Fastpitch softball rules

DIVISIONS AND AGE REQUIREMENTS
Sec 1. THE YOUTH FASTPITCH PROGRAM WILL BE DIVIDED INTO 
THE FOLLOWING DIVISIONS. A player’s age on December 31, of 
the previous sanction year (which ends on an August date immediately after 
the second full weekend in August to be specifically determined annually) 
determines the age classification in which the player is eligible to participate. 
For example, a player who turns 11 on December 30th, 2022 must play 11U or 
older in the USSSA 2023 event year which will begin on August 17, 2022.
Any player 17, or who reaches their 17th birthday, or who graduates from High 
School in the calendar year of the current World Series, shall be eligible to 
participate in the Adult Open World Series Tournament.
Age Divisions Offered
Boys or Girls 6 & Under Boys or Girls 7 & Under Boys or Girls 8 & Under
Boys or Girls 9 & Under Boys or Girls 10 & Under Boys or Girls 11 & Under
Boys or Girls 12 & Under Boys or Girls 13 & Under Boys or Girls 14 & Under
Boys or Girls 15 & Under Boys or Girls 16 & Under
Male or Female 18 & Under Female 18 & Under Major Male or Female Open 
Sec 2. The Fastpitch program is designed for both boys and girls however, the boys 
program shall be entirely separate from the girls program.
Sec 3. The fastpitch season and team registration will run from a date immediately 
following the second full weekend in August (to be specifically determined 
annually) until a corresponding August date the following year. Tournaments 
and leagues played after the season end date will qualify teams for the 
following season’s State and World Series Tournaments. All teams playing 
between the season start date and December 31 must play by the following the 
USSSA playing year’s eligibility classifications.
Sec 4. Restrictions 
A. Players can play in a higher division, subject to minimum age 
requirements for each division, but cannot play in a lower division for 
which they are not age eligible according to the criteria in Section 1. 
Exception: This does not apply to the Adult Open Division; a player 
cannot play up in this division unless they meet the criteria in Section 1.
B. A player shall not compete in any sanctioned tournament of the 
association with more than one team during the same tournament.
C. Team and player eligibility rules not specifically covered above shall be 
referred to the USSSA Fastpitch National Committee only. The National 
Committee shall have a policy and procedures manual or information data 
to be used by State and /or Area directors. 
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Changes in the Seventeenth Edition
2024 RULES CHANGES
RULE 6 PITCHING, Sec 1.E.3, page 35 Clarifies that the pitcher’s pivot foot may not 
bear weight again until release of the pitch
RULE 8 BASE RUNNING, Sec 18.O, page 52 Expands the rule to include any fielder 
who has a play on a batted ball
RULE 8 BASE RUNNING, Sec 18.Z, page 53 Expands the rule to prohibit 
unauthorized runner assistance during any playing action (including advances on deadball awards)
RULE 17 COACH PITCH AND MACHINE PITCH RULES, Number 7 Creates a 
division-specific courtesy runner rule for the catcher only
RULE 17 COACH PITCH AND MACHINE PITCH RULES, Number 11 Requires 
base runners to return to the base occupied at the time of pitch on ALL non-batted balls
2024 BY-LAW CHANGES
ARTICLE III – TEAM ELIGIBILITY, Sec 2, page 81 Expands definition of teams in 
the program
ARTICLE IV – INDIVIDUAL PARTICIPANT ELIGIBILITY, Sec 4.2, page 81 
Mandates online approval of State Director-authorized roster additions
ARTICLE V – STATE AND INVITATIONAL TOURNAMENTS, Sec 4, page 
83 Defines final placement criteria for tournaments utilizing multiple brackets of 
unequal stature
ARTICLE V – STATE AND INVITATIONAL TOURNAMENTS, Sec 6, page 83 
Mandates use of the online system for entering final results and placements
ARTICLE VI – USSSA WORLD SERIES TOURNAMENTS, Sec 2.B, page 84 
Classifies the assignment of home and visitor in World Series events
ARTICLE VI – USSSA WORLD SERIES TOURNAMENTS, Sec 2.E.1a), page 
85 Stipulates winning percentage is to be used in determination of final placement 
for uncompleted events
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USSSA Official Fastpitch Playing Rules 
SEVENTEENTH EDITION
USSSA’s On-Line Fastpitch Rule Book is located at: www.USSSA.com
The On-Line Rule Book Supersedes the Printed Edition
There are no other rule books that govern USSSA Fastpitch. 
RULE 1. PLAYING FIELD
The Fastpitch Field Diagram
Base and Pitching Measurement – 60’ bases
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Sec 1. Pitching, base path distances and recommended field distances.
Divisions Female Pitching Male Pitching Base path Playing Field
Distance Distance Radius
Coach Pitch 35 Ft. 35 Ft. 60 Ft. 150-200 Ft
Machine Pitch 35 Ft. 40 Ft. 60 Ft. 150-200 Ft.
 8 & Under 35 Ft. 40 Ft. 60 Ft. 200 Ft.
 9 & Under 35 Ft. 40 Ft. 60 Ft. 200 Ft.
10 & Under 35 Ft. 40 Ft. 60 Ft. 200 Ft.
11 & Under 40 Ft. 40 Ft. 60 Ft. 200 Ft.
12 & Under 40 Ft. 40 Ft. 60 Ft. 200 Ft.
13 & Under 43 Ft. 46 Ft. 60 Ft. 200 Ft.
14 & Under 43 Ft. 46 Ft. 60 Ft. 200 Ft.
15 & Under 43 Ft. 46 Ft. 60 Ft. 200 - 225 Ft.
16 & Under 43 Ft. 46 Ft. 60 Ft. 200 - 225 Ft. 
18 & Under 43 Ft. 46 Ft 60 Ft 200 - 225 Ft.
Women’s Open 43 Ft. 60 Ft. 200 - 225 Ft.
Men’s Open 46 Ft. 60 Ft. 225 - 265 Ft.
NOTE: Every effort should be made by the Umpire to obtain the correct dimensions. 
If the base distances or the pitching distance is found to be at the wrong 
dimensions during the course of the game, the error shall be corrected 
immediately, with no penalty. The game shall continue and shall not be 
protested for this reason. 
Sec 2. The softball field shall contain a 60-foot square infield diamond and an 
outfield area that may or may not be enclosed by a fence. All lines on the 
playing field shall be marked with a material, which is not injurious to the eyes 
or skin. Lime or caustic material of any kind is prohibited. The catcher’s box, 
bases, coach’s boxes, batter’s boxes and three foot first base line shall be as 
in the “The Field Diagram”. The infield and outfield, including the boundary 
marks from the apex of home plate to 1st and 3rd, and their extended foul 
lines, are fair ground. All other areas are foul grounds. The recommended 
width of all marked (chalked) lines on the playing field is 2 1/2 inch.
A. Home Plate shall be a 5 sided slab of whitened rubber or other suitable 
similar material. The sides shall be 8 ½ inches long, the edge facing the 
pitcher shall be 17 inches wide and parallel to the pitcher’s plate. The 
sides facing the catcher shall be 12 inches long and on the foul lines.
B. First, Second, Third Base shall be 15 inches square, made of canvas or 
other suitable material and not more than 5 inches high. Each base shall be 
securely attached to the ground. 
C. The Double First Base may be used. This base shall be 15 by 30 inches 
and made of canvas or other suitable material and not more than 5 inches 
high. Half the base is white [over fair territory] and half is orange [over 
foul territory].
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D. The Pitching Plate shall be a rectangular slab of whitened rubber or 
suitable material, 24 inches by 6 inches. It shall be set in the ground with 
the top flush with the playing surface.
E. The batter’s box shall be 7 feet long. The front of the batter’s box shall 
be 4 feet forward from the center of home plate and 3 feet wide starting 6 
inches from the plate.
F. Catcher’s Box shall be 10 feet in length from the rear outside corners of 
the batter’s box and 8 feet, 5 inches wide..
G. Three foot running lane is a line drawn 3 feet from and parallel to the 
first base foul line starting halfway between home and first base and 
extending to first base.
H. Pitcher’s Circle shall be a circle which is 16 feet in diameter (8-ft. radius) 
drawn from the mid-point of the front edge of the pitcher’s plate.
I. Coach’s Boxes shall be 8 feet from the foul lines, and 15 feet long from 
the back edge of the first and third base extending toward home plate and 
3 feet wide. 
J. On-deck circles shall be circular, 2 ½ foot radius, a safe distance to the 
side and away from home plate; at least 30 feet if space allows. Neither 
team’s players shall warm up in the other team’s on-deck circle. The ondeck circle does not have to be occupied, but if a player wishes to warm 
up, they shall do so in their team’s on-deck circle. 
RULE 2. EQUIPMENT
Sec 1. BATTING HELMET
In the Youth program, NOCSAE approved batting helmets with extended ear 
flaps, which cover both ears and temples are mandatory for all batters, on deck 
batters, base runners, non-adult base coach, non-adult bat & ball shaggers in 
live ball territory, even if the ball is dead. 
All fastpitch batting helmets shall be equipped with a NOCSAE-approved face 
protector. The phrase, “Meets NOCSAE Standard at the time of manufacture” 
must be permanently affixed to the face protector. 
If an eye shield is worn attached to the batting helmet, it must be constructed of 
a molded rigid material that is clear and permits 100 percent (no tint) allowable 
light transmission.
A chinstrap is optional.
In the Adult program, NOCSAE approved helmets are required. An attached 
face mask/guard is highly recommended. If an eye shield is worn attached to 
the batting helmet, it must be constructed of a molded rigid material that is 
clear and permits 100 percent (no tint) allowable light transmission.
When an Umpire observes anyone required to wear a batting helmet 
deliberately removing the batting helmet while the ball is live, and that person 
is in live ball territory, the Umpire shall issue a warning to the coach of the 
involved person’s team. All subsequent violations of the rule shall result in the 
ejection of the head coach and the player restricted to the bench.
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Sec 2. CATCHER’S EQUIPMENT 
In the Youth program, the catcher shall wear a NOCSAE approved head 
protector (with dual earflaps), an approved mask with throat protector, a body 
chest protector and shin guards. If a hockey style NOCSAE approved catcher’s 
helmet is used, a separate throat protector is not needed. A male catcher or any 
male player warming up a pitcher shall wear an approved protective cup. 
In the Adult program, the catcher shall wear a mask with throat protector. All 
protective equipment must conform to industry standards.
Any non-adult warming up a pitcher within the confines of the playing, field 
shall wear an approved protective mask with throat protector. In all divisions, 
if an eye shield is worn attached to the catcher’s helmet, it must be constructed 
of a molded, rigid material that is clear and permits 100 percent (no tint) 
allowable light transmission.
Sec 3. THE BALL
The official ball to be used shall have raised seams and shall be of spherical 
design with a smooth surface. The center or core of the ball shall be of a 
material and design traditionally used to make softballs, or of other material, 
or design, approved by the USSSA. The cover shall be of horsehide, cowhide, 
or other material approved by USSSA and shall be cemented to the core and 
stitched with cotton, linen, or nylon or any other material approved by USSSA. 
A multiple layer core design ball or a multiple material core design ball may 
be approved in the sole discretion of the USSSA on a case-by-case basis. The 
stitch color must be blue. The internal composition of the core and the material 
of the cover must be clearly printed on the ball and the words “Official 
Fastpitch Softball” must be clearly printed on the ball. 
FASTPITCH (12”) OPTIC YELLOW COVER ONLY -BLUE STITCH Ball 
- must have “USSSA FASTPITCH CLASSIC “, in 1/8” minimum letters and 
the USSSA logo in at least 1-1/8” diameter. Lettering and logo in blue.
Compression: Maximum of 375#
COR: 46.25 +/- 0.75
Circumference: 12 +/- 1/8”
Weight: 6.6 +/- 0.30 oz.
FASTPITCH (11”) OPTIC YELLOW COVER ONLY -BLUE STITCH Ball 
- must have “USSSA FASTPITCH CLASSIC “, in 1/8” minimum letters and 
the USSSA logo in at least 7/8” diameter. Lettering and logo in blue.
Compression: Maximum of 375#
COR: 46.25 +/- 0.75
Circumference: 11 +/- 1/8”
Weight: 6.0 +/- 0.20 oz.
All 10 year old and younger divisions shall use the 11-inch softball. All other 
programs shall use the 12-inch softball. 
Altered Balls and the potential of a ball being altered and those suspected of 
altering, owning or using an altered ball (or determined to have altered, owned 
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or used an Altered Ball) shall be viewed as falling under the same rules in 
place for Altered bats.
Sec 4. SHOES
Shoes are required equipment for all participants. All players must wear shoes 
with plastic, nylon, canvas, leather or similar synthetic material uppers. Spikes 
must not extend in excess of 3/4 -inch from the sole and may not be round.
A. (Youth 12U and younger) The sole may be smooth, have soft or hard 
rubber cleats. Shoe sole or heel protectors other than the standard shoe 
plate are prohibited. 
In all divisions 12 and Under and younger, metal cleats and metal toe 
plates are prohibited.
PENALTY: In divisions which do not allow metal cleats and toe plates, 
a player who participates with metal cleats or toe plates where prohibited 
is subject to penalties as per Rule 11 Sportsmanship. Metal cleats and toe 
plates must be removed prior to continuing play.
B. (Adult or13U and older ) The sole may be smooth, have soft or hard 
rubber cleats or rectangular metal cleats. Shoes with detachable cleats that 
screw into the sole of the shoe are allowed. Pitching toes are allowed for 
all players as long as the pitching toes are securely fastened.
Sec 5. JEWELRY (Youth only – 18 & Under and younger) 
Exposed jewelry, which is judged by the umpire as dangerous, is not permitted 
and must be removed. Medical alert items are not considered jewelry. If worn, 
they must be taped to the body so medical alert information remains visible.
Flat, unadorned items with no sharp edges or points, such as bobby pins, 
barrettes, and hair clips (no longer than 2 inches) may be worn as hair control 
devices.
Coaches wristbands (play indicators) are legal but must be worn as designed.
Violations are penalized per Rule 11 - Sporting Behavior.
Sec 6. PROHIBITED EQUIPMENT
Equipment such as crutches, canes, wheelchairs, etc., is prohibited. 
EXCEPTION: See ADA protocol on Page 75.
Casts, splints and braces may be worn, if padded. 
Any equipment deemed distracting or dangerous by the Tournament Director 
or Umpire shall be prohibited.
Sec 7. PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
As a general rule, USSSA continues its long standing policy of permitting 
players to determine the use of the protective equipment when they deem it 
appropriate. USSSA encourages players to utilize any protective equipment 
that they deem appropriate. Such protective equipment will be allowed in 
USSSA sanctioned play, unless by rule or by Director/Umpire ruling such 
protective equipment is disallowed as unsafe or as providing an unfair 
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competitive advantage. If used, the equipment must not be detached. Detached 
equipment can result in an obstruction or interference ruling. Repeated acts 
could be grounds for ejection.
Defensive face masks – While the use of defensive face masks is optional, 
if they are worn, they must meet the transparency requirements applicable 
to batting and catching helmets. If an eye shield is attached, it must be 
constructed of a molded, rigid material that is clear and permits 100 per cent 
(no tint) allowable light transmission.
Sec 8. UNIFORMS
At all national and world qualifying tournaments, teams must wear identical 
uniforms. This includes jerseys, long pants or shorts and leggings. Whether 
long pants or shorts are worn, all team members must be uniformed alike. 
NOTE: Tournament directors may, on an individual basis, permit a player 
to participate while wearing a different style uniform for religious reasons, 
inclement weather, etc.
Players shall wear uniforms properly and as designed by the manufacturer.
A. Caps are optional, however when worn they must be all alike and worn 
with the Bill forward. Caps, visors and headbands may be mixed. If worn, 
a headband must be one piece, and a single solid color. Plastic visors and 
bandannas are prohibited
B. Any exposed undergarment becomes part of the uniform and must be 
solid color. All exposed undershirts must be the same color. All exposed 
undershorts (sliders) must be the same color. 
C. Non duplicating numbers will be required at all national and World Series 
qualifying tournaments. 0 and 00, 1 and 01 are examples of different 
numbers. The numbers must be minimum of three inches in size and 
clearly visible.
D. Coaches must be neatly attired. Base coaches do not have to be identically 
dressed.
Sec 9. GLOVES/MITTS
Gloves/mitts made of leather shall be worn by all fielders.
A. The glove/mitt worn by the catcher may be any size.
B. The glove/mitt may be any combination of colors except the color of the 
game ball or optic. Glove lacing may be any color other than that of the 
ball. The manufacturer’s logos are not considered a glove color. A gray, 
white or optic colored circle on the outside or inside of the glove/mitt that 
gives the appearance of a ball is illegal. A glove/mitt that is judged to be 
distracting by the Umpire is illegal.
C. The glove/mitt worn by all fielders except the catcher shall conform to the 
following maximum specifications:
 1. Height measured from the bottom edge or heel straight up across the 
center of the palm to a line even with the highest point of the glove/
mitt: 14 inches
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 2. Width of palm measured from the bottom edge of the webbing 
farthest from the thumb in a horizontal line to the outside of the little 
finger edge of the glove/mitt: 8 inches
 3. Webbing measured across the top end or along any line parallel to the 
top: 5 3/4 inches.
Sec. 10. THE OFFICIAL BAT shall be round in cross section, straight in length and 
measure not more than 34 inches long, including tape or other grip additions to 
the bat, shall have a knob at the end of its handle, and not more than 2-1/4 inches 
in diameter at its largest part. Its weight shall not exceed 31-ounces, including 
tape or grip addition to the bat. The bat shall have a grip of tape or some other 
material to facilitate holding the bat during the batter’s swing. The grip shall be 
not less than 10 inches long for 32”-34” long bats and not less than 8” long for 
smaller bats, nor extend to touch the taper or barrel of the bat. All key graphics, 
including USSSA and BPF markings, must be permanent and cannot be applied 
as decals or by any other method that would allow the key graphics to be easily 
removed or added to the bat.
A. Material. THE BAT may be made of hard wood of one piece, or 
laminated from sections of hard wood bonded together with adhesive in 
such a way that the grain directions of all the pieces are essentially parallel 
to the length of the bat. THE BAT may also be made of aluminum or other 
metals, fiberglass, graphite or composite materials.
B. Construction. The bat may be made in pieces from different materials but 
must have a closed barrel end, a taper, a handle and a taper. The bat may 
be modular with interchangeable parts, subject to additional safety and 
tampering requirements as set forth in the standard USSSA Bat Licensing 
Agreement. The knob portion must be welded or mechanically attached 
to the bat. Only USSSA approved bats, USSSA approved weighted bats 
or USSSA approved bat weight attachments, may be used by the on deck 
batter while loosening up on the field.
C. Official Softball. Authorized bat manufacturers shall mark their products 
with the words “Official Softball”. For wood bats only, authorized bat 
manufacturers may mark their products with the word “Softball”.
D. Other Criteria for Legal USSSA Bats.
 1. The performance standard for all non-wooden bats will be a Bat 
Performance Factor (BPF) of 1.20, or less under the ASTM BPF test 
as applied under the standard USSSA Bat License Agreement. Only 
bats made by those bat manufacturers listed on the USSSA website 
as USSSA Licensed Softball Bat Manufacturers and that have the 
new 2020 USSSA Fastpitch Only Certification Mark OR the previous 
2014 USSSA Certification Mark (pictured below) on the taper of the 
bat will be legal in USSSA sanctioned play. Wood bats, however, that 
are made by USSSA Licensed Softball Bat Manufacturer will be legal 
in USSSA sanctioned play without any 1.20 BPF mark being required
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Any bat on the USSSA Withdrawn And/Or Non-Compliant List shall be an 
illegal bat.
 2. Any addition to the handle or knob area of a bat is altering the bat 
if and only if it adds any length to the bat or adds more than half 
an ounce of weight to the bat. Tournament Directors at the request 
of USSSA National Office may, however, allow for up to an inch 
increase in length and up to an ounce increase in weight for an 
addition to the knob area that is placed on bats in a tournament for 
the purpose of gathering swing/batted ball data (such as bat speed) 
for USSSA National Office, provided that the Tournament Director 
insures that the addition is securely added to the knob and will not 
create any significant safety concern.
E. Altered Bat Director Inspection and Suspension. A USSSA Director 
may at any time ask to inspect a bat that has been brought into the 
location of a USSSA sanctioned event or any other USSSA facility. 
The owner and/or user may either:
 1. Withhold the bat from inspection and accept an immediate two 
year (automatic life for second time offenders under EI and/or E) 
suspension from USSSA sanctioned activities with no right to appeal; 
or,
 2. Allow the Director to inspect the bat and reach a conclusion as to 
whether or not the bat might be altered.
EI. Altered Bat Determination by Altered Bat Committee Chairman or 
Manufacturer. If, after making the inspection of a potential altered bat, 
the Director in their discretion decides that the bat might be an altered bat, 
the suspected offending owner and/or user and may either:
 1. Withhold the bat from further examination by the USSSA Altered 
Bat Committee Chairman or Manufacturer of the bat and accept 
an immediate two year (up to life for second time offenders under 
sections E and/or EI) suspension from USSSA sanctioned activities 
with no right to appeal; or
 2. Allow the Director to send the bat to the USSSA Altered Bat 
Committee Chairman and/or Manufacturer of the bat for a 
determination as to whether or not the bat is altered. If the 
Manufacturer or the USSSA Altered Bat Committee Chairman 
determines that the bat has been altered, the Altered Bat Committee 
Chairman in consultation with the Director who inspected the bat at 
the USSSA facility may suspend a first time offender for up to five 
(5) years from USSSA play. For a second time offender under E and/
or EI, any such suspension will be for life. 
2020 USSSA
Certification Mark
2014 USSSA
Certification Mark
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F. Ownership and Knowledge of Bat Being Altered. The responsibility 
for knowing whether a bat is altered is that of the users and the owner of 
the bat. If an individual uses an altered bat in USSSA sanctioned play or 
is the owner of an altered bat that is brought into a USSSA facility, the 
suspensions under this Rule 2, Section 10 will be imposed without regard 
to what the individual actually knew about the altered bat. An individual 
must know that their bat is not an altered bat, if they bring it into a USSSA 
facility or used it in a USSSA sanctioned activity. If not, the individual can 
be suspended from USSSA activities for using or owning an altered bat. 
The fact that the individual did not know that the bat was altered is not a 
factor in imposing the suspension. The only question is whether the bat is 
altered or whether the owner/user has refused to let the bat be examined 
to determine if it is altered. After the Director, Altered Bat Committee 
and Manufacturer examination of a bat to determine if it is altered have 
all been completed, or upon the decision of the owner/user to not allow 
further inspection of the bat under E or EI, above, the bat shall be returned 
to the owner. If no one claims to be the owner, USSSA shall retain the 
bat. Once the bat has been returned to the owner, no appeal can be made 
with respect to whether the bat is altered or not. 
G. Investigation Cooperation. Any coach, manager, player or other person 
who fails to cooperate in the investigation by USSSA of a potential 
or actual altered bat shall be subject to an unsportsmanlike conduct 
suspension. A manager or coach of a team that has more than one of their 
team’s bats determined to be altered (or not allowed to be inspected upon 
request for an altered bat inspection under E and/or EI, above) shall be 
subject to an unsportsmanlike conduct suspension.
H. Awards and Coach Suspensions If an owner/user chooses to submit 
a suspected altered bat to the USSSA Altered Bat Committee or the 
Manufacturer no awards will be given to the team until the bat is 
determined not to be altered. If the bat is found to be altered, no awards or 
berth will be given and the team will be placed last in the standings and 
the listed manager and coaches may be suspended for unsportsmanlike 
conduct.
I. Participation in, Profits from, or Encouraging the Altering of USSSA 
Marked Bats. Anyone who participates in, profits from, or encourages 
the altering of USSSA marked bats shall be suspended indefinitely from 
all USSSA activities, until the offending party has satisfied all requests 
of the Altered Bat Committee with respect to their altered bat activities 
including but not limited to publicly swearing under penalties of perjury 
to never again participate in, profit from, or encourage the altering of 
USSSA marked bats. Violation of such an oath shall result in permanent 
suspension from all USSSA activities.
J. Compression Testing. Failure of a USSSA approved compression testing 
device test shall result in the offending bat being removed from play for 
the duration of the tournament or league game, not longer without the 
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permission of the owner/user—such as in the case of an allowed USSSA 
altered bat determination under section EI. Multiple failures of such 
USSSA compression testing may in the discretion of USSSA be viewed as 
unsportsmanlike conduct of the owner/user, coaches, manager and team.
K. Custom Bats. No approved manufacturer may make a custom USSSA 
bat for a player or a team. All USSSA marked bats made by a USSSA 
approved manufacturer must be available to the public for purchase. 
Individualized graphics (such as a team name, different color, player name 
or number only changes for a team or player), however, do not constitute 
custom bats for purposes of this section K.
L. Worn/Abused/Damaged/Foreign Substance Bats Not Allowed in 
USSSA Sanctioned Play.
 1. No bat is legal for USSSA sanctioned play, if it is damaged in any 
way. Damaged bats include those with damage to the knob or end 
cap, those which have loose knobs or end caps, and those with cracks 
or dents in the bat material. The bat shall not have exposed rivets, 
pins, rough or sharp edges or any form of exterior fastener that 
would present a hazard. Bats shall be free of rattles and burrs. For 
example, if the end cap is in any way loose or appears damaged, the 
bat should be removed from play for being a damaged bat. If an end 
plug has come out or the knob has come off, the only way that such 
bat is legal in USSSA play, is if the knob or end cap is replaced by the 
manufacturer. Replacement by anyone else results in an altered bat 
with potential suspension for the owner/user of the bat.
 2. No bat is legal for USSSA sanctioned play, if any of the graphics of 
the bat have worn off. For example, even if the only graphics that 
have worn off are not Key Graphic Information and are only items 
such as the patent no., a manufacturer logo, or the approval mark of 
another association, the bat should be removed from play for being 
too worn.
 3. No bat is legal for USSSA sanctioned play, if the paint has been worn 
through and the actual bat material is showing. For example, if at the 
end of the barrel next to the taper where there are no graphics the bat 
paint is worn off and the underlying bat material is exposed, that bat 
should be removed from play for being too worn.
 4. No bat is legal for USSSA sanctioned play, if there is a foreign 
substance on the barrel or taper of a baseball or softball bat. Foreign 
substances included among other substances, pine tar, stick-em type 
products and even dirt or mud, but only if the substance adds to the 
thickness of the barrel or covers Key Graphic Information such as the 
USSSA 1.20 BPF mark, the serial number of the bat, the model or 
manufacturer name, official softball, etc.. Players are responsible for 
their equipment and must clean such substances off of their bats so 
that the substance does not add to the thickness of the bat or obscure 
any Key Graphics Information about the bat. For example, while 
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bats will surely get dirt on them under normal use and may have 
pine tar added to the grip, if the dirt or pine tar obscures Key Graphic 
Information or adds to the thickness of the bat, such bats cannot be 
used in USSSA play until the dirt or pine tar has been removed to the 
extent necessary to make all such Key Graphic Information readable 
and the bat not have increased thickness. If Key Graphic Information 
about a bat cannot be read, the bat should not be used in USSSA play.
 5. If any removed bat under these section L rules is brought back into 
play at any USSSA sanctioned event at any time, the owner and 
user of such bat may be suspended for up to one year for unsporting 
behavior. And if the foreign substance or the wear/abuse/damage 
is apparent enough that the batter should have been aware of it, the 
batter may be so suspended for bringing such a bat into the batter’s 
box without having been warned in advance. Players are responsible 
for their equipment and must not use equipment that is even 
potentially illegal for use in USSSA sanctioned play.
 6. In addition to the player being suspended for unsporting behavior, 
coaches of youth teams may also be so suspended when their players 
attempt to bat with such bats. Also, coaches of adult teams which 
have multiple offenses under this rule may also be so suspended for 
failing to have their team follow USSSA equipment rules. Please be 
reminded that unsporting behavior can result in a game or tournament 
suspension in the discretion of the Umpire or tournament director and 
up to a year suspension in the discretion of the state director.
M. Youth Player Altered Bats. The parents or legal guardians of a youth 
player suspended under section E and/or EI shall be suspended for life 
from all USSSA sanctioned activities. As such, even after their suspension 
has ended under E and/or EI, the player can not participate in USSSA 
sanctioned activities until the player is 18 years old. In addition to any 
other penalties under this Rule 2, Section 10, any coach or manager of a 
youth team that has more than one suspension imposed under sections E 
and/or EI. will be suspended from all USSSA activities for life.
Sec 11. BAT WARMERS
Bat Warmers approved by USSSA are permitted. 
Sec 12. WARM-UP BAT
No player may use more than two bats when warming up in the on-deck circle. 
A warm-up bat shall have all parts permanently and securely attached at the 
time of manufacture and at the time of use. Devices added to a bat for warmup purposes shall be commercially manufactured specifically for a softball bat 
and shall be securely attached, so as not to disengage during use. Such Devices 
shall take, but not exceed, the general shape and size of a bat including the 
grip.
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Only USSSA approved bats, USSSA approved weighted bats, or USSSA 
approved bat weight attachments may be used in loosening up. Nothing such 
as a donut or fan may be used when loosening up.
RULE 3. DEFINITIONS
ABSENT PLAYER. The absent player is the position that is created in the batting order 
when a player is withdrawn and no substitutes are available to replace her. The absent 
player is also the ninth, unfilled position in the batting order when a team begins the game 
with only eight players. A team who has an absent player is playing short-handed.
ALTERED BALL is one which has had its physical structure changed in any way, 
including (but not limited to) balls that have been frozen, micro-waved, heated, melted, 
cooled, recovered, restictched, surface modified to be rougher or softer, etc.
ALTERED BAT is a bat that has had its physical structure changed, including, but not 
limited to:
1. The bat has had the surface of the barrel or the taper changed in any 
way such as by addition of graphics, painting, repainting, removal of bat 
material or paint by any means including but not limited to sandpapering 
or applying a solvent to the surface such as fingernail polish remover or by 
any other means. 
2. The bat has had the plug or the knob removed/replaced or changed in any 
way. 
3. The bat has had anything removed or added or inserted to the inside or 
outside of the bat other than tape at the handle or knob. Choke-up devices 
are not permitted. Other examples of altering a bat would be changing or 
replacing manufacturers’ markings or replacing the handle of a bat with a 
new handle.. Replacing the grip, adding tape or adding a build up to the 
handle is not considered altering a bat. NOTE: Except when conforming 
to Rule 2 (Equipment).
4. The bat has been subjected to pressure in a manner that exceeds that of 
striking the bat at game speed swing speed against a USSSA approved ball 
traveling at game speeds. Such pressure would include, but is not limited 
to, compressing the bat, rolling the bat, vicing the bat or hitting the bat 
against an object such as a tree or pole. The bat has in any other way had 
its on field performance improved by physically changing the bat (other 
than by hitting the bat at game condition swing speeds against a USSSA 
approved ball traveling at game condition speeds).
BALL. The ball is one of the playing implements. The term is also used to designate a 
pitch, which is not touched by the bat and is not a strike.
BASE LINE. A base line is an imaginary direct line between the bases.
BASE ON BALLS. If a batter receives four balls, the batter is awarded a base on balls 
(often referred to as a “walk”) and shall go immediately to first base before time-out can 
be called. 
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The defense may not notify the Umpire nor cause illegal pitch(es) to intentionally 
walk a batter. A team may intentionally walk a batter; however, they must throw four 
pitches. They cannot simply declare to put the batter on base nor can the pitcher commit 
repeated illegal pitches.
BASE PATH. A base path is a direct line between a base and the runner’s position at the 
time a defensive player is attempting (or about to attempt) to tag a runner.
BAT, ILLEGAL. An illegal bat is one that does not meet the requirements of Rule 2-10 
(The Official Bat).
BAT, NON-APPROVED. A non-approved bat is a bat that does not bear the current 
USSSA 1.20 BPF “thumbprint” certification mark, or a bat that is listed on the USSSA 
Withdrawn/Non-Compliant Bat List. EXCEPTION: Wood bats per Rule 2-10-D.
BATTED BALL. A batted ball is any ball that comes in contact with the bat. It need not 
be intentional.
A. A FLY BALL is a batted ball that rises to an appreciable height above the 
ground.
B. A LINE DRIVE is a batted ball which travels parallel or nearly so with the 
ground through most of its flight.
C. A GROUND BALL is one that is neither a fly nor a line drive.
BATTER. The offensive player whose turn it is to bat. The batter has completed their 
time at bat when they are put out or become a batter-runner.
BATTER-RUNNER. The batter-runner is a player who has finished their time at bat 
and has left the batter’s box (both feet touching completely outside the box) but has not 
yet been put out or reached first base.
BATTER’S BOX. The batter’s box is the area including the lines in which the batter is 
positioned while at bat.
BATTING ORDER. The batting order is the official listing of offensive players by 
first and last name, in the order in which they are to bat. Uniform number and defensive 
position shall be listed on the lineup sheet.
BLOCKED BALL. A blocked ball is a live ball, pitched, batted or thrown, which is 
touched, stopped or handled by a person not engaged in the game; or touches any object 
which is not part of the official equipment or official playing area; or touches loose 
equipment
BUNT. A bunt is a legally batted ball, which occurs when the batter does not swing to 
hit the ball, but holds the bat in the path of the ball to tap it slowly to the infield
BUNT, ATTEMPTED. An attempted bunt (“offer”) is any movement of the bat toward 
the ball when the ball is over or near the plate area. Holding the bat in the strike zone is 
considered an attempt to bunt. In order to take a pitch, the bat must be pulled back away 
from the ball. If an attempted bunt results in a foul ball, it is treated as any other foul 
ball, if the batter has two strikes and this happens, the batter is out.
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BUNT, DRAG. A drag bunt is a bunt where the batter attempts to bunt the ball by 
running forward in the batter box, carrying the bat with her. The movement of the bat is 
in conjunction with the batter’s forward movement.
CATCH. A catch is the act of a fielder getting secure possession in a hand or glove of a 
live ball in flight and firmly holding it.
A. In establishing a valid catch, the fielder shall hold the ball long enough to 
prove complete control of it and that the release of the ball is voluntary 
and intentional. 
 1. If a player drops the ball after reaching into the glove to remove it or 
while in the act of throwing, it is a valid catch.
 2. It is considered a catch if a fielder catches the ball before leaving liveball area by stepping or falling into a bench, dugout, stand, bleacher 
or over any boundary or barrier, such as a fence, rope, chalk line, or 
a pre-game determined imaginary boundary line of the field of play. 
Falling into does not include merely running against such object. 
 3. A fielder who is out of play may come back to live ball territory and 
make a valid play.
 4. A collapsible fence is considered in play. 
B. A Catch shall not be credited when
 1. The fielder traps the ball.
 2. A fielder catches a batted, pitched or thrown ball with anything other 
than the hand(s) or properly worn glove. A cap, protector, mask, 
pocket or other part of the uniform may not be used to catch the ball. 
A ball prevented from hitting the ground by a player’s equipment 
(providing it is in its proper place) or body shall not be ruled caught 
until the ball is securely held in the player’s hand(s) or glove/mitt.
 3. The fielder uses any equipment or part of their uniform that is 
displaced from its proper position to play on a batted ball.
 4. A fielder is out of play while: 
 a. One foot is entirely touching out of play. NOTE: an out of play 
line is in play.
 b. Any other part of the body is touching out of play.
 c. In the air after being out of play.
 5. The fielder is standing on the fence as it is lying on the ground 
beyond the original plane of the home-run fence when they contact 
the ball.
 6. The ball strikes anything or anyone other than another defensive 
player while it is in flight even though it is then caught by a defensive 
player.
 7. Immediately after a catch, the fielder collides with another player, 
Umpire or fence, or falls to the ground and fails to maintain 
possession of the ball.
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CATCHER’S BOX. The catcher’s box is area in which the catcher must remain from 
the time the pitcher steps on the pitcher’s plate until the pitch is released. The catcher’s 
body and equipment are considered within the box unless touching the ground outside 
the box.
COACH’S BOX. The coach’s box is the area to which the two base coaches (one per 
box) are restricted prior to release of the pitch. 
CONFERENCE, CHARGED. A charged conference takes place when a coach or 
bench personnel requests time-out to meet with offensive or defensive personnel.
CONFERENCE, PRE-GAME. A pre-game conference is a meeting involving the 
Umpires and the coaches near home plate. Team captains may also attend. 
CONFINES OF THE PLAYING FIELD. The confines of the playing field includes 
the field of play, the designated dugout/bench area, and any enclosed or clearly marked 
area that is designated as a warmup area that is adjacent to the field and within the view 
of the umpire(s).
CROW HOP. A crow hop is the act in which the pitcher’s pivot foot leaves the 
pitcher’s plate and replants prior to delivery of the pitch.
DEAD BALL. It is a dead ball when the ball is not in play. The ball is not considered in 
play again until the pitcher is in possession of the ball and is stationed within the 16-foot 
circle and the Plate Umpire calls “Play Ball.”
DEAD-BALL AREA. The dead-ball area is beyond any real boundary, such as a fence, 
rope, chalk line, any stands, bleachers, dugouts, players’ bench or designated media 
area; or any imaginary boundary line as determined in the pregame conference. If a ball 
becomes lodged in a fence or backstop, it is considered to be in dead-ball area.
DESIGNATED PLAYER (DP). The Primary Role of the DP is to play offense (bats/
runs) for the FLEX. The DP may play defense at any position.
DUGOUT. An out-of-play area reserved for rostered players, coaches, and official 
representatives of the team only.
EJECTED. A player or coach removed from the game by the Umpire, usually for 
an unsportsmanlike act or conduct. A flagrant act will require the coach to leave 
the grounds for the remainder of the game. Any ejected player or coach discovered 
participating in the game would constitute a forfeit.
FAIR BALL. A fair ball is a batted ball which:
A. Settles or is touched on or over fair territory between home and first base 
or home and third base;
B. Is on or over fair territory including any part of first and third base when 
bounding to the outfield.
C. Touches first, second or third bases.
D. While on or over fair territory touches the person of any Umpire or player 
or their clothing or equipment except the batter in the batter’s box.
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E. While over fair territory passes out of the playing field in flight.
F. First falls or is touched on or over fair territory beyond first or third base.
G. While over fair territory, an offensive player interferes with a defensive 
player attempting to field a batted ball.
NOTE: A fair fly shall be judged according to the relative position of the ball 
and the foul line, including the foul pole, and not as to whether the fielder is in 
fair or foul territory at the time the fielder touches the ball. It does not matter 
whether the ball first touches fair or foul territory as long as it does not touch 
anything foreign to the natural ground in foul territory and complies with all 
other aspects of a fair ball.
FAIR TERRITORY. Fair territory is that part of the playing field within, and 
including, the foul lines from home plate to the bottom of the playing field fence and 
perpendicularly upwards.
FIELDER. A fielder is any player of the team in the field.
FLEX. The Primary Role of the FLEX is to play defense only which can be at any 
defensive position. The FLEX player is placed in the FLEX position, a non-batting 
position listed last in the lineup. The FLEX may remain in the FLEX position for the 
entire game, or may assume the DP’s position in the batting order and play offense (bat/
run).
FORCE PLAY. A force play is a play on the batter-runner at first base, or any other 
runner who loses the right to the base occupied and is forced to advance because the 
batter became a batter-runner. 
For a given runner, a force play ends as soon as batter-runner reaches first base or any 
other runner reaches the next base or a following runner is put out. When a forced 
runner, after touching the next base, retreats for any reason toward the base they last 
occupied, the force play is reinstated.
FORFEIT. A forfeited game is one awarded to the opponent of the offending team. The 
score shall be recorded in accordance with Rule 4-7-B.
FOUL BALL. A foul ball is a batted ball which:
A. Settles or is touched on or over foul territory between home and first base, 
or between home and third base.
B. Bounds past first or third base on or over foul territory.
C. First falls on foul territory beyond first or third base.
D. While on or over foul territory touches the person of an Umpire, a player 
or any object foreign to the natural ground or contacts the batter in the 
batter’s box.
E. Is in foul territory when a base runner in foul territory interferes with a 
defensive player’s attempt to field a batted ball. 
F. Touches the batter or the bat in the batter’s hand(s) a second time while 
the batter is still within the batter’s box.
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FOUL TERRITORY. Foul territory is that part of the playing field outside the foul 
lines and perpendicularly upwards.
FOUL TIP. A foul tip is a batted ball, which goes sharply and directly from the bat to 
the catcher’s mitt or hand and is legally caught by the catcher. The ball remains live.
NOTE: Any batted ball that travels directly from the bat to any part of the catcher’s 
body or equipment other than the hand(s) or glove/mitt, is a foul ball and dead. It is not 
a foul tip.
GAME. 
A. A regulation game is seven innings (term at bat) unless extra inning(s) 
are necessary because of a tie score, or unless shortened because the home 
team does not require its half of the seventh inning or only a fraction of it, 
or because of weather or darkness.
B. A called game is one that is ended by order of the Umpire.
C. A suspended game is a game to be completed at a later time.
ILLEGAL PLAYER. A player who takes a position in the lineup, either on offense or 
defense, who does not have a legal right to the position.
INELIGIBLE PLAYER. A player who is unregistered or who does not meet 
requirements to register. 
Examples of an ineligible player but not limited to are: 
1. Playing under an assumed name. 
2. Players not on the team roster. 
3. Violating divisional age requirements. 
IN FLIGHT. A batted or thrown ball is in flight until it has touched the ground or some 
object on fair or foul ground, or it has touched a person other than a fielder.
INFIELD. The infield is that portion of the field in fair territory that is normally skinned 
and covered by infielders.
INFIELD FLY. An infield fly is a fair fly (not including a line drive or an attempted 
bunt) which can be caught by an infielder with ordinary effort (rule does not preclude 
outfielders from being allowed to make the catch); and provided the hit is made before 
two are out and at a time when first and second base or all bases are occupied. 
INFIELDER. An infielder is a fielder who defends the skinned area of the field around 
first, second, third or shortstop areas. They usually are the first baseman, second 
baseman, third baseman, shortstop, pitcher and catcher.
INITIAL PLAY. A fielder is considered to be making an initial play on a fair batted 
ball, a ball which could become fair or a foul fly ball when the fielder has a reasonable 
chance to gain control of a ground ball that no other fielder (except the pitcher) has 
touched or a reasonable chance to catch the ball in flight after it touches another fielder. 
The fielder is still considered to be making an initial play if the fielder fails to gain 
control of the batted ground ball and is within a step and a reach (in any direction) of the 
spot of the initial play.
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INNING 
A. An inning is that portion of the game, which includes a time at bat for 
each team.
B. A half inning is the interval during which one team is on offense (batting) 
and the other is on defense (fielding). A half inning ends when there 
is a third out or when, in the last inning, the winning run is scored. In 
either case, if there is a delayed out declared by the Umpire for a base 
running infraction, a possible fourth out may be recognized for the inning, 
depending on the circumstances.
A new half inning begins immediately after the end of the previous half 
inning.
C. An extra inning is one, which extends the game beyond regulation play 
in an attempt to break a tie score.
INTERFERENCE. Interference is an act that denies a defensive player a reasonable 
opportunity to make a play (field/throw) anywhere on the playing field. The act may be 
intentional or unintentional, and the ball must be playable.
A. Offensive interference is interference (physical or verbal) by the team 
at bat, or when a runner creates malicious contact with any fielder with 
or without the ball, in or out of the baseline; or when a coach physically 
assists a runner during playing action. 
B. Umpire interference is when the Umpire, inadvertently moves so as to 
hinder a catcher’s attempt to throw or when a fair, untouched ball touches 
an Umpire before the closest infielder has a reasonable opportunity to field 
the ball. 
C. Spectator interference is any action by a spectator, which impedes the 
progress of the game.
LEAP. A leap is when both feet are airborne
OBSTRUCTION. Obstruction is the act of the defensive team member that hinders 
or impedes a batter’s attempt to make contact with a pitched ball, or that impedes the 
progress of a runner or batter-runner who is legally running bases, unless the fielder is 
in possession of the ball or is making the initial play on a batted ball. The act may be 
intentional or unintentional, physical or verbal.
A. It is catcher obstruction when a catcher hinders or prevents a batter from 
swinging at a pitch.
B. A fake tag is an act by a defensive player that simulates an attempt to tag 
a runner. Faking a tag is considered obstruction.
ON-DECK BATTER. The on-deck batter is the offensive player who follows the batter 
in the batting order. 
ON-DECK CIRCLE. An on-deck circle for each team is a circle 5 feet in diameter 
located a safe distance to the side and away from home plate, at least 30 feet if space 
allows.
OUTFIELD. The outfield is that portion of the field beyond the infield.
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OUTFIELDER. An outfielder is a fielder who defends the outfield. 
PASSED BALL. A passed ball is a pitch which the catcher fails to stop or control with 
ordinary effort and which enables a runner to advance.
PIVOT FOOT. The pitcher’s pivot foot is that foot which is in contact with the ground, 
as opposed to the non-pivot foot, which the pitcher uses to step toward home plate.
PLAY BALL. Play ball is the term used by the Plate Umpire to indicate that play shall 
start and shall not be declared until all defensive players are in fair territory except the 
catcher, who must be in the catcher’s box, and all runners are properly on base.
QUICK PITCH. A quick pitch is a pitch made by the pitcher with the obvious attempt 
to catch the batter off balance. This would be before the batter takes a desired position in 
the batter’s box or while the batter is still off balance as a result of the previous pitch.
RESTRICTED TO THE BENCH. A player or coach who has been confined to 
the dugout/bench area for the remainder of the game. It is generally as a result of an 
infraction of a playing rule (not an unsportsmanlike act or conduct).
RUNNER. A runner is an offensive player who has reached first base and has not yet 
been put out.
SACRIFICE. A sacrifice is a bunt which enables any runner to advance, or a fly ball 
which enables a runner to score; but, in either case, results in the batter-runner being put 
out before reaching first base or would have resulted in the batter-runner being put out if 
the hit had been fielded without error and provided two were not out when the ball was 
hit. A sacrifice is not listed as a “time-at-bat.”
SHORT-HANDED. Short-handed refers to a team’s status when batting:
A. fewer batters than listed on the original lineup card presented at the 
pregame conference, or
B. less than 9 batters.
SLAP HIT. A slap hit occurs when the batter gives the appearance of bunting, using a 
modified swing or slap at the ball as it approaches home plate. If an attempt to “SLAP” 
is a foul ball, it is treated the same as any other foul ball including an attempt by the 
batter with two strikes.
SLIDE. A legal slide can be either feet first or head first. If a runner slides feet first, at 
least one leg and buttock shall be on the ground. If a runner slides, the runner shall be 
within reach of the base with either a hand or a foot when the slide is completed.
A slide is illegal if:
A. The runner uses a rolling, cross-body or pop-up slide into the fielder.
B. The runner’s raised leg is higher than the fielder’s knee when the fielder is 
in a standing position.
C. The runner goes beyond the base and makes contact with or alters the play 
of the fielder.
D. The runner slashes or kicks the fielder with either leg.
E. The runner tries to injure the fielder.
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OVER SLIDE. An over slide is the act of an offensive player when, as a runner, over 
slides a base the player is attempting to reach. It is usually caused when the player’s 
momentum causes the player to lose contact with the base leaving the player in 
jeopardy. The batter-runner may over slide first base without being in jeopardy.
STARTING PLAYER. A starting player is one of the first nine, ten, eleven or twelve 
(if using the optional DP/FLEX and/or APs) listed on the lineup card that is approved by 
the Plate Umpire. If a team uses Roster Batting, all players listed are considered starting 
players.
STRIKE ZONE. The strike zone is that space over home plate, which is between 
the batter’s forward armpit and the top of the knees when the batter assumes a natural 
batting stance. Any part of the ball passing through the strike zone in flight shall be 
considered a strike; the Umpire shall determine the batter’s strike zone according to the 
batter’s usual stance
STRIKEOUT. A strikeout is the result of the pitcher getting a third strike charged 
to a batter. In Fastpitch, this usually results in the batter being out. Anytime first base 
is unoccupied, or there are two outs, and the third strike is not caught before the ball 
touches the ground, the batter-runner is entitled to advance. See exception in 10 & 
Under and Younger Section.
SUBSTITUTE. Any member of a team’s roster who is not listed as a starting player; 
any player who re-enters the game; the DP when the DP plays defense for the FLEX; or 
the FLEX when the FLEX plays offense for the DP.
TAG OUT. A tag out is the putting out of a runner (including the batter-runner), who 
is not touching a base, by touching the runner with a live ball or with the glove or hand 
when the live ball is securely held therein by a fielder. The ball is not considered as 
having been held securely if it is juggled or dropped after the touching unless the runner 
deliberately knocks the ball from the hand of the fielder.
THROW. A throw is the act of voluntarily losing possession through having the ball 
leave the hand for a purpose other than a pitch. It may result in the ball being bounced, 
handed, rolled, tossed or thrown.
THROW OUT. A throw out is a putout caused by a throw to first base to retire a batterrunner, or to any other base to which a runner is forced or is required to retouch
TIME. “Time” is the command of the Umpire to suspend play. The ball becomes dead 
when it is given.
TRAP. A batted fly ball or line drive is considered trapped if it hits the ground or a 
fence on a short hop before being caught. A thrown ball is considered trapped if it is 
caught but the ball is on the ground and the glove/mitt/hand is over, rather than under, it 
and the fielder does not have secure possession. A pitched ball is considered trapped if it 
is a strike but touches the ground on a short hop before being caught by the catcher.
TURN AT BAT. A turn at bat begins when a player first enters the batter’s box and 
continues until the player is substituted for, put out, or becomes a batter-runner while at 
bat.
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WILD PITCH. A wild pitch is a pitch that cannot be handled by the catcher with 
ordinary effort.
RULE 4. THE GAME
Sec 1. FITNESS of GROUNDS
The Umpires are the sole judges of the fitness of the grounds.
The Umpire and/or Tournament Director shall suspend play if the weather or 
other conditions make play unsafe.
Sec 2. RUN SCORES
A. A runner scores one run each time the runner legally touches first, second, 
third bases and home plate or a runner starting at second in a tiebreaker 
inning touches third and home.
B. On a game-ending out-of- the park home run, ground-rule double, or 
awarded bases for overthrows into dead ball territory or detached player 
equipment, all runs shall score as if the game were to continue. In these 
cases, the winning margin may be more than one run. EXCEPTION: it 
is not possible for the winning margin to exceed the RUN RULE limits 
imposed in Rule 4-4.
C. Runs scored would not count:
 1. When the third out is a force out.
 2. When the third out is a batted ball in flight that is caught or prevented 
from being caught by interference.
 3. If a base running infraction were the third out, runs scored by the 
following runner(s) would not count
 4. When a runner crosses home plate after a preceding runner is 
declared the third out for a base running infraction.
 5. With two outs, if the base missed were the first to which the batter or 
runner was forced to advance, no runs would score.
Sec 3. TIME LIMITS
Tournament Directors and League Officials may establish time limits such 
that a game will consist of seven (7) innings or the amount of time specified, 
whichever comes first. No new inning will begin once the time limit has 
expired. Any inning which has been started prior to the time limit expiring will 
be completed. 
The time begins when the pre-game conference ends and the home team 
is allowed to take the field. A new inning begins as soon as the third out is 
recorded in the previous inning.
If the game is still tied after the time limit has expired, the tie breaker rule shall 
be in effect at the start of the next inning.
In the Youth Program, the recommended time limit is 1 hour and 30 minute.
Sec 4. The RUN RULE awards a win to a team that has a 12 runs lead after 3 
completed innings or 2 1/2 innings if the home team is ahead, 10 runs after 4 
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 27
completed innings or 3 1/2 innings if the home team is ahead, 8 runs lead after 
5 completed innings or 4 1/2 innings if the home team is ahead.
Sec 5. TIEBREAKER
After the completion of 7- innings, or when time limits have expired, and the 
score is still tied, the tiebreaker procedure will begin. The player, who had 
the last completed at bat, assumes a position on 2nd base. A substitute may 
be inserted. A courtesy runner may be used for the pitcher or catcher. This 
procedure would be done at the beginning of each half inning; until a winner is 
determined.
If the absent player is scheduled to begin the half inning at second base, no out 
is declared. The player whose name precedes the absent player in the line-up is 
placed on second base.
If the wrong player is placed on second base, the correct runner should be 
inserted immediately even if a pitch has been thrown, or the runner has 
advanced a base. All play made while the incorrect runner was on base stands. 
It is the responsibility of the Umpire and scorekeeper to notify the teams 
involved as to which player starts the half inning at second base.
Sec 6. REGULATION GAME
A. A game ends when the team behind in score has completed its turn at bat 
in the seventh inning, in any extra inning, or the time limit has expired. If 
the home team scores a go ahead run in the bottom of the seventh inning, 
in any extra inning or the time limit has expired the game is terminated at 
that point. NOTE: See Rule 4-2-B for runs scoring on dead-ball awards in 
“walk-off” situations.
B. If a game is suspended and later resumed, it will be continued from the 
point of suspension, with the lineup and batting order of each team exactly 
the same as at the point of suspension.
C. If a game ends because of weather conditions and the Tournament 
Director feels that the possibility of resuming the game is not likely, it is 
then a regulation game provided:
 1. Three full innings have been played; or if the home team has scored 
an equal or greater number of runs in two or two and a fraction turns 
at bat than the visiting team has scored in their three-inning turn.
 2. Play has gone beyond three full innings and is called when the teams 
have not had an equal number of completed turns at bat. The score 
shall be the same as it was at the end of the last completed inning; 
unless the home team in its half of the incomplete inning, scores a 
run (or runs) which equals or exceeds the opponent’s score, in which 
case, the final score shall be as recorded when the game is called.
Sec 7. FORFEITED GAME
A. A game shall be forfeited to the offended team by the Tournament 
Director when a team:
 1. Is late in appearing or in beginning play after the Umpire calls “Play 
Ball.”
28 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
 2. Refuses to continue play after the game has started.
 3. Delays more than one minute in resuming play after the Umpire calls 
“Play ball” or in obeying the Umpire’s order to remove a player for 
violation of the rules.
 4. Persists in tactics designed to delay or shorten the game.
 5. Willfully and persistently violates any one of the rules after being 
warned by the Umpire. 
 6. Can not provide the required number of eligible players to start or 
continue a game.
B. Score of a forfeited game is 7 to 0 unless the game is forfeited after the 
number of innings required for a regulation game and the offending team 
is behind, then the score remains as recorded. If the offending team is 
leading, the score shall be 7 to 0. All individual and team averages shall 
be included in the official records, except that no pitcher shall be credited 
with a victory or charged with a loss in such a game if it is not a regulation 
game.
Sec 8. CHARGED CONFERENCE 
A. Defense - Each team when on defense, may be granted not more than 
three charged conferences without penalty during a seven-inning game 
to permit coaches or their representatives from the bench to confer with 
a defensive player or players. In any extra inning game, each team shall 
be permitted one charged conference without penalty each inning while 
on defense. The number of charged conferences is not cumulative. A 
coach, player, substitute or an attendant may make a request for time for a 
conference. This defensive team charged conference is effective when the 
ball first becomes live at the start of each half inning.
PENALTY: After three charged conferences in a seven inning game, 
or for any charged conference in excess of one in each extra inning, the 
pitcher shall be removed as a pitcher for the duration of the game.
B. Offense: Each team, when on offense, may be granted not more than one 
charged conference per inning to permit the coach or any of that team’s 
personnel to confer with the base runners, the batter, the ondeck batter or 
other offensive team personnel. The Umpire shall deny any subsequent 
offensive team request for charged conferences. This offensive team 
charged conference rule is effective when the ball first becomes live in 
each half inning.
When a defensive player requests time to speak to one or more defensive 
players, base runners may not abandon the vicinity of their bases without 
it being a charged offensive conference. NOTE: If either team is charged 
with a conference, base runners are no longer restricted to the vicinity of 
their bases.
C. Not charged
 1. Time granted for an obviously incapacitated player shall not 
constitute a charged conference.
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 29
 2. A conference is not charged when the pitcher is removed as a pitcher.
 3. If a dugout representative confers with any player during a charged 
conference of the other team and is ready to play ball when the other 
team is ready.
D. Pre-Game Conference - The pre-game conference shall be conducted by 
the plate Umpire. At least one adult coach from each team must attend. 
The pre-game meeting should begin approximately five minutes prior to 
the game and before the home team takes the field. There shall be no ball 
hit or thrown in live ball territory during this meeting. The purpose of the 
pre-game conference is to 
 1. Exchange and check each team’s lineup cards.
 2. Discusses ground rules. 
 3. Identify the head coach
 4. Have coaches verify that their players are legally and properly 
equipped.
RULE 5. PLAYERS AND SUBSTITUTES
Sec 1. PLAYERS A team shall consist of at least nine players, whose positions 
shall be designated as; (1) Pitcher, (2) Catcher, (3) First Baseman, (4) Second 
Baseman, (5) Third Baseman, (6) Shortstop, (7) Left Fielder, (8) Center 
Fielder, (9) Right Fielder. In addition, a team may optionally include a DP/
FLEX and/or up to two Additional Players (APs). The maximum number of 
players in the lineup is 12; the maximum number of batters in the batting order 
is 11. 
A. A team must have the required number of players present in the dugout or 
team area to start or continue a game.
B. The team’s lineup card shall include first name, last name, jersey number, 
position and batting order of each starting player and should include each 
eligible substitute. First and last name of eligible player takes precedence 
over jersey number if there is a discrepancy on the lineup card. All listed 
starters must be present in the team area. Lineups become official after 
they have been exchanged, verified and then accepted by the Plate Umpire 
during the pregame conference.
C. Eligible roster members may be added as substitutes at any time.
D. (Non-ELITE SELECT divisions): ROSTER BATTING OPTION
Teams may utilize additional APs to bat their entire roster (i.e., ALL 
players present; no DP/FLEX allowed) subject to the restrictions of Rules 
5.2 and 5.3.
Under Roster Batting, player(s) arriving late shall be placed in the lineup 
in the following priority: 
 1. to fill any Absent Player (automatic out) position 
 2. if no Absent Player position exists, then the late arrival will be placed 
last in the batting order (i.e. - a team batting 13 will add the late 
arrival in the 14th batting position) 
30 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
Roster Batting must be declared at the pregame conference, and all players 
physically present must be listed in the batting order. If a player is physically 
present but is unable to play because of injury or illness, that player shall be 
ineligible for the entire game if the team elects Roster Batting. 
Sec 2. SHORT-HANDED RULE: Playing short-handed is an exception to Rule 
5-1 above. A team shall be allowed to play with one batting position unfilled, 
provided they have a minimum of 8 batters present. The vacant batting 
position will be designated as the absent player. Whenever the absent player is 
scheduled to bat, an out shall be declared. A team may play short-handed under 
the following circumstances:
A. A team may continue a game with one fewer batter than is listed in the 
starting batting order, whenever a player leaves the game (for any reason) 
and no substitutes are available. If a team falls below 8 batters, a forfeit 
shall be declared. 
 1. If the absent player is the batter or a runner, she shall be declared out. 
EXCEPTION: if the absent player was injured while a batter-runner 
or runner, the absent player may be replaced by the last completed 
at bat (LCAB) as defined in Rule 8-3-B, to fulfill her baserunning 
responsibility. However, this exception does not apply to any future 
at-bat. 
 2. An absent player may not return to the lineup. EXCEPTION: a player 
who left under the Blood Rule may re-enter, subject to Rule 5-6. 
B. A team may begin the game short-handed. The absent player must be 
listed in the ninth (9th) batting position. Under no circumstances shall a 
team be allowed to have less than eight (8) players in the batting order.
C. The team may not play short-handed if an eligible substitute arrives. Upon 
arrival, she must be inserted in the absent player’s position in the batting 
order.
(Non-ELITE SELECT divisions):
A team may drop more than 1 batting position (i.e., may have multiple absent 
players), provided the lineup is maintained with at least 8 batters physically 
present. All other restrictions above apply.
If a team has multiple absent players and an eligible substitute arrives, she 
must enter the game immediately in the first available absent player position 
due up in the batting order. 
Sec 3. ADDITIONAL PLAYER - up to two Additional Players (APs) can be used to 
increase the batting order to 10 or 11 batters.
(Non-ELITE SELECT divisions) Teams may use additional APs to bat their 
entire roster, subject to the restrictions of Rules 5-2 and 5-3.
The AP(s) will be placed in the batting order in the positions to be occupied. 
The AP(s) can also be used on defense (only 9 defensive players in the field), 
but must keep the same position in the batting order. The AP(s), if used, must 
be selected prior to the start of the game, and their name(s) must be included 
on the lineup card presented to the Umpire. Failure to declare the use of the 
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 31
AP(s) prior to the game precludes the use of the AP(s) in that game. If a pinchhitter or pinch-runner is used for an AP, that player becomes the new AP. The 
original AP(s) may re-enter like any other player under the re-entry rule. If an 
AP is used, the position must be used the entire game.
Sec 4. DP/FLEX - A team may use the Designated Player (DP)/FLEX option 
provided it is made known prior to the start of the game.
A. The DP’s name is indicated on the lineup as one of the batters in the 
batting order.
B. The name of the player for whom the DP is batting (FLEX player) will be 
placed last in the FLEX position (non-batting) following the last batter in 
the lineup.
C. The DP must remain in the same position in the lineup for the entire game.
D. The DP may be substituted for at any time by a legal substitute or the 
FLEX player.
If the DP is replaced on offense by the FLEX player, the DP will leave the 
game. This reduces the number of players in the lineup by one. However 
the number of batters does not change. 
If replaced by a substitute, both the DP position and FLEX position 
remain in the lineup. 
E. A DP may re-enter one time, as long as the DP returns to the original 
position in the batting order. If the DP re-enters or a substitute enters as the 
DP and the FLEX player was batting in the DP’s spot, the FLEX player 
can either return to the FLEX position and play defense only, or leave the 
game.
F. The DP may play defense at any position. 
The DP may play defense for a player other than the FLEX player. That 
player will continue to bat but not play defense, and is not considered to 
have left the game. 
The DP may play defense for the FLEX player and the FLEX player 
is considered to have left the game, reducing the number of players by 
eliminating the FLEX position in the lineup.
G. The FLEX player may be substituted for at any time by a legal substitute 
and the FLEX position remains in the lineup. If the FLEX player is not 
playing defense, the non-batting FLEX position is eliminated and the 
FLEX player is out of the game. EXCEPTION: The FLEX may play 
offense-only (i.e., offense, but not defense) IF both these conditions are 
met: 
 1. The FLEX is properly inserted into the batting order in the DP’s 
batting position, AND
 2. The lineup is sufficient size (at least 1 AP) to field 9 players on 
defense without the FLEX’s participation.
The FLEX can be re-established if the FLEX player re-enters or is 
substituted for.
H. The FLEX player may re-enter the game one time provided they return to 
the non-batting position or to the DP’s position in the lineup.
32 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
 1. If returning to the FLEX position, the FLEX player will play defense 
only for any player.
 2. If returning to the DP position, the FLEX player will play offense and 
can play defense in any position. The FLEX position is suspended.
I. If the FLEX player re-enters or a substitute enters as the FLEX player and 
the DP was playing defense in the FLEX player’s spot, 
 1. The DP can return to batting only, play defense for another player and 
the FLEX position is re-established or 
 2. The DP can leave the game if the FLEX plays offense for the DP.
J. Placing the FLEX player into one of the batting positions for someone 
other than the DP’s position is considered an illegal player penalized per 
Rule 5-7. 
Sec 5. SUBSTITUTE - A player who replaces a player that is in the game (offense 
or defense) is a substitute. Teams are required to immediately report all 
substitutions to the Plate Umpire. Upon notification by either team, the Umpire 
shall announce the legal substitute and make the appropriate lineup card 
changes. An unreported legal substitute brought to the Umpire’s attention will 
result in a penalty, all prior play shall stand.
PENALTY: For unreported substitution, 
First offense: A team warning is issued. 
Second offense: The head coach is ejected for remainder of the game only.
The DP may go in and out of the game for any player (including the FLEX), at 
any defensive position, any time and any number of times without it counting 
as a substitution for anyone except the FLEX. This movement in and out of 
the game must be reported to the plate Umpire to avoid an unreported player 
violation. 
The FLEX may go in and out of the DP’s position in the batting order any 
time and any number of times. This action counts as a substitution for the DP. 
This movement in and out of the game must be reported to the plate Umpire to 
avoid an unreported player violation. 
A player may be removed as a pitcher and returned as a pitcher once per 
inning, provided the return as a pitcher does not violate either the pitching, 
substitution, or charged conference rule. 
Sec 6. RE-ENTRY: Any player may be withdrawn from the game and re-entered 
once, provided such player occupies the same batting position whenever in the 
line-up. A violation results in a illegal substitution which is penalized per Rule 
5-7-A. A substitute who is withdrawn may re-enter once.
Sec 7. ILLEGAL PLAYER is a player who enters the line–up without the right to 
an offensive or defensive position. Examples of an Illegal player(s), but not 
limited to, are: 
A. Starter and/or substitute who re-enters in an incorrect batting position.
B. Starter and/or substitute who re-enters a second time.
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 33
C. Using a player to pitch who was removed from the pitching position 
because of Rule 4-8-A PENALTY. 
D. Placing the FLEX player in one of the first 11 positions in the batting 
order for someone other than the DP. 
The use of an illegal player is handled as a protest that can be made at any 
time, while the player is in the game. A player will not violate the illegal player 
provision until he/she enters the game and one (1) pitch is thrown. Any action 
before one pitch is thrown is correctable. 
PENALTY: An illegal player violation results in the immediate ejection of 
the illegal player and the head coach. In addition, the following penalties will 
apply: 
A. If the illegal player has completed a turn at bat and before the next pitch, 
the illegal player is called out. Any advance by any runner as a result of 
the illegal player becoming a batter-runner is nullified. Any additional outs 
recorded on the play stand. 
B. If the illegal player is a baserunner and is still on base, the illegal player is 
called out. 
C. If the illegal player has made a defensive play and before the next pitch 
(or the defensive team or the Umpires have left the field), the offensive 
team has the option of 1) the result of the play or 2) replaying the last 
pitch. 
NOTE: The illegal player can be legally replaced by any eligible substitute. 
Sec 8. INELIGIBLE PLAYER The penalty for using an ineligible player is a forfeit 
of a game in progress. For use of an ineligible player in a game previously 
completed, see Rule 13-5.
Sec 9. INJURED PLAYER
A. During a live ball situation, when a player becomes injured such that, in 
the Umpire’s judgment, immediate attention is required, the Umpire shall 
call “DEAD BALL” and allow or seek first aid.
 EFFECT: Award any bases that would have been reached in the Umpire’s 
judgment.
B. A player who exhibits signs, symptoms, or behaviors consistent with a 
concussion (such as loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, confusion, 
or balance problems) shall be immediately removed from the game and 
shall not return to play that day until obtaining written medical clearance 
from a licensed medical doctor to return to play in accordance with the 
USSSA concussion policy (See page 78).
Sec 10. BLOOD RULE
A Player/Substitute, Manager, Coach, Trainer, Batboy or other Team member 
or Umpire who is bleeding or who has an open wound shall be prohibited from 
participating further in the game until the bleeding is stopped and the wound 
covered.in accordance with USSSA’s Communicable Disease Procedures 
Protocol (See page 77).
34 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
A. If treatment can be administered in a reasonable amount of time, the 
individual would not have to leave the game. The amount of time is 
determined by the Umpire’s judgment.
B. If excessive time is involved, the re-entry rule would apply to players.
C. If there is an excessive amount of blood on the uniform or if a bandage 
becomes blood soaked, in the judgment of the Umpire, the uniform/
bandage must be changed before the individual may participate.
RULE 6. PITCHING
Sec 1. A legal pitch shall conform to the following:
A. Prior to the pitch, the pitcher shall take a position with their pivot foot in 
contact with the pitcher’s plate and their non-pivot foot in contact with 
or behind the pitcher’s plate. Both feet must be on the ground within or 
partially within the 24-inch length of the pitcher’s plate.
The hands must be apart.
The pitcher may not take the pitching position on the pitcher’s plate 
without possession of the ball, and the pitcher may not simulate pitching 
with or without the ball when near the pitcher’s plate.
B. Preliminary to pitching, the pitcher must take a position with the ball in 
the glove or pitching hand, with the hands separated. 
C. While in this position, the pitcher shall take (or simulate taking) a signal 
from the catcher.
D. After completing “C” above, the pitcher shall bring the hands together in 
front of the body for not more than 10 seconds before releasing the ball. 
The hands may be motionless or moving. 
NOTE: Before the pitch starts, the pitcher may remove them self from the 
pitching position by stepping back from the pitcher’s plate with both feet 
(either foot may be removed first) or by requesting time.
E. The Pitch:
 1. The pitch begins and cannot be discontinued when the hands are 
separated once they have been placed together.
 2. Any step back with the non-pivot foot must begin before the start of 
the pitch (6.1.E.1). Once the pitch has started (the hands separate), 
the pitcher shall take not more than one step which must be forward, 
toward the batter and simultaneous with the delivery. 
 EXCEPTION: When removing self from the pitcher’s position 
(6.1.D NOTE)
 NOTE: “Toward” is interpreted as within or partially within the 24-
inch length of the pitcher’s plate.
 3. The pivot foot must remain in contact with the pitcher’s plate or push 
off and drag away from the pitcher’s plate or be airborne prior to the 
non-pivot foot touching the ground. The pitcher may leap from the 
pitcher’s plate, land with the non-pivot foot and with a continuous 
motion deliver the ball to the batter. The pivot foot may follow 
through with the pitcher’s continuous motion.
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 35
NOTE 1: It is not a step if the pitcher slides their pivot foot in any 
direction on the pitcher’s plate, provided contact is maintained.
NOTE 2: The pitcher’s push off to drag or leap must start from the 
pitcher’s plate. The pitcher must not crow hop or push off from any 
place other than the pitcher’s plate. Once having lost contact with 
the pitcher’s plate, the pivot foot may not bear weight again until the 
pitch is released.
 NOTE 3: All movement of the pitching arm must be continuous as 
the pitcher steps, pushes or leaps from the pitcher’s plate.
F. A LEGAL DELIVERY - shall be a pitched ball that is delivered to the 
batter with an underhand motion.
 1. The release of the ball and the follow-through of the hand and wrist 
must be forward past the vertical line of the body.
 2. The hand shall be below the hip and the wrist not farther from the 
body than the elbow.
 3. The pitch shall be delivered on the throwing arm side of the body and 
not behind the back or between the legs.
 4. The pitch is completed with a step toward the batter.
G. THE PITCHER MAY USE ANY WINDUP DESIRED PROVIDED:
 1. No motion to pitch is made without immediately delivering the ball to 
the batter.
 2. The pitcher does not use a rocker action in which, after having the 
ball in both hands in pitching position, the pitcher removes one hand 
from the ball, takes a backward and forward swing and returns the 
ball to both hands in front of the body.
 3. The pitcher does not use a windup in which there is a stop or reversal 
of the forward motion.
 4. The pitcher does not make more than one and one half revolutions of 
the arm in the windmill pitch. A pitcher may drop the pitching arm to 
the side and to the rear before starting the windmill motion. The ball 
does not have to be released the first time past the hip.
 5. The pitcher does not continue to wind up after taking the forward step 
or after the ball is released.
NOTE: Continuation of the windup is considered any action that, 
after the ball is released, causes the arm to continue to rotate past the 
shoulder.
H. The pitcher shall not wear any item on the pitching hand, wrist, arm or 
thigh that the Umpire judges to be distracting. If a pitcher wears a batting 
helmet while on defense, the outer covering and shield shall be a nonglare surface.
I. Foreign Substance on the ball/Items on pitcher. The pitcher shall not at 
any time be allowed to use any moisture or foreign substance on the ball, 
the pitching hand or fingers nor do anything to deface the ball. A pitcher 
who licks their fingers must wipe the fingers off before bringing them in 
contact with the ball.
36 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
 1. Under the supervision and control of the Umpire, the pitcher may use 
following items to dry the hand which is in contact with the ball: dirt 
(but not chalk), powdered resin, or an approved drying agent. When 
using these items, the pitcher is not required to wipe the hand prior 
to contacting the ball; when using any other substance, the pitcher 
must wipe the pitching hand prior to contacting the ball. No tacky or 
sticky substances can be used as a substitute for a powdered drying 
agent.
No other player or team personnel shall apply moisture or a foreign 
substance to the ball nor do anything to deface the ball.
 2. The pitcher’s fingers, hand, wrist, forearm or elbow may be taped for 
injury, providing such tape is a neutral color.
 EFFECT Sec 1. A – I – Illegal Pitch
J. The pitcher shall not deliberately drop, roll, bounce, etc, the ball while 
in the pitching position in order to prevent the batter from striking it. 
PENALTY: The ball is dead at the end of playing action. The batter is 
awarded a ball which may be declined by the offensive coach. FIRST 
OFFENSE is a team warning. SECOND OFFENSE and any subsequent 
violation the offender is restricted to the bench for the remainder of the 
game and their current head coach shall be ejected.
K. Once the ball has been returned to the pitcher to prepare for the next pitch 
or the Umpire says “play”, the pitcher has 20 seconds to release the next 
pitch.
PENALTY: Dead ball; a ball on the batter
L. At the beginning of an inning or when a pitcher relieves another pitcher, 
one minute may be used to deliver not more than five practice pitches (or 
throws) to the catcher, or some other teammate. For excessive warm-up 
pitches (or throws), a pitcher shall be penalized by awarding a ball to 
the batter for each pitch in excess of five. EXCEPTION: This does not 
apply if the umpire delays the start of play due to substitution, conference, 
injuries, or other umpire responsibilities.
A pitcher returning to pitch in the same half-inning shall not be allowed 
warm-up pitches.
M. If the ball slips from the pitcher’s hand during the back swing or forward 
motion, a ball is called on the batter. In either case, the ball remains in play 
and runners may advance at their own risk.
Sec 2. CATCHER and DEFENSIVE POSITIONING
A. A catcher shall be inside the lines of the catcher’s box and all other 
defensive players positioned in fair territory when the pitcher takes their 
position to pitch and when the pitch is released.
 PENALTY: An illegal pitch is called.
B. The catcher shall return the ball directly to the pitcher after each pitch, 
except after a strikeout or a putout made by the catcher, or to play on a 
base runner.
 PENALTY: The batter is awarded a ball.
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 37
 EXCEPTION: Intentionally violating the rule in order to walk the batter 
without pitching shall not result in a ball being awarded to the batter.
C. A fielder shall not take a position in the batter’s line of vision or, with 
deliberate unsportsmanlike intent, act in a manner to distract the batter. A 
pitch does not have to be released.
EFFECT: The offending player shall be ejected from the game.
Sec 3 ILLEGAL PITCH
An illegal pitch is a pitch that violates the pitching rule or is an effect for a 
rules violation. When an illegal pitch occurs, it shall be called immediately by 
the plate or base umpire.
If an illegal pitch occurs but the pitch is not released, it is a dead ball.
If the pitch is released, the umpire calls “illegal” loud enough nearby players to 
hear. Simultaneously, the Umpire gives the delayed dead-ball signal and waits 
to suspend play until the play has been completed. Failure of players to hear 
the call shall not void the call.
A. Effect: The pitch is declared a ball. 
B. If the batter reaches first base safely and all other runners advance at least 
one base, the play stands, and the illegal pitch is canceled. No option is 
given.
C. If the batter does not reach first base safely or if any runner fails to 
advance at least one base, the coach of the offensive team has the option 
of taking the result of the play or accepting the effect for an illegal pitch.
D. If a batter is hit by an illegal pitch not swung at, the batter is awarded first 
base, and other base runners advance one base, only if forced.
E. If ball four is an illegal pitch, the batter is awarded first base, and other 
base runners advance one base, only if forced. 
F. The Umpire who called the illegal pitch shall explain the violation to the 
coach if requested.
Sec 4. NO PITCH shall be declared when:
A. The pitcher pitches during the suspension of play.
B. A runner is called out for leaving a base too soon.
C. The pitcher attempts a quick return of the ball before the batter is in 
position or is off balance as a result of a previous pitch.
D. The pitcher pitches before a runner has retouched their base after being 
legitimately off that base.
E. A player, manager or coach calls time, employs any other word or phrase, 
or commits any act while the ball is live and in play for the obvious 
purpose of trying to make the pitcher commit an illegal pitch. The Umpire 
shall penalize according to Rule 11-2-S governing Sporting Behavior..
 EFFECT- A-E: The ball is dead, and all subsequent action on that pitch is 
canceled.
38 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
RULE 7. BATTING
Sec 1. ON-DECK BATTER.
A. The on-deck batter may take a position within the lines of the on-deck 
circle nearest the offensive team bench. No player is permitted to warm up 
in the other team’s on-deck circle.
B. The on-deck batter may loosen up with no more than two official softball 
bats, an approved warm-up bat, or a combination not to exceed two. Any 
detachable piece placed on the bat must be approved.
C. The on-deck batter may leave the on-deck circle:
 1. When the on-deck batter becomes the batter.
 2. To direct runners advancing from third to home plate.
D. The on-deck batter may not interfere with the defensive player’s 
opportunity to make an out.
 1. If it involves a runner, the runner closest to home plate at the time of 
the interference shall be declared out.
 2. If it is with the fielder fielding a fly ball, the batter is out.
NOTE: When the interference is with a thrown ball, the ball is dead 
and the runner closest to home is declared out. If no play is obvious, no 
player is out, but runners shall return to the last base touched at the time of 
interference.
Sec 2. POSITION AND BATTING ORDER Each player of the team at bat shall 
become the batter and shall take their position within the batter’s box (on either 
side of home base) in the order in which their name appears on the lineup 
card as delivered to the Umpire and the opposing team prior to the game. 
The order shall be followed during the entire game except that an entering 
substitute shall take the replaced player’s place in the batting order. A batter 
is in proper order if the batter follows the preceding player in the lineup, even 
though such preceding batter may have batted out of order. An improper batter 
is considered to be at bat as soon as they enter the batter’s box and one pitch 
has been thrown. When an improper batter’s infraction is first discovered, time 
may be requested and the improper batter replaced by the proper batter who 
will assume the improper batter’s ball and strike count, provided the infraction 
is detected before the improper batter is put out or becomes a base runner.
Sec 3. LEAD OFF BATTER. After the first inning, the first batter in each inning 
shall be the player whose name follows that of the last batter who completed 
their time at bat in the preceding inning.
Sec 4. BATTING POSITION.
A. Prior to the pitch, the batter must have both feet completely in the batter’s 
box. The batter may touch the lines, but no part of the foot may be outside 
the lines prior to the pitch.
B. After the ball is in play, the batter may not step out of the batter’s box to 
stop play unless time has been granted by the Umpire.
EFFECT: All action will continue and the pitch will be called.
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 39
Sec 5. A STRIKE is charged to the batter when:
A. A pitched ball enters any part of the strike zone in flight and is not struck at.
B. A pitched ball, in the Umpire’s judgment, is prevented from entering the 
strike zone by any actions of the batter.
C. A pitched ball is struck at and missed.
D. A pitched ball becomes a foul ball when the batter has less than two strikes.
 NOTE: A batted ball that contacts the batter in the batter’s box is a foul 
ball.
E. A pitched ball becomes a foul tip (even on a third strike) or a foul from an 
attempted bunt.
F. A penalty strike is called because a batter delays.
Sec 6. A BALL is credited to the batter when a pitch is not touched by the bat and is 
not a strike or when there is an illegal pitch or for catcher / pitcher’s delay.
Sec 7. A foul hit or fair hit, which may be a bunt, occurs when a pitch is touched by 
the bat of the batter who is in the batter’s box.
EXCEPTION: Foul Tip.
Sec 8. A batter shall not delay the game by failing to promptly take their position in 
the batter’s box within 10 seconds of the pitcher having the ball in the pitching 
circle, or by stepping out of the box when the pitcher is on the pitcher’s plate.
PENALTY: If a pitcher is committed to delivering the pitch, the batter leaves 
the box at the risk of having a strike called while being out of position. For 
failure of the batter to be ready within 10 seconds after the ball has been 
returned to the pitcher, the Umpire shall call a strike. If it is the third strike, the 
Umpire shall call time and declare the batter out.
NOTE 1: After entering the batter’s box, the batter leaves it at the risk of being 
charged with delay. The batter may request time-out if the batter desires to step 
out for a valid reason and, if granted, the 10 seconds count will begin anew 
when the ball is declared live. The Umpire is authorized to refuse to grant 
time-out if the batter repeatedly causes delay or if their leaving the batter’s box 
appears to be an attempt to worry the pitcher or to gain some other advantage.
NOTE 2: If the pitcher stops or hesitates in their delivery as a result of the 
batter stepping out of the box or holding up their hand to request time, it shall 
not be an illegal pitch. However, if the batter steps out of the box or holds up 
their hand to request time and the pitcher legally delivers the ball, it shall be 
called a strike and the ball remains live. If a pitch is not delivered, a rule has 
been violated by both the batter and the pitcher. The Umpire shall call time, 
declare, “no-pitch” and begin play again. If the Umpire judges the batter’s 
action to be a deliberate attempt to create an illegal pitch, the Umpire shall 
penalize according to Rule 11-2-S governing Sporting Behavior..
Sec 9. A batter shall not hit the ball fair or foul while either foot is touching the 
ground completely outside the lines of the batter’s box or while touching the 
plate.
PENALTY: The ball becomes dead immediately. The batter is out.
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Sec 10. A batter shall not disconcert the pitcher by stepping out of the box on one 
side of home plate to the box on the other side while the pitcher is in position 
ready to pitch.
PENALTY: The ball becomes dead immediately. The batter is out.
Sec 11. A batter shall not intentionally move to get hit by the pitch.
PENALTY: The batter remains at bat (pitch is a ball or strike), unless the pitch 
was a third strike or ball four.
Sec 12. A batter shall not interfere with the catcher’s fielding or throwing by leaning 
over home plate, by stepping out of the batter’s box, by making any other 
movement which hinders action at home or the catcher’s attempt to play on a 
runner, or by failing to make a reasonable effort to vacate congested area when 
there is a throw to home and there is time for the batter to move away.
PENALTY: Dead ball; the batter is out.
Sec 13. If the bat breaks and is hit by the ball or hits a runner or a fielder, no 
interference will be called. If a whole bat is thrown and interferes with a 
defensive player attempting a play, interference shall be called.
PENALTY: The batter is out and runners return. If, in the Umpire’s judgment, 
interference prevented a possible double play, two may be declared out (the 
batter throwing the bat and the runner closest to home).
Sec 14. A batter shall be called out when:
A. The batter enters the box with an illegal bat, or has completed their turn at 
bat using that bat and before the next pitch, legal or illegal.
EFFECT: The ball is dead immediately. On a batted ball, any runners 
not put out must return to the base occupied at the time of the pitch. Base 
runner advances because of a stolen base, wild pitch, or passed ball stand.
The bat shall be removed from the team’s possession. When the illegal 
bat is an altered or non-approved bat, the batter and head coach are 
also ejected. For all other illegal bats: First Offense, Team Warning; 
Subsequent Offense, Player Restricted to the Dugout and the Coach is 
Ejected.
 NOTE: There is no violation if a bat is damaged or shatters during an 
at-bat due to bat-ball contact which occurs after the batter enters the box. 
However, the damaged bat shall be removed from the team’s possession 
upon discovery.
B. A third strike is caught before the ball touches the ground.
C. A bunt on a third strike is foul.
D. A third strike (in flight) is not caught, provided a runner occupies first base 
at the time of the pitch and there are less than two outs.
NOTE: If there are two outs or if no runner occupies first base, the batter 
is not out unless the third strike is caught. The batter is entitled to try to 
reach first base before being tagged out or thrown out.
E. If a team is playing short per Rule 5-2 and the absent player’s turn to bat is 
reached. 
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F. After hitting or bunting a ball, the bat hits the ball a second time while the 
ball is on or over fair territory, or is on or over foul territory and, in the 
Umpire’s judgment, had a chance to become a fair ball, the ball is dead, no 
runner(s) advance and the batter is out.
EXCEPTION: If the bat and ball accidentally come in contact with each 
other a second time while the batter is holding the bat in the batter’s box, 
it is a foul ball.
NOTE: If the batter drops the bat and the ball rolls against the bat in fair 
territory and, in the Umpire’s judgment, there was no intention to interfere 
with the course of the ball, the batter is not out and the ball is live and in 
play.
G. When an entire foot is touching the ground completely outside the lines of 
the batter’s box when the ball makes contact with the bat.
H. When any part of a foot is touching home plate when the ball makes 
contact with the bat.
I. When a batter leaves the box, but has returned to the box and makes 
contact with the ball.
PENALTY: In A, C and F-I, the ball is dead and the batter is declared out. 
Runners must return to the base occupied at the time of the pitch.
EXCEPTION: In A, base runner advances because of a stolen base, wild 
pitch, or passed ball stand.
RULE 8. BASE RUNNING
Sec 1. Stealing of bases permitted.
Sec 2. The LOOK-BACK RULE is in effect when the ball is live, the batter-runner 
has touched first base or has been declared out, and the pitcher has possession 
of the ball (e.g. has the ball in their hand, glove, under arm or chin, between 
their legs) within the 16-foot circle.
Any runner(s) in motion may continue without stopping or may stop once. 
Any runner who is stopped or stops their motion must immediately move 
directly back to the last base touched or attempt to advance to the next base.
Once the runner stops at a base for any reason, they may not move off that 
base.
A batter-runner who overruns first and does not without delay attempt to 
advance to second is committed to return to first and stop.
The runner, off base, may not stand motionless. 
There does not need to be any motion or recognition by the pitcher.
Failure of the runner to respond as indicated shall cause the Umpire to signal 
the runner out. The ball shall be declared dead.
If the pitcher no longer has possession of the ball within the 16-foot circle, the 
pitcher makes an attempt on any of the runners or a fake throw is made, this 
rule does not apply.
Being in the 16-foot circle is defined as both feet within or partially within the 
line. The feet may touch the line and extend outside the line. When the pitcher 
42 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
is in the pitcher’s circle and a runner(s) is off the base, the pitcher is considered 
to be playing on the runner(s) when the throwing arm is raised or any forward 
movement of the body is made toward the runner. Movement of the head is not 
considered an attempted play.
EFFECT: The ball becomes dead immediately. The runner is out.
Sec 3. COURTESY RUNNER
A. The team at bat may use a courtesy runner for the pitcher and/or catcher 
any time after they reach base other than by substitution. The same runner 
may not be used for both positions in the same inning. Neither the pitcher 
nor the catcher will be required to leave under such circumstances
B. Players who have participated in the game in any other capacity are not 
entitled to serve as a courtesy runner (i.e., the courtesy runner must be an 
unused substitute).
(Non-ELITE SELECT divisions): if, and only if, no eligible substitute is 
available, then, and only then, the Last Completed at Bat (LCAB) may 
serve as a courtesy runner, subject to all other applicable restrictions 
(cannot run for both positions in the same inning, etc).
 NOTE: If an eligible substitute is physically present but is unable to 
courtesy run because of injury or illness, that player shall be ineligible for 
the entire game if the team utilizes the LCAB courtesy runner option.
The LCAB courtesy runner is determined at the time the courtesy runner 
is requested, skipping batters
 1. currently on base,
 2. who are the pitcher or catcher of record, or
 3. who have already courtesy run for the other position in the same 
inning.
v In the first inning, if no eligible substitutes are available to courtesy run, 
the LCAB courtesy runner shall be the person furthest away in the batting 
order (i.e., the LCAB courtesy runner for the lead off batter is the last 
batter listed in the lineup).
PENALTY: If an ineligible or incorrect courtesy runner is utilized and is 
discovered while still on base, the courtesy runner shall be called out and a 
team warning issued. On the second offense, the head coach is ejected for 
the remainder of the game only. The ineligible or incorrect courtesy runner 
is liable for discovery once they physically replace the pitcher/catcher on 
the occupied base, and the ball becomes live.
C. A runner put in for any player other than the pitcher or catcher will be 
considered a substitute player.
D. A player may not run as a courtesy runner and be used as a substitute for 
another player in that half inning.
EXCEPTION: If there is an injury and there is no substitute available, 
the courtesy runner must be used as a substitute and take the place of 
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the injured player. Should the courtesy runner be on base, the pitcher or 
catcher for whom the courtesy runner is running must run in their place.
E. Once a courtesy runner is designated for that half inning, no other 
courtesy runner or the pitcher or catcher may return to run for the original 
courtesy runner. Should an injury occur, another courtesy runner or the 
pitcher or catcher may run until they score or are put out.
F. The courtesy runner is not permitted to be used for the DP unless the DP is 
the pitcher or catcher of record.
G. In the top of the first inning only, the pitcher and catcher are identified 
as those players listed as the pitcher and catcher; both must face at least 
the first batter on defense (one pitch). Thereafter, the pitcher and catcher 
are identified as the last players who physically played that position on 
defense. The pitcher or catcher must reach base legally by any means 
other than substitution in order to be eligible for a courtesy runner.
 EXCEPTION: When an injury or disqualification occurs in the top of 
the first inning to the pitcher/catcher identified on the lineup card and she 
is unable to face the first batter in the bottom of the first inning, the player 
who ran for her is retroactively her substitute (unless the substitute was 
an LCAB courtesy runner), no longer a courtesy runner. All substitution 
rules apply, but the pitcher/catcher has left the game and may not return to 
the original pitching/catching position.
PENALTY Unreported courtesy runner: An unreported courtesy runner is 
treated the same as an unreported substitute. The team is warned and further 
violations result in the ejection of the coach.
Sec 4. A batter becomes a batter runner with the right to attempt to score by 
advancing to first, second and third and then home plate in the listed order 
when:
A. Hitting a fair ball.
NOTE: Batter becomes a runner when entitled to run.
B. Charged with a third strike.
NOTE: if a third strike is caught before the ball touches the ground, the 
batter is out an instant after becoming a runner. 
See exception in Rule 15-8-4-B for 8U and Younger Divisions.
C. A fourth ball is called by the Umpire.
D. A pitched ball, legal or illegal, hits the batter’s person or clothing.
EFFECT: The ball is dead immediately.
EXCEPTIONS: 
 1. If the batter swings or the ball enters the strike zone, or the batter 
prevents the ball from entering the strike zone, a strike is called, and 
if it is the third strike, the batter is out.
 2. If the batter intentionally moves to get hit by the pitch, it is a strike or 
ball depending on location of the pitch.
 NOTE: 
 1. If a batter’s loose garment, such as a shirt that is not buttoned is hit by 
a pitched ball, the batter is not entitled to first base.
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 2. It does not matter if the ball strikes the ground before hitting the 
batter.
 3. The batter’s hands are not considered part of the bat.
 4. If a batter swings and the ball hits their hands which send it into fair 
or foul territory, the ball is dead immediately; A strike is called on the 
batter; and if it is the third strike, the batter is out
E. The catcher or any infielder obstructs her. Obstruction on the batter is a 
delayed dead ball. The coach or captain of the team at bat, after being 
informed by the Plate Umpire of the obstruction, shall indicate to the 
Umpire whether they elect to accept the result of the play or to accept the 
penalty of awarding the batter first base and advancing all other runners 
only if forced. Such election shall be made before the next pitch (legal 
or illegal) or before the infielders leave the diamond. Obstruction of the 
batter (before the batter has become a batter-runner) is ignored if the 
batter-runner reaches first and all other runners advance at least one base.
NOTE 1: Any runner attempting to advance (i.e., steal or squeeze) on a 
catcher’s or any infielder’s obstruction of the batter shall be awarded the 
base the runner is attempting. If a runner is not attempting to advance on 
the catcher’s obstruction, the runner shall not be entitled to the next base, 
unless forced to advance because of the batter being awarded first base.
NOTE 2: If obstruction is enforced, all other runners on the play will 
return to the base occupied at time of the pitch unless forced to advance 
because of the batter being awarded first base.
NOTE 3: If the obstruction penalty is not enforced, all other runners 
advance at their own risk.
Sec 5. A batter-runner is awarded first base if:
A. A fourth ball is called.
B. Hit by a pitched ball as provided in Rule 8-4-D.
C. The catcher or any infielder obstructs him. 
D. A fair ball, other than an infield fly, becomes dead and provided a 
preceding runner or retired runner does not interfere in such a way as to 
prevent an obvious double play.
NOTE: Unless awarded first base as above, a batter-runner is entitled to first 
base only if the batter-runner reaches it before being tagged out, thrown out or 
called out for hitting an infield fly.
E. Hit by a thrown ball while legally advancing which incapacitates the 
batter-runner prior to reaching first base unless interference is ruled.
Sec 6. Touching bases in legal order 
A. An advancing runner shall touch first, second, third and then home plate in 
order. 
B. A returning runner shall retouch the bases in reverse order. When an 
uncaught foul ball causes the ball to become dead, the runner need not 
touch intervening bases. 
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C. Any runner who misses a base while advancing may not return to touch 
the missed base if a following runner has scored.
NOTE: Any runner who misses the first base to which they are advancing 
and who is later called out shall be considered as having advanced one 
base.
D. When a runner passes a base, the runner is considered to have touched the 
base for purposes of awarded bases. 
E. When a runner dislodges a base from its proper position, neither the 
runner nor the succeeding runner(s) in the same series of plays are 
compelled to follow a base out of position.
F. A runner shall not run bases in reverse order either to confuse the fielders 
or to make a travesty of the game.
EFFECT: The ball is dead and the runner is out.
G. Two runners may not occupy the same base simultaneously.
EFFECT: The runner who first legally occupied the base shall be entitled 
to it, unless forced to advance. The other runner may be put out by being 
touched with the ball.
H. Failure of a PRECEDING runner to touch a base or to legally tag up on 
a caught fly ball, and who is declared out, does not affect the status of a 
SUCCEEDING runner who touches bases in proper order. If the failure to 
touch a base in regular order or to legally tag up on a caught fly ball is the 
third out of the inning, no SUCCEEDING runner may score a run.
I. No runner may return to touch a missed base or one left too soon after a 
following runner has scored or once the runner leaves the field of play.
J. Bases left too soon on a caught fly ball must be retouched prior to 
advancing to awarded bases.
K. Awarded bases must be touched in legal order.
Sec 7. A Runner may advance with liability to be put out.
A. When the ball leaves the pitcher’s hand on the delivery.
B. On a thrown ball or a fair batted ball that is not blocked.
C. On a thrown ball that hits an Umpire.
D. If a batted ball (fair or foul other than a foul tip) is caught, the initial 
contact of the ball by a fielder releases the runner(s) from the base(s) 
occupied at the time of the pitch.
E. If a fair ball strikes an Umpire or a runner after having passed an infielder 
other than the pitcher, and provided no other fielder had a chance to 
make an out, or when a fair batted ball has been touched by an infielder, 
including the pitcher, and the runner did not intentionally interfere with 
the batted ball or the fielder attempting to field the batted ball.
EFFECT- Section 7: The ball is in play.
Sec 8. A Runner becomes liable to be put out when:
A. with the ball in play or on awarded bases, the runner fails to touch a base 
before attempting to make the next base.
B. after overrunning first base, the runner attempts to continue to second 
base.
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C. after dislodging a base, a runner attempts to continue to the next base.
Sec 9. If a batter-runner is entitled to return to first base after overrunning, or if a 
runner fails to touch home plate, and if either such runner desires to return to 
such base, the runner shall return immediately.
Sec 10. A batter-runner who reaches first base safely and then overruns or over slides 
may immediately return without liability of being put out, provided they do not 
feint or attempt to advance to second.
NOTE 1: When a walk or uncaught third strike occurs in which the batter is 
entitled to run, it is treated the same as a batted ball. The batter-runner may 
continue past first base and is entitled to run toward second base as long as 
they do not stop at first base, if the pitcher has possession of the ball in the 16-
foot circle. If the runner stops after rounding first base, the runner must comply 
with the Look Back Rule (Rule 8-2).
NOTE 2: A player who is awarded first base on a base on balls may continue 
on down the first base line after touching first base and immediately return 
without liability of being put out, if there is no feint or attempt to advance to 
second. They may also round first base and go directly to second base without 
stopping. If the runner does stop, the runner must comply with the Look Back 
Rule (Rule 8-2).
Sec 11. A runner acquires the right to the proper unoccupied base if the runner 
touches it before being put out. The runner is then entitled to this base until 
being put out, or until legally touching the next base while it is unoccupied or 
until a following runner is forced to advance to the base occupied.
Sec 12. Each runner shall touch their base after the ball becomes dead. All awarded 
bases must be touched in their proper order. The runner returns to the base 
they had reached or passed when the ball became dead. In the event of 
interference, a runner returns to the base they had legally reached at the time of 
the interference. If the interference does not cause the batter to be out and any 
other runner cannot return to the base last legally occupied at the time of the 
interference, they are advanced to the next base.
EXCEPTION: The runner returns to the base occupied at the time of the pitch 
if their advance was during an uncaught foul.
Sec 13. When a runner is obstructed while advancing or returning to a base, by a 
fielder who neither has the ball nor is attempting an initial play on a batted 
ball, it shall be a delayed dead-ball. Obstruction shall not be enforced when 
the batter flies out for the third out, or when the batter-runner is obstructed 
between two bases when she flies out.
EFFECT: If the obstructed runner is put out prior to reaching the base 
that would have been reached had there not been obstruction, a dead ball is 
declared and the Umpire shall award the obstructed runner, and each other 
runner affected by the obstruction, the bases they would have reached, in the 
Umpire’s judgment, had there been no obstruction. 
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 47
A. If the obstructed runner advances beyond the base the runner would have 
reached, in the Umpire’s judgment, the delayed dead ball is terminated 
and the runner advances with liability to be put out. 
B. If any preceding runner is forced to advance by the awarding of a base 
or bases to an obstructed runner, the Umpire shall award this preceding 
runner the necessary base or bases. 
C. The penalty for faking a tag is obstruction. 
D. An obstructed runner may not be called out between the two bases where 
the runner was obstructed except as follows:
 1. The obstructed runner obtains the base they would have been 
awarded had there been no obstruction and there is a subsequent play 
on a different runner. The obstructed runner is no longer protected if 
they leave the base. 
 2. The obstructed runner commits an act of interference or malicious 
contact
 3. The obstructed runner passes another runner.
 4. A proper appeal is made for leaving a base too soon or for missing a 
base. However, if obstruction occurred while the runner was returning 
to touch the base, she is protected if, in the umpire’s judgment, the 
obstruction prevented her return prior to the appeal.
NOTE: When obstruction occurs, the Umpire gives the delayed dead-ball 
signal and calls out “obstruction.” If an award is to be made, the ball becomes 
dead when time is taken to make the award.
Sec 14. AWARDED BASES
All awarded bases must be touched. Each runner including the batter-runner is 
awarded:
A. Four bases (home base):
 1. If a fair-batted ball goes over a fence between the foul poles without 
touching the ground.
 2. If a fair-batted ball hits a foul pole above the fence.
 3. If a fair-batted ball is prevented from going over the fence by a 
spectator.
 4. If a fair-batted ball is prevented from going over the fence by an 
illegal glove/mitt.
 5. If a fair-batted ball is prevented from going over the fence by 
detached player equipment, which is thrown, tossed, kicked or held 
by a fielder.
B. Three bases:
 1. If a fair-batted ball (other than in item a) is touched by an illegal 
glove/mitt or by detached player equipment which is thrown, tossed, 
held or kicked by a fielder, provided the ball when touched:
a. Is on or over fair ground.
b. Is a fair ball, while on or over foul ground.
c. Is over foul ground in a situation that it might become a fair ball.
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C. Two bases:
 1. If a fair-batted ball becomes dead because of bouncing over or, when 
passing through a fence, becomes blocked.
 2. If a live thrown ball, including a pitch, is touched by an illegal glove/
mitt or detached player equipment which is thrown, held, tossed or 
kicked by a fielder.
 3. If a live thrown ball (not by a pitcher from the pitcher’s plate as in 
item D) goes into a stand for spectators, or a players’ bench, or over 
or through or lodges in a fence.
 4. If the fielder, in the judgment of the Umpire, intentionally touches 
loose equipment left on or near the field by the defensive team.
 5. If the fielder intentionally carries a live ball into dead-ball territory.
NOTE: If two runners are between the same bases, the award is based on 
the position of the lead runner.
D. One base:
 1. If a pitch by the pitcher from the pitching position on the pitcher’s 
plate goes into a dead-ball area, becomes blocked (unless blocked by 
the offensive team), or lodges in an Umpire’s equipment.
 2. If a fielder loses possession of the ball on a tag play and the ball 
enters dead-ball area.
 3. If forced from the base occupied by a following runner who must 
advance because a batter receives a fourth ball, is hit by a pitched ball 
or hits a fair ball which becomes dead.
 4. If a runner is attempting to steal or the runner is forced from the base 
occupied by a batter-runner or runner who must advance because 
the catcher or any fielder obstructed a batter (such as stepping on or 
across home plate, pushing the batter to reach the pitch, or touching 
the bat). Instances may occur when the infraction may be ignored or 
when the batter may be awarded first base.
 5. If the fielder unintentionally carries a live ball into dead-ball territory.
 NOTE 1: Illegal use of detached player equipment, as in items a, b or c, 
does not cause ball to immediately become dead. If each runner advances 
to or beyond the base that each would have reached as a result of the 
award, the infraction is ignored.
NOTE 2: If a ball is touched with an illegal glove or mitt, any runner who 
advances on the play beyond the base they would be awarded does so at 
their own risk and may be put out.
E. The Umpire shall impose such penalties and/or make any awards as in the 
Umpire’s judgment will nullify the following acts:
 1. Spectator interference. When there is spectator interference with 
any thrown or batted ball, the ball shall be dead at the moment of 
interference. 
 EXCEPTION: It is not spectator interference if a spectator 
physically hinders a fielder who is reaching into a dead ball area to 
make a play on a batted or thrown ball.
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 49
 2. Blocked ball caused by the defense.
Sec 15. An award is from the base determined as follows:
A. The pitch:
 1. If any pitch (batted or unbatted) is followed by a dead ball before the 
pitcher is in the 16-foot circle for the next pitch and before there is 
any throw by the fielding team.
 2. For a runner required to tag up after a caught fly ball.
B. The infraction:
 1. For use of detached player equipment or ball touches an illegal glove.
 2. For fielder losing possession of the ball.
 3. Obstruction.
C. The time the ball last left the hand of the thrower (in any situation other 
than A or B).
Sec 16. A runner must return to their base when.
A. a batted ball is foul.
B. an illegally batted ball is declared by the Umpire.
C. a batter, batter-runner or runner is called out for interference. Each other 
runner shall return to the last base which, in the Umpire’s judgment, was 
legally touched by the runner at the time of the interference.
D. any part of the batter’s person or clothing is touched by a pitched ball that 
is swung at and missed.
E. a batter is hit by a pitched ball, unless forced.
F. when an intentionally dropped ball is ruled 
 EFFECT- Section 16 A-F: The ball is dead and each runner must return 
to their base without liability to be put out, except when forced to go to the 
next base because the batter became a batter-runner.
G. when the Plate Umpire interferes with the catcher’s attempt to throw out a 
runner stealing, or an attempted pick off play.
 EFFECT: Delayed dead ball. If the runner is ruled out, the ball remains 
live. If the runner is not out, all runners return to the base occupied at the 
time of the pitch. It is not Umpire interference if, on a passed ball or wild 
pitch, the Umpire gets hit by a thrown ball from the catcher. The ball is 
live.
Sec 17. The batter-runner is out:
A. When interfering with the catcher’s attempt to field the ball after a third 
strike.
B. When a batted ball in flight is caught by a fielder, or such catch is 
prevented by a spectator reaching into the field enclosure.
C. When a fair fly, fair line drive or a fair bunted ball in flight is intentionally 
dropped by an infielder with at least first base occupied and less than two 
outs; the ball is dead and the runners shall return to their respective bases.
 NOTE: In this situation, the batter is not out if the infielder permits a fair 
fly ball, line drive or a fair bunted ball in flight to drop untouched to the 
ground, except when the infield-fly rule applies.
50 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
D. If, after a third strike or a fair hit, any fielder, while holding the ball, tags 
out the batter-runner before the batter-runner touches first base; or if any 
fielder, while holding the ball securely in a hand, touches first base or 
touches first base with the ball before the batter-runner touches first base.
E. When they run outside the three-foot running lane (last half of the distance 
from home plate to first base) while the ball is being fielded or thrown to 
first base.
 EXCEPTION: This infraction is ignored if it is to avoid a fielder who 
is attempting to field the batted ball or if the act does not interfere with a 
fielder or a throw.
F. When they contact the ball a second time in fair or foul territory, if, in the 
Umpire’s judgment, the ball had a chance to become fair.
G. When they move backward toward home plate to avoid or delay being 
tagged out. The ball is dead and base runners must return to the last base 
touched at the time of the infraction.
H. When they hit a fair fly and the infield fly rule is declared.
 EFFECT - The ball is live, the batter is out if the batted ball is fair. 
If the ball is caught, each runner may tag up and advance with the liability 
to be put out once the batted ball is touched the same as on any caught fly 
ball. If a declared infield fly is not caught, the ball is live, the batter-runner 
is out which removes all force plays, and each runner may advance with 
liability to be put out without needing to retouch their base(s).
 NOTE: When an infield fly is not initially called, the batter-runner may be 
declared out if brought to the umpire’s attention before the next pitch.
See exception in Rule 15-8-17-H (8U and Younger Fastpitch Divisions).
I. When any coach or member of the offensive team other than runners 
interferes with a fielder making an initial play.
J. When, after becoming a batter-runner, they do not attempt to reach first 
base before all infielders leave the diamond, the half-inning ends, or they 
give up by entering the bench or dugout area.
 EFFECT: Ball remains Live
K. When they are an illegal player and are discovered. 
Sec 18. Any runner is out when the runner:
A. Runs more than three feet away from the base path to avoid being tagged, 
or to hinder a fielder while the runner is advancing or returning to a base.
 EXCEPTION: This is not an infraction if a fielder, attempting to make an 
initial play on a batted ball, is in the runner’s proper path and if the runner 
runs behind the fielder to avoid interfering.
 NOTE: When a play is being made on a runner or batter-runner, the 
runner establishes their base path as directly between the runner’s position 
and the base toward which the runner is moving.
B. slides illegally and causes illegal contact and/or illegally alters the actions 
of a fielder in the immediate act of making a play on her.
 PENALTY: The runner is out and the ball is dead immediately and 
interference is called.
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 51
 NOTE: Runners are never required to slide but, if the runner elects to 
slide, the slide shall be legal.
C. does not legally attempt to avoid a fielder in the immediate act of making 
a play on her.
 PENALTY: The runner is out and the ball remains live unless interference 
is called.
 NOTE: Jumping, hurdling, and leaping are all legal attempts to avoid a 
fielder only if the fielder is lying on the ground.
D. Performs Malicious contact (always supersedes obstruction).
E. does not attempt to avoid the fielder on a force play. NOTE: a legal slide 
is considered an attempt to avoid. 
F. Interferes with a fielder attempting to throw the ball, or intentionally with 
a fielder or thrown ball.
G. Hinders a fielder’s initial play on a batted ball.
H. Interferes with a fielder attempting to field a fly ball over foul territory.
 EFFECT: The ball is dead and the runner is out. The batter is assessed a 
foul ball in this situation.
I. Is prevented from being put out by an illegal act by anyone connected 
with the team.
 NOTE 1: If, in the judgment of the Umpire, this interference is an attempt 
to prevent a double play and occurs before the runner is put out, the 
immediate trailing runner shall also be called out. 
 NOTE 2: If a retired runner interferes and, in the judgment of the Umpire, 
another runner could have been put out, the Umpire shall declare the 
runner closest to home out. 
 NOTE 3: If the batter-runner interferes, the Umpire shall call the batterrunner and the runner who has advanced the nearest to home base out.
 NOTE 4: If two fielders try to field a batted ball and the runner contacts 
one or both, the Umpire shall decide which one is entitled to field the ball 
and that fielder only is entitled to protection. 
 NOTE 5: If a batted ball is misplayed but the fielder in still making an 
initial play and the runner contacts the fielder, this is interference. If the 
misplayed ball bounds away so that it is no longer within a step and a 
reach (in any direction) and contact then occurs as the fielder and runner 
collide, this is obstruction. 
J. Is tagged out.
 EXCEPTIONS: If a batter-runner safely touches first base and then over 
slides or overruns it, the batter-runner may immediately return to first 
base without liability of being tagged out, provided there was no feint 
or attempt to advance to second. Also, if any base comes loose from its 
fastening when any runner contacts it, such runner cannot be tagged out 
because the base slides away from the runner.
 NOTE: The ball is not securely held if it is dropped or juggled after the 
runner is touched, unless the ball was deliberately knocked from the 
fielder’s hand by the runner.
52 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
K. Does not retouch a base left before a caught fly ball is touched or touch a 
missed base if properly appealed.
It is not necessary for a runner to retouch the base after a foul tip.
L. Is not in contact with the base at the time a pitched ball leaves the pitcher’s 
hand. However, if the pitcher does not allow sufficient time for a runner 
to return to base, the runner shall not be called out for being off the base 
before the pitcher releases the ball. The runner may advance as though the 
base was left legally.
M. Violates the Look Back Rule
N. Fails to reach the next base before a fielder either tags the runner out, or 
holds the ball while touching such base, after the runner has been forced 
from the base occupied because the batter became a runner. 
EXCEPTION: No runner may be forced out if a runner who follows in 
the batting order is first put out, including a batter-runner who is out for an 
infield fly.
O. Is contacted by a fair-batted ball before it touches or passes an infielder, or 
after it passes any infielder, except the pitcher, and the Umpire judges that 
another fielder has a play.
EFFECT: The ball is dead and the batter is awarded first base. All base 
runners return to the base occupied at the time of the infraction, unless 
forced.
EXCEPTION: If a runner is touching a base when hit by a batted fair 
ball, the runner is not out unless they intentionally interfere with the 
ball or an infielder making a play. The ball is dead or live depending on 
whether the closest fielder is in front of the base (live) or behind the base 
(dead).
NOTE 1: When the infield-fly rule is in effect, if a runner is hit by an 
infield fly when not touching a base, both the runner and the batter are out.
NOTE 2: When a runner is hit with a fair batted ball after it is touched 
or has passed an infielder, except the pitcher, and the Umpire judges that 
another fielder had no opportunity to make a play, the runner is not out 
and the ball remains live.
P. Is detected passing an unobstructed preceding runner before such runner is 
out (including awarded bases).
Q. Is detected running bases in reverse to confuse opponents or to make a 
travesty of the game.
R. After at least touching first base, the runner leaves the baseline, obviously 
abandoning their effort to touch the next base.
S. Is detected taking a position for a running start behind and not in contact 
with a base.
T. Is properly appealed when a runner is on or beyond a succeeding base 
when the ball is declared dead after having left a base too soon on a 
caught fly ball; or having failed to touch a preceding base; or continuing 
and touching a succeeding base after the ball become dead.
NOTE: A runner shall not be declared out if the fielder deliberately 
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 53
throws or carries the ball into dead-ball territory to prevent that runner, 
who has touched or advanced beyond a succeeding base, from returning to 
a missed base or a base left too soon.
U. The runner fails to touch the intervening base or bases in regular or 
reverse order and the ball is returned to the infield and properly appealed. 
If the runner put out is the batter-runner at first base, or any other runner 
forced to advance because the batter became a batter-runner, this is a force 
out.
V. Intentionally contacts a fair ball that an infielder has missed.
W. They are an illegal player and are discovered while still on base.
X. Prior to a pitch (legal or illegal) to the next batter, the runner was 
discovered having used an illegal, altered or non-approved bat. 
EXCEPTION: If the bat is a damaged bat (not altered or non-approved), 
the damage is presumed to have occurred when the ball was hit and the 
runner is not liable; however, the damaged bat is removed.
 EFFECT: Any runner not put out must return to the base occupied at the 
time of the pitch. Any runners put out prior to discovery shall remain out.
First offense: Team Warning; Subsequent Offense; Player Restricted to 
Dugout; Coach Ejected. For Altered and Non-Approved Bats, the Player 
and Coach are ejected on the first offense.
The runner is also out because of actions of other team members such as:
Y. A runner on base leaves the game without an eligible substitute available. 
EXCEPTION: Injured runner departing per Rule 5-2-A-1.
Z. When anyone other than another runner physically assists them during 
playing action.
AA. When a Coach intentionally interferes with a live, batted ball or thrown 
ball.
AB. When the offensive team causes a blocked ball.
EFFECT: The runner closest to home is out. If no play is obvious, no 
player is out, but all runners shall return to the last base touched when the 
ball became dead.
AC. When a Coach runs in the direction of Home Plate or any other base, on or 
near a baseline, while the fielder is attempting to make a play on a batted 
ball or on a thrown ball, and thereby draws a throw in their direction.
Sec 19. Double First Base
The Double First Base shall consist of a base in fair territory that is white in 
color and a base in foul territory that is colored. 
A. A batted ball hitting or bounding over any part of the white portion is 
declared fair. A batted ball hitting or bounding over only the colored 
portion is declared foul.
B. Whenever a play is being made on the batter-runner, the defense must use 
the white portion and the batter-runner the colored portion. 
 1. If the batter-runner touches only the white portion when there is a 
play being made at first base, it is treated the same as missing the 
54 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
base. The batter-runner is out providing the defense appeals prior to 
the batter-runner returning to first base. Once the runner returns to the 
white or colored portion, no appeal can be made.
 2. If the defense touches only the colored portion, it is treated the same 
as being off the base.
 EXCEPTIONS: The defense and batter runner can use either portion when:
 1. The ball is thrown from the foul side of first base line.
 2. On any force out attempt from the foul side of first base.
 3. On any fair batted ball or errant throw that pulls the defense to foul 
territory.
C. If there is a force play by an infielder on the batter-runner, who touches 
only the white portion and collides with the fielder about to catch a thrown 
ball while on the white, interference is ruled.
 PENALTY: The ball is dead, the batter-runner is out, and all other runners 
are returned to the base last occupied at the time of interference.
D. When no play is being attempted at first base, the batter-runner may touch 
the white or colored base. 
E. After the batter-runner initially reaches first base, the runner and any 
fielder may use the white or colored base. This shall include but is not 
limited to:
 1. The runner returning to first base.
 2. The runner tagging up on a fly ball.
 3. The fielder making a play on a returning runner.
RULE 9. APPEALS
An appeal is a play or rule violation on which the Umpire does not make a ruling until 
requested by a coach or player 
Sec 1. Types of appeals:
A. Missing a base, either advancing or returning (live or dead-ball appeal).
B. Leaving a base on a caught fly ball before the ball is first touched (live or 
dead-ball appeal).
C. Batting out of order (dead-ball appeal only).
D. Attempting to advance to second base after making the turn at first base 
overrunning first base (live-ball appeal only).
Sec 2. Live ball appeal (before Umpire calls time). Any fielder can appeal a runner 
once. A Live Ball Appeal may be made by touching the runner (A & B & D 
above) or touching the base (A & B above). The ball is live and all runners 
may advance with liability of being put out.
Sec 3. Dead ball appeal. Once all runners have completed their advancement and 
time has been called, the coach or any defensive player, with or without the 
ball, may make a verbal appeal on a runner missing a base or leaving a base 
too soon on a caught fly ball. The administering Umpire should then make a 
decision on the play.
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 55
A. If the ball has gone out of play, runners must be given the opportunity to 
complete their base running responsibilities before the dead-ball appeal 
can be made.
B. If “play ball” has been declared by the Umpire and the pitcher then 
requests an appeal, the Umpire would again call “time” and allow the 
appeal.
Sec 4. The appeals must be made: 
A. before the next legal or illegal pitch;
B. at the end of an inning, before all infielders have left fair territory and the 
catcher vacates their normal fielding position; or
C. on the last play of the game, before the Umpires leave the field of play. 
Sec 5. Advancing Runners 
A. Runners may advance during a live-ball appeal play. 
B. No runner may advance on a dead ball appeal.
C. No runner is out if they step off base during a dead ball appeal.
Sec 6. A runner may not return to touch a missed base or one left too soon on a 
caught fly ball if:
A. She has advanced, touched and remains a base beyond the base missed or 
left too soon and the ball becomes dead.
B. She has left the field of play; or
C. a following runner has scored.
Sec 7. More Than One Appeal. More than one appeal play may be made but 
guessing games should not be allowed.
Sec 8. Force Out. If an appeal is honored at a base to which a runner was forced to 
advance, no runs would score if it was the third out.
Sec 9. Fourth-Out Appeal. An appeal may be made after the third out as long as it 
is made properly. (i.e. one out with runner on first and third. The batter hits a 
fly ball that is caught. Each runner leaves their base before the caught ball is 
touched. An appeal is made at first base for the third out. The defensive team 
then makes an appeal at third base before the infielders leave the infield. The 
runner on third would then be declared out also, and the run would not count.)
Sec 10. Batting Out Of Order
A batter shall be called out on appeal when they fail to bat in their proper turn 
and another batter completes a time at bat in their place.
NOTE: Only the defensive team may appeal batting out of order after the 
batter has completed their time at bat.
A. When an improper batter becomes a runner or is put out and the defensive 
team appeals to the Umpire before the next pitch (legal or illegal), or 
before the infielders leave the diamond if a half inning is ended, batting 
out of order is declared and results in the following:
 1. The proper batter is declared out. 
56 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
 2. The improper batter is taken off base. If the batter is out on the 
play, the out does not stand because the out for batting out of order 
supersedes an out by the improper batter on a play. 
 3. Any outs made on the play on other runners stand. Any runner not put 
out must return to the base occupied at the time of the pitch.
 4. No runs may score on the play.
 5. The next batter is the player who follows in the batting order the 
player who was declared out for not batting in the proper order.
NOTE: If a runner advances because of a stolen base, wild pitch or passed 
ball while the improper batter is at bat, such advance is legal.
B. If an improper batter becomes a runner or is put out and a legal or illegal 
pitch has been delivered to the succeeding batter, or all infielders have left 
the diamond if a half-inning has ended and, in all cases, before an appeal 
is made, the improper batter becomes the proper batter and the results of 
their time at bat become legal.
C. When the proper batter is called out because they failed to bat in turn, the 
next batter shall be the batter whose name follows that of the proper batter 
who was called out.
D. When an improper batter becomes a proper batter because no appeal is 
properly made as above, the next batter shall be the batter whose name 
follows that of such legalized improper batter. The instant an improper 
batter’s actions are legalized, the batting order picks up with the name 
following that of the legalized improper batter.
NOTE: When several players bat out of order before discovery so that a 
player’s time at bat occurs while they are a runner, such player remains on 
base, but is NOT out as a batter.
RULE 10. DEAD BALL - SUSPENSION OF PLAY
Sec 1. The ball becomes dead immediately when:
A. A pitch touches a batter or the batter’s clothing.
 NOTE: the ball becomes dead even though the batter strikes at it.
B. The ball is illegally batted or comes in contact with the bat a second time. 
except if the ball rolls against the bat in fair territory as in Rule 7-14-F 
NOTE.
C. The batter is discovered with an illegal bat.
D. Any batted ball, while on or over foul ground.
 1. Touches any object other than the ground or any person other than a 
fielder.
 2. Goes directly from the bat to the catcher’s protector, mask or person 
without first touching the catcher’s glove or hand.
 3. Becomes an uncaught foul.
E. There is interference by a batter, a runner or a retired runner.
F. A fair ball, which is on or over fair ground.
 1. Touches a runner or an Umpire before touching any fielder and before 
passing any fielder other than the pitcher.
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 57
 2. Touches a runner after passing through or by an infielder and another 
fielder could have made a play on the ball. 
 3. Touches a spectator.
 4. Goes over, through or wedges in the field fence.
G. A pitch or any other thrown ball
 1. Is touched by a spectator.
 2. Is touched by nonparticipating team personnel. 
 3. Goes into a stand or player’s bench (even if it rebounds to the field).
 4. Goes over or through or wedges in the field fence.
 5. Lodges in an Umpire’s or catcher’s equipment or touches loose 
equipment.
H. The Umpire handles a live ball, calls “Time” for inspecting the ball, or for 
any other reason.
I. A fielder, after catching a fair or foul ball (fly or line drive), leaves the 
field of play by stepping with both feet or by falling into a designated 
dead-ball area (i.e., bench, dugout, stand/bleacher, etc.).
 NOTE: if a chalk line is used to designate an “out-of-play” area, the 
line is considered in play. If a fielder is touching the line, they are in 
the field of play and may make a catch. When the fielder completely 
unintentionally leaves live-ball area and then re-establishes himself within 
live-ball territory (one foot touching out of play line), a catch would be 
allowed. If the fielder unintentionally leaves a live-ball area with both 
feet after making a catch, the ball becomes dead and all base runners are 
awarded one base from the time of the pitch. Two bases shall be awarded 
each runner if a fielder intentionally leaves live-ball area with both feet.
J. Any personnel connected with the offensive team requests “Time” or uses 
any other command or commits an act for the purpose of trying to cause 
the opposing pitcher to commit an illegal pitch.
K. An infielder intentionally drops a fair fly. 
 EXCEPTION: Infield Fly Rule.
L. A runner interferes with a fielder attempting to catch a foul fly.
M. The batter-runner moves backward toward home plate to avoid or delay 
being tagged out.
N. A batted, thrown or pitched ball touches in an occupied designated media 
area (a ball that passes through a dead-ball area in flight is not considered 
dead).
O. An illegal pitch occurs, but no pitch is delivered to the batter.
P. The Umpire calls Time Out for an Injured Player per Rule 5-9-A.
Sec 2. It is a delayed dead ball when:
A. An illegal pitch is delivered.
B. A catcher or any fielder obstructs a batter or obstructs the ball through use 
of detached play equipment.
C. The Umpire interferes with catcher who is attempting to throw.
EFFECT: If the runner is not out, they are returned to the last base 
attained before the interference occurred.
58 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
D. A coach physically assists a runner.
E. A ball touches an illegal glove/mitt.
F. Any one who is required to wear a batting helmet deliberately removes the 
helmet while the ball is live.
Sec 3. The ball becomes dead when time is taken to make an award when a catcher or 
any fielder illegally obstructs a runner.
Sec 4. After a dead-ball situation, the ball becomes live when it is held by the 
pitcher within the 16-foot circle and the Umpire calls and/or signals “Play 
Ball”.
Sec 5. “Time” shall be called by the Umpire and play suspended:
A. When the Umpire and/ or Tournament Director considers the weather or 
ground conditions unfit for play.
 NOTE: After 30 minutes, the Umpire and/ or Tournament Director may 
declare the game ended or suspended.
B. When a player, bench personnel or spectator is ordered from the field of 
play, or player is ordered to secure protective equipment.
C. When a player or coach is granted time for a substitution, conference with 
the pitcher, or for similar cause.
D. When play is suspended for any other cause, including an award of a base 
after an infraction, inspection of the ball, or the ending of a half-inning.
Sec 6. When the ball becomes dead:
A. No action by the defense during that time can cause a player to be put out, 
except a proper dead-ball appeal.
B. A runner may not advance, nor return to a base that was not touched or 
that the runner was not in contact with on a caught fly ball during a live 
ball if the runner had advanced to or beyond a succeeding base.
C. Any runner may advance when awarded a base or bases for an act, which 
occurred before the ball became dead. All awarded bases must be touched.
TABLE 1 - DEAD BALL TABLE
BALL IS DEAD IMMEDIATELY:
Activity References Awards or Penalties References
1 Pitch touches batter 10.1.A Batter awarded first base unless exception applies 7.11; 8.4.D
2 Illegally batted ball 10.1.B Batter is out. Runners return 7.14.A; 7.14.G-I
3 Ball hit twice in fair and 
sometimes foul territory
10.1.B Batter is out. Runners return 7.14.F
4 Uncaught foul 10.1.D.3 Runners return to bases occupied at time of pitch 8.16.A
5 Spectator interference 10.1.F.3; 10.1.G.I Umpire judgment in awarding bases or outs to 
nullify effects of interference
8.15.A.1
6 Interference by runner 10.1.E Interferer is out. Other runners return 8.18.E-H
7 Interference by retired 
runner
10.1.E Runner closest to home is out. Other runners 
return
8.18.I NOTE 2
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 59
Activity References Awards or Penalties References
8 Interference by runner 
(foul fly)
10.1.L Interferer is out. Other runners return. Foul ball 
on the batter
8.18.H
9 Interference by coach or 
others connected with the 
team (thrown ball)
10.1.G.2 Runner closest to home is out; if no play is 
apparent, no one is out, but runners return
8.18.Z
10 Interference by coach 
or other nonplayers 
connected with the team 
(batted ball)
10.1.D.1 If interference prevented possible double play, the 
batter and runner closest to home are declared out
8.18.AA
11 Fair ball over fence in flight 
or prevented by spectator 
or player’s detached 
equipment
10.1.F.4 Award all runners home plate 8.14.A
12 Fair ball touches a 
spectator
10.1.F.3 Award all runners appropriate number of bases in 
umpire’s judgment
8.14.E.1
13 Fair ball bounces over, 
through or lodges in fence
10.1.F.4 Award all runners two bases 8.14.C.1
14 Fair ball touches runner 
before it touches a fielder, 
or after it passes any fielder 
other than the pitcher and 
another fielder has a play
10.1.F.1; 10.1.F.2 Hit runner is out. Batter is awarded first base. 
Others return to base occupied at time of 
interference unless runner intentionally interferes 
with ball or fielder.
8.5.D; 8.18.O
15 Fair ball touches umpire 
before it touches an 
infielder or passes any 
infielder (except the 
pitcher)
10.1.F.1 Runners return to bases occupied at time of 
interference unless forced by batter-runner. 
Batter-runner is awarded first base.
8.5.D
16 A thrown ball, not a pitch, 
which becomes a blocked 
ball
10.1.G Award all runners two bases from point of release 8.14.C.3: 8.15.C
17 A pitched ball becomes 
blocked
10.1.G Award all runners one base from time of pitch 8.14.D.1; 8.15.A.1
18 Umpire handles live ball 
or calls time to inspect the 
ball or for other reasons, 
including 10.5
10.1.H Runners return to bases they had reached or 
passed when ball becomes dead
10.5
19 Fair or foul ball is caught 
by fielder, who then leaves 
the field of play with 
both feet
10.1.I Award all runners one base from time the ball 
became dead except when caught ball is third out
10.1.I NOTE; 
8.14.D.5
20 A live ball is intentionally 
carried, kicked, pushed 
or thrown into dead-ball 
territory
10.1.I Award all runners two bases from the time the ball 
became dead
8.14.C.5
21 Offensive team personnel 
calls “Time” or uses 
any other command or 
commits an act for the 
purpose of trying to cause 
the pitcher to violate the 
pitching rule
10.1.J No runners advance; team warning or offender 
restriction for first offense. Subsequent offenders 
ejected.
11.2.S
60 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
Activity References Awards or Penalties References
22 Infielder intentionally 
drops fair fly, fair line drive 
or fair bunt in flight with 
at least first base occupied 
and less than two outs
10.1.K Batter-runner is out; runners return to their base. 8.17.C
23 Illegal pitch not released, 
or released to a base
10.1.O No runners advance; batter remains at bat and is 
awarded a ball
6.3
24 Intentional base on balls N/A Pitches must be thrown 2.BASE ON BALLS
25 Base runner leaves base 
before pitcher releases 
pitch
6.4.B No pitch is declared and runner is out 8.18.L
26 Quick return pitch before 
batter has taken position 
or is off balance
6.4.C No pitch is declared; all subsequent action 
canceled
6.4.C
27 Fielder loses possession 
and ball enters dead area
8.14.D.2 All runners awarded one base past last base 
touched at time ball enters dead ball territory
8.14.D.2
28 Batted ball hitting runner 
while touching base
10.1.F Ball is either live or dead depending on position of 
the closest fielder
8.18.O EXCEPTION
29 Illegal slide 10.1.E Runner is out. Other runners return to last base 
touched prior to interference
8.18.B
30 Malicious interference 10.1.E Runner is out and ejected. Other runners return to 
last base touched prior to interference
8.18.D
31 Batter-runner steps 
backward towards home 
plate
10.1.M Batter-runner is out. Runners return to bases 
occupied at time of infraction
8.17.G
32 Ball hits loose offensive 
equipment on field of play
10.1.G.5 Runner closest to home is out; if no play is obvious, 
no runner is out, but runners return
8.18.AB
33 Ball hits loose defensive 
equipment on field of play
10.1.G.5 All runners advance two bases 8.14.C.2
34 Interference by batter 
when attempted putout is 
by the catcher
10.1.E Ball dead immediately. Batter is out. Runners 
return to last base touched at time of interference
7.12
35 Batter-runner fails to 
advance to first base and 
enters team area
8.17.J Batter-runner is out. Runners return to bases 
occupied at time of infraction
8.17.J
BALL IS DELAYED DEAD: 
Activity References Awards or Penalties References
1 Illegal pitch released 10.2.A Pitch is ruled a ball if the ball is not hit or batter 
becomes a runnner. Otherwise, if ball is hit and 
all runners do not advance one base safely, the 
team at bat has the choice of accepting the play 
or the penalty
6.3
2 Obstruction of batter by 
catcher or fielder
10.2.B If batter and runners do not advance at least one 
base, award batter first base and advance all other 
runners if forced or result of play
8.4.E
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 61
Activity References Awards or Penalties References
3 Intentionally touching 
batted ball with detached 
player equipment over fair 
territory
10.2.B Award batter-runner and runners three bases if 
not made
8.14.B.1
4 Intentionally touching 
thrown ball (including 
a pitch) with detached 
player equipment
10.2.B Award runners two bases if not made 8.14.C.2
5 Interference by umpire 
with catcher throwing a 
non-batted ball
10.2.C If runner is not put out, runners return 8.16.G
6 Obstruction 2.OBSTRUCTION; 10.3 If obstructed runner and all other runners 
hindered by the obstruction do not reach bases 
they otherwise would have reached, award 
runner(s) such bases
8.13
7 Contact with any ball by 
illegal glove or mitt
10.2.E Award all runners (including batter-runner) three 
or two bases (if not made) on a batted or thrown 
ball, respectively
8.14.B.1; 8.14.C.2
8 Deliberately removing 
batting helmet in live-ball 
territory while the ball 
is live
10.2.F Team warning. For a subsequent violation, the 
offender is restricted and head coach is ejected
11.2.C
9 Coach physically assisting 
a runner during playing 
action
10.2.D Assisted runner is declared out 8.18.Z
RULE 11. SPORTING BEHAVIOR
Sec 1. All players and coaches will be expected to behave in a sporting manner at 
all times. Any player, coach or parent / fan whose conduct is unbecoming or 
abusive will at a minimum be warned and may be removed from the playing 
field or stands at the discretion of the Tournament Officials or the Umpires. 
Foul or abusive language will not be tolerated under any circumstances. This 
includes a team forfeiting or being removed from the tournament if necessary.
Sec 2. A coach, player, substitute, attendant or other bench personnel shall not:
A. Fake a tag without the ball.
B. Carelessly throw a bat. 
C. Fail to wear or deliberate removal of equipment when it is required to be 
worn.
D. Wear metal cleats or metal toe plates where prohibited.
E. Wear jewelry or any exposed ornament which in the umpire’s judgment is 
dangerous while participating in the game.
F. Hit the ball to teammates on defense after the game has started.
G. Use electronic communication, television monitoring or replay equipment 
during the course of the game. Electronic scorebooks may be used to 
record the current game.
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H. Use tobacco products in any form.
I. Be in possession of any object in the coach’s box other than scorekeeping 
materials/devices, which shall be used for scorekeeping purposes only. 
J. Be outside the designated dugout/bench or bullpen areas unless they are a 
batter, runner, on-deck batter, in the coach’s box or one of the nine players 
on defense.
 NOTE: A single on-deck batter shall remain in their team’s on-deck circle 
while the opposing pitcher is warming up.
K. Enter the batter’s box with an illegal bat.
PENALTY A-K: FIRST OFFENSE is a team warning. SECOND OFFENSE 
and any subsequent violation the offender is restricted to the bench for the 
remainder of the game and their current head coach shall be ejected. In K, 
if the illegal bat is altered or non-approved, the player and head coach are 
immediately ejected. 
NOTE: a reminder at home plate by the Umpire does not constitute a warning 
for either team.
L. Using words or actions to incite spectators to demonstrations.
M. Using intimidating tactics, or baiting or taunting.
 NOTE: The USSSA disapproves of any form of taunting which is 
intended or designed to embarrass, ridicule or demean others under 
circumstances including race, religion, gender or national origin.
N. Behaving in any manner not in accordance with the spirit of fair play.
O. Be located in the area behind the catcher while the opposing pitcher and 
catcher are in their positions.
P. Charge an Umpire.
Q. Use amplifiers or bullhorns for coaching purpose during the course of the 
game.
R. Argue ball and strike calls or other Umpire judgment calls.
S. Call “time”, employ any other word or phrase, or commit any act for the 
purpose of causing an illegal pitch. 
T. Commit any other unsporting act.
PENALTY L-T: If it is the FIRST OFFENSE and is judged to be of a minor 
nature, an offending player may be warned or an offending coach may be 
restricted to the bench. If not minor or a subsequent offense, the Umpire shall 
eject the offender from the game. Failure to comply shall result in the game 
being forfeited. Any coach restricted to the bench shall be ejected for further 
misconduct. A restricted coach may leave the bench/dugout to attend to a 
player who becomes ill or injured.
U. Curse or use profanity 
V. Deliberately throw a bat, helmet or any other piece of equipment.
W. Initiate malicious contact.
X. Engage in a fight.
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 63
NOTE: Fighting is any attempt by a player or nonplayer to strike or 
engage an opponent in a combative manner unrelated to softball. Such 
acts include, but are not limited to, attempts to strike an opponent(s) with 
arm(s), hand(s), leg(s) or foot (feet), whether or not there is contact.
Y. Leaving their positions or bench area when a fight has broken out. 
Coaches who enter the field to restrain combatants from their team shall 
not be considered to have violated this rule. 
Z. A coach, player, substitute, attendant or other bench personnel shall not 
bring the rule book (hard copy or electronic) onto the playing field while 
the game is in progress to discuss/dispute the umpire(s) ruling and/or 
decision.
PENALTY U-Z: The Umpire shall eject the offender from the game. Failure 
to comply shall result in the game being forfeited. A player ejected for 
malicious contact is declared out unless they have already scored.
RULE 12. COACH/MANAGER OR PLAYER EJECTION
Sec 1. A coach/manager who is ejected shall leave the vicinity (out of sight and out 
of sound) of the playing area immediately and is prohibited from any further 
contact (direct or indirect) with the team during the remainder of the game. 
The ejected coach/manager must sit out the remainder of that game and the 
following game which must be actually played (i.e. - a non-played forfeit game 
will not satisfy the sit out requirement). They are barred from coaching in the 
tournament until that team has completed their next game.
Sec 2. A player ejected must sit out the remainder of that game. The player is eligible 
to play in the team’s next game. Any youth player who is restricted to the 
bench or ejected shall remain in the dugout/bench area under adult supervision.
Sec 3. Anyone ejected will be asked to leave the park at the discretion of the Umpire 
and Tournament Director.
RULE 13. PROTEST
Sec 1. Umpires will work to settle all problems on the field. Protests from the 
offended team will be allowed for rule interpretations and Player eligibility 
only.
Sec 2. The Tournament Director may at their discretion charge a protest fee of $100. 
Protests of player eligibility shall be charged per player.
Sec 3. The Plate Umpire shall suspend all action and notify the Tournament Officials 
of any protest. Tournament officials and the UIC will rule on all protests and 
their decision will be final.
Sec 4. Rule interpretation protests must be declared to the Plate Umpire before the 
next pitch following the dispute. No rule interpretation protest will be allowed 
64 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
once the Umpires have left the field at the end of the game. In tournament 
play, all rule interpretations protests must be settled, before any play can be 
resumed.
Sec 5. Player eligibility protests made during the game must be declared to the Plate 
Umpire. 
Player eligibility protests made after the game must be declared to the 
tournament director.
During pool play, protests on player eligibility must be made before pool play 
has concluded and bracket seedings have been established.
During bracket play, protests on player eligibility must be made before either 
team has begun their next game.
If a player eligibility protest cannot be resolved at the time of the protest, the 
game shall be completed. 
A. If the eligibility protest is upheld before the game is completed: the 
offending team loses the game, is ejected from the tournament, is placed 
last in the standings and forfeits all awards, sponsor travel money and 
berths that would have been awarded at that tournament.
B. If the eligibility protest is upheld after the game is completed but during 
the tournament: the game shall stand as played. However the offending 
team is ejected from the tournament, and assumes the same penalties as 
above.
C. If the eligibility protest is upheld after the tournament is completed, the 
team shall be placed last in the tournament standings and the standings 
shall be adjusted accordingly.
RULE 14. UMPIRES
Sec 1. All tournaments and leagues played under the jurisdiction and administration 
of the USSSA Fastpitch program shall utilize only Umpires who are currently 
registered with the association. Umpires shall have USSSA registration card 
available at all games worked.
Sec 2. The Umpire should not be connected in any way with either team.
Sec 3. The Umpire should be sure of the date, time and location of the game and 
should arrive at the field 30 minutes before the game time, prepared to work.
Sec 4. The official Umpire uniform standard for sanctioned play includes approved 
and licensed products, which allow for freedom of movement. The official 
uniform shall consist of:
A. USSSA Licensed mesh pullover shirt. If a shirt is worn under the Umpire 
shirt, it shall be plain, short sleeve, and white, black or match the pullover 
shirt’s primary color. Long sleeve shirts may be worn, but must match the 
pullover shirt color.
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 65
B. USSSA Licensed Umpire cap. This will include the USSSA embroidery 
on the cap and the official licensed label inside.
C. Long heather gray or charcoal slacks with black socks. Shin guards may 
not be exposed.
D. Gray or black ball bag. Only the Plate Umpire shall wear a ball bag.
E. Black belt.
F. Black polished shoes and black shoelaces; solid black socks.
G. Licensed windbreaker jacket may be worn as outside apparel.
NOTE: If two or more Umpires are used per game, they must be dressed alike.
H. The Umpire behind the plate must wear a mask.
Sec 5. Game officials include the Plate Umpire and may include one, two or three 
Base Umpires. Any Umpire has the authority to order a player, coach, or team 
attendant to do or refrain from doing anything, which affects the administering 
of these rules, and to enforce prescribed penalties. The National Fastpitch 
Program Committee strongly recommends there be at least two Umpires.
Sec 6. Umpire jurisdiction begins upon the arrival of one Umpire within the 
confines of the field and ends when the Umpires leave the playing field at the 
conclusion of the game.
Sec 7. If there is only one Umpire, that Umpire has complete jurisdiction in 
administering the rules and shall take a position behind the catcher. The only 
exception will be the 8 & Under Machine Pitch, where the Umpire feeds the 
pitching machine.
Sec 8. Any Umpire’s decision, which involves judgment, such as whether a hit is fair 
or foul, whether a pitch is a strike or ball, or whether a runner is safe, or out, is 
final. If there is a reasonable doubt about some decision being in conflict with 
the rules, the coach or captain may ask that the correct ruling be made. The 
Umpire making the decision may ask another Umpire for information before 
making a final decision. The use of videotape by game officials for the purpose 
of making calls or rendering decision is prohibited. No Umpire shall criticize 
or interfere with another Umpire’s decision unless asked by the one making it.
NOTE: The Plate Umpire sometimes asks for aid from the Base Umpire when 
there is a question as to whether a batter’s half-swing is to be called a strike. As 
an aid in deciding, the Umpire shall note whether the swing carried the barrel 
portion of the bat in front of the batter’s body and in the direction of the infield, 
but the final decision is based on whether the batter actually struck at the ball.
Sec 9. No Umpire may be replaced during a game unless he or she becomes ill or 
injured.
Sec 10. The Umpire’s right to disqualify players or remove nonplayers for objecting 
to decisions or for unsportsmanlike conduct is absolute.
Sec 11. Umpires shall not use tobacco products in any form in the vicinity of the 
playing field.
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Sec 12. The Plate Umpire shall stand behind the catcher. The Plate Umpire shall make 
all decisions except those commonly reserved for the Base Umpire. The duties 
of the Plate Umpire shall include the following:
A. Inspect condition of the field 
B. Conduct Pre-Game Conference. Ask both coaches if their teams are 
legally and properly equipped, receive lineup cards from both teams, 
announce special ground rules and formulate such if the two teams cannot 
agree, designate the dugout/bench area, and, if necessary, designate the 
official scorekeeper. 
C. Ensure that each player takes their glove and other loose equipment to the 
bench at the end of their team’s time in the field.
D. Call “Play Ball” and give a beckoning hand signal to start the game or to 
resume play, and call “Time” whenever the ball becomes dead. 
E. Call and count balls and strikes, 
F. Signal fair hits, and call out “foul ball” while signaling each foul hit,
G. Make all decisions on the batter. 
H. When it seems apparent that a batted ball will be an infield fly, the Plate 
Umpire immediately announces it for the benefit of the runners. If the ball 
is near the base line the Umpire shall declare, “Infield fly, if fair.”
I. Eject a player or send a coach from the field of play if it becomes 
necessary.
J. Announce each substitute.
K. Call the game if conditions become unfit for play.
L. Penalize for rule infractions, such as illegal pitch, interference, delay, 
unwarranted disputing of a decision, unsporting behavior or defacement of 
the ball by the pitcher.
M. Have the authority to make decisions on any situation not specifically 
covered in the rules.
N. Forfeit the game for prescribed infraction by spectators, player or 
attendants.
O. When a game is played under the auspices of an organization which 
permits protests to be filed, the Plate Umpire shall report the protest to the 
organization along with all related conditions at the time of the protested 
play, provided the protest is brought to the attention of an Umpire by the 
offended team at the time of the play and before the next pitch after such 
play.
 EXCEPTION: Protests resulting from the last play of the game shall 
be brought to the attention of an Umpire by the offended team prior to 
leaving the field. The Plate Umpire shall then inform the coach of the 
opposing team and the official scorekeeper.
 NOTE: If there is a question about a rule that was possibly misapplied, 
the team’s coach or captain shall inform the Umpire at the time of the play 
and before a pitch to the next batter of the team currently at bat or before 
the first batter for the team that was on defense, if the teams have changed 
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 67
positions; or before the Umpire leaves the field, if the play in question was 
the last play of the game.
P. Keep a record of substitutions, courtesy runners, defensive team charged 
conferences, ejections/restrictions and team warnings for each team.
Q. Penalize for jewelry violation.
R. Rectify any situation in which an Umpire’s decision that was delayed or 
reversed has placed either team in jeopardy.
S. Correct a scorekeeping error if brought to attention before the Umpires 
leave the field when the game is over.
Sec 13. The Base Umpire(s) shall assist the Plate Umpire in administering the rules. 
The Base Umpire shall make all decisions on the bases except those reserved 
for the Plate Umpire as defined above. The Base Umpire shall have concurrent 
jurisdiction with the Plate Umpire in calling time, illegal pitches, defacement 
or discoloration of ball by any player, when a fly ball is caught, or in 
disqualifying any player for unsporting behavior or an infraction as prescribed 
by the rules. In some instances, the Base Umpire will rule on the ball being fair 
or foul.
When there is only one Base Umpire that Umpire typically, but not solely, 
makes all decisions at first and second base. The Base Umpire will also make 
some decisions at third base. If a play takes the Base Umpire beyond the 
infield, the Plate Umpire will make all calls on the bases.
TABLE 2 - EJECTIONS and RESTRICTIONS
This is a summary of the Official Rules. 
In the case of a conflict, the Official Rules take precedence.
EVENT RULE OFFENDING OFFENDING COACH of
PLAYER COACH OFFENDER
Malicious contact 11.2.W OUT & EJECT EJECT N/A
Illegal player 5.7 EJECT N/A EJECT
Profanity or Cursing 11.2.U
EJECT EJECT N/A
Deliberately Throw Equipment 11.2.V
Engage in Fight 11.2.X
Leave Position/Bench to join in a fight 11.2 Y
Bring Rule Book on Field 11.2.Z
Leave detached equipment in field of play 2.7 1) WARN 1) WARN
2) “may” EJECT 2) “may” EJECT
Incite spectator demonstration 11.2.L
Use intimidating tactics, bait, or taunt 11.2.M
Behavior not in spirit of fair play 11.2.N
Enter area behind catcher 11.2.O 1)RESTRICT
Charge an Umpire 11.2.P 1) WARN if minor if minor N/A
Use bullhorns or amplifiers 11.2.Q 2) EJECT 2) EJECT
Argue balls/strikes/judgment calls 11.2.R
Action to cause an illegal pitch 6.4.E
7.8.Note 2
11.2.S
Other unsporting behavior 11.2.T
Not Entitled courtesy runner 8.3.B 1) OUT & WARN N/A 1) Team Warning
2) OUT 2) EJECT
Placing FLEX in batting position other than 5.7 EJECT N/A EJECT
the DP’s
68 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
EVENT RULE OFFENDING OFFENDING COACH of
PLAYER COACH OFFENDER
Fake Tag 11.2.A
Carelessly Thrown Bat 11.2.B
Deliberately Remove a Helmet/Failure to 2.1
Wear a Helmet 11.2.C
Wear metal cleats where prohibited 11.2.D
Wear jewelry or exposed ornament dangerous in 11.2.E 1) WARN N/A 1) Team Warning
Umpire Judgement 2)RESTRICT 2) EJECT
Hit ball to teammates on defense 11.2.F
Using replay equipment 11.2.G
Use of tobacco 11.2.H
Possess anything but a scorebook in coaches box 11.2.I
Team personnel out of bench area 11.2 J
Enter batters box with an illegal bat that is 7.14A OUT/EJECT N/A EJECT
altered or non-approved bat
Enter batters box with an illegal bat that is 7.14A 1) OUT & WARN N/A 1) Team Warning
damaged and discovered prior to bat-ball contact 2) OUT & 2) EJECT
(SEE NOTE 3) RESTRICT
Unreported substitution 5.5 In game legal N/A 1) Team Warning
Unreported courtesy runner 8.3 2) EJECT (*)
NOTE 1: A player ejected for malicious contact is declared out unless they have
already scored.
NOTE 2: All coach ejections except noted by * result in the coach being barred from 
participation for the remainder of the game in progress PLUS the coach is 
barred from participation until their NEXT game is completed.
NOTE 3: There is no violation if a bat is damaged or shatters during an at-bat due to 
bat-ball contact which occurs after the batter enters the box. However, the 
damaged bat shall be removed from the team’s possession upon discovery.
RULE 15. 10 & UNDER AND YOUNGER RULE EXCEPTIONS
Rule 15 is for FASTPITCH play; for rules governing Coach and Machine Pitch, 
See Rule 17 (Pages 69-71)
1.1 The pitching distance shall be 35 feet. 
2.3 The 11-inch softball shall be used.
8.1 (8 & Under and Younger). Stealing: A runner may steal as explained below:
a. A runner on 1st or 2nd can advance/steal only one base per pitch even in the 
event of an overthrow in live ball territory. If they advance more than one 
base, they are liable to be put out. At end of the play, if the runner is safe 
and has advanced more than one base, the umpire will return the runner to 
the correct base.
b. A runner cannot steal home. If they advance home they are liable to be 
put out. At end of play if the runner is safe and has advanced the umpire 
will return the runner to the correct base.
c. A batter runner, who has received a base on balls, cannot attempt to steal 
second base.
d. Awarded bases will apply to all runners. This includes an overthrow into 
dead ball territory.
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 69
e. Runners can only score on: 
 i. A batted ball
 ii. A base on balls or hit batter with bases loaded
 iii. An awarded base when the ball goes out of play to include a pitch 
that goes out of play
8.4.B (8 & Under and Younger) The batter is out on a third strike.
If a batter strikes out and the ball is not caught, the batter is out and cannot 
advance to first base. The ball remains live. 
8.17.H (8 & Under and Younger) The infield fly rule will not be used.
RULE 16. MEN’S RULE EXCEPTIONS
4.4. The RUN RULE will be 15 runs after 3 innings, 12 runs after 4 inning, 7 runs 
after 5 innings.
4.5 The TIEBREAKER Procedure will not be used.
5.1. PLAYERS A team shall consist of at least nine players, whose positions 
shall be designated as; (1) Pitcher, (2) Catcher, (3) First Baseman, (4) 
Second Baseman, (5) Third Baseman, (6) Short Stop, (7) Left Fielder, (8) 
Center Fielder, (9) Right Fielder. In addition, a designated hitter (DH) or one 
additional player (AP) may be used but not both.
6.1.A Only one foot is required on the pitcher’s plate as per rule.
6.1.E.2 The pitcher may step backwards as per rule.
6.1.E.2 The forward step is NOT required to be within the 24 inch length of the 
pitcher’s plate
6.1.E.3 The pitcher may leap. If both feet are in the air, the toes of the pivot foot are 
required to point down. 
RULE 17. COACH PITCH and MACHINE PITCH RULES
Play will be governed by the USSSA Rule Book, unless specified in this section. 
1. Ball: 11-inch USSSA approved ball, optic yellow in color with a maximum 
compression of 375# and a COR rating of 46.25 +/- 0.75 will be used.
2. Innings: A regulation game shall be seven (7) innings for World Series play. 
3. Time Limits: World Series and 7 inning games shall have a 75 minute limit. 
Games can end in a tie during pool play. Bracket games that are tied at the end 
of regulation or upon completion of an inning with time expired shall go to the 
International Tie-Breaker method.
4. Runs per Inning: A maximum of 6 runs can be scored each inning by each 
team.
5. Run Rule: As per Rule 4 Section 4, the run rule will be 12 runs after 3 
innings, 10 runs after 4 innings, and 8 runs after 5 innings. If time has expired 
and either team is behind and cannot catch up or go ahead, the game shall be 
over immediately.
6. Offensive Lineup: The batting lineup may be any number from eight (8) to all 
players present. An automatic out will be taken if only eight (8) batters. When 
70 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
batting more than eight (8), if any position in the batting order is left open due 
to injury, illness, or ejection it will be an automatic out if a sub is not available.
7. Courtesy Runner: A Courtesy Runner is permitted for the catcher only, 
subject to all applicable sections of Rule 8.3.
8. Defensive Positions: The defensive team must have a minimum of eight (8) and 
a maximum of ten (10) defensive players in the field, but no more than six (6), 
including the catcher, can be positioned inside the infield baselines. 
 NOTE: The use of a DP/Flex is not allowed. All players listed on the lineup 
card will hit.
Coach pitch only: The player pitcher must have at least one foot in the pitcher’s 
circle when the batter’s coach is pitching. No other defensive players may be 
positioned inside the pitcher’s circle at the same time. The outfield is defined 
as the turf area on a regulation sized youth field or at least 10 feet beyond the 
baselines for other playing surfaces.
Machine Pitch only: At the start of the pitch, one player shall be in the pitcher’s 
position on either side of the pitching machine with one foot on the side line of 
the 6 foot diameter circle. The pitcher cannot leave their position until the ball 
comes out of the machine.
9. Batting: The batter will receive five pitches or three swinging strikes, whichever 
occurs first. Each pitch will count as one of the five even if the batter does not 
swing. If the fifth pitch is hit (not bunted) foul the batter will remain at bat as 
long as they continue to foul off pitches. 
a. The batter is out on a third strike whether caught or uncaught.
b. There shall be no Base on Balls (walk) awarded.
c. Hitters hit by a pitch will not be awarded 1st base.
d. Bunting is NOT allowed. PENALTY: The ball is dead, and the batter 
is out if the ball is contacted. All other runners must return to the base 
occupied at the time of the pitch.
10. The infield fly rule is not in effect. The ball remains “live” with all runners in 
jeopardy of being put out or advancing.
11. A runner may not leave a base until the pitch:
a. (Travel ball) leaves the pitcher’s hand/pitching machine.
b. (Rec/All-Stars) reaches home plate.
 PENALTY: The ball is dead, a “no pitch” is declared, and the runner is 
declared out.
A runner who leaves a base on a pitch is at liability to be put out, even on a 
non-batted ball. On a non-batted ball, the runner must immediately return to 
her original base. If the defense chooses not make a play on a runner (who 
fails to return to her original base), the Umpire may call “Time” and order her 
return to expedite pace of play.
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 71
12. Time will be called when:
a. (Travel ball) a defensive player has possession of the ball in advance of 
the lead runner.
b. (Rec/All-Stars) a defensive player has possession of the ball in advance of 
the lead runner, OR the ball is returned to the player-pitcher with at least 
one foot on (or inside of) the line of the pitcher’s circle.
 If a runner is more than half way to the next base when time is called, the 
runner will be awarded the next base. If they are not half way to the next base 
when time is called they will be returned to the previous base safely.
The defensive team may have a maximum of 3 defensive conferences per 
game.
13. Additional Coaches: In addition to base coaches, only a coach in the pitcher’s 
circle is allowed on the field of play.
The coach pitcher must deliver the pitch with one foot in contact with the 
pitching plate. 
The pitching coach/machine pitch coach may only coach the batter prior to the 
pitch. He/she may not coach the batter-runner at ANY time.
PENALTY: The batter is charged with a PITCH
 Machine Pitch only: after a batter hits the ball, the pitching coach shall make 
an attempt to duck or crouch behind the pitching machine and should stay 
inside the circle away from the play. 
Coach pitch only: The pitching coach must make an effort to avoid interfering 
with the play. 
If in the umpire’s judgment, a coach interferes unintentionally with the 
batted ball and/or defensive play, the ball will be declared dead and the pitch 
replayed. If in the umpire’s judgment, a coach interferes intentionally, the lead 
runner is out and the play replayed. If there are no runners, the batter is out. 
Machine Pitch only rules: 
14. A batted ball that hits the pitching machine shall be ruled a dead ball and the 
batter is awarded 1st base.
15. No defensive player may reach into or enter the pitcher’s circle. If a player 
reaches into or enters the pitcher’s circle a dead ball will be called and the 
batter is awarded 1st base.
16. Pitching Machine - the pitching machine shall be set as follows:
a. Distance for center of the machine shall be thirty five (35) feet. Speed for 
the machine shall be set between 37-40 for 7/8U.
b. Prior to each game, the umpire will have each coach feed at least one 
pitch and obtain a consensus that the machine is set correctly. The umpire 
may adjust the machine only at the top of the inning if he/she believes it is 
needed unless the machine has been hit and is not set correctly.
c. A coach can’t adjust the pitching machine without umpire approval. First 
offense will be a warning. The second offense will be automatic removal 
from the pitching coach position.
72 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
RULE 18. T BALL RULES
Play will be governed by USSSA Rule Book, unless specified in this section.
1. Ball: 11-inch ball will be used.
2. Distances:
a. The pitching rubber shall be set at thirty-five (35) feet for T-Ball.
b. A Restraining Arc is thirty-five (35) feet from the point of home plate. 
c. The catcher’s arc is ten (10) feet from the point of home plate.
d. The base length is sixty (60) feet. 
3. Innings: A regulation game shall be five (5) innings. 
The Tiebreaker Procedure will be used in the 6th inning or in any inning that 
begins after time has expired.
4. Time Limits: There will be a 55 minute time limit. 
5. Runs per Inning: A maximum of 6 runs can be scored each inning for each 
team 
6. Run Rule: If either team is behind and cannot catch up or go ahead, the game 
shall be over immediately. Effectively that is 13 runs after 3 innings, 7 runs 
after 4 innings.
7. Offensive Lineup: The batting lineup may be any number from nine up. If 
a player is removed for any reason other than ejection, the spot in the batting 
order will be skipped with no out recorded.
8. Defensive Positions: The defensive team must have a minimum of eight (8) 
and may have a maximum of ten (10) players in the field. 
a. Defensive players must remain behind the pitcher’s plate line extended 
until the batter has hit the ball. 
b. One player shall be in the pitcher’s position on the pitching mound with at 
least one foot within 8 feet of the pitcher’s plate at the start of each play. 
The pitcher cannot leave its position until the ball is hit off the “T”. 
c. The Pitcher must wear a helmet with face mask or game face protective 
gear. 
d. Six fielders including the catcher must be in the infield. The rest must be 
in the outfield. The outfield is defined as at least 10 feet outside of the base 
lines in fair territory. 
e. Catchers must wear protective gear as prescribed in Rule 2.2.
f. Defensive players are encouraged to wear helmet with face mask or game 
face protective gear. 
9. The “T” will be provided by the ball park or Tournament. No outside “T” will 
be allowed.
10. Offensive. The batter will be allowed three (3) swings. If the batter misses the 
ball it will be counted as a swing. If the ball goes foul, or the ball does not go 
17th Edition (Printed 1-2024) 73
over the 10’ Tee Arc, this will be considered a swing. If the batter fouls a third 
strike, the batter will be called out.
a. Bunting is NOT allowed. . 
b. The batter will be allowed only one practice swing prior to each swing in 
the batter’s box. Any excess practice swings will be a called strike.
c. All offensive players must wear NOCSAE Batter/batting helmets with 
face mask & chin straps while on the playing field.
11. There is no infield fly rule.
12. A runner may not leave a base until the ball is hit off the “T”. Penalty for 
leaving early; runner will be called out...
13. On a hit ball there is no limit on bases allowed. 
14. Stealing: A runner may not steal. A runner may not leave a base until the ball is 
hit off the “T”. Penalty for leaving early; runner will be called out.
15. Time will be called when a defensive player has possession of the ball in 
advance of the lead runner or the ball is returned to the player pitcher with at 
least foot inside the pitcher’s circle.
If a runner is more than half way to the next base when time is called, the 
runner will be awarded the next base.
a. There is no look-back rule. 
b. This rule does not preclude the Umpire from calling or granting time in 
situations such as when a runner has slid into a base, requests time, no 
other runners are advancing, or there is an injured player. 
16. Additional Coaches: In addition to base coaches, other coaches are allowed on 
the field of play. 
a. The “Tee-Coach” may provide assistance to the batter prior to the Umpire 
placing the ball on the “T”. Thereafter the coach must not assist the batter/
runners vocally or with hand gestures. The “Tee Coach” will then be 
responsible for removing the tee and bat from the baseline. Failure to 
remove the tee from home plate or interfering with the play at home will 
result in the runner coming home being called out.
b. One coach will be allowed to stand in the on-deck circle while on defense. 
No other defensive coaches will be allowed on the field.
RULE 19. ARENA INDOOR FASTPITCH, SIX ON SIX RULES
Arena team registration will be separate from regular Fastpitch team registration. 
The registration fee will be set by National Fastpitch Committee.
Arena Fastpitch will be a state level program only.
Play will be governed by USSSA Rule Book, unless specified in this section.
1. Ball: to be determined by site.
74 17th Edition (Printed 1-2024)
2. Distance:
Pitching: Shall conform to rulebook
Bases: 60 feet 
3. Innings: A regulation game shall be seven (7) innings. 
Time Limits: There will be a 75 minute time limit. 
4. Runs per Inning: A maximum of 5 runs can be scored each inning for each 
team.
5. Run Rule: The Run Rule shall be 12 runs after 3 innings; 10 runs after 4 
innings; 8 runs after 5 innings
6. Lineup: The batting lineup will be six (6) players, Pitcher, catcher, first base, 
second base, third base and shortstop.
7. Defensive Positions: There will be no outfielders. Infielders must play their 
normal positions and not in the outfield.
8. Outfield hits will be determined at each site. Banners can be used to designate 
a certain hit or you can use any ball hit to outfield in air is an out and if a 
liner or ground ball goes to the outfield it will be a single or whatever the site 
determines. Cones can also be used to regulate the distance of a hit.
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