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<a aria-label="CMBA Constitution and By-Laws" class="md-header__button md-logo" data-md-component="logo" href="index.html" title="CMBA Constitution and By-Laws">
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<label class="md-header__button md-icon" for="__drawer">
@@ -41,7 +42,7 @@
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<div class="md-header__topic">
<span class="md-ellipsis">
CMBA Constitution and By-Laws
CMBA Bylaws, Policy, and Playing Rules
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<div class="md-header__topic" data-md-component="header-topic">
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<a class="md-nav__link" href="01-consitution.html">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="01-bylaws.html">
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Constitution
League Bylaws
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<a class="md-nav__link" href="02-bylaws.html">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="02-policy.html">
<span class="md-ellipsis">
By-Laws
League Policy
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</label>
<ul class="md-nav__list" data-md-component="toc" data-md-scrollfix="">
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#playing-rules_1">3.1
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#authority-and-rule-hierarchy">3.1
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Playing Rules
Authority and Rule Hierarchy
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#regulation-games">3.2
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#incorporated-rules">3.2
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Incorporated Rules
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#pre-game-meeting">3.3
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Pre-Game Meeting
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#pre-game-warmups">3.4
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Pre-Game Warmups
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#regulation-games">3.5
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Regulation Games
</span>
</a>
</li>
<nav aria-label="Regulation Games" class="md-nav">
<ul class="md-nav__list">
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#reasons-for-a-game-to-be-called">3.3
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#reasons-for-a-game-to-be-called">
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Reasons for a Game to be Called
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</span>
</a>
</li>
</ul>
</nav>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#game-time">3.4
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#game-equipment-and-uniforms">3.6
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Game Time
Game Equipment and Uniforms
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#player-uniforms">3.5
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#lineups">3.7
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Player Uniforms
Lineups
</span>
</a>
<nav aria-label="Lineups" class="md-nav">
<ul class="md-nav__list">
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#lineup-format">
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Lineup Format
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#minimum-number-of-players">3.6
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#expanded-lineup-format">
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Expanded Lineup Format
</span>
</a>
<nav aria-label="Expanded Lineup Format" class="md-nav">
<ul class="md-nav__list">
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#shared-batting-positions">
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Shared Batting Positions
</span>
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</ul>
</nav>
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<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#restricted-lineup-format">
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Restricted Lineup Format
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#minimum-number-of-players">
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Minimum Number of Players
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</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#player-injuries">3.7
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#lineup-designations">
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Player Injuries
Lineup Designations
</span>
</a>
<nav aria-label="Lineup Designations" class="md-nav">
<ul class="md-nav__list">
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#designated-hitter-dh">
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Designated Hitter (DH)
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#equipment">3.8
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#extra-hitter-eh">
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Equipment
Extra Hitter (EH)
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#field-maintenance">3.9
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#designated-runner-dr">
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Field Maintenance
Designated Runner (DR)
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#payment-of-umpires">3.10
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#courtesy-runner-cr">
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Payment of Umpires
Courtesy Runner (CR)
</span>
</a>
</li>
</ul>
</nav>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#designated-hitter">3.11
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#injury-substitutions">
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Designated Hitter
Injury Substitutions
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#designated-runner">3.12
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Designated Runner
</span>
</a>
</ul>
</nav>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#extra-hitter">3.13
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Extra Hitter
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#courtesy-runner">3.14
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Courtesy Runner
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#batting-lineup">3.15
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Batting Lineup
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#ab-batting-lineup-slots">3.16
<span class="md-ellipsis">
A/B Batting Lineup Slots
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#defensive-lineup">3.17
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Defensive Lineup
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#field-status">3.18
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Field Status
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#rescheduling">3.19
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Rescheduling
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#notification-of-results">3.20
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Notification of Results
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#uncompleted-games">3.21
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Uncompleted Games
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#substitution-of-an-umpire">3.22
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Substitution of an Umpire
</span>
</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#collisions">3.23
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#collisions">3.8
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Collisions
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</a>
</li>
<li class="md-nav__item">
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#umpire-disputes">3.24
<a class="md-nav__link" href="#umpire-disputes">3.9
<span class="md-ellipsis">
Umpire Disputes
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<div class="md-content" data-md-component="content">
<article class="md-content__inner md-typeset">
<h1 id="playing-rules"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.</span> Playing Rules<a class="headerlink" href="#playing-rules" title="Permanent link"></a></h1>
<h2 id="playing-rules_1"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.1</span> Playing Rules<a class="headerlink" href="#playing-rules_1" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>Except where specified in this document, the CMBA shall follow the Official Baseball Rules of Major League Baseball.</p>
<p>The CMBA shall not incorporate the following rules of Major League Baseball:</p>
<h2 id="authority-and-rule-hierarchy"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.1</span> Authority and Rule Hierarchy<a class="headerlink" href="#authority-and-rule-hierarchy" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>Umpires have full authority to administer and enforce game rules on the field. In applying written rules, the controlling order is: (1) League Policy, (2) these Playing Rules, and (3) Incorporated Rules. If provisions conflict, the higher-priority source controls to the extent of the conflict.</p>
<h2 id="incorporated-rules"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.2</span> Incorporated Rules<a class="headerlink" href="#incorporated-rules" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>Except where specified in this document, games shall incorporate the Official Baseball Rules of Major League Baseball (the "Incorporated Rules").</p>
<p>These rules shall <em>not</em> incorporate the following rules of Major League Baseball:</p>
<ul>
<li>Rule 4.03(c)(4) specifying limitations on when a position player can pitch.</li>
<li>Rule 5.02(c) specifying limitations on infielder placement.</li>
<li>Rule 7.01(b) incorporating the parameters of the Extra Innings Rule, which includes starting each half-inning following the last regulation inning with a runner on second base.</li>
<li>Rule 5.10(m)(1) limiting the number of mound visits.</li>
<li>Rule 5.10(g) requiring that pitchers must face at least three batters.</li>
<li>Rules 5.07(c) specifying time limits on pitchers and batters. Limitations on pitcher disengagements (i.e. pick-offs) shall also not be incorporated.</li>
<li>Rule(s) specifying limitations on when a position player can pitch.</li>
<li>Rule(s) specifying limitations on infielder placement.</li>
<li>Rule(s) incorporating the parameters of the Extra Innings Rule, which includes starting each half-inning following the last regulation inning with a runner on second base.</li>
<li>Rule(s) limiting the number of mound visits per game. Limitations on visits per inning still apply.</li>
<li>Rule(s) requiring that pitchers must face at least three batters.</li>
<li>Rule(s) specifying time limits on pitchers and batters. </li>
<li>Rule(s) limiting pitcher disengagements (i.e. pick-offs).</li>
<li>Rule(s) enlarging bases from 15 inches square to 18 inches square. Either base size is acceptable as long as each base used in the game are the same size.</li>
<li>Any rule requiring specialized equipment or trained personnel, such as replay review.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="regulation-games"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.2</span> Regulation Games<a class="headerlink" href="#regulation-games" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<h2 id="pre-game-meeting"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.3</span> Pre-Game Meeting<a class="headerlink" href="#pre-game-meeting" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>Before first pitch, the Managers and the umpire-in-chief shall conduct a pre-game meeting. A Manager may designate a team delegate to attend on the Manager’s behalf. At this meeting, the teams shall exchange lineups and review any applicable ground rules with the umpire.</p>
<h2 id="pre-game-warmups"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.4</span> Pre-Game Warmups<a class="headerlink" href="#pre-game-warmups" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>As a general pre-game guideline, teams should plan for about 20 to 30 minutes of total defensive warmup time (i.e. an infield/outfield routine), counted from when the first team starts, and distributed evenly as practically as possible. The visiting team will usually go first, and the home team will usually take the final turn before the pre-game meeting and first pitch. For fields where a batting cage is available, the team not using the field should make use of the batting cage while the other team finishes its defensive warmups.</p>
<p>Managers may agree to reverse the order or adjust the timing if that works better for both teams.</p>
<div class="admonition examples">
<p class="admonition-title">Examples</p>
<p>For a game starting at 9:30 am at a field with a batting cage, the visiting team might perform their infield/outfield routine from about 9:00 to 9:15 while the home team uses the batting cage. The teams would then switch, with the home team taking the field from about 9:15 to 9:30 and the visiting team using the cage or bullpen until first pitch.</p>
<p>For a game starting at 6:15 pm at a field with a batting cage, the home team might start offensive warmups in the batting cage at 6:00 pm. Because there are 15 minutes before first pitch, they take approximately 7.5 minutes for offensive warmups while the visiting team uses the field for their defensive infield/outfield routine. The teams would then switch, with the home team taking the field from about 6:07 to 6:14 and the visiting team using the cage until first pitch.</p>
</div>
<h2 id="regulation-games"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.5</span> Regulation Games<a class="headerlink" href="#regulation-games" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>Games played under the auspices of both recognized Managers of the participating teams shall count as official. A regulation game is defined as follows</p>
<ol>
<li>A regulation game consists of seven (7) innings, unless extended because of a tie score, or shortened because the home team needs none of its half of the seventh inning or only a fraction of it, or because the umpire calls the game in accordance with <a href="#reasons-for-a-game-to-be-called">3.3 Reasons for a Game to be Called</a>.</li>
<li>If the score is tied after seven completed innings play shall continue until (1) the visiting team has scored more total runs than the home team at the end of a completed inning, or (2) the home team scores the winning run in an uncompleted inning. If a regulation game is called with the score tied, it shall remain a tie game.</li>
<li>If a game is called by the umpire, per <a href="#reasons-for-a-game-to-be-called">3.3 Reasons for a Game to be Called</a>, it is a regulation (official) game:</li>
<li>If four innings have been completed;</li>
<li>If the home team has scored more runs in four or three and a fraction half-innings than the visiting team has scored in four completed half-innings;</li>
<li>If the home team scores one or more runs in its half of the fourth inning to tie the score.</li>
<li>A regulation game is scheduled for seven (7) innings.</li>
<li>A game becomes a regulation game after four (4) completed innings, or after 3 1/2 innings if the home team is ahead.</li>
<li>If the score is tied after seven (7) completed innings, play shall continue until a winner is determined, unless the game is called and recorded as a tie under applicable called-game provisions.</li>
<li>The run-rule, or "Slaughter Rule", thresholds are:<ol>
<li>Fifteen (15) runs after four (4) complete innings, or after 3 1/2 innings if the home team is ahead;</li>
<li>Twelve (12) runs after five (5) complete innings, or after 4 1/2 innings if the home team is ahead.</li>
<li>Ten (10) runs after three (3) complete innings in a game that is called under applicable called-game provisions.</li>
</ol>
<p>Postseason games are exempt from this definition as specified in <a href="#completion-of-playoff-games">Completion of Playoff Games</a>.
1. Slaughter Rule: The game shall be ended and the leading team declared the winner:
1. If after 4 complete innings the visiting team is ahead in the score by 15 or more runs, or if after 3½ innings the home team is ahead by the same, the game will be ended and the leading team declared the winner.
1. If after 5 or more complete innings the visiting team is ahead in the score by 12 or more runs, or if after 4½ innings or more the home team is ahead by the same, the game will be ended and the leading team declared the winner.</p>
<p>The Slaughter Rule is applicable for the playoffs as specified in <a href="#completion-of-playoff-games">Completion of Playoff Games</a>.
1. If a game is called after 3 complete innings and one team is ahead by 10 or more runs, the game will be ended and the leading team declared the winner. </p>
<p>Postseason games are exempt from this definition as specified in <a href="#completion-of-playoff-games">Completion of Playoff Games</a>.</p>
<ol>
<li>If a game is postponed or otherwise called before it has become a regulation game, the umpire-in-chief shall declare it “No Game,” meaning the game must be restarted (not resumed) at a later date.</li>
</li>
<li>If a game is called before it becomes a regulation game, it is a “No Game” and shall be replayed from the start, unless otherwise required by provisions in League Policy.</li>
<li>Exceptions, including completion requirements for suspended games, are governed by League Policy (e.g., in the case of playoff or championship games).</li>
</ol>
<p>Postseason games are exempt from this definition as specified in <a href="#completion-of-playoff-games">Completion of Playoff Games</a>.</p>
<h2 id="reasons-for-a-game-to-be-called"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.3</span> Reasons for a Game to be Called<a class="headerlink" href="#reasons-for-a-game-to-be-called" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<h3 id="reasons-for-a-game-to-be-called"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.5.1</span> Reasons for a Game to be Called<a class="headerlink" href="#reasons-for-a-game-to-be-called" title="Permanent link"></a></h3>
<p>An umpire, in their discretion, may declare a game called if</p>
<ol>
<li>Darkness prevents further safe play.</li>
<li>Rain, lightning, or other inclement weather precludes safe conditions.</li>
<li>A new inning would start after 8:15 p.m at a field without lights.</li>
<li>Local laws or field rules (e.g. lightning detector) prevent continuation of the game.</li>
<li>Other circumstances prevent further safe play. The Rules and Competition Committee may rule on any forfeit or loss of points as applicable.</li>
<li>Other circumstances prevent further safe play. League Policy may dictate any forfeit or penalty as applicable.</li>
</ol>
<h2 id="game-time"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.4</span> Game Time<a class="headerlink" href="#game-time" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>The starting time for all weeknight games shall be 5:50 p.m. for fields without lights. Starting times for games played at lighted fields and on the weekends shall be determined by the League and may legally begin after 6:30PM. Forfeit time shall be 20 minutes after the scheduled starting time.</p>
<h2 id="player-uniforms"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.5</span> Player Uniforms<a class="headerlink" href="#player-uniforms" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>All players must be in proper uniform in order to be eligible to participate in games, as specified in <a href="#uniform">Uniform</a>.</p>
<h2 id="minimum-number-of-players"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.6</span> Minimum Number of Players<a class="headerlink" href="#minimum-number-of-players" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>Teams must start the game at the scheduled starting time if they have at least eight (8) players present. A team may not wait until forfeit time for players to arrive, the game must begin as soon as a team has 8 players present. If a ninth player does not arrive or arrives after forfeit time, the team shall be in technical forfeit, as defined in <a href="#forfeits">Forfeits</a>.</p>
<ol>
<li>In the event a team starts a game with eight (8) players, the ninth spot in the batting order shall be considered an out recorded to the pitcher. A team may insert a ninth player in the vacant ninth spot after the start of play.</li>
<li>A team may begin a game with eight (8) players up to two (2) times in one season. A team that fails to field nine (9) players at the start of the game after receiving 2 (two) prior technical forfeits shall forfeit all subsequent games.</li>
<li>
<p>A team in technical forfeit shall remain in technical forfeit, regardless of the number of players with which it finished the game.
A team may finish the game a player short, that is one (1) player less than they started the game with (eight (8) players for a nine (9) man line-up, nine (9) players for a ten (10) man), provided the team does not fall below this minimum.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>The vacated spot in the batting order shall be considered an automatic out.</p>
</li>
<li>Should a team fall below the minimum, the game is terminated and the team loses by forfeit.</li>
</ol>
<h2 id="player-injuries"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.7</span> Player Injuries<a class="headerlink" href="#player-injuries" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<h2 id="game-equipment-and-uniforms"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.6</span> Game Equipment and Uniforms<a class="headerlink" href="#game-equipment-and-uniforms" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>Games shall be played with legal baseball equipment and player uniforms as required by League Rules and Policy.</p>
<h2 id="lineups"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.7</span> Lineups<a class="headerlink" href="#lineups" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<h3 id="lineup-format"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.7.1</span> Lineup Format<a class="headerlink" href="#lineup-format" title="Permanent link"></a></h3>
<p>The <a href="#expanded-lineup-format">Expanded Lineup Format</a> shall apply unless League Policy expressly provides for the Restricted Lineup Format (e.g., playoffs or championship games).</p>
<h3 id="expanded-lineup-format"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.7.2</span> Expanded Lineup Format<a class="headerlink" href="#expanded-lineup-format" title="Permanent link"></a></h3>
<p>In the Expanded Lineup Format, a team’s batting lineup shall constitute not fewer than nine (9) batting positions. Additional batting positions may be declared at lineup exchange without limit. The number of batting positions declared shall remain fixed for the duration of the game. If, for any other reason, a batting position is or becomes unoccupied, that lineup position shall be recorded as an out each time it appears in the batting order.</p>
<p>A player substituted from the batting order may not re-enter the batting order unless otherwise permitted herein. Defensive substitutions may be made freely at any time and do not affect the batting order. Players may enter, exit, and re-enter defensively without limitation.</p>
<p>The following lineup designations are permitted, but not required, in the Expanded Lineup Format:</p>
<ul>
<li>Any number of Extra Hitters</li>
<li>(1) Designated Runner</li>
<li>Courtesy Runner for the pitcher and catcher</li>
</ul>
<div class="admonition note">
<p class="admonition-title">Note</p>
<p>A player occupying the Extra Hitter position may assume any defensive position at any time without affecting the batting order. Likewise, a player currently in the defensive alignment may be reassigned to the Extra Hitter position without affecting the batting order. In the Expanded Lineup Format, changes in defensive alignment do not alter the order or occupancy of batting positions.</p>
<p>Because defensive alignment does not govern the batting order in the Expanded Lineup Format, the Designated Hitter designation does not apply in Expanded Lineup Format. Any player marked as a DH will be considered a mistake and assumed to be an EH.</p>
</div>
<h4 id="shared-batting-positions"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.7.2.1</span> Shared Batting Positions<a class="headerlink" href="#shared-batting-positions" title="Permanent link"></a></h4>
<p>In the Expanded Lineup Format, any batting position may be designated at lineup exchange as shared by two players (“A” and “B”). The two players shall bat in alternating sequence each time that position appears in the order, beginning with the player designated “A.”</p>
<p>A player occupying a shared batting position may be substituted. A substitute assumes the same alternating designation (A or B), and the position remains shared provided two occupants are maintained.</p>
<p>If a shared batting position is reduced to a single occupant and no substitute is entered to maintain two occupants, the position shall thereafter be treated as a single-player position and may not again be shared during that game.</p>
<h3 id="restricted-lineup-format"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.7.3</span> Restricted Lineup Format<a class="headerlink" href="#restricted-lineup-format" title="Permanent link"></a></h3>
<p>In the Restricted Lineup Format, a team’s batting lineup shall constitute not fewer than nine (9) batting positions. Additional batting positions may be declared at lineup exchange without limit by using additional Extra Hitters. The number of batting positions declared shall remain fixed for the duration of the game.</p>
<p>Each batting position shall be occupied by a single player. Shared batting positions are not permitted.</p>
<p>If, for any other reason, a batting position is or becomes unoccupied, that lineup position shall be recorded as an out each time it appears in the batting order, unless otherwise provided in the Incorporated Rules, these Rules, or League Policy.</p>
<p>A player substituted from the batting order may not re-enter the game unless permitted by the Incorporated Rules. Defensive substitutions shall be governed by the Incorporated Rules. Defensive re-entry is not permitted unless otherwise allowed by those rules.</p>
<p>The following lineup designations are permitted, but not required, in Restricted Lineup Format:</p>
<ul>
<li>(1) Designated Hitter</li>
<li>Any number of Extra Hitters</li>
<li>(1) Designated Runner</li>
<li>Courtesy Runner for the pitcher and catcher</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="minimum-number-of-players"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.7.4</span> Minimum Number of Players<a class="headerlink" href="#minimum-number-of-players" title="Permanent link"></a></h3>
<p>The minimum number of players per team shall be established as the number of required batting positions as governed by the applicable Lineup Format.</p>
<p>Teams may play with one (1) fewer player, and if each team has at least this many players present, they must start the game.</p>
<div class="admonition note">
<p class="admonition-title">Example</p>
<p>For a game subject to the Expanded Lineup, the required number of batting positions is nine (9), so as soon as each team has eight (8) players, the game must start. </p>
</div>
<p>League Policy may apply standings penalty for teams that start with fewer than the minimum. League Policy may also designate a "forfeit time," the period after which a team with less than the minimum is subject to penalty. A team may not wait until this forfeit time for players to arrive. A team may insert a player into the vacant spot after the start of play.</p>
<p>Any unoccupied batting positions shall be recorded as an out each time it appears in the batting order unless otherwise provided in these Rules, or League Policy. </p>
<p>A team may finish the game (1) player short, that is one (1) player less than they started the game with (eight (8) players for a nine (9) person line-up, nine (9) players for a ten (10) person lineup). Should a team fall below eight (8) players, the game is terminated and this team loses by forfeit.</p>
<div class="admonition note">
<p class="admonition-title">Example</p>
<p>For a game subject to the Expanded Lineup, the required number of batting positions is nine (9). If a team starts with eight (8) the vacant ninth spot is an automatic out each time it comes up. If the ninth player arrives after first pitch, that player may be inserted into the vacant spot. </p>
<p>If a team drops below 8 players, that team will lose by forfeit.</p>
</div>
<h3 id="lineup-designations"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.7.5</span> Lineup Designations<a class="headerlink" href="#lineup-designations" title="Permanent link"></a></h3>
<h4 id="designated-hitter-dh"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.7.5.1</span> Designated Hitter (DH)<a class="headerlink" href="#designated-hitter-dh" title="Permanent link"></a></h4>
<p>A Designated Hitter may bat for any defensive player. If the defensive player for whom the DH bats enters the batting order, the DH is terminated. Substitution rules apply consistent with the applicable Lineup Format.</p>
<h4 id="extra-hitter-eh"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.7.5.2</span> Extra Hitter (EH)<a class="headerlink" href="#extra-hitter-eh" title="Permanent link"></a></h4>
<p>An Extra Hitter is a batting-only lineup position and may not be used in the field as an extra defensive fielder. For substitution and lineup-administration purposes, an EH position shall be treated the same as a defensive position and may be substituted, re-entered, or reassigned as governed by the applicable Lineup Format.</p>
<h4 id="designated-runner-dr"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.7.5.3</span> Designated Runner (DR)<a class="headerlink" href="#designated-runner-dr" title="Permanent link"></a></h4>
<p>A Designated Runner may run for a specified batting position whenever the player occupying that batting position safely reaches base. The DR may be substituted into the batting order at any batting position. Once the player designated as DR enters the batting lineup, the player is no longer considered a designated runner and may no longer run for the previously assigned batting position. Substitution of either player is governed by the applicable Lineup Format.</p>
<p>Teams with no eligible players remaining on the bench (i.e. all players are in the batting lineup) may elect to use the player that made the last out as the designated runner.</p>
<h4 id="courtesy-runner-cr"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.7.5.4</span> Courtesy Runner (CR)<a class="headerlink" href="#courtesy-runner-cr" title="Permanent link"></a></h4>
<p>A Courtesy Runner may be used for pitchers or catchers at any time. It is not mandatory to do so.</p>
<p>A Courtesy Runner must not otherwise have participated in the game unless no eligible substitute remains. In this case, teams must use the first player taken out of the game or the player that made the last out.</p>
<p>Pitchers or catchers must record at least one (1) defensive out to be eligible, unless reaching base in the first inning as the visiting team.</p>
<h3 id="injury-substitutions"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.7.6</span> Injury Substitutions<a class="headerlink" href="#injury-substitutions" title="Permanent link"></a></h3>
<p>Substitutions are governed by the applicable Lineup Format with the following exception:</p>
<p>Should a player suffer a debilitating injury during the game and cannot continue, and a team has no more eligible players on its bench, a team can use a player that was removed from the game to replace him. This replacement player must be the first player removed from the game, and if this player is unavailable the next player is used (and so on). If no reserve is present, the vacated spot in the lineup is skipped and all batters move up accordingly, with no penalty to the affected team.</p>
<ol>
<li>If a substantial case can be made that a team skipped a spot with the intent to gain a competitive advantage, a protest by the opposing team may retroactively be ruled as a forfeit.</li>
</ol>
<h2 id="equipment"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.8</span> Equipment<a class="headerlink" href="#equipment" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<ol>
<li>Baseballs: Only Major League regulation balls will be allowed for game play. Accepted brands and ball types include, but are not limited to, the Rawlings RO series, Wilson A1000 series, and Diamond D-1 series. The home team must supply two (2) and the visitors one (1) ball at the start of each game. Additional balls shall be supplied alternately by each team beginning with the visiting team. Teams that supply non-approved balls shall forfeit the game.</li>
<li>Bats: All bats must be wood or BBCOR certified. Use of an illegal bat shall be subject to the Major League rules that govern this area.</li>
<li>Bases, home plate, and pitching rubber: All teams are expected to have a set of bases, a home plate, and a pitching rubber. These items shall conform to Major League Baseball specifications. Items conforming to 2022 specifications shall also be considered legal.</li>
</ol>
<p>The home team shall be responsible for accurately setting up the bases, and if necessary, home plate and the pitching rubber. Should the home team fail to have these necessities by the start of the game, they will lose by forfeit. The visiting team can lend the equipment, although they are not required to do so.</p>
<h2 id="field-maintenance"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.9</span> Field Maintenance<a class="headerlink" href="#field-maintenance" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>All teams are responsible for the maintenance and cleanup of the field and dugout areas after a game. Both teams must fill in all infield, batter’s box, and pitching mound holes. Additionally, both teams must have adequate equipment on hand for field maintenance. Teams who repeatedly fail to do proper post-game maintenance shall be fined.</p>
<h2 id="payment-of-umpires"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.10</span> Payment of Umpires<a class="headerlink" href="#payment-of-umpires" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>Umpires are to be paid on the field promptly upon request.</p>
<h2 id="designated-hitter"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.11</span> Designated Hitter<a class="headerlink" href="#designated-hitter" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>The Association shall follow the Major League designated hitter rule at all times, with the exception that a team may designate a D.H. for any position on the field.</p>
<h2 id="designated-runner"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.12</span> Designated Runner<a class="headerlink" href="#designated-runner" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>The Association shall elect to use a designated runner rule, similar to the designated hitter rule.</p>
<ol>
<li>A runner may be designated to run for a specified player in any game without otherwise affecting the status of the player(s) in the game.</li>
<li>The designated runner must take the place of the specified player whenever that player reaches base or the designated runner. </li>
<li>If the specified player is substituted, this substitute player may inherit the designated runner.</li>
<li>Designated runners are subject to the same substitution rules as the designated hitter as defined in <a href="#designated-hitter">3.11 Designated Hitter</a></li>
<li>Teams with no eligible players remaining on the bench (i.e. all players are in the batting lineup) may elect to use the player that made the last out as the designated runner.</li>
</ol>
<h2 id="extra-hitter"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.13</span> Extra Hitter<a class="headerlink" href="#extra-hitter" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>Prior to the start of the game a team may choose to play an extra hitter (EH). If the team uses this option, the following conditions apply:</p>
<ol>
<li>An EH shall only bat. They cannot take a position in the field as a tenth fielder.</li>
<li>The EH shall be treated like any other position in the field. He can be substituted for, switch positions, or anything else that a position player can do.</li>
<li>There is no limit to the number of extra hitters a team may elect to use, provided the names and numbers of these players are included in the lineup exchanged before the game.</li>
</ol>
<h2 id="courtesy-runner"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.14</span> Courtesy Runner<a class="headerlink" href="#courtesy-runner" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>Teams may use courtesy runners for pitchers and catchers at any time. It is not mandatory to do so (speed-up rule), but the umpire(s) are required to keep the game moving expeditiously.</p>
<ol>
<li>Courtesy runners for pitchers and catchers cannot be, or have been, in the game at any time other than as a courtesy runner. Teams with no eligible players remaining on the bench must use the first player taken out of the game or the player that made the last out.</li>
<li>The pitcher or catcher must play at least one (1) defensive out to be eligible for a courtesy runner unless they reach base in the first inning as a member of the visiting team.</li>
</ol>
<h2 id="batting-lineup"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.15</span> Batting Lineup<a class="headerlink" href="#batting-lineup" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>The batting lineup shall consist of at minimum 9 slots (or 8 adhering to section <a href="#minimum-number-of-players">3.6 Minimum Number of Players</a>). Additional slots may be used without limit (see <a href="#extra-hitter">3.13 Extra Hitter</a>). Any player may be substituted in their batting lineup slot by using a pinch-hitter or pinch-runner for that player. The original player may not re-enter the game as a hitter.</p>
<h2 id="ab-batting-lineup-slots"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.16</span> A/B Batting Lineup Slots<a class="headerlink" href="#ab-batting-lineup-slots" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>In regular season play, any batting lineup slot may be optionally designated as an "A/B" batting slot, meaning it is shared between two players adhering to the following rules:</p>
<ol>
<li>The batter designated "A" shall bat the first time through the lineup and the batter designated "B" batting the second time through the lineup, continuing in alternating fashion for the remainder of the game. </li>
<li>Rules for the substitutions of either "A" or "B" batter are the same as any other batting lineup slot.</li>
<li>In the event of injury of either player when there are no reserve players available, the uninjured player shall bat in place of the injured player without penalty.</li>
</ol>
<p>In postseason play, the A/B batting slot rule defined above shall not be applicable.</p>
<h2 id="defensive-lineup"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.17</span> Defensive Lineup<a class="headerlink" href="#defensive-lineup" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>In regular season play, the defensive line-up is independent of the batting lineup and substitutions shall be allowed as follows:</p>
<ol>
<li>Any player may be freely substituted in the defensive line-up at any time, without affecting the players’ in the batting line-up. Players may enter, exit, and re-enter the game in the defensive line-up without limitation.</li>
</ol>
<p>In postseason play, the free defensive substitution rule defined above shall not be applicable and substitutions shall be made in accordance to applicable CMBA and MLB rules.</p>
<h2 id="field-status"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.18</span> Field Status<a class="headerlink" href="#field-status" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>The home team shall be responsible for checking the status of the field in the event of rain. The home team must report the status of the field to the President and the assigned umpire no later than 2:00 pm for a weeknight game, and at least 2 hrs. before a weekend game. As a courtesy, the home team should also notify the visiting manager, but the visiting manager may also contact the President for information regarding the status of the field.</p>
<ol>
<li>Any manager who knowingly falsifies information regarding the status of the field to avoid playing the game will be fined and the team will forfeit the game.</li>
</ol>
<h2 id="rescheduling"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.19</span> Rescheduling<a class="headerlink" href="#rescheduling" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>In the discretion of the president, a game may be postponed due to extraordinary circumstances. In the event a game is to be postponed, the president shall alert the managers in an expedient manner.
Managers from both teams must contact the President to confirm any changes that they wish to make to the official schedule. Teams may not change times, places, or dates of games without the consent of the President. Any such games played shall be considered unofficial.
Any postponed or suspended games must be rescheduled in a timely fashion by the managers of that game for the next possible date. If managers cannot come to an agreement in a timely fashion, the President may reschedule the game.</p>
<h2 id="notification-of-results"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.20</span> Notification of Results<a class="headerlink" href="#notification-of-results" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>The winning team shall be responsible for notifying the President of the score of the game no later than 10:00 AM the day after the game was played via text message, email, or telephone call.</p>
<h2 id="uncompleted-games"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.21</span> Uncompleted Games<a class="headerlink" href="#uncompleted-games" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>All games not completed by the end of the regular season shall count as losses for both teams unless a team deliberately attempts to avoid playing a sanctioned game. The team that was willing to play the game will be judged the forfeit winner if so ruled by the President.</p>
<h2 id="substitution-of-an-umpire"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.22</span> Substitution of an Umpire<a class="headerlink" href="#substitution-of-an-umpire" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>Should a league sanctioned umpire fail to appear at game time, the teams can choose to play the game with an umpire(s) of mutual choosing. The President needs to be informed by both teams prior to the start of the game to make it official.</p>
<h2 id="collisions"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.23</span> Collisions<a class="headerlink" href="#collisions" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>NO COLLISIONS ARE ALLOWED, UNLESS THE CONTACT RESULTS FROM A SLIDE. It is the base runners responsibility to slide or avoid contact. Fielders and runners must abide by Official Baseball Rules regarding Interference, Obstruction, and Catcher Collisions..
Unless the umpire rules that the contact was incidental or the result of Obstruction by the fielder, the runner shall be called out, the ball declared dead and the runner automatically ejected from the game. Per <a href="#flagrant-collisions">Flagrant Collisions</a>. if the collision is determined by the umpire to be flagrant the player may be subject to the further penalty as defined in that section.</p>
<h2 id="umpire-disputes"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.24</span> Umpire Disputes<a class="headerlink" href="#umpire-disputes" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>Discussion of a disputed umpires call shall be limited to the managers, base coaches and the “aggrieved player. No player or other coach (third party) shall be allowed to leave the dugout or his defensive position to join in. The penalty for violating this rule shall be the immediate ejection from the game.</p>
<p>If a substantial case can be made that a team skipped a spot with the intent to gain a competitive advantage, the offending team may be subject to penalty, up to and including forfeit following a successful protest in accordance with League Policy.</p>
<h2 id="collisions"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.8</span> Collisions<a class="headerlink" href="#collisions" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>Collisions are prohibited, except for contact that results from a legal slide. The runner is responsible for sliding or otherwise avoiding contact. Fielders and runners must comply with Incorporated Rules governing interference, obstruction, and collisions at home plate.</p>
<p>Unless the umpire rules that the contact was incidental or caused by fielder obstruction, the runner shall be called out, the ball declared dead, and the runner automatically ejected. If the umpire determines the collision was flagrant, additional penalties may be imposed as applicable in League Policy.</p>
<h2 id="umpire-disputes"><span class="enumerate-headings-plugin enumerate-heading-plugin">3.9</span> Umpire Disputes<a class="headerlink" href="#umpire-disputes" title="Permanent link"></a></h2>
<p>The appeal of umpire decisions shall be governed as set forth in the Incorporated Rules. Any protests must be made in accordance with League Policy.</p>
<div class="admonition note">
<p class="admonition-title">Generally</p>
<ul>
<li>Any umpire’s decision which involves judgment is final. No player or manager shall object to any such judgment decisions. </li>
<li>If there is reasonable doubt that any umpire’s decision may be in conflict with the rules, the Manager, and the Manager alone, may appeal the decision and ask that a correct ruling be made. </li>
</ul>
</div>
</article>
</div>
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