CAL RIPKEN

Major League

GAME RULES

All players will play but there is not such thing as equal playing time in this league. All players should play at least three (3) innings in the field per game, bat at least one time per game and start one game of doubleheaders. Teams can bat the nine (9) starters and an extra hitter (EH). The extra hitter rule provides an option to bat ten (10) players in the lineup. The extra hitter is not considered a position starter.

2. Games are six (6) innings in length.

A twelve (12) run rule will be in effect after four (4) complete innings. A ten (10) run rule will be in affect after five (5) innings.
A maximum of six (6) runs can be scored in a half inning, except for the team that is behind in the last inning. Meaning: If a team scores six (6) runs in an inning, the inning is over.
Pitchers can only pitch six (6) innings in a week (Monday – Sunday). One (1) pitch in an inning is considered an inning. (Play-offs: pitchers can throw nine (9) innings)
Base runners cannot leave the base until the ball crosses the plate. Penalty: the result of the pitch stands and the base runner may only advance one base further than the batter (i.e. if the pitch is a swinging strike, the runner would return to 1^st base or if the batter doubles the runner would advance to 3^rd base).
On a swinging third strike and the catcher misses the ball, the batter is out.
Players are allowed to steal any base and/or advance on a passed ball.
All catchers must wear their facemask when warming up their pitchers.
Male catchers must have a protective cup when catching.
A team may play a game with eight (8) players. A team playing with eight (8) players will not be forced to take an out each time the ninth position comes to bat.
Games will be forfeited if a team has less than eight (8) players. If a team does not have enough players, they should add players from the other team and scrimmage.
Players coaching in the coach’s box MUST wear a helmet.

NOTE:

Players should be able to play multiple positions, but not everyone can be a pitcher, shortstop, etc. Rotating positions in this league is recommended, but not required. If a player wants to pitch or catch they should let the coach know. All pitchers should have prior practice before they can pitch in a game situation.

Development of arm strength is our main concern and we will not abuse any of our pitchers. Teaching proper throwing mechanics is the key to a pitcher’s success. Please don’t teach players how to throw a curve ball. Throwing a curve ball puts a constant snapping and twisting on their tendons in the elbow area and virtually could end their baseball career.

CAL RIPKEN

Major League

General Rules

Players should be on time to practices and games.
Players should be picked up immediately after practice and games, coaches have volunteered to coach, NOT baby sit.
Players should be ready to take the field each inning after their team has finished batting. Players should hustle on and off the field to keep the game moving.
Metal spikes are NOT allowed in this league.
Helmets and bats will NOT be thrown in anger.
Swearing will NOT be tolerated.

TEAM Selection: Players were evaluated and drafted to make teams equal.

NO REFUNDS once the season starts.

BIRTH CERTIFICATES are required for the players, CANNOT be hospital records.

GAME CANCELLATIONS

Games may be called off due to rain, lightning, heat or wet grounds. We will try our best to get the games in, but the safety of the players and coaches will come first. If you have any questions please call the Parks and Recreation office at 773-8000 or the weather announcement line at 773-2402.

Game cancellations prior to 4:00 p.m. will be determined by the Parks and Recreation Office. Announcements will be on the radio and the coaches will be notified. Coaches should call all players/parents to let them know of cancellations. Games not cancelled by 4:00 p.m. will be decided at the ball field by the coaches and/or umpires.