Sandy Plains Baseball AssociationOfficial Playing Rules

Sweat Mtn. Park (Pinto) Spring 2017

OFFICIAL BASEBALL RULES & THE RULES OF DIZZY DEAN BASEBALL INC. WILL GOVERN EXCEPT AS HEREINAFTER PROVIDED.

Section I- The Leagues:

1. The Pinto Leagues are designed to accommodate participants league ages 7 & 8.

2. League age will be consistent with Dizzy Dean Baseball rules with all players playing at the attained age by April 30th of the playing year.

3. Each league is under the coordination and supervision of its respective League Coordinator.

4. The leagues shall operate under the constitution and by-laws of Dizzy Dean Baseball, Inc.; governed by the Sandy Plains Baseball Board.

5. Pinto shall be divided into two leagues: American and National.

Section II- League Destinations:

a. The purpose for designating the Pinto leagues as the American and National is to promote an environment where players, regardless of their skill level, can compete with players with similar skill levels, and enjoy the game of baseball. To that extent, the American League is more competitive and expected to consist of players who have likely played before and who have demonstrated a more advanced level of proficiency. At the same time, the National League is expected to accommodate those players that are new or relatively new to the game. Both leagues are competitive in nature. All Pinto players are eligible to participate in either league.

Section III- Teams:

1) A Pinto Team will consist of not more than 12 players without SPBA Board approval.

2) League players may be assigned or reassigned at the discretion of the Player Agent, League Coordinator, Vice-President and Baseball Commissioner.

3) If a team loses a player from the beginning roster during the current season, another player may be assigned.

Section IV- Managers & Coaches:

1) Each team will have 1 adult manager and up to 3 adult coaches. Refer to next paragraph as to when a 2nd and 3rd coach may be named.

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2) A manager may designate one coach prior to the scheduled player evaluations and inform the league coordinator. This will “freeze” the coach’s player for the draft. For the American league, no other coaches can be chosen once the player evaluations have started and prior to the draft. Once the draft has been completed, the manager may at their option, name their second and or third coaches.

3) All mangers must have their coaches designated with the complete applications and approval by the coordinator prior to the team’s first practice. Final approval for all managers and coaches is reserved to the SPBA Baseball Board.

a. The conduct of manager, coaches, players and parents shall be subject to the SPBA Bylaws and SPBA Code of Conduct. All occurrences or problems shall be brought before the SPBA Board. Monitor and control conduct of self, coaches, players, and parents. If any participant is

removed from a game they must leave the field area (parking lot acceptable) and may not continue in the game in any fashion. Offender may rejoin team at games end for manager meeting.

If a manager, coach, player or parent is removed from a game by an umpire or league official for any reason, they are suspended from all baseball activities and must appear before the SPBA Board for review. All ejections must be reported to the League Coordinator who will immediately notify the park Vice President.

b. Managers and Coaches are responsible for insuring that the parents of their team properly staff and manage the concession stand during the assigned times; no fewer than twice during a season. During the fall season, failure to do so will result in a suspension for the next scheduled game. In the spring season, failure to do so will result in a suspension for the first playoff game in the spring. Upon further review, failure to do so could also result in suspension of managing and coaching responsibilities for the following season at any level in SPBA.

4) The manager’s responsibilities include but are not limited to:

a. Teach fundamentals of baseball.

b. Attend and help at evaluations.

c. Attend and help at work days.

d. Treat all parents and players with respect and dignity.

e. Follow the league schedule for all practices and games.

f. Conduct at least two practices per week prior to the start of the season.

g. Conduct at least one practice each week during the season.

h. Report all injuries or health related problems to the Health and Safety Officer.

i. Enlist a team parent to help with all non-coaching activities.

j. Enlist a parent to be in charge of field preparations which include lining the field.

k. Must obtain a team sponsor (spring season only).

l. Complete and submit a team roster to the coordinator.

m. Maintain a copy of the Team Medical Release Form at all times.

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n. Maintain a record of playing time and at bats for each player.

o. Sign equipment agreement and submit deposit to equipment manager.

p. Ensure that neither manager nor coaches will use any form of tobacco during games or practices.

q. Conduct self and coaches in appropriate manner. In the event a participant is removed from a game, he/she must leave the field area and may not continue to participate in the game in anyway. If a manager, coach, or player is removed from a game by an umpire or league official more than once during the season they are suspended and must appear before the board for review

r. For field preparation see addendum about Helpful Reminders (included).

s. In case of rain prior to the start of games, all teams must participate in the preparation of the fields. Participants should include manager, coaches and parents. It is not limited to just the home team of the next game.

t. Help monitor and ensure that all parent work concession duty. Managers and coaches are not exempt from working, unless their specific team chooses to supplement for them.(1) PENALTY: In the Fall season, the manager will be suspended for the next game.(2) PENALTY: In the Spring season, the manager will be suspended for the first tournament

game.

u. All managers and coaches will be subject to a background check and must pass this check in order to manage or coach a team (i.e. - participate in any way on the field, cage, or dugout).

Section V- Players:

1) Every player on a team roster will participate in each game for the minimum playing time. (See league specifics).

a. Penalty for manager for failure to follow above:

First offense- written warning. Second offense- Suspended for next game. Third offense- Suspended for remainder of season.

Note: If the violation is determined to be intentional the SPBA Board may assess a more severe penalty.

2) The manager may reduce playing time as follows:

a. A player does not attend and participate in two consecutive practices (excluding illness or excused absence).

PENALTY: Player does not play in next game.

b. Player does not attend and participate in two consecutive games excluding illness or excused absence is reviewed by Coordinator, Vice-President, and Baseball Commissioner to determine

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further action that could include dismissal.

c. Player does not arrive at scheduled start of game.

PENALTY: Player does not have to play the minimum playing time.

d. Player does not play at the position as assigned by the manager or coach.

PENALTY: Player is asked to leave the field and will not participate in the remainder of the game.

e. Player demonstrates actions which are detrimental and abusive to the team, including the use of foul language.

PENALTY: Player is suspended from the team immediately and will not participate in any game or practice until the suspension is reviewed.

SECOND OFFENSE: Player and parent will meet with manager, Coordinator, Vice-President, and Baseball Commissioner to determine further action that could include dismissal.

3) Section VI- Assignment of Players:

a. The assignment of players for the various teams within both leagues shall be a cooperative effort of managers, coaches, and League Coordinator.

b. Evaluations will be held for all Pinto eligible players.

c. All players are evaluated, including managers’ and coaches’ children, and drafted by managers and coaches. The managers’ and coaches’ children will be scored by each manager in the league in which they play to determine what round that player would be selected in the draft.

1. All players must attend the evaluations and participate in at least 50% of the skill test to be eligible for the draft. Players not attending evaluations will be assigned to teams in the National League on a random basis.

2. All players age 7 and 8 will play in the Pinto Leagues.

3. The Pinto draft will be conducted using the following format:

a. Managers will draw number for draft order

b. The evaluations of the coaches’ and managers’ children will be used to seed these players in the draft using a system to determine on an average basis which round the player would potentially be drafted. The player is then identified as that team’s draft pick in that round.

c. The draft will proceed in alternating order (1st to last/last to 1st) filling in Page 4 of 22

the slots in every round.

d. Each manager will provide the League Coordinator(s) with a completed draft roster prior to leaving the draft room.

e. Trades are not allowed.4) Section VII- Uniforms and Equipment

a. SPBA will provide hats and jerseys for all players. SPBA will provide (3) hats and (3) jerseys per team for manager and coaches.

b. SPBA will provide the necessary baseballs & equipment for each team.

c. Parents must provide pants, socks, shoes, and other necessary uniform items.

d. Only league approved bats are permitted, refer to league specific section.

e. Batting helmets must be worn during all games and practices by batter and base runners. Protective face guards are required.

f. Players may wear shoes with rubber-molded cleats or tennis/gym shoes. Metal cleats are prohibited.

g. All male players must wear a hard cup. Catchers must wear all catchers’ equipment, to include, a throat protector and catcher’s mitt during practices and games.

h. No Jewelry (watches, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, etc.) will be worn during practice or games.

i. All managers will return all issued equipment, except balls, after the completion of the season as per equipment agreement. Manager is subject to partial or full forfeit of deposit if equipment is not returned.

j. Any player placed in the pitcher’s position MUST wear a batters helmet, or a protective pitcher’s facemask.

k. If a team chooses to pay to have player names put on the jerseys and or hats, for safety reasons, only player LAST NAMES are allowed. NO first names on team jerseys/hats.

Team Posters – If your team chooses to do a team poster to display during games, etc., for safety reasons, you can only use the players’ last names on it.

l. Players with casts: A player CANNOT play (practice or game) with a cast or brace on. This is a liability issue, not only for the injured player, but for other players also.

Section VIII- Games and Practices:

1) The schedule of games and practices for the preseason and regular season shall be prepared by the League Scheduler and approved by the Baseball Board.

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2) The schedule will provide for not less than (2) games per week.

3) All games must be played at the assigned time as set forth by the approved schedule. a. Make up games will be scheduled (in the next available slot which may be a Friday evening

or Sunday afternoon) and will take priority over any scheduled practice time they might replace. Additionally, the online scheduler will be updated which will include an email to the manager of the team(s) losing their practice slot. Managers - please pay close attention to these emails.

4) Practice schedules will include times for field and batting cage.

5) Only scheduled practices on approved fields are authorized. The SPBA Baseball Board must approve any other location.

6) A team may be removed from any field at the discretion of a League official.

7) Regulation games are as follows:

Pinto American: 6 innings with a 1hr-15min time limit. This is not a “hard-stop”. Innings that begin prior to 1hr-15min., and upon play, extend beyond this time limit will be completed. The home team shall bat in order to determine the outcome of the game unless the home team has been numerically eliminated. An inning starts when 3rd out is made. No new inning may start after 1hr-15min. A complete game is the completion of the 4th inning, or the middle of the 4th inning if home team is winning. There will be a five (5) run per inning limit. Tie scores stand.

(a) Tie Games and Ti m e L i mit s : in the event that a complete game is achieved during the allotted time limit and the score is tied, extra inning(s) may be played to determine the winner, subject to the 1:15 time limits as defined above. Should the game be tied after the 1:15 time limit provided, then the game will end in a tie. No inning shall start after 10:00 pm prevailing time.

(b) Mathematical End of Game : If a game score reaches a point where one team cannot mathematically, win. Then for score reporting purposes, that is the score that will be reported.

(i) If there IS a following game, then the game must end at the “mathematical end of a game.” The teams must clear the field and allow the next game to get ready for play.

(ii) If there is NO game that follows, and “mathematical ended” game has not reached coach pitcherthe 1:15 time limit, then the teams should continue play, under the normal rules with the exception that they are not adding to the official score, so players can gain experience in positions that they do not normally play.

(c) Called Game: In league play, it is a regulation game if it is called by the umpire due to darkness, rain or other cause (e.g. loss of field lighting) which in the umpire’s judgment interfered with further play, provided that:

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(i) A complete game is the completion of the 4 th inning, or the middle of the 4 th

inning if home team is winning.

(ii) In the event of a partial inning beyond the 4 inning, if the visiting team has not completed batting or the visiting team is ahead, you would revert back to the last completed inning.

(iii) If one-half inning is completed and home team is ahead, the game is ended at that point with home team winning.

(iv) In the event that a game is halted before completion for any cause, the game will be replayed.

Pinto National: Same as Pinto American

8) In the event of inclement weather after the start of a game, that results in the postponement of the game, and before the complete game mark as defined above, the game will replayed in its entirety on a makeup date to be scheduled by the league coordinator.

9) Once the game starts, it is in control of the Umpire. It is his / her decision to continue / halt play for any reason.

10) A league official may cancel a game.

11) No inning shall start after 10:00 PM prevailing time.

12) All players will bat in continuous order and play as specified by league.

Player Bats out of Order: (a) Until the batter puts the ball in fair play, you can put the proper batter back in the

batter’s box, they assume the same count – no out occurs.(b) If the batter hits the ball and the error is called before the next batter receives a pitch;

then player that was skipped is out, and all other players go back to the original starting spot. The next player, after the player that was skipped, will bat. This may mean a re-bat for the batter that just hit.

(c) If the wrong batter hits the ball and the next batter comes up, and receives a pitch, then the previous batter’s at bat is now legal and no penalty occurs. Continue with the correct batting order. The batter that was skipped will have to wait until his next turn in the rotation.

13) A team must have a minimum of eight (8) players to start a game. Penalty: Team with less than 8 players forfeits game and is charged with a loss (scored 6-0

on the website. The reason for a 6-0 loss is because mathematically this is the most you can lose by for ranking purposes.). Teams may choose to play a scrimmage game with the other team loaning players. (Umpires will remain to officiate).

9 Players – If a team has 9 players at the start of the game, those 9 players must play the traditional 9 positions, just like any regular baseball game.

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8 Players – If a team has 8 players at the start of the game, then the team will lose the catcher position. The team will need to instruct their pitcher to cover the catcher position after a batted ball passes the pitcher.

Substitute Player Rule - A team may use substitutes from the same league and division provided the following;(a) The opposing team’s manager must be informed of the substitute.(b) Maximum 1 substitute (a team using substitutes cannot exceed 8 players for that game).(c) Substitutes must bat last in the order.(d) Substitutes may only play in the outfield.(e) Substitutes will not be permitted during tournament play.

14) Each team will provide 2 new game balls prior to start of game.

15) Each team will be limited to manager and up to three (3) coaches in the dugout at any time during the game. Manager and coaches must remain in the dugout except when coaching bases, or pitching.

Pinto American: One adult coach-pitcher pitching to his team when on offense. Umpire will position behind home plate and will be responsible for all calls.

Pinto National: One adult coach-pitcher pitching to his team when on offense. One adult to assist outfielders on defense. The outfield coach must stand behind the painted outfielder line. Umpire will position behind home plate and will be responsible for all calls.

(i) Both leagues when team is on defense - We will allow only one coach to stand outside of the dugout but he/she must be within arm’s reach of the dugout gate. Note – the dugout gate must be closed during game play.

(ii) Note: Baseball buckets are not allowed outside the dugout during the game.

16) All players will remain in the dugout during the game.

17) Only manager or designated coach will be allowed on the field of play and only after being allowed timeout by the umpire.

Time Outs: Per Dizzy Dean, each team is allowed 1 time out per half inning.

18) The home team will be the official scorekeeper and visiting team will operate the scoreboard. Adults representing each team should handle these duties. While in the score-box, these

adults may cheer and encourage their teams, but they must refrain from coaching. At game’s end the managers will update the SPBA website with the final score.

The visiting team of the last game of the day is responsible for ensuring that the score board “brains” box is returned to the equipment shed.

19) The ho m e team is responsible for lining the field and setting up the score board prior to the start of the game. With the new 5:30 game time, it is recommended that you have a parent(s) who are

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responsible to help line the fields for your home games.

Chalking the Base lines, foul arc and pitching circle – (a) Chalk the 1st and 3rd base lines

(i) Use the rope to mark a straight line from the back point of home plate to the outside edge of first base and then repeat the process with the third base side. The bases, including home, and the chalk lines are considered fair territory, so use the rope line as the outside edge guide for the chalk line.

(b) Line the batter’s box(c) Use the arc tool to chalk the 20’ pitching arc and pitching circle

(i) The pitching circle will have a five (5) foot radius and ten (10) feet in diameter(d) Do not chalk any on-deck circles(e) Do not line the foul lines on any grass with chalk, see the field maintenance addendum.

Home Team - Last Game of Day Field Maintenance – (a) Follow the field maintenance addendum instructions. (b) Pulling bases and plugging the post.

20) End of Game Transition – At the end of each game, the coaches need to teach their players to quickly clear out of the dugout, so the next team can occupy it as well as the field. Any post game meetings, can be held at the picnic tables. There are to be NO team meetings on the field after a game. This delays the ability of the next teams to be able to get onto the field for pregame warm-ups. Regardless if there is a game that follows, this procedure needs to be adhered to at the end of each game. We want this process to become a habit of our players; that they are respectful of the next game, and always quickly pack up their equipment and exit the field.

Section IX- Coach Pitching:

1) Pinto American: Coach Pitch - An offensive coach will pitch to his own batters. The coach may only coach the batter until he reaches first (1st) base or after he leaves third (3rd) base. The coach will be replaced after one warning of a violation. The pitcher may pitch anywhere from in front of the 20 foot foul arc to the pitching circle, he may not cross the foul line or enter the pitching circle. He must keep one foot on or astraddle the pitching-line. He must pitch overhand. He must pitch from a standing position. This rule is for the safety of the coach pitcher and so he can quickly leave the field as required by Pinto rule below. See the Miscellaneous section for more guidance on pitching speeds.

PENALTY : For not standing on or astraddle the pitching-line, the defensive team gets the choice of the play or re-bat. Any batted ball that hits the coach-pitcher will be a dead ball and a no pitch.

PENALTY : If a coach pitcher’s foot touches or crosses the 20’ pitching arc then the pitch is considered a no-pitch

If the coach-pitcher intentionally (in the umpire’s judgment) allows the ball to hit him the batter will be out and a dead ball called. No runner may advance.

The coach-pitcher must attempt to leave the field and try to pick up the batter's bat. A coach-pitcher who does not attempt to get off the field and or interferes with the defensive player to keep him from making a play (in the umpire’s judgment) will cause the batter to be out. No runners advance.

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Bat Exception : Play at home – in the case that a runner is on 3rd and the initial play is to home, then the coach-pitcher is to not run to get the bat because the coach-pitcher will typically arrive at the same time as the runner and thus interfere with the play.

a. Pinto National: Same as Pinto American.

2) Batters who receive 5 pitches or three strikes in any combination will be considered out. If the 5th pitch or third strike is hit foul, batter will continue to swing until an out or hit is made.

3) A ball delivered from the coach-pitcher that has hit the batter is considered a no pitch. Play is dead.

Section X- Field Dimensions:

1) Per Dizzy Dean, the pitching circle will have a five (5) foot radius and ten (10) feet in diameter. The pitching rubber will be forty-six (46) feet from the back of home plate. There will be a twenty (20) foot painted arc from the first (1st) base line to the third (3rd) base line in front of home plate.

2) Outfielder line - There will be a painted line in the outfield which shows the outfielders where to set up. The position is the ½ way distance of the outfield.

Section XI- Specific League Rules:

1) Umpire Reminders a. A judgment call is at the discretion of the umpire, and thus his judgment.  Umpires will

not call every "judgment" call to a managers liking but teams have to live with the call.  If there is a rule call that is believed to be called in error, then the rule can be brought to the attention of the umpire, opposing mangers, and respectfully discussed.  It is still the umpire’s final decision. If you have an issue with a call, then after the game you are to email your league coordinator. Remember to observe the code of conduct at all times.

b. Managers and coaches are not to "make a call" to help the ump. For example the first base coach calling a player safe, using the hand motions, all before the ump makes his call.

2) BATS : SPBA Pinto American and Pinto National divisions both comply with the Dizzy Dean rules and requirements for bats.

a. For ages 7-12, (1) All non-wood bats "MUST" meet 1.15 BPF (Bat Performance Factor) for the life of the bat

and "MUST" possess a "clearly identifiable" manufacture’s certification stamp. This will include 2 1/4, 2 5/8, and 2 3/4 barrel bats.

b. BBCOR bats are legal for use in ages 5-12.

c. For ALL ages , (1) Bats that are broken, cracked, dented or deface the ball are illegal.

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(2) There shall be no devices, attachments or wrappings that cause the handle to become flush with the knob.

(3) Molded grips and Choke up knobs are illegal for ages 9-18. (4) Wooden baseball bats are legal.

d. PENALTY - If a player steps into the batter’s box with a banned bat during a game, the batter is OUT.

3) Interference in Pinto – When a play is being made on a base, both the runner and the infielder have the right to make their plays. The infielder has the right to move to catch a ball, even if it is an errant throw. The runner also has the right to the bag, but he must slide when there is a defensive player covering the bag, who is actively trying to receive the ball as part of the play. A runner is allowed access to the base line and the bag. He has the right to keep moving towards the base - without leaving the base path. The defensive player needs to be taught how to cover the bag in such a way that he can make the play without being injured by a sliding runner. If there is no active play, then the infielder cannot interfere with the runner’s progress and needs to be taught to allow the runner to safely pass. There will be cases where, during the development of the play, where the players naturally collide and there is no interference call.  There will be cases where a base runner is hit by a thrown ball through via the natural progression of the play and there is no interference call.  The goal in Pinto is to teach proper position play and promote safety.

a. Defensive players can not intentionally trip, shove or actively interfere with a base runner’s advancement. A runner can be called safe by ump and/or can be awarded the next base at the umpire’s discretion.

b. Base runners cannot intentionally crash into a defensive player in an attempt to break up a defensive play – base runners must slide in these cases. Runner can be called out by Ump.

c. Base runners must attempt to avoid a fielder who is attempting to field the ball, when that play occurs in the baseline.

d. Base Runner hit by ball – If a base runner is hit by a batted ball, then the runner is out, and the ball is dead. When a runner is called out for being hit by a ball, the batter is awarded 1st and all other runners remain unless they are forced to advance. If a ball is deflected by a fielder and it then hits the runner, the runner is not out. If a batted ball passes through or by an infielder who had a reasonable chance to play the ball and the ball strikes a runner, the runner is not out unless in the opinion of the umpire, the runner intentionally interfered with the ball.

e. Note: these calls are at the discretion of the Umpire

4) Head first sliding is prohibited when moving forward to any base.a. Penalty: Runner is out (both leagues).

5) Batters may bunt – the ball must travel to or past the 20’ arc line to be a fair ball, otherwise it is foul. If the batter bunts a foul ball with 2 strikes, the batter is out.

6) If a batter slings the bat the play stands and the team is given a warning. If any batter on the same team slings the bat after the warning, the batter is out, the ball is dead and no runners advance. Each team will be given one warning per game.

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7) There will be no infield fly rule.

8) Pinch Hitter/ Runners are not allowed.

9) If the ball comes in contact with the coach-pitcher the ball is dead and the play is dead and considered a no pitch. Subject to umpires ruling as covered in “Pitching Section”.

10) Base runners are not permitted to lead off or steal. The runner must remain in contact with the base until the batter hits the ball.

Penalty - Pinto American: Runner is out.

Penalty - Pinto National: Runner is given a warning and play stands. Runner is out after first warning.

11) The umpire in charge may halt play as follows:

a. Pinto American: All play will stop when a defensive infielder maintains control of the ball in the infield and causes the lead runner to stop at the base they are running toward, or the base they have already passed. All trailing runners must stop at the base they are running toward, or the base they have already passed.

b. Pinto National: All play will stop when a defensive infielder maintains control of the ball in the infield and causes the lead runner to stop at the base they are running toward, or the base they have already passed. All trailing runners must stop at the base they are running toward, or the base they have already passed.

Pinto National Only: On a clean play, (ie no overthrows), to stop play, the team has to stop the lead runner.  The Umpire officially decides when this has occurred by calling time to end the play. Once an overthrow occurs to any base, then the following overthrow rule applies:

There can be only one (1) overthrow per batted ball. All subsequent overthrows for the same play are considered a dead ball. Base runners may advance only one (1) base on an overthrow, however runner(s) do so at their own risk.

(a) Additional Overthrow Clarification :  (i) Runners get only one (1) base on an overthrow, though the runners are always at

risk and can be tagged out(ii) Overthrow rules apply to: any throw to a base, regardless if the throw is originating

from the outfield or infield(iii) How long it takes a fielder to get the ball after an overthrow has occurred, is not

relevant(iv) If there is any questions as to which base is considered the runner’s (1)

advancement base, the umpire decides.(v) If a runner attempts to advance to a base beyond the (1) one base on an overthrow,

as determined by the umpire, the runner is at risk. If the runner safely makes it to the additional base, and time has been called, then the umpire will send the runner back to the prior base.

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(b) Pinto American : There is no overthrow rule for Pinto American. To stop play, the team has to stop the lead runner. The Umpire officially decides when this has occurred by calling time to end the play.

12) Players who overrun first basea. A Pinto player who overruns first can turn to the right or left to return to first base. If a player

turns to the left to return to first, he is not eligible to be tagged out simply because he turned to the left to go back. To be eligible to be tagged out, a player would have to make a significant “baseball move” towards second. We do want players to be taught to turn to the right at the appropriate time, but this is a nuanced skill for this age level to master.

13) Base coaches must avoid physical contact with runners while ball is in play.

a. Penalty: Runner is out.Exception: If a player hits a home run, he is not out just because one of his team mates and/or

his coach touch him, provided that they are not doing so to assist him in touching the base.

14) Minimum playing time:

a. Pinto American: Continuous batting order and free substitution with all players playing defensively at least every other inning with no player sitting out more than one (1) inning per game. There will be 6 infielders and 4 outfielders. Each player must play a minimum of one infield position during the game (must be by the end of the 3rd inning). The catcher’s position is considered an infield position in this instance. No player may play one defensive position more than two (2) innings consecutively nor more than (3) total. Violations will result in immediate forfeit and loss. The manager will be reported to league for a review.

Players arriving late – If a team has a player who arrives after the start of the game, that player can be inserted into the game. This must be coordinated between the managers and the score book keepers. The player’s placement in the batting order can be agreed upon by the managers. The player does not count as an offensive out prior to his arrival. A team still must meet the requirement of have 8 players present at the start of a game. If a player is habitually late then the manager will be required to sit the player for non-compliance. The intent of this rule is to guide how to handle a special case where a player is unintentionally late.

Illness & Injury

(a) If a player, becomes ill, or injured, or for any reason, cannot hit and / or run, the player will be allowed to be removed from that game’s lineup. A player removed in this case shall not be considered an “out” if they are due to bat in the current or later innings, and the batting order shall not otherwise be interrupted. The score keepers, opposing manger, and umpires must be notified.

(b) If a player leaves for injury, that player can be re-entered into the line-up of the game.   This is to handle situations where a player is injured during the course of the game and then later is well enough to re-enter and finish the game. Notification must be given to the score keepers, opposing manager, and umpire.

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(c) Players who leave for illness cannot be re-entered in to the game.

b. Pinto National: Same as Pinto American, except 5 outfielders are allowed during the game.

(i) 13 Player Roster Exception a. During seasons where there are 13 players on Pinto National teams, the

above playing time rules still apply. The modification is that there will be 6 outfield players allowed so that only one player sits per inning. Even if a team only happens to have 12 players while others have 13, ALL PN teams during a 13 Roster Season will be allowed to play 6 outfield players.

15) Player positioning

(i) Outfielders - will be positioned ½-way between infield dirt and the fence. There will be a painted line in the outfield which shows the outfielders the ½ way position. Outfielders can set up on the line or behind it, but they cannot play in front of the line prior the ball being hit.

(ii) Pitcher - The player fielding the pitching position must be no closer to the plate than the ten (10) foot diameter, five (5) foot radius, pitching circle with at least one foot in circle. The pitcher will stay with one foot in the circle until the ball is hit. Even when the batter shows bunt too early.

a. Penalty: Offense gets choice of the play or re-bats.

(iii) The catcher must be positioned in the catcher’s box that will be located behind the batter’s boxes.

16) Flip drills must be conducted at designated stations only. No drills are allowed against the fence.

17) Hitting Sticks – During a game, hitting sticks, or like aids that make noise, cannot be used to warm-up a player in the on deck circle.

18) Any player that is bleeding must be removed from the field. Provide aid to halt the bleeding and clean any blood from the skin. Any blood soiled clothing must be changed, cleaned or covered up (e.g., tape) prior to the player returning to the field. Since blood can carry communicable diseases, this procedure helps reduce the likelihood of an exposure.

19) Practice and games will be halted immediately when thunder is heard or lightning is seen. Play may be resumed when 1) 20 minutes has passed since the last sound of thunder and 2) lightning has not been seen in the area for 30 minutes. Once a game has begun, the umpire may suspend a game for inclement weather. In this case, the game time is stopped and re-started when game- play resumes.

The maximum delay time shall be one (1) hour (if lightning is seen at the 31st minute the game shall be called [31 min. + 30 min delay = 61 min.]).

During a lightning storm:

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(a) Avoid metal fences, telephone/light poles, dugouts, and trees.(b) Move to a sturdy building or hard top automobile and keep the windows up.(c) Remember, if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning.(d) To estimate the distance in miles between you and the lightning flash, count the

seconds between the flash and the thunder and divide by five.

20) Transitions of teams between innings :  Dizzy Dean rules state that the transition, from last out to first pitch, should take 2 minutes but no more than three.  Your bench manager should make sure that each player knows his/her next defensive position before the last out is made.   When possible, the catcher needs to be dressed prior to the last out.  

(a) Penalty : If an umpire feels a team is taking too long, or giving the impression that they are stalling, then he will issue one warning to that manager.  This determination is at the discretion of the umpire. If the umpire feels a team is still delaying after the warning is issued, the umpire will award first base to the batter. All other runners will stay at their base, unless they advance due to the force. 

Section XII- Spring End of Season Tournament:

1) R ules for the Spring   End of Season tournament:

a. End of Season Rankings   (1) The seeding of teams is against the number of games lost, tied and won.

(a) The SPBA website handles the first levels of rankings in this order:1. Games Back2. Winning Percentage

a. Should two teams be tied in all both of the above, then we go to the following tie breakers

(2) Two   Teams Tied: When two teams are tied for a seed, the following procedure shall be used (in the following order until the tie is broken):

(i) Won-loss results of head-to-head competition between the two teams(ii) The Run Differential for the SEASON - Highest positive number is the Higher seed(iii) Won-loss record of the two teams versus the highest-seeded team (and proceeding

through the lowest-seeded team, if necessary).(iv) Coin toss by the VP of Sweat.

(3) Three or more   Teams Tied: When three or more teams are tied for a seed, the following procedure shall be used (in the following order until the tie is broken):

(i) The Run Differential for the SEASON - Highest positive number is the Higher seed(ii) Runs Allowed - lowest(iii) Runs Score - highest(iv) Coin toss by the VP of Sweat.

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b. Home Team Determination

(i) Double Elimination - tournaments are setup to hold the seeds until the championship game.  The Championship Game - The Gold Bracket Team will be the Home team in the first Championship Game. If it goes to a second Championship game then there will be a coin toss by the league coordinator or VP of Sweat for home team determination. The higher seed calls heads or tails.

(ii) Single Elimination - tournaments are setup to hold the seeds through the Championship game. 

(iii) There will NOT be a re-seeding of the brackets.

1. The Higher seeded Team will always be Home Team, unless otherwise stated.

c. Games (i) Tournament games do not change the playing time requirements for each player.

The rules for the regular season will be the same rules that will use for the tournament. The only rule exception will be in the case of a tie score as described below:

1. First, in general terms, a game is defined the same as the regular season. 

2. Inclement weather rules apply.

3. In order to determine a winner in each game, we allow for additional play, only if needed :

4. For 5:30 games:

a. Following normal game rules, if there is a winner at the end of an inning, (or half inning if the home team is ahead), and the 1:15 time mark has passed then the game is over.

b. If there is a tie and the 1:15 time mark has not been met, then another inning can start even, if that is an extra inning.

c. If there is a tie at the end of an inning and the 1:15 time has passed, then no new inning can start.  We will have additional play on the following day to determine a winner.  5:30 games should not delay the start for the 7:00 games.

d. Make sure that this is discussed by all parties in the meeting with the umpire prior to the start of the game. 

5. For 7:00 games:

a. Following normal game rules, if there is a winner at the end of an inning, (or half inning if the home team is ahead), and the 1:15 time mark has passed then the game is over.

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b. If there is a tie and the 1:15 time mark has not been met, then another inning can start, even if that is an extra inning.

c. If there is a tie at the end of an inning and the 1:15 time has passed, then for the 7:30 games, a new inning can start, even if that is a 7th inning.

d. We will allow play to go past 10:00 but no new inning can start after 10:00.  e. Should there be a tie, at the end of the last inning that plays past 10:00, then

we will have additional play on the following day to determine a winner.f. Make sure that this is discussed by all parties in the meeting with the

umpire prior to the start of the game.   

6. What happens if a game goes into extra innings?  Once a game has gone into extra innings, the Managers may draft their extra inning lineup cards as if it was the start of the game; with one exception.  If a player played the 5th and 6th innings in the same position, then that player shall not be permitted to play that same position in the 7th, thus keeping the rule of not being able to play the same position in more than two consecutive innings.

(b) Urgency (i) With the chance a game may go into later innings, we need all teams to have a

sense of urgency. Meaning that all game when possible, start on time, transition between innings is efficient, etc. 

(c) Championship Game

(i) The Championship game will play a full 6 innings unless a team is mathematically out or the game is called under the inclement weather rules. It will only go to extra innings if there is a tie.

(d) Tournament Score Reporting: (i) The managers of each game must send an email to the League Coordinator, with the

final score, and copy all managers.

Section XIII- Miscellaneous:

1) Season ending tournament rules and brackets will be posted prior to the start of the tournament.

2) Summer tournament team selection process will be announced during the season.

3) There will be no protests! If there is a dispute of a rule, it should be noted on the game report form so that the Baseball Board can review it. Do not include dispute of judgment call.

4) All problems, suggestions and comments should be directed first to the team managers, then to the League Coordinator. If further resolution is needed then contact the park Vice- President. If additional resolution is needed then contact the Baseball Commissioner.

5) Accidents or injuries should be reported immediately to the League Coordinator, who will notify the Health & Safety Officer. An accident report must be completed and submitted to the League Coordinator within 24 hours. This form can be found on the SPBA website under Documents.

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6) Please contact the League Coordinator with your questions, concerns or for rule(s) interpretation.

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SAFETY1) Player Safet y :

a. Automated External Defibrillator (AED):Managers shall familiarize themselves, their coaches, and their parents with the location of

the AED.

b. Collision Risks: Managers shall teach proper fundamentals at the first-baseman position. Having first-

baseman whose habits include either standing on the base or astraddle when receiving a throw that could have otherwise been fielded in an out-stretched position puts the first- baseman and runner at risk of injury.

Managers shall teach their players to give way to base-runners when not involved in receiving a throw and or making a play on a runner at a base or at home plate. Having fielders standing on the bases when not involved in receiving a throw and or making a play on a runner is a collision risk and therefore increases the risk of injury.

c. Artificial Noise Makers: For the safety of the players, per Dizzy Dean, no artificial noisemakers are allowed, such

as cowbells, horns, etc .

d. Fences: For the safety of the players, no player can climb on or over any of the park fences.

HELPFUL REMINDERS

1) Use of Fields and Batting Cages for P r e-Game Wa r m -U p :

(1) 5:30 weekday games(a) Field 5

(i) Cage 5A & 5B will be open from 5:00-5:30 for pregame warm-ups(b) Field 1

(i) Cages 1A & 1B will be open from 5:00-5:30 for pregame warm-ups(c) Field 3

(i) Cage 3 will be open from 5:30-6:00 for their pregame warm-up, if they choose to use it

(2) First ga m e of the d a y (Sa t u rd a y s): The Home team shall have use of the field for practice for a thirty minute period beginning 70-minutes prior to game start up and ending 40- minutes prior to game start. During this time the Visiting team shall have use of the cage. For the thirty minute period beginning 40-minutes prior to game start and ending 10-minutes prior to game start, the Home team shall have use of the cage and the Visiting team shall have use of the field. (Lining of the field should already be completed before the Visiting team takes the field for warm ups.)

(a) Upper Field Cages – When a Pinto game is played on the upper field, all warm-ups are conducted in the Upper Field cage. The Shetland National cage can be used only if there is not a scheduled team practice, or any Shetland teams using that cage for

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game warm-ups.

(b) Lower Field Cages – When a Pinto game is played on the lower field, all warm-ups are conducted in the LF1 cage. The LF2 cage can be used only if there is not a scheduled team practice.

b. All other games (7:00 weekdays and Saturdays): The Home team shall have use of the batting cage 70 minutes before game time and for a period of 30 minutes. The Visiting team shall have use of the cage 40 minutes prior to game time for 30 minutes. For the 7:00 weekday game, there may be one practice in the SN cage or LF2 cages that runs from 5:30-6:30. At the conclusion of those practices, those cages will open up for pregame warm-ups.

c. Field warm-up : Warm up on Fields 4 & 5 is allowed if the field(s) are not being used for a game or regular team practice. Scheduled team practices and Stallion games take priority to Pinto game warm-ups. Stallion practices are from 5:00-6:00 on weekdays. Stallion teams get the field 20 min prior to the start of their games. For example, if the Stallion game starts at 10:00 then the Stallion teams can occupy the field starting at 9:40. If fields 4 & 5 are being used, there is always open space available behind the Shetland National field that can be used for Pinto pre-game warm-up. If you are using that space please be sure to work with your players such that errant balls to not go onto the Shetland National field or on to Field 5.

2) Code of Conduct :

a. If in the event the league coordinator does not issue a copy of SPBA’s Code of Conduct Policy (the “Policy”), the manager shall request a copy of the Policy from their coordinator. Managers shall ensure that coaches and parents receive copies of the Policy.

Code of Conduct Reminders Remember that you are all the liaisons for SPBA to our customers so it is up to you live by the Code of Conduct. We want SPBA to be the best experience for our customers, the Players and their parents.

Keep all conversations between Managers. Coaches can talk only to their Manager, not to the opposing Manager or coaches. If there needs to be a conversation between the team, then is should occur professionally between the two Managers, with no coaches involved.

Be respectful of the Umpires and keep perspective. The Umps are humans and they do make mistakes.

Remember that our players and parents take direction from the Managers on the field and we want to keep our actions in accordance with the Code of Conduct.

Game time Attitude: 1. Be sure Parents know that in order to get the attention of your right fielder from

the 3rd base dugout or the ability to get the attention of your left fielder from the 1st base dugout often requires volume.

2. No yelling at a player, even your own child.

3. Keep perspective on the fields.

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4. No chatter from the Score-box, stands or elsewhere, the Players, Managers and Umpires don't need the distraction.

3) Pitching:(a) Among the responsibilities of the Pinto coaching staff is to prepare their players for

the next level of play; Mustang (9-10 years of age). Mustang players will face player-pitchers who will throw in speeds in the low 40mph – 50mph range. Managers shall not allow coach-pitchers to pitch in such a manner that the speed of the ball is slower than that of the Shetland League and as the season progresses, managers should work toward increasing pitch speeds. NOTE: The rules allow for the coach-pitcher to stand just beyond the 20’ arc. In order to create a more realistic experience and to achieve the desired speed, coach-pitchers and players will be better served if the coach-pitcher stands just outside the 10' pitching circle at the mound.

(b) Coach Pitching Tips – There are several coach pitching methods and styles that pitchers use. As a suggestion, we have found that a successful method of achieving a flat pitch is to bend both knees while in your stride, so that you lower your core body vertically.  Do this so that you are approximately eye level with the batter, then you can throw a flat pitch using a motion that is similar to throwing darts.  This method produces a flat pitch for the batter while leaving the coach pitcher in a position where he can move to protect himself and quickly move from the field of play to gather the bat.

4) Foul Ball Tips

A (batted) baseball is fair if:

it stops in fair territory before it reaches first or third base (A), or it hits a base (B), or bouncing or rolling, it passes first or third base on or above fair territory (C), or it passes first or third base in the air and makes its first bounce in fair territory (D), or the baseball is hit so far that it leaves the playing field between the foul poles or hits one of them

(both of which types of events are very good for the batter)(E) or the defense touches it while it is moving on or above fair territory.A (batted) baseball is a foul ball in all other cases.

A fair ball allows the batter to at least try to advance to first base or beyond.

Foul Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuio0TBfWBQ

5) Field Maintenance Tips

Field Lining Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RFVchpkYTfY

DO NOT CHALK ANY GRASS AREAS.o This includes the foul lines, the bunt lines, and the outfield lines. Chalk will kill the grass and make

it harder to see the painted lines. The chalk lines only need to be visible. This is not Turner Field; we don’t need a large line of chalk. As the

chalk builds into the clay during the season, the clay along the lines will become very hard. The less chalk used, the better the clay along the lines will be.

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If you can’t see the painted foul or bunt lines, the paint machine is in the upper equipment room. We will try to keep a few cans of paint in it at all times.

o Shake the can until you hear the ball rattling in the can.o To use, insert the can upside down in the machine (make sure the nozzle is properly fitted) and pull

the handle. You don’t need but one pass to ensure the lines can be seen. o If the spray is uneven, check to make sure the nozzle is properly seated. If that does not correct the

problem, try a new paint can. If you have the last game during the week or on Saturday, please take 10-15 minutes to do the following:

o Fill in the low spots around the bases. Use the field rake to rake the dirt back in front of the bases. As the players slide into the

bases, it creates a hole. Use the flat side of the rake to pull the dirt from behind the base to the front. DO NOT rake

dirt from the front of the base to fill the hole. Smooth out the dirt with the tines of the rake. This needs to be done at ALL bases. For first base, the hole builds where the players

prepare to go to second.o Fill in the batters boxes at home plate

Use the smooth side of the field rake to pull the dirt from the area between home plate and the backstop.

Smooth out the dirt with the tines of the rake. Make sure to do both the right and left handed batters boxes.

o Encourage your outfielders not to kick into the grass. There are numerous holes being created by fields kicking dirt between plays.

On the upper field, we try to paint the outfield line behind the holes. If you see a player standing on a problem area, they are probably playing too closely.

There are hand drags either along the fence or in the equipment room. If you are playing later games or the fields have not been dragged with the tractor, these can be used to “freshen” up the field.

Feel free to ask parents to help with these tasks. We all want the fields to stay in top shape.

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