cmba-bylaws/docs/02-league-rules-and-policy.md

League Rules and Policy

Authority and Applicability

This Rules and Policy document is adopted pursuant to the League’s Constitution and Bylaws and governs the operational rules, procedures, and competitive structure of the League. In the event of a conflict between this document and the Constitution and Bylaws, the Constitution and Bylaws shall control.

League Governance

The Commissioner is responsible for the day-to-day administration of League operations in accordance with the Constitution and Bylaws and this Rules and Policy document. The Board provides oversight of League operations and may review or direct actions of the Commissioner.

Operational Rights of Member Franchises

1. Member Franchises in good standing shall have the right to participate in League governance on matters of League operation as provided herein.
2. Member Franchises shall have the right to appeal disciplinary or eligibility decisions affecting them in accordance with procedures set forth in this document.
3. Member Franchises may provide input and vote in an advisory capacity on matters of League policy, administration, and operation.
4. Member Franchises may vote with binding effect on playing rules, competition rules, and on-field regulations, except where authority is otherwise reserved by this document or the Constitution and Bylaws. Each Member Franchise is entitled to one vote.
5. Each Member Franchise is entitled to one vote in voting matters.
6. Exercise of these rights is contingent upon the Member Franchise being in good standing.

Budget

The Commissioner shall prepare a proposed budget for each fiscal year.

The proposed budget shall include, at a minimum:

1. Annual Member Franchise dues and payment schedule;
2. Other anticipated sources of income;
3. Expected expenditures for the operating year.

The proposed budget shall be presented to the Board for review and approval. Upon approval by the Board, the budget shall constitute the official League Budget for the applicable fiscal year. The approved League Budget shall be shared with all Member Franchises on an annual basis for informational purposes.

Appointed League Roles

The Commissioner may appoint individuals to operational roles as necessary to support League administration, subject to Board oversight.

Appointed roles may include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Umpire Assigner;
2. Scheduler;
3. Webmaster;
4. Social Media or Communications Coordinator;
5. Other roles deemed necessary by the Commissioner.

The Commissioner shall define the duties, scope, and term of each appointed role. Any compensation for a role shall require Board approval and shall be included as part of the Board-approved budget.

No appointed role shall possess independent authority to interpret rules, impose discipline, levy fees or fines, or bind the League, unless such authority is expressly granted by this document or the Board.

Committees

The League may establish committees as necessary to assist in the administration, governance, or operation of League activities. Committees are advisory bodies and shall have only the authority expressly granted to them by this document, the Commissioner, or the Board. Committee members shall be appointed by the Commissioner, subject to Board oversight, unless otherwise specified. The Commissioner may appoint alternate committee members when a committee member is unavailable or has a conflict of interest. Committees may be convened at the discretion of the Commissioner.

Committees may be formed for specific purposes, including but not limited to:

1. Advising on disciplinary matters and appeals;
2. Evaluating disputes and ruling on formal game protests;
3. Reviewing or proposing additions or amendments to playing rules;
4. Assisting with competition structure or game administration.

The Committee shall issue findings and recommendations to the Commissioner or Board, as applicable. The Committee shall have no independent authority to impose discipline, overturn decisions, or bind the League unless expressly authorized elsewhere in this document.

Amendments and Rule Changes

Constitution and Bylaws

Amendments to the Constitution and Bylaws are governed exclusively by the procedures set forth therein. Nothing in this Rules and Policy document shall modify or supersede those requirements.

Rules and Policy Amendments

1. This Rules and Policy document may be amended to address League operations, administration, discipline, or procedures.
2. Amendments may be proposed by the Commissioner or the Board.
3. Adoption of a Rules and Policy amendment shall require approval by the Board.
4. Member Franchises may be afforded an opportunity to provide advisory vote on proposed amendments.
5. Approved amendments shall take effect as specified at the time of adoption.

Playing Rules Amendments

1. Playing rules governing on-field competition may be amended separately from this Rules and Policy document.
2. Playing rules amendments shall be adopted by a vote of Member Franchises in good standing.
3. Unless otherwise specified, a simple majority vote shall be sufficient to adopt a playing rules amendment.
4. Playing rules amendments shall not apply retroactively and shall take effect at the start of a season.

League Participants

Member Franchises (Teams) and Managers

A Member Franchise consists of:

1. A league-approved team identity;
2. A designated Manager authorized to act on its behalf;
3. A roster of eligible and capable players;

All references to “Teams” within this document shall be deemed synonymous with “Member Franchises.”

Recognition

1. A Member Franchise shall be recognized by the league upon acceptance by the League and payment of all required fees.
2. Recognition grants the Member Franchise the right to participate in league activities, subject to compliance with this document.
3. Membership does not confer ownership rights beyond league participation.

Team Identity

1. Each Member Franchise shall operate under a single league-approved team name.
2. Team names must be unique within the league.
3. The league reserves the right to reject, revoke, or require modification of any team name for any reason, including but not limited to offensiveness, duplication, or reputational concerns.

Admission of New Member Franchises

The Commissioner shall review applications for new Member Franchises for compliance with Franchise Standards.

1. Upon acceptable review, the Commissioner shall present the proposed Member Franchise to the League membership for consideration.
2. Proposed Member Franchises may present a positive case for inclusion.
3. Acceptance shall require a simple majority vote of the Board.

Manager Designation and Authority

1. Each Member Franchise shall designate one individual as its Manager. It may also designate an Assistant Manager.
2. The Manager shall be the sole authorized representative of the Member Franchise for all league matters unless otherwise approved by the Commissioner.
3. The Manager shall be responsible for:
   1. Communication with the league;
   2. Submission of rosters and player information;
   3. Payment or coordination of all required fees;
   4. Ensuring compliance with league rules by players and associated individuals.
4. All actions taken by the Manager shall be deemed actions of the Member Franchise.
5. The Member Franchise shall remain responsible for all obligations and penalties regardless of internal team disputes or player actions.

Manager Changes

1. A Member Franchise may change its Manager by providing notice to the Commissioner.
2. Manager changes shall not relieve the Member Franchise of any existing obligations, penalties, or disciplinary actions.

Players

A Player is an individual listed on the official roster of a Member Franchise.

Player status is contingent upon:

1. Compliance with roster and eligibility requirements;
2. Payment of any applicable fees to their Manager or the League;
3. Adherence to all League rules, policies, and codes of conduct.

A Player participates in League activities solely through association with a Member Franchise and possesses no independent membership rights.

Membership Standing, Obligations, and Discipline

Standing and Membership Status

1. In Good Standing

   1. A Member Franchise shall be considered in good standing when it has satisfied all financial obligations, complied with League rules and policies, and is not subject to suspension.
   2. Only Member Franchises in good standing may exercise membership rights, including voting, participation in postseason play, and eligibility for League awards.

2. Temporary Suspension

   1. A Member Franchise may be placed on temporary suspension by the Commissioner for failure to comply with financial obligations or other League requirements.
   2. A temporarily suspended Member Franchise shall have its membership rights suspended for the duration of the suspension.

3. Indefinite Suspension

   1. A Member Franchise may be placed on indefinite suspension by the Commissioner for serious or repeated violations of League rules or policies.
   2. An indefinitely suspended Member Franchise shall forfeit all membership rights until reinstated.
   3. Grounds for indefinite suspension may include, but are not limited to:
      1. Conduct detrimental to the objectives of the League;
      2. Two (2) forfeits of games in a single season;
      3. Tampering with players on the roster of another Member Franchise;
      4. Consumption of alcoholic beverages on or in close proximity to playing fields in violation of League or facility rules;
      5. Violation of policies imposed by permit issuers for League field use;
      6. Failure to comply with codes of conduct set forth in this document.

4. Leave of Absence

   1. A Member Franchise in good standing may be granted a leave of absence by the Commissioner.
   2. A Member Franchise on an approved leave of absence shall retain such membership rights as determined by the Commissioner.
   3. A Member Franchise on leave of absence for more than two (2) years must reapply for membership.

Change of Status

A Member Franchise subject to suspension may be granted a change of status by the Commissioner upon resolution of the conditions giving rise to the suspension. A change of status may include restoration to good standing or modification of the existing suspension, subject to any conditions imposed by the Commissioner or otherwise required by this document.

Discipline and Enforcement

To be successful, the League depends on self-regulation and shared accountability. All League participants are expected to encourage one another to comply with League rules and expectations. Participants may report potential infractions to the Commissioner, any League Officer, or any member of the Board by text message, email, phone call, or other means. A report, by itself, does not constitute a request for forfeit or any other specific sanction. League officials may retain such reports to identify patterns or repeated issues and to support further action when appropriate.

Authority

The Commissioner shall have authority to impose discipline consistent with this document, including warnings, fines, suspensions, and referrals for further review. Disciplinary actions may apply to Players, Managers, or Member Franchises, as appropriate.

In exercising enforcement authority, the Commissioner may utilize one or more of the following disciplinary measures, as appropriate to the circumstances:

1. Warnings or formal notices of violation;
2. Assessment of fines or fees as otherwise permitted by this document;
3. Declaration of forfeits;
4. Modification of standing or eligibility status;
5. Referral of matters for advisory review or appeal pursuant to this document.

Meetings

All franchise members are expected to attend all league meetings. Failure of a franchise to send a representative to a meeting may result in a fine. Those members present at any meeting shall constitute a quorum.

Financial Obligations

1. Each Member Franchise is responsible for payment of all League dues, fees, and fines assessed to it pursuant to the approved League Budget or this document.
2. Each Player in the League is expected to pay their team fees as designated by that team. Players may not switch teams within the League unless or until any and all debts are paid in full.
3. Players may be assessed individual fees or fines as permitted by League rules; however, the Member Franchise shall remain ultimately responsible for ensuring such obligations are satisfied.
4. Failure to satisfy financial obligations in accordance with established deadlines may result in penalties, suspension, or loss of good standing as provided elsewhere in this document.

Restrictions

Tampering

Tampering, or poaching, is defined as the deliberate solicitation, without consent, of a Player who has made at least an oral commitment to another Member Franchise. Tampering is discouraged and may result in disciplinary action against the offending Player, Member Franchise, or both.

Outside League Participation

Member Franchises are expected to prioritize their commitments to the League. Participation in outside leagues is permitted by agreement with the League. Participation in outside leagues does not relieve a Member Franchise or its Players of League obligations, including playing games on their League-scheduled dates and times. Violations of this provision may result in disciplinary action.

Penalties and Fees

The Commissioner may levy fines to any League Member franchise or player subject to Board oversight. Fines may be levied for violation of this Constitution and its Bylaws or conduct unbecoming of a representative of the League. The penalties and amounts set forth in this section are operational in nature and may be adjusted by the Commissioner with Board oversight, unless otherwise specified.

1. Late payment of annual dues shall incur a penalty of ten dollars ($10.00) per week, not to exceed five (5) weeks.
2. Members in violation of the above shall be placed on temporary suspension for a period of two (2) weeks.
3. Members who have not paid outstanding dues by the end of the two week suspension shall be placed on indefinite suspension until all dues are paid. Members who have not paid outstanding dues by the end of the two week suspension shall be placed on indefinite suspension until all dues are paid.
4. A forfeit fee may be assessed per forfeited game.
5. Fines for a single incident shall not exceed fifty dollars ($50.00).

Appeals

1. A Manager or Player may appeal a disciplinary or eligibility decision by submitting a written appeal within the timeframe established by the Commissioner, unless a different deadline is expressly stated elsewhere in this document.
2. The Commissioner may decide appeals directly or refer them for advisory review as appropriate.
3. A Manager aggrieved by a discretionary or judgment decision of the Commissioner may request Board review within seventy-two (72) hours of the decision; the Board may, in its sole discretion, accept or decline review, and if it accepts review, it may affirm, modify, or reverse the Commissioner's decision by majority vote. The Board is not required to hold a hearing or provide a written explanation when declining review, and unless the Board grants a stay, the Commissioner's decision remains in effect pending Board review. Decisions on appeal or Board review are final.

Conduct and Discipline

League Standard

The League is committed to serious, clean, and competitive amateur baseball. The CMBA is not intended to operate as a casual “beer league”; it is a structured competition where players, Managers, and Member Franchises are expected to prepare, compete, and conduct themselves with professionalism, integrity, and respect for the game.

General Conduct Expectations

All League members, including officers, Managers, umpires, players, coaches, and team personnel, shall:

1. Act honestly and in good faith in all League matters.
2. Compete with sportsmanship and respect for opponents, teammates, umpires, and League officials.
3. Comply with all League rules, facility rules, and applicable laws.
4. Refrain from conduct detrimental to the League’s competitive standards, reputation, or operations.
5. Follow directives issued by umpires and League officials during games and League activities.

Prohibited Conduct

Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to:

1. Fighting, physical altercations, or threatening behavior.
2. Leaving the bench or a defensive position to join or escalate an on-field altercation.
3. Physical assault, intimidation, or abuse of an umpire, League official, player, coach, or spectator.
4. Use, possession, or consumption of prohibited substances in violation of League, facility, or legal requirements, including alcohol and smoking in the dugout and on the playing field.
5. Flagrant or intentional dangerous play, including prohibited collisions.
6. Harassment, discriminatory conduct, or abusive language inconsistent with League standards.
7. Knowingly providing false information in protests, field status reports, roster submissions, or other League processes.
8. Repeated or willful refusal to comply with League rules, disciplinary directives, or financial obligations.

Penalties and Enforcement

1. The Commissioner has primary authority to investigate matters and impose discipline, subject to Board oversight as otherwise provided in this document.
2. The Commissioner may convene a committee to assist with an investigation and provide recommendations for action; however, such recommendations are not binding unless the Commissioner or the Board expressly grants the committee binding authority at the time it is formed.
3. Discipline may be imposed on a Player, Manager, coach, or Member Franchise, including one or more of the following:
   1. Written warning or reprimand;
   2. Fine or fee;
   3. Game ejection;
   4. Suspension for a specified number of games or period of time;
   5. Forfeit or technical forfeit consequences where applicable;
   6. Loss of good standing;
   7. Indefinite suspension or expulsion from the League for severe or repeated violations.
4. In determining discipline, the Commissioner may consider severity, intent, prior conduct, risk to safety, and whether the conduct harmed League operations or competitive integrity.
5. Managers are responsible for the conduct of their players, coaches, and team personnel and may be disciplined for team-related violations.

Specific Minimum Penalties

Unless stronger discipline is warranted by the circumstances:

1. Any player who instigates a phyiscal fight shall be suspended for not less than one (1) full season and may be fined.
2. Any player or coach who participates in a physical fight shall be suspended for three (3) games and fined fifty dollars ($50.00).
3. Any player or coach who physically assaults an umpire shall be permanently expelled from the League and may be reported to law enforcement as required.
4. A player ejected for a flagrant collision shall be suspended for three (3) games and fined thirty dollars ($30.00).
   1. A second offense shall result in suspension for the remainder of the season, including postseason.
   2. A third offense shall result in permanent expulsion from the League.

Alcohol Prohibition

For the safety of all participants and the preservation of serious and competitive baseball, alcohol shall be prohibited during League play.

1. Open alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited on the playing field, in dugouts, on benches, and in any team area at League games or League events.
2. No Player, Manager, coach, or team personnel may consume or appear under the influence of alcohol in those areas or while actively participating in League play.
3. A Member Franchise is responsible for ensuring compliance by its players, coaches, and team personnel.
4. Any violation may result in immediate ejection, game forfeiture, fines, suspension, and further discipline for repeated or serious misconduct.
5. A second alcohol-related violation by the same individual or Member Franchise within a season may result in indefinite suspension or expulsion, subject to Commissioner determination and Board oversight.
6. This rule is in addition to, and does not limit, stricter field-permit, park district, or legal requirements.

Reporting and Appeals

1. Managers, umpires, and League officials shall promptly report alleged violations to the Commissioner.
2. A disciplined party may appeal under the Appeals section of this document.
3. Unless otherwise stated in a disciplinary notice, discipline remains in effect during appeal review.

Season Administration

Official League Communications

The Commissioner shall maintain official League communication channels to publish schedules, scores, standings, rosters, rules, notices, and other pertinent League information.

Team Rosters; Players and Eligibility

Roster Deadline; Roster Size

Prior to June 1, each team has an “open roster.” League teams must submit a roster of their players to the Commissioner no later than June 1 of each year. Any team that does not submit its roster to the Commissioner by June 1 as required by this Roster Deadline; Roster Size and in accordance with the information requirements in Roster Information Requirements shall be deemed not in good standing. Consequences of not being in good standing are defined in Classification; Standing of the Constitution. This submitted roster plus any and all legal roster transactions per Roster Transactions, shall be considered official. Players not on a team’s official roster are ineligible for play, except where specifically noted in this Teams And Managers.
Each team’s roster must contain a minimum of sixteen (16) players and shall not exceed twenty-six (26) players, in each case, excluding non-playing Managers and coaches.

Roster Information Requirements

A team’s rosters as submitted to the Commissioner on or before June 1 shall contain the following information for each rostered player: name, age, bats/throws, position(s),uniform number, and face photo. Rosters shall be submitted in Excel or via Google sheets (or similar editable spreadsheet.)

Roster Transactions

Teams may add a total of five (5) players to the roster after the June 1 roster submission deadline. The total number of players on a team still may not exceed twenty-six (26). In order to add players between June 1 and July 1 but not exceed the 26 player limit, a team may drop players who were rostered on June 1. No players may be added after July 1, except as set forth below. After July 1, upon request to the Rules and Competition Committee, a team may add a player if (i) the team’s roster has fallen (or, upon the removal of players “missing in action” as described below, will fall) below the 16 player minimum and (ii) doing so will, in the good faith determination of the Rules and Competition Committee, prevent the team from forfeiting games. In order for a team to declare a player “missing in action” after July 1, (i) the player shall have (a) failed to appear at all of the team’s games occurring prior to such request or (b) suffered a season-ending injury after June 1 and (ii) the team must drop the player from its roster.

A team may drop players at any time as long as the team’s roster does not fall below the 16 player minimum.

Any and all roster changes shall be submitted to the Commissioner and satisfy the information requirements in Roster Information Requirements. Roster changes shall be effective as of the first pitch of the team’s first regularly scheduled game after the updated roster is submitted.

Alumni

If a team would otherwise be required to forfeit or technically forfeit a game after June 1 due to a lack of eligible players in attendance, the team can use one (but not more than one) of its former players (“alumni”) in that game. The team’s Manager shall inform the opposing team’s Manager and the Commissioner as soon as possible (and in no event later than the first pitch) the intention to use an alumni player and will provide to the opposing team’s Manager and the Commissioner with the alumni player’s name, age, bats/throws, position and uniform number. Alumni players are not eligible to play in the playoffs.

Eligible Players

Eligible players must be of at least eighteen (18) years of age by the date of the teams first +game. No player may play for more than one team in a season (either before or after June 1). A team that uses an ineligible player, per the rules in this Team Rosters Players And Eligibility, will be deemed to have forfeited any and all games in which the illegal player(s) participated.

Postseason Player Eligibility

Players must appear in at least five (5) games during the regular season in order to be eligible for postseason play. Upon request to the Rules and Competition Committee, exceptions may be made for players with long term injuries.

Free Agents

A player must inform the League Commissioner and such player's Manager no later than February 15 of the upcoming season if of an intention to leave the team and become a free agent. After this the player is free to play for another team in the League. A Manager may waive this deadline for an individual player at the Manager’s discretion. If the player fails to notify as specified, that player shall be disqualified from playing on another League team for that season.

Uncompleted Games

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 Commissioner.

League Standings

The League shall use a point system to determine the standings. A team is awarded:

1. Two (2) points for a win (including a win against a team in technical forfeit)
2. One (1) point for a win while in technical forfeit (see Forfeits)
3. One (1) point for a tie game
4. Zero (0) points for a loss
5. Minus two (-2) points for a loss by forfeit (see Forfeits).

Standings Tie-breakers

In the event two teams finish the regular season in a tie for a position, the following tie-breaking procedure will take effect:

1. Record in head-to-head competition.
2. Record within the league.
3. Record within the division (if applicable).
4. Least runs allowed for the season.
5. Coin toss, performed by the Commissioner with a witness.

Postseason Format

The postseason format shall be determined by annual vote.

Prizes and Awards

Playoff prizes and awards, if any, shall be determined by the membership of the league.

Playoff Umpire Selection

For the playoffs, each team will be granted the ability to exclude one (1) particular umpire from participating in said teams series. The name of this umpire shall be submitted to the chief umpire as soon as possible prior to the series. This umpire “veto” will be binding UNLESS the chief umpire cannot find any other umpire who can work any game in this series.

Completion of Playoff Games

All playoff games must be played to completion. If a playoff game is suspended for any reason, the game must be finished at a later date declared by the Commissioner. This game is declared suspended, and regardless of what inning or circumstance, the game will be continued from the point in the game when it was suspended. The “Slaughter Rule” is applicable for the playoffs (see Regulation Games).

Game Administration

Subjectivity

No official playing rule or League policy may be suspended, set aside, or added to under any circumstances, regardless of the will of the Managers. This provision nullifies the “If both managers agree” concept.

Pre-Game

Field Status

The host team of the field shall be responsible for checking the status of the field in the event of rain. In the event neither team is the host of the field, the home team shall be the responsible team. The responsible team must report the status of the field to the Commissioner 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 responsible team should also notify the visiting Manager, but the visiting Manager may also contact the Commissioner for information regarding the status of the field.

Any Manager who knowingly falsifies information regarding the status of the field to avoid playing the game for any reason will be fined and the team will forfeit the game.

Rescheduling

Managers from both teams must contact the Commissioner 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 Commissioner. Any such games played shall be considered unofficial.

In the discretion of the Commissioner, a game may be postponed due to extraordinary circumstances. In the event a game is to be postponed, the Commissioner shall alert the Managers in an expedient manner.

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 Commissioner may reschedule the game.

In-Game

Baseballs

Professional-, college-, or high school-grade baseballs 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) baseball at the start of each game. Supplied baseballs should be new, however in rare extenuating circumstances, previously used baseballs may be used if they are in good playable condition and approved by the umpire. Additional balls shall be supplied alternately by each team beginning with the visiting team. Teams that supply non-approved balls may face displine up to and including forfeit of the game.

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.

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.

The host team for the field shall be responsible for accurately setting up the bases, and if necessary, home plate and the pitching rubber. In the event neither team is host of the field, the home team shall have this responsibilty. Should the responsible team fail to have these necessities by the start of the game, they will lose by forfeit. The visiting team may lend the equipment, although they are not required to do so.

Uniforms

Uniform compliance is required in order to protect League competitive integrity, roster transparency, and game administration.

1. Required uniform elements are:
   1. Team jersey bearing the team identity;
   2. A unique uniform number assigned to that Player;
   3. Baseball pants.
2. A Player may not wear or borrow another rostered Player’s jersey or number to satisfy this rule.
3. By each Member Franchise’s first regular-season game, all rostered Players are required to be in compliant uniforms.
4. If a Member Franchise cannot meet full compliance due to extenuating circumstances, its Manager must notify the Commissioner or designated League officer before game time, state the reason, and provide a date certain for correction.
5. Any Manager who observes a material uniform violation is encouraged to report it promptly to the Commissioner. Reporting does imply a request for forfeit. Umpires are also encouraged to note and report uniform issues.
6. The Commissioner may impose discipline for uniform non-compliance, including warnings, corrective deadlines, fines, temporary player ineligibility, and other remedies authorized by League rules. In determining the appropriate discipline, the Commissioner may consider factors including bad faith, repeated non-compliance, and refusal to comply with a League directive. Penalties may be imposed up to and including game forfeits.

Umpires

Umpires shall have the sole responsibility for the enforcement of all sections in Team Rosters Players And Eligibility of the Bylaws, except where specified.

Umpires are to be paid on the field promptly upon request.

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 Commissioner needs to be informed by both teams prior to the start of the game to make it official.

Minimum Number of Players

Forfeit time shall be 20 minutes after the scheduled starting time. If a ninth player does not arrive or arrives after forfeit time, the team shall be in technical forfeit, as defined in Forfeits.

1. 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.
2. A team in technical forfeit shall remain in technical forfeit, regardless of the number of players with which it finished the game.

If a ninth player does not arrive or arrives after forfeit time, the team shall be in technical forfeit, as defined in Forfeits.

Protests

Protests may only be made on the grounds of a violation of a rule stated in League policy or playing rules. Protests may not, under any circumstances, be based on the judgment of an umpire’s call. The protesting team’s Manager must notify the umpire of the protest at the time the violation occurred.

Post-Game

Field Maintenance

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 may be subject to discipline.

Notification of Results

The winning team shall be responsible for notifying the Commissioner 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. In the result of a forfeit, notification shall be immediately at the conclusion of the game.

Notification of Protest

Managers shall notify the league Commissioner at the earliest possible time after the game and provide umpire signature as proof of notification.

All protests must be filed with the Commissioner within 48 hours of the alleged infraction and on the League supplied form. All requested information must be accurately reported. Any Manager who knowingly falsifies information on the protest form will be fined and suspended as determined by the Commissioner, and that Manager’s team will forfeit the game.

Ruling

Upon the filing of a protest with the Commissioner, the Commissioner shall call a meeting of the Rules and Competition Committee at the earliest possible date. Judgment regarding the merit of the protest shall be made after deliberation.

Forfeiting teams must pay, at the time of the forfeit, the full cost of the umpire(s), and shall be considered not in good standing as defined in Classification; Standing. Teams will be considered not in good standing until payment is made. In the event a team is unable to pay the umpire at the proper time, the team’s forfeit fee will be used to cover initial forfeits. The cost of additional forfeits will be paid by the team.

Game Outcomes

Technical forfeit

If a team is in technical forfeit status, the game may proceed as permitted by Playing Rules, but the following applies:

1. A team in technical forfeit that wins shall receive one (1) standings point for that game.
2. A team may receive up to two (2) technical forfeits in a season.
3. After a team reaches two (2) technical forfeits, each subsequent technical forfeit shall be converted to a forfeit.
4. Technical forfeit status remains in effect for that game regardless of later player arrivals.

The opponent of a team in technical forfeit is entitled to a full (2) standings points for a win.

Forfeit

If a game is forfeited, the following applies:

1. The forfeiting team shall receive a loss and a minus two (-2) point standings penalty.
2. The non-forfeiting team shall receive a 7 runs to 0 runs win in the standings and is entitled to a full (2) standings points.
3. The forfeiting team must pay the full cost of umpire fees for the forfeited game.
4. A team that forfeits two (2) games in a season may be suspended for the remainder of the season and postseason and placed on indefinite suspension, subject to Commissioner determination.
5. If a team is placed on indefinite suspension for repeated forfeits:
   1. Prior games already played shall remain in the official standings.
   2. Subsequent scheduled games shall be recorded as forfeits.