: A half inning consists of three (3) outs or six (6) runs. (Exception: If on the same play as when the 6th run scores, additional runs score, they will be counted.) 1.2. Time Limit: No new inning will begin after 1 hour 45 minutes. 1.3. Teams will play (1) extra inning to determine a winner if game is tied at end 6 innings and there is still time left on the clock.. If game is still tied after the (1) extra inning, the game will be called a “tie.” The only exception is during post season tournament when a winner is needed. 1.4. Field Dimensions: Pitching Distance = 50’; Base Path Distance = 70’. 1.5. Mercy/Run rule – If a team is leading up by 13 runs or more after 4 completed innings, the game will be called. Additionally,if a team is leading by 7 runs or more after 5 completed innings, the game will also be called. 1.6. End of Play - The ball remains live, unless declared a dead ball or time out is given. 1.7. 2. Player Participation 2.1. No player can defensively sit the bench a second inning during a game until all players have sat at least one (1) inning. Additionally, all players in attendance for the entire game MUST play 3 innings. For the purpose of this rule, an inning is defined as three (3) consecutive outs. It is recommended to occur in the by the 3rd or 4th inning. Penalty: Forfeit

3. Pitching 3.1. Maximum Pitches and Rest: Pitchers can pitch up to 85 pitches per day. Doubleheaders or suspended games played the same day may add to the 85 pitches. Pitcher removed from game may not return to pitch. The following breakdown is days of rest needed: Required Rest days 0 Days 1 Day 2 Days 3 Days after Pitching rest rest rest rest Number of Pitches 1-25 26-40 41-65 66+ pitches pitches Pitches pitches

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Any pitcher reaching the maximum pitch count to a batter can finish pitching to that batter. Rest days are full calendar days and not 24 hour periods. For example, a pitcher who throws 66 pitches on Monday may not return to pitch until Friday.

3.2. Balks WILL be called after one (1) pitcher warning. The Umpire announces “!” and the ball is dead immediately, to include the warning. The umpire will explain to the pitcher and the head coach why he has called a balk. Subsequent balks by the same pitcher will result in the runner(s) advancing one (1) base. 3.3. Intentional Walks are allowed. If a team wishes to intentionally walk a batter, the head coach must call time out and notify the plate umpire. The batter will then be awarded 1st base without having any pitches thrown. A player can only be intentionally walked once per game. No pitches need to be thrown. 3.4. Ball is live after a batter strikes out.. 3.5. Numbers of pitches thrown in games called prior to becoming official due to rain, time limit, or other such causes will count towards pitch count for each pitcher in that week. 3.6. It is the head coach’s responsibility to record a pitcher’s pitch count. All teams must keep a record of pitch counts of their respective team in the scorebook. Any head coach in violation of pitching rules are subject to suspension/removal at the discretion of the Parks & Recreation Department. 3.7. The pitcher must be removed from the pitching position for the remainder of the game by the coach: 3.7.1. On the 2n d visit of the inning or the 3rd visit in the game in addition, any subsequent visits to the mound by a coach. 3.7.2. The same pitcher hits 3 batters in the same inning or 4 batters in the game

4. Batting 4.1. Bats may not exceed 33” in length. Wooden bats of any kind are not permitted. USSSA must be 2 ¼. USA Bats must be between 2 ¼ - 2 3/4 in diameter. 4.2. Bunting IS allowed; however, slug bunting is prohibited. Slug Bunting is defined as showing bunt, re treating the bat back and taking a swing instead. This rule is a safety issue and the player will be called out w/o warning. 4.3. Dropped 3rd Strike IS in effect. 4.4. Infield Fly Rule IS in effect. 4.5. Thrown Bat: 1st Offense = Team Warning, 2nd Offense= Immediate dead ball, Batter is out. An intentional thrown bat can result in an immediate ejection. All thrown bat calls are made at the Umpire’s discretion. 4.6. Teams are to use a continuous batting order. Everyone that is present on the team at the game will bat and needs to be included on the lineup

5. Base Running 5.1. Lead offs and stealing is allowed at all bases, regardless of the number of outs. 5.2. Live Ball Overthrows: All runners can advance and score on all overthrows with no limitations, including a catcher’s throw back to a pitcher unless the ball is declared dead or out of play by the umpire 5.3. Head first slides are not allowed except for when an offensive player is returning back to a base. The result will be an out if deemed illegal by the umpire. 5.4. Slide Rule - A runner approaching any base must slide - or - avoid contact with the defensve player providing the defense player has possession of the ball. If the runner does not slide and makes contact with the player covering the base, the runner is out. Any malicious contact will result in an out and an ejection from the game without warning.

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Section 7: Definitions and References

1. Batting Out of Order Rule: W hen a batter fails to bat in his/her proper turn in the batter order and an improper batter becomes a batter-runner (hit, walk, or ), is put out, or strikes out, the skipped batter shall be called out, on a proper dead ball appeal. Any score made by, or as a result of, the improper batter, shall be nullified. All outs stand and runners who were not declared out must return to the base occupied at the time of the last pitch. All runner advances as a result of a , , or remain legal. Subsequent a proper appeal and the skipped batter being called out, the next batter shall be the batter whose name follows that of the skipped batter. N OTE: In most cases, the improper batter will bat again as the proper batter. If an improper batter is discovered, by either team, at bat before he becomes a batter-runner, the proper batter replaces him and assumes the count. All runner advances as a result of a stolen base, wild pitch, or passed ball remain legal. If a proper appeal is not made, the improper batter becomes legalized and the batter order continues from the legalized batter. The skipped batter remains skipped until their next turn in the batter order. NOTE: When several players bat out of order before the defense properly appeals, only the last skipped batter can be called out. All previous out of order batters were legalized. 2. Big Barrel Bat: N FHS Rule 1-3 ART. 2 (Extract Summary): T he bat shall be made of wood, aluminum or composite material, which is smooth, unaltered, and undamaged, must comply with the following: Devices, attachments or wrappings are permitted on the knob, except those that cause the knob to become flush with the handle. A one-piece rubber knob and bat grip combination is illegal. The taper may not extend more than (18) inches from the base of the knob. Foreign substances may not extend beyond eighteen (18) inches from the end of the handle. Wooden Bats must be 2 ¼ inches or less in diameter at the thickest part and be 36 inches or less in length. Non-wood bats must:

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Have a safety grip made of cork, tape (no smooth, plastic tape) or commercially manufactured composition material. The grip must extend a minimum of ten (10) inches, but not more than eighteen (18) inches, from the base of the knob. Resin, pine tar or any drying agent to enhance the hold are permitted only on the grip. Molded grips are illegal. 13U and Below: 2 ¼, 2 5/8 or 2 ¾ may be used. 13 Year olds & Above: Must be 2 5/8” or less in diameter at thickest part and thirty-six (36) inches or less in l ength. Bats must not w eigh, numerically, more than three ounces (-10 max drop) less than the length o f the bat (e.g., a 32-inch-long bat cannot be l ess than 22 ounces). All bats used must meet 1.15 and USSSA or t he new USA m arkings as well as the Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution (BBCOR) .50 p erformance standard, and must have a visible permanent manufacturer’s mark indicating such. 3. Charged Conference: For the purposes of PYAA JLB, unless otherwise stated, each team will be allowed one (1) charged offensive conference per inning and one (1) charged defensive conference, to include “mound visits”, per inning. A defensive conference is not charged when the pitcher is changed. A second defensive conference in the same inning requires a pitcher change. A charged conference is a meeting involving the Coach and a player(s) of the team, which requires time to be granted and/or a delay of the game. Any time out, delay, or substitution due to injury or equipment issues, does not constitute a charged conference. Any other substitution(s), if allowed and done without delay, does not constitute a charged conference. 4. Completed at Bat: A batter is considered to have completed his/her time at bat when the batter hits a fair batted ball, strikes out, draws a base on balls (to include intentional), or gets hit by a pitch. 5. Dead Ball Appeal: The dead ball appeal must be made after play has stopped but B EFORE the first pitch (Legal or Illegal); or play or attempted play (i.e. Pick Off); or prior to an intentional base on balls; or before the leave the diamond if a half-inning is ending. 6. Dropped 3r d Strike Rule: ( only). By definition, a catch is a ball caught , so a pitch that bounces before it is caught by the catcher meets the criteria of a “Dropped 3r d Strike. A dropped third strike only counts when first base is unoccupied OR there are two outs. If there is a runner on first base and less than two outs, then a dropped third strike doesn't matter and the batter is out. 7. Home Plate Slide Rule: A runner approaching home plate m ust slide - or - avoid contact with the catcher (or other fielder covering home plate). If the runner does not slide and makes contact with the player covering home plate, and there is no obstruction called on that fielder, t he runner is out. Any malicious contact will result in an out and an ejection from the game without warning. N OTE: By rule, a catcher blocking home plate or on the 3r d base side of home plate, without the ball, which results in contact with an approaching runner, is considered obstruction. Thus the runner would not be called out. 8. Hit by Pitch: N FHS Rule 8.1, Art 1d: “ … a pitched ball hits his [batter] person or clothing, provided he does not strike at the ball; or 1. If he permits the pitched ball to touch him (7-3-4), or if the umpire calls the pitched ball a strike, the hitting of the batter is disregarded except that the ball is dead. It is a strike or ball depending on location of the pitch. 2. If a batter’s loose garment, such as a shirt that is not worn properly, is touched by a pitched ball, the batter is not entitled to first base.” NFHS Rule 5.1, Art 1a: “ Ball becomes dead immediately when… a pitch touches a batter or his clothing (81-1d), a runner (8-31a); 1. The ball becomes dead even though the batter strikes at it (8-1-1d).” NFHS Rule 2.28, Art 2 and 3: “ A pitch (IAW) is live ball delivered to the batter is a pitch. The term implies a legally delivered ball unless otherwise stated. When a pitcher commits a balk and completes his delivery to the batter, or delivers an illegal pitch, it is not considered a pitch, because the ball became dead at the time of the infraction. A pitch ends when the pitched ball: a. is secured by the catcher, b. comes to rest, c. goes out of play, d. becomes dead, e. or the batter hits the ball (other than a if caught by the catcher).”

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NOTE: A pitch that strikes the ground is still considered a pitch, thus if the pitch then hits the batter, the ball is dead and the batter is then awarded 1s t base, as long as all other aspects of the rule are met. NOTE: A pitch that strikes the batter when he/she attempts to swing at or bunt the ball or while the batter is within the strike zone is a “dead ball strike”. The batter remains at bat, unless the pitch was the 3r d strike. NOTE: If a batter allows a pitch to strike him/her, the hitting of the batter will be disregarded and the batter will remain at bat, unless the pitch was the 3r d strike or 4t h ball, at which time the batter will be out or awarded 1s t base, respectively. 9. Infield Fly Rule: An infield fly is a fair fly (not including a line drive nor an attempted bunt) which can be caught by an infielder with ordinary effort, (rule does not preclude out- fielders from being allowed to attempt to make the catch) and provided the hit is made with less than two (2) outs and with 1s t and 2n d bases; or 1s t, 2n d and 3r d bases occupied. When it seems apparent that a batted ball will be an infield fly, the Umpire immediately announces it for the benefit of the runners. If the ball is near a base- line, the Umpire shall declare, “Infield fly, if fair.” The batter is out, the force is removed, and runners can advance at their own risk. 10. Interference: O ffensive interference is an act (physical or verbal) by the team at bat which interferes with, obstructs, impedes, hinders or confuses any fielder attempting to make a play; or when a runner creates malicious contact with any fielder, with or without the ball, in or out of the baseline; or a Coach physically assists a runner during playing action. It is an immediate dead ball and there are various penalties based upon the circumstances. Umpire interference is when he/she inadvertently moves so as to hinder a catcher’s attempt to throw, or when a fair ball touches an Umpire before touching any fielder and before passing any fielder other than the pitcher, or thrown ball lodges in an Umpire’s equipment or uniform. Immediate Dead Ball and all runners advance one (1) base. 11. Obstruction: O bstruction is an act (intentional or unintentional, as well as physical or verbal) by a fielder, any member of the defensive team or its team personnel that hinders a runner or changes the pattern of play, such as a catcher or any fielder obstructing a runner; or when a catcher or fielder hinders a batter. The ball becomes dead at the end of playing action (Delayed Dead Ball) and the Umpire determines which base or bases shall be awarded the runners according to the rule violated. A fake tag is an act by a defensive player without the ball that simulates a tag and is considered obstruction. A fielder without possession of the ball denies access to the base the runner is attempting to achieve is also considered obstruction. 12. Slug Bunting: W hen a batter who squares around to bunt then pulls the bat b ack as the pitch is being delivered and then attempts a full swing, regardless if contact is made, is prohibited. A warning will be given, followed by an out for subsequent violations. In each instance, warning or subsequent, the ball will be dead immediately and all runners return. In the case of a warning, a strike will be awarded. 13. Tie-Breaker Inning: If field space is available, when the time limit has expired and the inning is over, the game will go into o ne (1) e xtra i nning. Under this rule, each team starts the inning with the player who completed the last official at bat, as a base runner on 1 st base. All batters in the batting order assume a 11 count. If the game is still tied at the conclusion of the tie breaker inning, the tie stands.

S ection 8: JLB Code of Conduct

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Article 1.00 of the PYAA Junior League Baseball Bylaws (revised 1/2012) 1.02. Sportsmanship. J unior League Baseball (JLB) is devoted to providing an opportunity for youth of the Pickerington Local School District to play baseball in an organized and supervised atmosphere. Sporting attitudes that are encouraged are team spirit, team cooperation, determination, fair play, pride, and respect for teammates, opponents, Coaches, and Umpires. It is the Board’s expectation that all participants will uphold these ideals with their conduct during all program functions. The term participant includes players, Coaches, spectators, and Umpires. All players, parents and Coaches will be required to sign and abide by Sportsmanship Pledge. This Pledge promotes sportsmanship standards, team rules and ethical behavior. 1.02.1 General Conduct. A participant shall not display any behavior that will discredit him/herself or bring dishonor to the PYAA JLB Program. Such actions include, but are not limited to, unruly behavior; exhibiting disrespect to other participants; disregarding rules of the PYAA, recreation league or travel league; and displaying behavior that is offensive to the community. This includes the use of profanity (in any context on PYAA grounds) discriminatory, derogatory or harassing language, spitting, fighting, smoking or chewing tobacco, etc.. Any participant who fails to adhere to these bylaws or to published rules and regulations is subject to disciplinary action. In addition, the JLB President/Vice President may impose immediate penalties for extreme misconduct. After investigation by the appointed Disciplinary Committee, the Board may impose any of the following as punishment: 1) Official warning, in writing 2) Game(s) suspension, formal placement on misconduct list (prohibits All Star Participation) 3) Program expulsion 4) Facility & property expulsion 1.02.2 Game Conduct. D uring all games scheduled, the Umpires shall have the authority to control the actions of all players, Coaches and spectators. The Umpires may impose warnings or immediate ejections to any participant for actions deemed detrimental to maintaining order in the game. In doing so all Umpires shall govern by the JLB bylaws, rules and regulations as well as the state or national game rules standard to which JLB rules refer. After one (1) warning is given to any participant, any occurrence of a similar infraction will result in the automatic ejection. After one (1) warning is given to any spectator/non-participant, any occurrence of a similar infraction will result in the umpire halting the game until the aforementioned person is asked to completely leave the grounds. Game will resume afterwards. Ejection will result in the suspension from that game. Ejected players will be restricted to the dugout for that game and any ejected Coach, parent, or spectator must leave the facility entirely, not just the immediate vicinity of the game. If an ejected parent or Coach has another child playing at the facility, and no other parent is available, the ejected parent or Coach may remain in the parking lot. All ejections shall be reported to the JLB President, Vice President, League Director, or JLB Umpire Director at the conclusion of the game. If the actions of the ejected player are determined to warrant further action, the participant can be but not limited to be placed on the JLB misconduct list, suspended for additional games and/or JLB Programs. Any participant who has been ejected from a game, may not return to team until the investigation has been completed. Coaches who have been placed on the misconduct list at anytime during the current season are unable to assume an All Star Coaching position for that season.

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7U 8U 10U 12U Format Innings 6 6 6 6 No New Inning 1:15hr 1:25hr 1:30hr 1:40hr Max. Time Limit 1:30hr No No No Tie Procedures Tie Stands Tie Stands Tie Stands Tie Breaker Pitching Distance N/A 42' 46' 50' Base Path Distance 60’ 60' 65' 70' Run Rule None 15/ 3 or 10 / 4 15/ 3 or 10 / 4 15/ 3 or 10 / 4

Player Participation Outfield Positions 4 3 3 ≥ 3 Req. Infield Play (Inning) 2* 1 1 1*

Pitching Maximum (Game/Week) N/A 2/2 3/6 4/8

Balks (Pitcher Warnings) No No No Yes (P1) Intentional Walks No No Yes Yes Batting Bat Barrel Max (drop weight) 2 and ¾ (n/a) 2 and ¾ (-n/a) 2 and ¾ (-10) 2 and 3/4 (-10 max) 2 and 5/8 for 13 YR olds Bunting No Yes Yes Yes Dropped 3rd Strike N/A No No Yes Inning Run Rule Limit 6 6 6 No Infield Fly Rule No No Yes Yes Batting Out of Order Rule No Yes Yes Yes Baserunning Stealing No No Yes, Ball x HP Yes (No stealing of home) Lead Offs No No No Yes Home Plate Slide Rule Yes Yes Yes Yes Head First Slide No No No Yes Fielder Obstructing Base without ball (award additional base) No Yes Yes Yes 1st Base Slide No No No Yes Overthrow Rule No Advance One Base* Unlimited Unlimited

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NFHS Baserunning Awards Table Note: Some PYAA JLB Rule Applications, if specified, may differ from this table. This is simply for reference only.

DETERMINED FROM BASE NUMBER of BASES AWARDED OCCUPIED AT TIME OF

ONE BASE (runners) Balk Infraction Pitch from pitcher’s plate thrown out of play Pitch Throw from pitcher’s plate goes out of play Pitch Unintentional catch and carry Pitch *Catcher obstruction (if attempting to advance) Pitch Forced (because batter is awarded 1st base) Pitch Pitch strikes runner Pitch

ONE BASE (batter)

1. Walk 1. Pitch 2. Pitch thrown out of play on ball four 2. Pitch 3. *Batter is obstructed 3. Pitch 4. Hit by pitch 4. Pitch 5. Runner interference (unintentional) 5. Pitch 6. Umpire interference (hit by batted ball) 6. Pitch 7. Pitch lodges in defensive player’s or umpire’s uniform or equipment on ball four 7. Pitch

TWO BASES (batter and runners) 1. Fair batted ball bounces over, through, goes under, lodges in or under fence 1. Pitch 2. #Fair batted ball or thrown ball lodges in defensive player’s or umpire’s uniform or 2. Pitch equipment 3. Live thrown ball or pitch touched by illegal glove or mitt 3. Infraction 4. Live thrown ball or pitch touched by detached player equipment which is 4. Infraction thrown, tossed, kicked or held by fielder 5. First throw by infielder and ball goes out of play or lodged in or under fence 5. Pitch 6. For any subsequent play by an infielder or for any throw by an and 6. Throw ball goes out of play or lodges in or under fence 7 . Intentional catch and carry (runners only) 7. Pitch

THREE BASES (batter and runners) 1. Fair batted ball contacted with detached player equipment or illegal glove/mitt 1.Infraction

FOUR BASES (batter and runners)

1. Fair batted ball over fence in flight 1. Pitch Fair batted ball hits foul pole above fence in flight 2. Pitch Fair batted ball prevented from going over fence because it is touched by spectator 3. Pitch

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Fair batted ball prevented from going over fence because of contact with detached 4. Pitch player or illegal glove/mitt

UMPIRE JUDGMENT 1 . Spectator interference 1. Infraction 2. Runner(s) obstruction (minimum one base) 2. Infraction 3. Defensive malicious contact 3. Infraction

*Award only if infraction is not ignored #An award to the batter-runner on a pitch is only made if he has the right to advance to first base.

NFHS Dead Ball and Delayed Dead Ball Table Note: Some PYAA JLB Rule Applications, if specified, may differ from this table. This is simply for reference only.

Ball Dead Immediately

Activity Awards or Penalties 1. Illegal pitch (no runner) 1. The pitch is ruled a ball 2. Pitch touches batter 2. Batter awarded first base except when he permits the ball to touch him or pitch is a strike 3. Pitch touches runner 3. All runners advance one base except when pitch is a strike for third out 4. Illegally batted ball 4. Batter is out. Runners return 5. Intentionally hitting ball second time 5. Batter is out. Runners return 6. An uncaught foul 6. Runners return to bases occupied at time of pitch 7. Interference by runner or retired runner (including 7. Interferer is out, also batter-runner if interference malicious contact) prevented a play at first base. Interferer is out and so is another runner if interference prevented a on the latter. Other runners return. For malicious contact the player guilty of the infraction is ejected 8. Interference with fielder by runner attempting to 8. Runner is out and another runner is out if catch foul fly ball interference prevented a possible double play 9. Interference by others connected with team 9. Runner is out. Other runners return 10. Fair ball over fence in flight or prevented by 10. Award all runners home base spectator or player’s detached equipment 11. Fair ball touches a spectator 11. Award or penalize according to umpire’s judgment 12. Fair ball bounces over, through or lodges in fence 12. Award all runners two bases from base occupied at or lodges in player’s uniform or equipment time of pitch... 13. Fair ball touches runner before it touches an 13. Hit runner is out. Batter awarded first base and infielder or after it passes any infielder except the credited with . Others return to base occupied at pitcher and another fielder has a play time of interference unless forced by batter-runner

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14. Fair batted ball touches umpire before it touches a 14. Runners return to bases occupied at time of pitch fielder or passes any fielder except the pitcher unless forced by batter- r unner. Batter awarded first base and credited with a single. 15. A thrown ball, not by pitcher from plate, goes into 15. Award all runners two bases bench, stand, through or over fence 16. A pitch or ball thrown by pitcher from plate goes into stand, 16. Award all runners one base bench, over or through fence, backstop, or touches a spectator (in live ball area) or lodges in umpires or catcher’s equipment 17. Umpire handles a live ball or calls time to inspect ball or for 17. Runners return to bases they had reached or passed when other reason, including items in 5-1 or umpire inadvertently ball becomes dead declares “Foul” as in 18. Fair or foul ball is caught by a fielder, who then steps or falls 18. Award all runners one base except when caught ball is third with both feet from field of play over any boundary or barrier such out as a fence, rope, chalk line or pre-game determined imaginary line or into a stand, bench or dugout 19. Infielder intentionally drops a fair fly, fair line drive or fair bunt 19. Batter is out and all runners return to base occupied at time of in flight with at least first base occupied and with less than two pitch outs 20. Balk 20. All runners advance one base. Batter remains at bat 21. Umpire gives “do not pitch signal” 21. No play can take place 22. Award intentional base on balls 22. Batter awarded first base 23. Batter enters box with an illegal bat 23. Batter is out 24. Batter refuses to enter box after being warned by 24. Strike is called umpire 25. Interference by batter who hits throw from the 25. With less than two outs, the runner is out. pitcher, not in contact with pitcher’s plate when runner Otherwise batter is out is advancing to home base 26. A batted, thrown or pitched ball touches a 26. Award each runner the following two bases - fair designated media area or anyone or anything that is batted ball or thrown ball not by pitcher in contact with entirely or partially in the designated media area the pitcher’s plate; one base - throw or pitch by pitcher 27. Defensive Malicious Contact 27. Umpire will rule safe or out on the play and award runner(s) appropriate base(s) per his judgment 28. Batter contacts the catcher or his equipment prior 28. The ball is dead immediately and there is no to the time of the pitch penalty

After Infraction, Ball Not Dead Until Umpire Calls "Time" (Delayed Dead Ball)

1. Interference by batter when attempted put out is on 1. With two out, batter is out. Otherwise, if attempt on runner other than at home runner is unsuccessful, ball is dead, batter is out and runners return. If third strike, batter is out and umpire can call a second out 2. Interference by batter when runner is advancing to 2. Runner is out unless two are out, then batter is out. home plate (other than hitting a throw from the pitcher, If runner is put out, ball remains alive not in contact with pitcher’s plate) 3. Obstruction with batter by catcher or fielder 3. If batter and all runners attempting to steal or who are forced do not advance, award each one base

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4. Obstruction 4. If obstructed runner and all other runners hindered by the obstruction do not reach bases they otherwise would have reached, award runner or runners such bases 5. Intentionally touching batted ball with detached 5. Award batter-runner and runners three bases if not player equipment over fair ground, or over foul ground made which might become fair ball 6. Intentionally touching thrown ball (including a pitch) 6. Award runners two bases if not made with detached player equipment 7. Offensive team personnel calls “Time” or uses any 7. No runners allowed to advance. Eject offender from other command or commits an act for the purpose of the game trying to cause opposing pitcher to balk 8. Interference with catcher by umpire 8. If runner is not put out, runners return 9. Deliberately removing batting helmet in live ball 9. Team warning. Subsequent players on that team to territory while ball is alive violate rule are ejected 10. A coach physically assists a runner 10. Involved batter-runner or runner is out. Outs on play stand. Other runners return to bases occupied at time of infraction 11. Use of illegal glove/mitt 11. Award four bases for over fence, three bases for other fair batted ball, two bases for thrown or pitched ball

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