Upload
beachsidelittleleague
View
19.465
Download
3
Tags:
Embed Size (px)
DESCRIPTION
This presentation enables Beachside Little League umpires, coaches, and fans to learn or review the most important rules, regulations, and recommendations when umpiring a Beachside Little League game. It is not intended to replace the use of the "Green Book".
Citation preview
Beachside Little League
Self-Paced Umpire Clinic
Updated for 2012 Draft
Beachside Li t t le League
This training is for◦ Coaches◦ Umpires◦ Fans and players that want to know most of the
rules and are not in the mood to read the “green book”
Who is this training for?
Beachside Li t t le League
Commonly needed Rules and where they are in the “Green book”
Basic field umpire mechanics on the 60’ and 90’ fields
A few other things
What Will You Learn?
Beachside Li t t le League
This training is not a substitution for or supplement to the “green book”
In the event that there is a discrepancy between this training and the “green book” the “green book” is authoritative
What this training is not?
Introduction to Umpiring
Beachside Li t t le League
Look the part (appearance) Know the rules (study) Show up on time Have pregame talk with your
partner Pay attention! Hustle into proper position Watch the ball, glance at
runners Pause, read, react
Umpire Do’s
Beachside Li t t le League
Timing, timing, timing Angle over distance Get set before the play Show restraint (attitude) Forget close calls Support your partner Leave from winner’s side
Umpire Do’s
Beachside Li t t le League
Coach the players Carry on conversations with fans Socialize with only one dugout Give excuses after a call Gang up on a coach Meet between innings after a close call Say, “One more word and you’re gone!” Over-dramatize an ejection Discuss game with anyone as you leave
Umpire Don’ts
Beachside Li t t le League
Navy or light blue shirt Grey pants with black belt Navy, red or black undershirt Black socks & shoes Navy or black hat Nothing white
Preferred Uniforms and Equipment
Beachside Li t t le League
Equipment available in equipment rooms◦ Pads◦ Ball bag◦ Clicker◦ Broom
Wear your cup! Sunglasses okay if NOT mirrored No cell phones if possible.
Uniforms and Equipment
Beachside Li t t le League
Fair/foul and catch/no catch responsibilities When I’m coming to you for help Tag-ups and base touches Who should cover third base when Signals
◦ Infield Fly◦ What’s the count?◦ How many outs?◦ Rotation is on◦ I’m staying home◦ “I’ve got something you need to know”
Umpire to Umpire Pre-game Chat
Beachside Li t t le League
Plate Umpire◦ Balls/strikes, Fair/foul, Catch/no catch, plays at
home, some plays at third (communicate!), could help at first
Base Umpire◦ All bases except when the plate umpire takes third◦ Could help with Fair/foul down the right field line
Base Umpire positions ◦ Covered in the next few slides
If the ball goes out, come in If the ball stays in, stay out
Job On the Field
Base Umpire Positions
60 Foot Field
Beachside Li t t le League
Base Umpire Positions
Assumes a two base umpire configuration
The encircled-U in the diagram to the right is the umpire
Base runners are depicted by a black-colored base
REMEMBER: Angle to the ball is ALWAYS more important than distance
Little League (60’ Field)
U
Beachside Li t t le League
Base Umpire Positions
Take a position about 10 to 15 feet behind The first baseman, with both feet in foul territory.
Allow the first baseman to move to the ball without running into you, and react accordingly.
Little League (60’ Field) – No runners on base
U
Beachside Li t t le League
Base Umpire Positions
Take a position about ten feet behind second base on the first base side of the diamond, in line with second and third.
You should be one to three steps into the outfield grass, depending on the depth of the infield area.
Little League (60’ Field) – Runner on First base or Runner on First and Third
U
Beachside Li t t le League
Base Umpire Positions
Assume a position about ten feet behind second base on the third base side of the infield, in line with first and second bases.
You should be one to three steps into the outfield grass, depending on the depth of the infield area.
Little League (60’ Field) – All other base runner configurations
U
Base Umpire Positions
90 Foot Field
Beachside Li t t le League
Base Umpire Positions
Assumes a two base umpire configuration
The encircled-U in the diagram to the right is the umpire
Base runners are depicted by a black-colored base
REMEMBER: Angle to the ball is ALWAYS more important than distance
Junior (90’ Field)
U
Beachside Li t t le League
Base Umpire Positions
Take a position about 10 to 15 feet behind the first baseman, with both feet in foul territory.
Allow the first baseman to move to the ball without running into you, and react accordingly.
Junior (90’ Field) – No runners on base
U
Beachside Li t t le League
Base Umpire Positions
Take a position about ten feet behind second base on the first base side of the diamond, in line with second and third.
You should be one to three steps into the outfield grass, depending on the depth of the infield area.
Juniors (90’ Field) – Runner on First Base
U
Beachside Li t t le League
Base Umpire Positions
Position yourself on an imaginary line running from the first base side of home plate to the edge of the dirt circle of the pitcher’s mound, approximately halfway between the mound and second base.
You should be square to home plate and down in a set position.
Juniors (90’ Field) – Runner on First (Alternate*)
U
* Recommended by Little League for two man crews.
Beachside Li t t le League
Base Umpire Positions
Position yourself on an imaginary line running from the first base side of home plate to the edge of the dirt circle of the pitcher’s mound, approximately halfway between the mound and second base.
You should be square to home plate and down in a set position.
Juniors (90’ Field) – Runners on First and Second Base
U
Beachside Li t t le League
Base Umpire Positions
Assume a position about ten feet behind second base on the third base side of the infield, in line with first and second bases.
You should be one to three steps into the outfield grass, depending on the depth of the infield area.
Junior (90’ Field) – Runner at Second Base
U
Beachside Li t t le League
Base Umpire Positions
Position yourself on an imaginary line running from the third base side of home plate to the edge of the dirt circle of the pitchers mound, approximately halfway between the mound and second base.
You should be square to home plate and down in a set position.
Juniors (90’ Field) – Runner on Second (Alternate*)
U
* Recommended by Little League for two man crews.
Beachside Li t t le League
Base Umpire Positions
Position yourself on an imaginary line running from the third base side of home plate to the edge of the dirt circle of the pitchers mound, approximately halfway between the mound and second base.
You should be square to home plate and down in a set position.
Juniors (90’ Field) – Runners on Second and Third or Bases Loaded
U
Regulations
Beachside Li t t le League
Maximum pitch count by league age◦ Age 7-8: 50 pitches per day◦ Age 9-10: 75 pitches per day◦ Age 11-12: 85 pitches per day◦ Age 13-14: 95 pitches per day
Reg VI: Pitch Counts
Beachside Li t t le League
Rest Requirement◦ 66 or more pitches in a day,
four calendar days of rest must be observed.◦ 51-65 pitches in a day,
three calendar days of rest must be observed.◦ 36-50 pitches in a day,
two calendar days of rest must be observed.◦ 21-35 pitches in a day,
one calendar day of rest must be observed.◦ 1-20 pitches in a day,
no calendar day of rest is required.
Note: If a pitcher throws 41+ pitches he cannot play catcher for the remainder of the game.
Reg VI: Pitch Counts
Beachside Li t t le League
Reach max limit while pitching to a batter◦ Can continue until batter reaches base or is put
out◦ If third out is recorded on a base, pitcher may
continue pitching to same batter in next inning Pitcher can pitch only one game a day
◦ Cannot pitch in both games of a double header◦ Cannot pitch in a continuation game and then a
regularly-scheduled game
Reg VI: Pitch Counts
Beachside Li t t le League
Managers are ultimately responsible to remove pitchers that reach max limit
Official counter must inform the plate umpire when a pitcher reaches the pitch limit
Pitcher illegally exceeds max limit: ◦ Pitcher must be removed from the mound
immediately◦ Opposing team’s manager may protest before
umpires leave the field
Reg VI: Pitch Counts
Beachside Li t t le League
Pitches in called games count◦ Pitch count itself does not carry over◦ Rest requirements must still be observed◦ Exception: pitches in games that do not complete
one full inning do not count◦ Pitches in uncompleted innings under the “revert
back” rule do count Pitches in practice, in non-Little League
games, etc., do not count however we encourage all coaches to put the health of their players FIRST.
Reg VI: Pitch Counts
Beachside Li t t le League
2.00 Definition: A ball delivered by the pitcher to a batter
Anything else is NOT a pitch!◦ Warm-up pitches in the bullpen◦ Warm-up pitches between innings◦ Pitches declared “No Pitch”◦ Pick-off throws◦ Throws to make plays and appeals◦ “Ball” penalty to the batter without a delivered
pitch
So, What’s a Pitch?
Beachside Li t t le League
Who keeps the pitch counts?◦ The official scorekeeper◦ The home team scorekeeper◦ A manager or coach◦ Anybody BUT the base umpire!
Only one (1) official counter per game The official pitch counter should be decided
before the game.
Reg VI: Pitch Counts
Beachside Li t t le League
Verify eligibility at plate conference: Use BSLL Pitch Count Verification Forms if there is a dispute or question.
Identify official counter before the game starts Prevent protests: If you’re aware a pitcher has
reached their limit, have them removed Resolve disputes: If there’s a question on the
validity of the pitch count, go with the official counter.
Clarify ambiguities: Know what a pitch is!
Umpire’s Role on Pitch Counts
Beachside Li t t le League
Only players, managers and rostered coaches allowed on the field
No batboys on small field All game participants must stay in the
dugouts or be in the bullpen Two adult base coaches allowed One adult in dugout at all times
Reg XIV: Field Decorum
Beachside Li t t le League
Managers and coaches cannot go on the field without umpire’s permission
No alcohol or tobacco anywhere No adults can warm up pitchers
anywhere All participants must display the
highest standards of conduct and discipline
Reg XIV: Field Decorum
Rule 1.00Objectives of the
Game
Beachside Li t t le League
Baseball bats are for baseball Softball bats are for softball Wood bats are legal
◦ Must be smooth and rounded◦ Check with bat ring◦ If cracked, get rid of it!
Composite bats must be on the approved list
Use of illegal bats will not be tolerated Donuts are not allowed.
Rule 1.10: Little League Bats
Beachside Li t t le League
All players should be in the same uniform◦ Except for pool players◦ Be reasonable in cold weather◦ Don’t get too picky!◦ Uniforms for adults allowed only in Juniorsand
above Metal cleats allowed in Juniors and above
Rule 1.11: The Uniform
Beachside Li t t le League
What’s not allowed:◦ Long white sleeves on pitchers◦ Arm and wrist bands on pitchers◦ Frayed or ragged sleeves◦ Attachments of different color◦ Metal or glass ANYTHING◦ Jewelry (including rubber bracelets)
Except medical alert stuff◦ Casts on field (even base coaches)
Rule 1.11: The Uniform
Beachside Li t t le League
Catcher must wear a catcher’s mitt First baseman may wear glove or first
baseman’s mitt Pitcher’s glove restrictions:
◦ Any color but white or grey◦ No attachments◦ Batting glove under fielding glove okay
Rules 1.12 – 1.15: Gloves/Mitts
Beachside Li t t le League
Required for all batters, base runners, players in coach’s boxes, and bat retrievers
Must be NOCSAE certified Chin straps, face guards are optional No cracks or unauthorized paint or decals
Rule 1.16: Batting Helmets
Beachside Li t t le League
Required: Chest protector, helmet or mask, and shin guards◦ Long-model chest protector for males in Majors
and below Cup for male catchers Helmet or mask must:
◦ Be NOCSAE certified◦ Must have throat guard (even on hockey-style
masks)◦ No cracks or unauthorized paint or decals
Rule 1.17: Catcher’s Gear
Beachside Li t t le League
Helmet or mask is required for:◦ Player warming up pitcher between innings◦ Player warming up pitcher in the bullpen◦ Catcher during pre-game infield or outfield
practice Skull caps are not permitted If you see a catcher without helmet or
mask, correct it!
Rule 1.17: Catcher’s Gear
Rule 2.00Definition of Terms
Beachside Li t t le League
Pitch that is not in the strike zone Pitch that bounces and then goes through
the strike zone Pitch that hits batter but batter does not
attempt to get out of the way An award due to certain pitching infractions
Rule 2.00: Ball
Beachside Li t t le League
Secure possession of ball in hand or glove Ball must be in flight Held firmly before it touches the ground Fielder must show complete control Release must be voluntary and intentional Dropping the ball while in the act of
throwing is okay
Rule 2.00: What is a Catch
Beachside Li t t le League
Ball hits the ground first Ball falls out before fielder pulls it out of
glove Fielder uses any part of uniform or
equipment to secure the ball Ball falls out of the glove after the fielder
◦ Falls to the ground◦ Collides with another player◦ Collides with the fence
Rule 2.00: What is NOT a Catch
Beachside Li t t le League
Runner that HAS to advance because batter-runner is going to first
Forced runner can be retired by tagging runner or forced-to base
Force is removed when:◦ Batter-runner is retired (all forces removed)◦ A following runner is retired (force is removed on
lead runner) When force is removed, runners must be
tagged
Rule 2.00: Force Play
Beachside Li t t le League
Foul lines, bases and plate are in Fair Territory Bouncing ball that travels past first base or
third base while in fair territory Bouncing ball that travels over any part of
the first base or third base bag Untouched ball in flight that lands in fair
territory at or beyond first base or third base Ball touched in fair territory, regardless of
fielder's position
Rule 2.00: Fair Ball/Fair Territory
Beachside Li t t le League
Bouncing ball that travels past 1B or 3B while in foul territory
Untouched ball in flight that lands in foul territory
Ball touched in foul territory, regardless of person's position
Ball which touches anything “foreign to natural ground" in foul territory before first base or third base
Batted ball that hits batter while in the box
Rule 2.00: Foul Ball/Foul Territory
Beachside Li t t le League
Batted ball that goes sharp and direct from the bat to the catcher’s hands and is legally caught◦ Must hit the hand or mitt first◦ Must be caught by the catcher◦ A short-hop is not a legal catch
A Foul Tip is a Strike. Ball is Live and in play; runners may run!
Umpires: Do not call “Foul Ball!”
Rule 2.00: Foul Tip
Beachside Li t t le League
Rule is to prevent defense from getting a “cheap” double play
Situation:◦ Less than two outs◦ Runners on 1st and 2nd, or bases loaded◦ Fair fly ball (not line drive or bunt)
Ball may be caught by an infielder using “ordinary effort”
Can be an outfielder positioned near the infield who catches it
Rule 2.00: Infield Fly
Beachside Li t t le League
If the umpire believes that the infield fly rule is in force they call “Infield Fly” when the ball reaches its apex
When called, the batter is out and the force is immediately removed
If caught runners must tag up If dropped the ball is live and runners may
advance at their own risk Due to the requirement of “ordinary effort”
the infield fly is a judgment call of the umpire and there is no option for an appeal
Rule 2.00: Infield Fly
Beachside Li t t le League
BOTTOM LINE:
If an infield fly rule is in force: SAY IT If an infield fly rule event occurs: CALL IT If an infield fly rule event does not occur:
DO NOTHING
YOUR DECISION CANNOT BE APPEALED!
Rule 2.00: Infield Fly
Beachside Li t t le League
Interference occurs when someone prevents the defense from making a play◦ Offensive interference◦ Umpire interference◦ Spectator interference
Exception: Defensive interference is when a defensive player prevents the batter from hitting a pitch
Rule 2.00: Interference
Beachside Li t t le League
Umpire interference: only two ways◦ Base umpire gets hit by a batted ball before it
passes an infielder other than the pitcher◦ Plate umpire prevents a catcher from throwing
out a base runner It’s NOT umpire interference if
◦ Batted ball was deflected◦ Catcher throws out runner◦ Umpire gets hit by a thrown ball◦ Umpire gets in the way of a base runner
Rule 2.00: Interference
Beachside Li t t le League
Spectator interference◦ Happens when a fan reaches into the field of play
and interferes◦ Could also happen when fan clearly causes a
player to react and affect play◦ Ball is immediately dead◦ Umpire awards bases and penalties
It’s NOT interference if ball is beyond field boundaries
Rule 2.00: Interference
Beachside Li t t le League
Obstruction occurs when a defensive player impedes a runner’s progress and:◦ Doesn’t have possession of the ball◦ Is not in the act of fielding a batted ball
A fake tag is Obstruction
Rule 2.00: Obstruction
Beachside Li t t le League
“Live Ball” Strikes◦ Ball swung at and missed◦ Ball not swung at that passes through the strike
zone◦ Foul tip
“Dead Ball” Strikes◦ Foul ball with less than two strikes◦ Foul bunt◦ Touches batter while in the strike zone◦ Batter swings or attempts to bunt and the ball
contacts the batter
Rule 2.00: Strike
Beachside Li t t le League
Area over the plate Top: batter’s arm pits Bottom: Top of batter’s knees Batter in “natural” stance
◦ “Natural” is the position of the batter as he swings the bat
◦ Zone doesn’t change when◦ He ducks◦ He steps out of the box◦ He moves way up or way back in
the box
Rule 2.00: Strike Zone
Beachside Li t t le League
A person may only be tagged:◦ With the ball while holding it◦ With the glove while the ball is in it◦ With the hand while the ball is in it
A bag may be tagged with any part of the body while holding the ball in the hand or glove
Rule 2.00: Tag
Beachside Li t t le League
Bunt: The bat must be moved towards the ball. Simply holding the bat in bunt fashion IS NOT a bunt.
In Flight: A ball that hits a fielder stays and bounces up is still considered in-flight.
Other 2.00 Definitions
Rule 3.00Game Preliminaries
Beachside Li t t le League
WHEN USING SUBSTITUTION RULES* A sub must bat once and play 6 consecutive
outs before starter may reenter Starter may reenter anywhere in the lineup Only starters may reenter the game Starters can reenter as a sub but then must
fulfill all substitution requirements Defensive substitutions must be made when
the team in on Defense Offensive substitutions must be made when
the team is on Offense
Rule 3.03: Reentry Rule
* Applies to BSLL Inter-league play only
Beachside Li t t le League
Majors and below Pitchers once removed from the mound may
NOT return as pitchersJuniors and above A pitcher remaining in the game but moving
to a different position can return as a pitcher anytime in the remainder of the game, BUT ONLY ONCE per game.
Rule 3.03: Pitcher Re-entry
Beachside Li t t le League
A player whose name is on the team’s batting order may not become a substitute runner
Rule 3.04: Substitute Runner*
* Applies to BSLL Inter-league play only
Beachside Li t t le League
Starter MUST pitch to one batter unless the pitcher gets injured before the completion of the batter
Sub MUST also pitch to one batter, unless inning ends on a putout or gets injured
Rule 3.05: Starter/Sub Pitchers
Beachside Li t t le League
Substitution◦ All substitutions should be announced
Unannounced Substitution◦ An Unannounced sub is in when:
Batter gets in the box Fielder gets in position Runner gets on base
◦ Unannounced pitcher Delivers a warm-up pitch from the rubber Any player that delivers a pitch from the rubber
between innings is in! (Prevent it!)◦ No real penalty if sub is eligible to enter
Rule 3.07-3.08: Substitutions
* Applies to BSLL Inter-league play only
Beachside Li t t le League
3.09:◦ Keep players and coaches in dugout◦ Adults cannot warm up pitchers
3.10: Field Conditions◦ Before game: Managers can decide. If manager’s
disagree the league president or delegate can make the decision.
◦ After game starts: UIC makes determination (see rule for details)
3.15: Only players, managers, coaches, umpires, and approved league photographers are allowed on the field. (see rule for details)
Other Section 3 Rules
Beachside Li t t le League
3.17: Batboys are NOT allowed 3.17: Cannot use electronic communication
devices in the field but carrying one is okay
3.18: Managers are NOT responsible for spectators!◦ Don’t make a team manager go silence a fan◦ Use an Adult umpire OR get board member
involved
Other Section 3 Rules
Rule 4.00Starting and Ending the
Game
Beachside Li t t le League
Introductions Are your Players properly equipped? Do you have any pitchers that are
ineligible? Have you exchanged your lineups Special ground rules covered (e.g. time
limit) Encourage Coaches to keep game moving Remind managers to go thru Umpire in
Charge for any inquiries Wish both managers Good Luck
Rule 4.01: Plate Meeting Do’s
Beachside Li t t le League
Before the game the Umpires should NOT◦ Conduct a rules clinic◦ Describe your strike zone◦ Issue pre-game warnings◦ Bring up something from previous game(s)◦ Waste time telling stories◦ Allow defense to warm-up during the meeting
Rule 4.01: Plate Meeting Don’ts
Beachside Li t t le League
When the batter is being given an intentional base on balls:◦ The catcher MUST stand with both feet within the
lines of the catcher’s box until the ball leaves the pitchers hands.
◦ PENALTY – Illegal pitch called.
Rule 4.03: Intentional Walks
Beachside Li t t le League
BSLL bat’s using continuous batting order for all intra-league games
We use free defensive substitutions◦ Don’t forget Mandatory Play
Cannot use special pinch runners Injured player are skipped without penalty If a batter or runner gets injured and cannot
continue the offensive player that made the last out will pinch run
Rule 4.04: Continuous Batting Order*
* Applies to BSLL Intra-league play only
Beachside Li t t le League
Base coaches may be placed one near first and the other near third base
Base coaches may be:◦ Eligible players in the uniform of their team◦ A team manager or coach
Both base coaches may be composed of a manager or coach as long as at least one other adult manager or coach is in the dugout
Remain within the base coaches box Talk ONLY to members of their own team
Rule 4.05: Base Coaches
Beachside Li t t le League
Teams should not refer to one another in a derogatory way
The offense cannot say or do anything to distract pitcher
The defense cannot say or do anything to distract batter
Rule 4.06: Game Conduct
Beachside Li t t le League
A manager or coach who gets ejected MUST leave the game site for the remainder of the game, period.◦ No hanging around the outfield fence, parking lot,
concession stand, etc.◦ Failure to comply is grounds for suspending play
until they leave◦ Ejected player may still remain in the dugout
under adult supervision◦ A manager or coach ejected from a game will also
receive a mandatory suspension for the next scheduled game.*
Rule 4.07: Ejections
* BSLL rule, some exceptions apply.
Beachside Li t t le League
If a runner attempts to score during a play in which the third out is made◦ Run will count if
The player touches first, second, third and home base before three players are put out to end the inning
◦ Run will NOT count if third out is: An out of the batter-runner before touching first base A force out An upheld appeal of a of a runner to touch any of the
bases
Rule 4.09: Play Timing
Beachside Li t t le League
The umpire must judge whether the runner touched the plate before the out is made◦ If the runner touches the plate before the out, the
run counts◦ If the runner touches the plate after the out, the
run does NOT count In a close call, the plate umpire MUST
inform the official scorekeeper if the run counts
Rule 4.09: Timing Play
Beachside Li t t le League
Majors and below: ◦ 6 innings (5-1/2+ if home team is winning)◦ If called, at least 4 innings (3-1/2+ if home team is
winning) Juniors and above:
◦ 7 innings (6-1/2+ if home team is winning)◦ If called, at least 5 innings (4-1/2+ if home team is
winning) Called Games
◦ Games called before a regulation game and after 1 inning it should be resumed where it left off at a later date
BSLL has adopted a 10-run “mercy” rule
Rule 4.10: Regulation Game
Beachside Li t t le League
Rules cover what to do when umpire must call the game in progress
If game ends during an inning, score reverts back ONLY if:◦ Home team led, then visitors tied◦ Home team led, then visitors took the lead
If score was tied, game resumes later
Rules 4.11d&e: Who Wins?
Beachside Li t t le League
Rules require nine players minimum to start or continue games. ◦ *BSLL allows for pool players to be used to PLAY the
game. BSLL wants ALL games played. Remember, it is for the kids!
BSLL Allows borrowing an outfield from the opposing team IF a pool player is unavailable.
If a pool player is required BSLL pool play rules must be followed. The game is considered a forfeiture for seeding and tournament play.
Per Rule 1.01, only instructional Minors divisions can play with less than nine
Rules 4.16–4.17: Nine Players
* BSLL intra-league rule.
Beachside Li t t le League
Judgment calls cannot be protested Protest of rule misinterpretation
◦ Before next pitch or play◦ Umpires MUST discuss the call◦ After decision, manager can formally lodge the
protest◦ UIC must submit a written report
Protest of ineligible players must be made before the umpires leave the field
Rule 4.19: Protests
Beachside Li t t le League
4.03: Make sure all fielders are in fair territory
4.15: When to forfeit a game:◦ One team doesn’t have enough players◦ Continued rules violation◦ Manager starts delay tactics
Other 4.00 Rules
Rule 5.00Putting the Ball in Play
and Live Ball
Beachside Li t t le League
Batter gets hit by pitch Plate umpire interferes with the catcher’s throw An illegal pitch is committed (Junior Division and
above) Illegally batted ball (fair or foul) Foul ball not caught Runner interferes with fielder A fair batted ball hits a runner before touching a
fielder A fair batted ball hits an umpire before it passes an
infielder other than a pitcher When an umpire calls “Time”
Rules 5.09: Dead Ball
Beachside Li t t le League
Runner gets obstructed while defense is making a play on him
Runner interferes with a batted ball Manager, coach, player requests it AND the
umpire grants it Someone gets seriously injured Severe weather or weather alarm is sound Umpire wants to clean off the plate or secure a
base Don’t call “Time” when it isn’t needed Always call “Play” to resume the game
Rules 5.10: When to call time
Rule 6.00The Batter
Beachside Li t t le League
Batter must get in the box promptly◦ Both feet must be in the box◦ Foot on the line is OK◦ Foot over the line is NOT OK
Batter cannot leave the box once the pitcher gets in Set Position◦ If the Batter does leave the box the umpire will call a
Ball or STRIKE as the pitch dictates If the batter refuses to get in box the umpire
shall call a strike without the need for a thrown pitch. The ball is a dead ball after the strike is called
Rules 6.02 & 6.03: The Batter
Beachside Li t t le League
A batter becomes a runner when the batter receives a dropped third strike and one of the following conditions exist:
First base is empty AND there is less than two outs There are two outs
A batter is OUT when the batter receives a dropped third strike and one of the following conditions exist:
There is a man on first and less than 2 outs
*Applies only to Majors and above.
Rule 6.05: Dropped Third Strike*
Beachside Li t t le League
Other than the obvious reasons the following conditions result in the batter begin out: Bunting foul on a third strike Bat hits the ball a second time in fair territory Batter is touched by his own fair ball (unless a
fielder had a chance to field it) Batter swings at a third strike, but the ball hits
his hand, wrist, arm, etc. An infield fly is calledNote: If you are going to selectively read the green book, rule 6.05 is a good one to look over.
Rule 6.05: Batter is Out
Beachside Li t t le League
The batter is out when◦ He hits the ball with a foot completely out of the
box and on the ground◦ He steps from one box to the other when pitcher
is ready to pitch◦ He interferes with a play◦ The batter is discovered having used an illegal bat
prior to the next player entering the batter’s box
Rule 6.06: Illegal Batter Action
Beachside Li t t le League
If defense appeals before Improper Batter completes the at-bat then the Proper Batter should simply come to the plate and assume the count
If defense appeals after Improper Batter completes his at-bat◦ Proper Batter is ruled out◦ Result of at bat is nullified (except what happens
during at bat)◦ Next batter up is the batter after the Proper Batter
The defense must make appeal before the first pitch to the next batter
Rule 6.07: Batting out of Order
Beachside Li t t le League
If defense fails to appeal◦ Improper Batter’s at-bat counts◦ Improper Batter now becomes the Proper Batter◦ Next batter up is the batter after the new Proper
Batter The offense cannot appeal their own error Umpires and scorekeepers: SHHHH!!!
Rule 6.07: Batting out of Order
Beachside Li t t le League
Four “balls” have been called Batter gets hit by pitch unless
◦ He swung at the pitch◦ He doesn’t try to avoid the pitch◦ The pitch was in the strike zone
Fielder interferes with batter A runner or umpire touches a batted ball
before it passes a fielder other than pitcher
Rule 6.08: Batter Gets First
Beachside Li t t le League
The batter becomes a runner when: A fair ball is hit For Major Division and Up: An uncaught
third strike occurs and◦ Nobody is on first◦ First base is occupied with two outs
Batter can’t advance after entering dugout Not interference if batter runs when he
shouldn’t
Rule 6.09: Batter to Runner
Rule 7.00The Runner
Beachside Li t t le League
When two runners are on base, it’s not an automatic out◦ Lead runner is entitled (unless forced)◦ Trail runner (lead runner if forced) is out if tagged
If fielder tags both, point to runner who is out to prevent confusion
Rule 7.03: Two Runners on Base
Beachside Li t t le League
Have to determine◦ Who threw the ball?◦ If an infielder, was it an “initial”play or
“subsequent” play?◦ Where were the runners?
If “initial” play by infielder, two bases from Time of Pitch (unless all runners reached their subsequent bases)
Any other: two bases from Time of Throw Award is never from when ball goes out of
play
Rule 7.05g: Ball Thrown Out of Play
Beachside Li t t le League
Fielder without the ball cannot impede a runner
7.06a: Obstructed runner being played upon, or batter obstructed before reaching first◦ Immediate dead ball◦ Runners get base they would have achieved had
there been no obstruction◦ Obstructed runner gets at least the next base
from last one legally touched before the obstruction
Rule 7.06: Obstruction
Beachside Li t t le League
Fielder without the ball cannot impede a runner
7.06b: Obstructed runner not being played upon◦ Umpire signals and calls Obstruction◦ Delayed dead ball ◦ End of play, umpire awards bases, IF ANY, that
nullifies the obstruction◦ Obstructed runner could overrun his protection
Rule 7.06: Obstruction
Beachside Li t t le League
The not-so-obvious, runner is out when he:◦ Avoids a tag by going three feet out of his base
path◦ Doesn’t slide or attempt to get around a fielder
waiting to make a tag◦ Slides headfirst going to a base (Majors and
below)◦ Abandons first after touching it◦ Passes a lead runner◦ Runs bases in reverse order◦ Misses home and doesn’t return (must be
appealed)
Rule 7.08: Runner is Out
Beachside Li t t le League
A runner is out for interference when◦ He hinders a fielder attempting to field a batted
ball (no intent required)◦ He intentionally hinders a fielder’s throw◦ A batter hinders a play on that runner at home
with less than two outs◦ A teammate hinders a play on that runner◦ The base coach physically assists that runner
Rule 7.09: Runner Interference
Beachside Li t t le League
A runner is out for interference when◦ The base coach acts like that runner to draw a
throw◦ He is hit by a batted ball before a fielder had a
chance to field it◦ He violates the runner’s lane
Except for coach’s assistance, ball is dead
Rule 7.09: Runner Interference
Beachside Li t t le League
A runner is NOT out for interference when◦ He unintentionally hinders a throw◦ He is hit by a batted ball after it gets by a fielder
other than the pitcher◦ He is hit by a deflected batted ball◦ He runs into a fielder chasing a loose ball (this is
Obstruction)
Rule 7.09: Runner Interference
Beachside Li t t le League
What constitutes a viable appeal?◦ Runner misses a base◦ Runner fails to tag up on a caught fly ball◦ Runner fails to return to first immediately◦ Runner fails to touch home and doesn’t return
How does the defense appeal?◦ Tag the guilty runner◦ Tag the offended base◦ Being “clear and unmistakable”
Rule 7.10: Appeal
Beachside Li t t le League
Who can appeal?◦ Any defensive player◦ Not the manager or coach
When can the defense appeal?◦ When the ball is Live◦ Before a subsequent play, attempted play, or
illegal pitch or balk◦ Before all defensive players leave fair territory
Successive appeals not allowed
Rule 7.10: Appeal
Beachside Li t t le League
If there are two outs and upon appeal a preceding runner is deemed the third out, no runners following the preceding runner shall score.
If the third out is the result of a Force Play, neither preceding nor following runners shall score.
Rule 7.12: Failure to Touch or Retouch a base
Beachside Li t t le League
Runners cannot leave bases once the pitcher and catcher are “ready”◦ Pitcher on the rubber with the ball◦ Catcher with mask behind the plate◦ Ball is live
One guilty = all guilty Let play continue; all outs stand Penalty: all runners return to their original
bases unless forced
Rule 7.13: Leaving Base Early
Beachside Li t t le League
Umpire must judge the “value” of the hit◦ Runners advance no further, no matter what
happens during the play If batter reaches on an error, nobody gets
more than one base Bases loaded and batted ball stays in the
infield, no runs will score Read the book examples!
Rule 7.13: Leaving Base Early
Beachside Li t t le League
Special Pinch Runners (SPR) are NOT courtesy runners
Only a player not in the lineup can SPR◦ That’s why SPRs aren’t allowed under continuous
batting order One SPR per inning max A player can be removed for a SPR only
once a game
Rule 7.14: Special Pinch Runner
Beachside Li t t le League
7.01: Runner cannot return to previous base when pitcher is ready
7.02: You need to touch all bases either forwards and backwards
7.04: Runners get one base if fielder catches a fly ball then falls in dead ball territory ◦ If fielder stays on his feet, ball is Live
7.15: Double-first base procedures◦ Defense uses white, batter uses colored on initial play
at first (except for uncaught third strike)◦ Batter may use either base on clean hit◦ All other: batter must use white
Other 7.00 Rules
Rule 8.00The Pitcher
Beachside Li t t le League
Preliminary position:◦ Pivot foot: On the rubber (not off the end)◦ Free foot: In front, behind, or to the side of the
rubber◦ Hands: Can be together or apart
If apart, pitcher can bring them together without starting his motion to pitch
Pitching motion:◦ Free foot: Step to the back or side◦ Pivot foot: Pivot to the side, staying in contact◦ Hands: Brought together and lifted up◦ Free foot: Step forward
Rule 8.01: The Windup
Beachside Li t t le League
To disengage, pitcher must back with his pivot foot first
Pitcher may throw to a base by stepping directly to that base with his free foot
Pitcher cannot start his windup and then stop◦ No runners: Nothing◦ Runners: Balk (Jrs or above); Illegal pitch (Majors
or below)
Rule 8.01: The Windup
Beachside Li t t le League
Preliminary position (Stretch):◦ Pivot foot: On or against (in front of) the rubber◦ Free foot: In front of and parallel to pivot foot◦ Hands apart
Intermediate position (going to Set):◦ Free foot: brought closer to pivot foot (optional)◦ Hands brought together◦ MUST come to complete stop (except Majors and
below) Pitching motion: Lift and step forward with
free foot
Rule 8.01: The Set
Beachside Li t t le League
To disengage, pitcher must step back with his pivot foot first◦ Hands must separate before reengaging
Pitcher may throw to a base by stepping directly to that base with his free foot
Pitcher cannot start winding up from the Set (except in Majors and below)
Rule 8.01: The Set
Beachside Li t t le League
Cannot balk or deliver illegal pitch with no runners
A pitcher balks or delivers an illegal pitch when he:◦ Starts his pitching motion, then stops◦ Fakes a throw to first from the rubber◦ Throws to a base without stepping towards the base◦ Throws to an unoccupied base (except during an
appeal)◦ Quick pitches◦ Pitches without facing the batter
Rule 8.05: Balk/Illegal Pitch
Beachside Li t t le League
A pitcher balks or delivers illegal pitch when he:◦ Starts his motion to pitch while not in contact with
the rubber◦ Stands on or next to the rubber without the ball◦ Delays the game◦ Drops the ball while on the rubber◦ Brings his hands together, separates them, then
brings them together again
Rule 8.05: Balk/Illegal Pitch
Beachside Li t t le League
Illegal pitch penalty◦ Dead ball, ball on batter (runners don’t advance)◦ If the ball is pitched and batted, let play continue◦ If batter and all runners advance one base safely,
ignore the illegal pitch (same if pitch is ball four)◦ If illegal pitch occurs on a throw to a base, ignore
if all runners advance; otherwise, enforce penalty Manager does get a choice if the batted ball
benefits the offense
Rule 8.05: Balk/Illegal Pitch
Beachside Li t t le League
Balk penalty◦ Dead ball, runners advance one base◦ If the ball is pitched and batted, let play continue◦ If batter and all runners advance one base safely,
ignore the balk (same if pitch is ball four)◦ Otherwise, no pitch, and runners advance one
base◦ If balk occurs on a throw to a base, ignore if all
runners advance; otherwise, enforce balk Manager does not get a choice
Rule 8.05: Balk/Illegal Pitch
Beachside Li t t le League
Manager or coach may visit the same pitcher◦ Twice in one inning, the third visit the pitcher
must be removed from the mound Manager or coach may go to the mound
◦ Three times in the game◦ The forth visit, the pitcher must be removed from
the mound Any or all players may participate If catcher talks to pitcher after visiting with
the manager or coach, it’s a visit
Rule 8.06: Pitcher Conference
Beachside Li t t le League
If the adult talks to another defensive player, it’s a visit
It is not a visit:◦ If the offense asked for Time first◦ During between inning warm-ups if no delay◦ If the manager or coach is checking on an injury◦ In Juniors or above, if the manager replaces the
pitcher
Rule 8.06: Pitcher Conference
Beachside Li t t le League
8.01: Pitcher shall take signs from the catcher 8.02a: Pitcher cannot go to mouth while on the
mound 8.02c: Pitcher cannot intentionally throw at
batter 8.03: One minute to warm up between innings
◦ Not more than 8 pitches◦ More if pitcher hasn’t warmed up
8.04 When bases are unoccupied, the pitcher must pitch within 20 seconds
Other 8.00 Rules
Rule 9.00The Umpire
Beachside Li t t le League
9.01(f): Clear the field when fans get unruly 9.02: How to handle appeals
◦ Don’t change judgment calls◦ Manager must go to the umpire who made the
call◦ Don’t overrule your partner!◦ Manager cannot appeal on a checked swing Strike
Rule 9.00: The Umpire
Beachside Li t t le League
9.04(c): What to do when two umps make different calls simultaneously◦ Get together and fix it◦ Umpire in Charge makes the final call
9.05: Processing ejections Carrying the rulebook
◦ Don’t let it be seen (back pocket)◦ Don’t pull it out between innings◦ Should only use during a protest◦ Don’t let the manager show you up!◦
Rule 9.00: The Umpire
Beachside Li t t le League
This presentation was largely based on the work of the 2007 Virginia
District 9 Umpires Clinic and updated to the latest green book. Without their
initial hard work, this presentation would probably not exist.
Play Ball !!!
Updated: 3/13/2012